Best Kayak Lights for Night Fishing 2026 – 7 Reviewed
There’s something unforgettable about being on the water after dark—the calm, the quiet, and the anticipation of what might strike next. But while night fishing from a kayak has its charm, it also demands the right gear. One essential piece? A reliable set of kayak lights for night fishing. Not only do they keep you visible to boaters, but they also illuminate your setup, help you land fish, and keep your hands free.
We’ve reviewed the best kayak lights for night fishing of 2026 with a focus on actual use. This guide isn’t just a list—it’s built for beginners and professional anglers. We’ve tested these lights for brightness, battery life, mounting ease, and water resistance. Our picks include models ideal for stealthy inshore hunters, budget-conscious weekend warriors, and serious anglers tracking trophy fish in low-light hours.
Best Kayak Lights for Night Fishing – Comparison Table
As someone who values precision and usability over flashy features, you’ll appreciate the no-nonsense breakdowns we’ve included. Each product review is organized and straightforward—no generic fluff or rehashed specs.
| Product | Mounting Type | Light Modes | Water Resistance | Battery Type | Runtime | Image |
| Amzonly 4pcs Navigation | Clip-on with elastic straps | Steady, Flash, Strobe | IPX8 | CR2032 (12 included) | 38 hrs (steady), 170 hrs (flash) |  |
| YakAttack VISICarbon Pro | Gear-track or rod holder mount | Steady 360° white light | Waterproof | 3 × AA | Not specified |  |
| Kayalu Kayalite LED Light | Clip-on with tensioning cord | Steady 360° white light | Submersible up to 1000 ft | 3 × AA | Up to 100 hrs |  |
| Guardian Angel Kayak Light | Magnetic mounts | Multiple modes with remote control | Not specified | Rechargeable (USB) | Not specified |  |
| Botepon Navigation | Hook-and-loop straps | Steady, Flash, Slow Flash | Waterproof | CR2032 (included) | Not specified |  |
| GearLight Kayak Lights | Hook-and-loop straps | Steady, Flash, Strobe | IPX4 | CR2032 (included) | Up to 100 hrs |  |
| Brite Strike APALS Kit | 3M adhesive backing | Steady, Fast Strobe, Slow Strobe | Waterproof | Not specified | Over 200 hrs |  |
1. Amzonly 4pcs Navigation Lights
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Clip-on with elastic straps
- Light Modes: Steady, Flash, Strobe
- Water Resistance: IPX5 (weather-resistant)
- Battery Type: CR2032 (12 included)
- Runtime: Up to 170 hours (flash mode)
- Special Features: Includes waterproof bags, magnetic screwdriver, extra-long strap
Amzonly 4pcs Navigation Lights are a versatile and budget-friendly option for kayak anglers looking for enhanced visibility during night fishing. Each light is equipped with five ultra-bright SMD LEDs, which provide three lighting modes: steady, flash, and strobe. The IPX5 weather-resistant casing ensures durability in various outdoor conditions, although it’s not designed for submersion. The lights are powered by CR2032 batteries, with a total of 12 batteries included in the package.
Installation is simple, even for beginner anglers, thanks to the clip-on design and elastic straps, allowing attachment to various parts of the kayak or gear. The package also includes waterproof bags and a magnetic screwdriver for easy battery replacement. These lights are compact and lightweight, making them easy to store and carry.
In practical use, these lights provide adequate illumination for close-range visibility and signaling. However, they don’t offer the same level of brightness or durability as high-end models. They’re best suited for calm water conditions and as supplementary lighting rather than primary navigation lights.
Pros: | Cons: |
| Affordable and budget-friendly | Not suitable for submersion |
| Easy installation with clip-on design | Limited brightness |
| Includes extra batteries and screwdriver | Durability is less in harsh conditions |
| Compact for easy storage | |
| Multiple lighting modes |
2. YakAttack VISICarbon Pro
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Gear-track or rod holder mount
- Light Modes: Steady 360° white light
- Water Resistance: Waterproof (submersible up to 1000 ft)
- Battery Type: 3 × AA (included)
- Runtime: Up to 100 hours
- Special Features: Collapsible carbon fiber pole, integrated visibility flag, Silent Snap flag attachment system
The YakAttack VISICarbon Pro is a premium safety light designed for serious kayak anglers and recreational paddlers. Its carbon fiber construction ensures a lightweight yet durable build, with the entire unit weighing just 14 ounces. The light features a 48-inch pole that collapses down to 14 inches, making it highly portable and easy to store. The integrated visibility flag enhances daytime visibility, and the 360° white LED light ensures you’re seen during night fishing.
