Comparing LED Underwater Lighting Systems: Dock Lights vs. Fishing Lights

LED underwater lighting systems have gained popularity for their efficiency, durability, and vibrant illumination, particularly for enhancing the aesthetics of docks and supporting nighttime fishing. Two primary types of LED underwater lights are commonly used: dock lights and fishing lights. While both serve unique purposes, choosing the right lighting system depends on the intended use.

This blog compares LED dock lights and fishing lights, focusing on their features, benefits, and ideal applications to help customers determine the best lighting solution for their needs.

Purpose and Functionality

Dock Lights

LED dock lights are primarily designed for illuminating docks and other waterfront structures, enhancing visibility and safety at night. These lights improve navigation around docks, provide lighting for boaters, and create an inviting ambiance. Dock lights are typically stationary, providing consistent illumination to a specific area. They are generally mounted along the dock’s edges or submerged near the surface, casting a soft, broad glow that helps prevent accidents and makes boarding and disembarking boats easier after dark.

Fishing Lights

LED fishing lights, in contrast, are purpose-built to attract fish and enhance visibility for anglers. These lights emit a wavelength that draws in plankton, which in turn attracts baitfish and predatory fish, making them highly effective for nighttime fishing. Fishing lights are often submersible and mobile, allowing anglers to place them at specific depths or locations where fish are likely to be concentrated. These lights are designed with brightness levels and colors (such as green) that are optimal for attracting fish and supporting anglers in low-light conditions.

Light Intensity and Color

Dock Lights

Dock lights generally emit a moderate level of brightness designed to create ambient lighting without being overpowering. They typically come in colors like green, which add to the visual appeal of the dock area without disturbing marine life. Since dock lights are stationary, they provide consistent lighting suitable for long-term use.

Fishing Lights

Fishing lights, on the other hand, are designed for higher intensity and often incorporate green LEDs, as these colors have proven effective in attracting fish. Green lights penetrate deeper into the water and are more visible to fish in low-light conditions. The intensity of fishing lights is generally higher than dock lights, making them more effective for attracting marine life in deeper or murky waters.

Installation and Mobility

Dock Lights

LED dock lights are typically installed in fixed positions along the dock or waterline, ensuring permanent lighting for safety and aesthetics. Installation may involve mounting or submerging the lights, but once set, they require minimal adjustment. These lights are generally hardwired and designed to withstand long-term exposure to water, wind, and sunlight.

Fishing Lights

Fishing lights are usually portable and easy to deploy, allowing anglers to adjust their position and depth as needed. Most fishing lights are battery-powered or plug into boat power sources, offering flexibility to move them around for better fish attraction. Fishing lights are also compact and easy to store, making them convenient for anglers who fish in various locations.

In comparing LED underwater lights, Incredible Underwater LED Lighting offers a versatile and high-quality solution suitable for both dock lighting and underwater fishing lights. With patented LED technology, our lights are among the brightest and most energy-efficient on the market, providing a long-lasting underwater LED lighting solution that enhances safety and aesthetics for waterfront properties.

Contact us to shop for underwater LED lighting.