OK to Use Lights for Fishing at Night?

April 25, 2018

Question: I have seen recent newspaper stories about how crappie fishing is heating up as we progress into spring. I know you cannot use lights for most hunting. Is it OK or is it not OK to use lights when fishing for crappie at night? (Anonymous)

Answer: You are correct that in most instances, it is unlawful to hunt while using lights. California Fish and Game Code (FGC), section 2005 states that (except as otherwise authorized) “it is unlawful to use an artificial light to assist in the taking of a game bird, game mammal, or game fish.” However, sport fishing in ocean waters or other waters where night fishing is permitted are examples of those exceptions.

If you are fishing in freshwater for crappie, it is legal to use lights as long as you are in a location where it is legal to fish at night.

There are additional considerations to keep in mind if you are planning to fish for crappie at night. Boating at night can be done safely, but there are inherent risks, particularly if you are not prepared or if you are unfamiliar with the water body or the changes in topography of a lake bottom as the lake level fluctuates. Find your favorite crappie fishing spots in the daylight and mark them on your GPS to help you navigate to them in the darkness. And, don’t forget to mark your boatramp on GPS as well. Once you start fishing, use of lights may help! Experiment with different color lights to see what works best and fish at different depths to see where the bite is best. Also, whether day or night, remember to always have your required safety gear (on your person and on board your vessel) in the case of a mishap. Always carry safety equipment such as personal floatation devices (life jackets), fire extinguishers, sound signaling devices and of course navigation lights. The California Division of Boating and Waterways has a detailed list of other required safety equipment based upon the type and size of your boat.

Crappie fishing when the bite is hot, especially at night, can be fast and furious. We encourage you to bring a person who is new to fishing along for the adventure! Rig up your fishing gear ahead of time so you’ll get right into the action when you arrive at your spot and you’re not fumbling around with it in the dark. If you bring that extra person along, involve them in this planning to get them vested in the effort. We wish you a successful venture of night crappie fishing!