Installation is versatile, with compatibility for gear tracks and rod holders, thanks to the included Mighty Mount and SilentSlip foam base. The LED light boasts a runtime of up to 100 hours on three AA batteries. The Silent Snap flag attachment system allows for quick and secure flag installation and removal.
Overall, the VISICarbon Pro offers exceptional visibility and ease of use. Its collapsible design and lightweight construction make it a convenient addition to any kayak. However, we have noted that the light could be brighter and that the twist-on activation method leads to accidental battery drain if not properly secured during storage. Furthermore, the premium price is a consideration for budget-conscious anglers.
Pros: | Cons: |
| Lightweight carbon fiber construction | A bit expensive |
| Collapsible design for easy storage | Light brightness could be improved |
| Integrated visibility flag for daytime use | |
| Up to 100 hours of runtime | |
| Versatile mounting options |
3. Kayalu Kayalite Portable LED Light
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Clip-on with tensioning cord
- Light Modes: Steady 360° white light
- Water Resistance: Submersible up to 1000 ft
- Battery Type: 3 × AA
- Runtime: Up to 100 hours
- Special Features: Marine-grade materials, buoyant, USCG-compliant
Kayalu Kayalite Portable LED Light is a robust and reliable lighting solution for kayak anglers who require a durable and waterproof option. Its unique mounting system utilizes a tensioning cord that allows for secure attachment to various points on the kayak with no permanent installation. The light is constructed from marine-grade materials to harsh environmental conditions and submersion up to 1000 feet.
The 360° white LED light provides consistent illumination, enhancing visibility during night fishing. With a runtime of up to 100 hours on three AA batteries, it offers extended use without frequent battery changes. The buoyant design ensures the light remains afloat if accidentally dropped into the water.
In use, the Kayalite light proves to be a dependable companion for night fishing, offering both durability and ease of installation. However, operating the light with wet hands can be challenging, and the brightness isn’t sufficient for all conditions.
Pros: | Cons: |
| Durable, marine-grade construction | Operating with wet hands can be difficult |
| Submersible up to 1000 ft | Brightness is insufficient in some conditions |
| Easy installation with tensioning cord | |
| Long battery life runtime | |
| Buoyant design prevents loss if dropped |
4. Guardian Angel Kayak Light Kit
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Magnetic mounts
- Light Modes: Multiple modes with remote control
- Water Resistance: IP68 (waterproof, dustproof, shockproof)
- Battery Type: Rechargeable lithium-ion (USB Type-C)
- Runtime: Up to 50 hours
- Special Features: Wireless remote, high-visibility LEDs, versatile mounting options
Guardian Angel Kayak Light Kit is a versatile and high-performance lighting system designed for kayak anglers who prioritize visibility and convenience. Featuring 14 high-output LEDs, the light provides 360° illumination, ensuring visibility from over 2 nautical miles away, exceeding USCG navigation light requirements. The IP68-rated housing ensures protection against water, dust, and shock.
The light kit includes a wireless remote control with a range of up to 75 feet, allowing users to switch between multiple lighting modes and brightness settings easily without reaching for the light itself. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries offer up to 50 hours of runtime and can be fully charged via USB Type-C in as little as 1.5 hours. The magnetic mounting system enables quick and secure attachment to various surfaces with no drilling or permanent installation.
Guardian Angel Kayak Light Kit offers exceptional visibility and user-friendly operation. The remote control adds a layer of convenience, especially in situations where quick adjustments are necessary. However, the premium features come at a higher price point, which may be a consideration for some users. Although the magnetic mounts are strong, they require careful placement to ensure stability during rough conditions.
