The Right Light Can Change the Game

If you've ever fished at night, you know that light is the ultimate fish magnet. But not all underwater fishing lights work the same way. Some create a narrow, focused beam that penetrates deep, while others spread light across a wide area, drawing in more baitfish.

So, which one should you use—spotlights or floodlights?

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between spot and flood lighting for underwater fishing, when to use each one, and which type will help you reel in more fish.

What’s the Difference Between Spot and Flood Lights?

Spotlights: Precision Lighting for Deep-Water Hunters

A spotlight creates a narrow, concentrated beam (10°–30° spread), allowing light to cut through deeper water and illuminate fish in a specific area.

Best for: Offshore fishing, boats, targeting fish at depth
Attracts: Game fish like striped bass, snook, and grouper
How it works: Pierces through murky water to spotlight baitfish and predators below

Because spotlights don’t spread out as much, they are perfect when you need depth over coverage—ideal for deep-sea anglers and boat fishermen.

Floodlights: Wide-Angle Glow for Baitfish and Shallow Waters

A floodlight emits a broad, dispersed beam (60°–120° spread), creating a larger illuminated area near the surface and in shallow waters.

Best for: Dock fishing, piers, shallow water fishing
Attracts: Baitfish, shrimp, crappie, trout, and predator fish that feed near the surface
How it works: Provides a “glow” effect that draws in baitfish, which in turn attract larger predators

Floodlights don’t penetrate as deep, but their wide coverage makes them irresistible to schools of fish near the surface.

Which One Attracts More Fish?

It depends on where and how you’re fishing.

Fishing from a boat? → Use a spotlight to attract game fish in deeper waters.
Fishing from a dock? → Use a floodlight to create a baitfish feeding frenzy.
Targeting big predators? → A spotlight will help pinpoint larger fish below.
Want to draw in baitfish? → A floodlight creates a glowing zone for them.

Pro Tip: The Best of Both Worlds

Many anglers combine spot and flood lights—a spotlight to target fish below and a floodlight to attract bait fish near the surface.

Choosing the Best Fishing Light

At Underwater Green Fishing Lights, we’ve spent years perfecting high-performance marine lighting designed to bring more fish to you—whether you’re on a boat, dock, or pier. We don’t just design and build underwater light systems. We also carry a wide variety of overhead LED marine lights. Check out our current inventory!

Final Verdict: Spot vs. Flood – Which One Do You Need?

If you're looking for depth and precision, go with a spotlight. If you want to cover a wider area and attract more baitfish, a floodlight is your best bet.

Still not sure? We’re here to help! Call us today, and we’ll help you pick the perfect underwater fishing light for your needs.

Shop the Best Green Fishing Lights Now | Call Us: 281-724-9914