Boat Lighting Add-Ons

[nthomps66]

I want to add some nightlights to my Crestliner Fishhawk. The boat came with a small orange light on the side console that doesn't do much for me. I was thinking about some 12V rope lighting under the gunwales on both sides and wire them back to the same ACC switch that controls the orange light.

Cabelas has a 6' 12V rope light for $15. It looks pretty easy to install. I wonder if it will be enough light though.

Cabelas Rope Light

Has anyone done this or have any better ideas for me to look at? Comments?

Thanks a lot.

I'm starting to think that I have more fun buying and putting stuff on the boat than I do using the boat...

[dfv87]

I also am interested in any input as I fish at night and lights to untangle fish from the net would be great.

[buzzsaw]

Throw in a disco ball and I'm in!!

[Dan Thiem]

One suggestion I have is to watch out with the lights. They attract bugs. I found that by putting a lantern up high on something like a tent pole seems to help keep the bugs off a little.

[Valv]

I have some Crestliner interior lights with amber color lens that doesn't attract bugs. I also have livewell lights, so you can see the fish when you try to catch it at end.

[Dan Thiem]

Valv,

Great idea, yellow lenses. I have seen them before at campgrounds and cabins. Do they work good?

[Norsky]

I also have a Fishhawk and added a small 12 v light on the front side of the console and another near the cubby hole behind the console. I wired them both to the "int lights" switch on the console and it works great. The bugs are very attracted to the light though and I usually only keep the back light on. A GOOD LED headlamp is a much better way to go. I now tend to keep all light to a minimum and only turn on my headlamp when needed.

[sunrise]

As far as the lights are concerned, I have had the best luck with those purchased at a camper/rv dealer as opposed to those that can be purchased from some of your local auto or discount parts stores. Sure you pay less for those from the discounters, but you end up paying more in the long run as these are not as high of quality as what is available from the camper/rv dealers. They also sell the amber colored outdoor lights that do not attract the bugs. For the ultimate lighting with the absolute lowest draw on your battery, go with an amber L.E.D marker light or for more light use an amber L.E.D. turn signal light assembly.

P.S. to Dan Thiem... cool postscript, I too am in that boat !!!