Pros: | Cons: |
| High visibility with 360° illumination | High price |
| Multiple lighting and brightness settings | Mounts require careful placement |
| Wireless remote control | |
| Rechargeable battery with quick charging | |
| Waterproof and shockproof design |
5. Botepon Navigation Lights (6-Pack)
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Hook-and-loop straps
- Light Modes: Steady, Flash, Slow Flash
- Water Resistance: Weather-resistant (not submersible)
- Battery Type: 2 × CR2032 per light (included)
- Runtime: Not specified by manufacturer (user reports: several outings on flash mode)
- Special Features: Multiple colors for port/starboard, lightweight, compact design
They are best used in calm water and low-risk environments, where visibility is important, but navigation intensity is moderate. While the manufacturer doesn’t specify runtime, users report that the included CR2032 batteries last several outings when used in flash mode.
From our experience, these lights shine when used as a backup or supplemental set. They’re quick to strap on before dusk or keep in a dry bag as a just-in-case measure. On more intense or longer night trips, they might fall short in brightness, and the lack of solid mounts could pose limitations in choppy conditions.
For those who paddle near populated areas, docks, or other small boats, these are incredibly useful. They’re not high-powered beacons, but they meet basic visibility needs for budget-conscious anglers.
Pros: | Cons: |
| Affordable option for enhancing visibility | Not suitable for primary navigation use |
| Includes multiple colors | Not submersible |
| Easy hook-and-loop strap installation | |
| Multiple light modes (steady, flash, slow flash) | |
| Lightweight and compact design |
6. GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights (4-Pack)
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Clip-on with included straps
- Light Modes: Steady, Flash, Strobe
- Water Resistance: IPX4 (weather-resistant)
- Battery Type: 2 × CR2032 per light (pre-installed)
- Runtime: Up to 100 hours (depending on mode)
- Special Features: Includes extra batteries, mini screwdriver, and versatile mounting options
The GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights are a versatile and budget-friendly option for kayak anglers seeking to enhance their visibility during night fishing. This 4-pack includes two red and two green lights, allowing users to designate port and starboard sides, as well as white lights for general illumination. Each light offers three modes: steady, flash, and strobe, providing versatility for different conditions.
Thanks to the clip-on design and included straps, enabling quick attachment to various parts of the kayak or gear. The lights are compact and lightweight, making them easy to store and carry. The IPX4 weather-resistant casing ensures durability in various outdoor conditions, although not designed for submersion.
The included extra batteries and mini screwdriver add value, ensuring users are prepared for extended outings. However, they may not offer the same level of brightness or durability as higher-end models. They’re best suited for calm water conditions and as supplementary lighting rather than primary navigation lights.
Pros: | Cons: |
| Good value for the money | Not suitable for submersion |
| Easy installation | Durability may be less in harsh conditions |
| Includes everyone you need | |
| Compact and easy to store | |
| Multiple lighting modes for versatility |
7. Brite Strike APALS Kit (10-pack)
Tech Specs:
- Mounting Type: Adhesive-backed (peel-and-stick)
- Light Modes: Steady, Fast Strobe, Slow Strobe
- Water Resistance: Fully waterproof (IPX7 rated)
- Battery Type: Built-in non-replaceable lithium battery
- Runtime: Up to 200+ hours
- Special Features: Crushproof, flexible, low-profile (approx. 0.2” thick), visible up to 1 mile
The Brite Strike APALS (All Purpose Adhesive Light Strips) kit is a premium-grade safety lighting solution tailored for minimalists, tactical users, and kayak anglers who want ultra-slim, highly reliable lighting that doesn’t get in the way. Each light strip is barely thicker than a credit card, yet rugged enough to survive harsh marine environments.
These lights were originally developed for military and law enforcement applications, so durability and reliability are central to their design. They’re waterproof (IPX7), shockproof, and crushproof—making them ideal for exposed mounting positions on your kayak.
Each strip has a simple peel-and-stick adhesive back that adheres to most hard, smooth surfaces, including plastic, metal, and fiberglass. Once placed, they stay in position, even in rough water or rainy conditions. The button in the center of each strip allows easy toggling between steady light, fast strobe, and slow strobe. Each light can be seen from over a mile away, depending on mounting angle and conditions.
In our experience, these lights work extremely well for stealth fishing or low-profile navigation. You can mount them on bow tips, stern lines, paddles, or even on dry bags. They don’t snag lines, interfere with gear, or add any bulk. They’re also ideal for ultralight packers and kayak anglers who obsess over balance and clutter.
One limitation: the batteries aren’t replaceable. Once the built-in battery runs out (typically after 200+ hours of use), you’ll need to swap the whole strip. But in return, you get an incredibly simple, powerful, and maintenance-free lighting solution.
Pros: | Cons: |
| Incredibly thin, flexible, and lightweight | Batteries are non-replaceable |
| Waterproof and crushproof design | No option for brightness adjustment |
| Visible from over 1 mile away | |
| Up to 200+ hours runtime per strip | |
| Ideal for stealth night fishing |
✅ Complete Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Kayak Lights for Night Fishing
Choosing the right kayak lights for night fishing means safety, comfort, legality, and adapting to the water conditions you fish in. Here are the key things to consider:
Mounting Type
Always test the mounting system before you head out. Loose or unstable lights are common sources of frustration. Clamp-on or Pole-mounted lights are ideal for larger kayaks and provide good elevation. Adhesive or strip lights are better for compact setups or stealth fishing. Clip-on safety lights work great for paddles, PFDs, and gear.
Waterproof Rating
Look for IPX6 or higher for true water resistance. Fully waterproof (IPX7 or IP68) is preferred for open water or rough weather. Keep in mind, spray-resistant lights are not enough for most kayak anglers, especially when you’re dealing with splashes, rain, or capsizing risks.
Brightness & Visibility
100–250 lumens is ideal for basic kayak lighting. You need red and green lights (port/starboard) plus a 360-degree white light on many inland and coastal waters (check local regulations).
Battery Life
For long trips, choose lights with 100+ hours runtime. Rechargeable batteries are eco-friendly but carry a risk if you can’t recharge mid-trip. Disposable batteries are more practical for multi-day outings or emergency backups.
Durability & Build Quality
Crushproof, shatterproof, and impact-resistant lights are ideal.For saltwater anglers, corrosion-resistant housings are a must.
Light Modes & Functionality
Strobe and flashing modes are essential for emergencies or visibility in busy areas. Some models include brightness settings, auto shutoff, or memory modes.
Portability and Storage
If you have limited space, compact models make more sense. On larger sit-on-top kayaks with storage hatches, you can easily carry larger pole-mounted or battery-powered options.
Compliance with Navigation Laws
In some U.S. states, kayak lights must meet specific Coast Guard visibility rules, especially in busy or mixed-use waterways. Check for:
- White light that is visible in a 360° radius
- Proper red/green navigation lights on the bow if using powered motors
FAQs: Best Kayak Lights for Night Fishing
Do I need kayak lights if I’m only fishing near shore or on small lakes?
Yes, even in small lakes or nearshore areas, dusk and early morning light can reduce visibility. Safety lighting helps you be seen by other anglers or boaters and allows you to navigate back if fog or low light conditions set in unexpectedly.
Can I use regular bike lights or flashlights as kayak lights?
Not recommended. Although they provide temporary visibility, they’re not waterproof, don’t have proper mounting, and may not offer a 360° light field required by safety guidelines. Kayak-specific lights are purpose-built for tough, wet environments.
Are red and green lights necessary for a kayak?
They are required only if your kayak is motorized or operating in certain regulated waters. For paddle-powered kayaks, a white 360-degree light is sufficient, but check your local boating regulations.
What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
Waterproof lights (IPX7 and up) can withstand immersion and splashes. Water-resistant lights (IPX4–IPX5) can handle light rain or spray, but not full dunking.
Should I choose rechargeable or battery-powered lights?
It depends:
Rechargeable is convenient and eco-friendly for short trips or regular use. Battery-powered (especially with replaceable CR2032 or AA cells) is better for longer, remote trips where charging isn’t possible.
How do I mount lights without damaging my kayak?
Use removable straps, suction cups, or clamps for non-permanent setups. Adhesive-backed lights only if you’re sure of placement—removing them can damage finishes.
Can I rely on headlamps or handheld flashlights alone?
Not safely. Headlamps help for rigging and close-up work, but they don’t replace legal navigation lights or make you visible from a distance. Use them as supplements, not your primary lighting solution.
🎯 Conclusion
The best kayak lights for night fishing do more than glow—they help you navigate dark waters, keep you legal, and make sure you return with a story, not a close call. From rugged pole-mounted options to minimalist kits, each model we reviewed serves a real need. So don’t treat lighting like an afterthought. It’s your visibility, your safety, and your connection to the water when the sun dips below the horizon. Choose smart, mount well, and let the fish be the only thing left in the dark.
