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10 Best Kayak Lights 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Attwood 14192-7 Water-Resistant Deck Mount LED Navigation Light Kit, Marine Gray Finish

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,323
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Life
Mounting Options

Most important from
724 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The lights are bright and can be seen clearly, providing effective visibility for nighttime navigation.
Battery Life
Using commonly available AAA batteries is convenient, and investing in rechargeable ones is recommended for cost efficiency.
Mounting Options
Multiple mounting options, including adhesive pads and screws, offer flexibility for various surfaces, making installation straightforward.

The Attwood 14192-7 Deck Mount LED Navigation Light Kit is a practical choice for those using kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, or similar small boats that lack a 12V electrical system. The kit includes a red/green LED bow light and a white LED stern light, offering basic navigation lighting suited to calm water conditions and low speeds (under 7 knots). Its strengths lie in its versatility and ease of installation, with two mounting options: a screw-down method or an adhesive pad. This allows users to choose the best fit for their vessels without needing extensive tools or expertise.

One notable advantage is the impressive battery life, with over 150 hours of run time on three AAA batteries, although these need to be purchased separately. This long battery life is highly beneficial for prolonged adventures or camping trips where access to electricity might be limited. However, the lights are only water-resistant, meaning they can withstand splashes but are not suitable for heavy rain or submersion. This limitation is crucial for users in wetter environments. The light is also housed in a shock-proof casing with a shatter-proof lens, adding durability, but cannot be considered fully waterproof.

The compact size and lightweight design (6.4 ounces) make it easy to handle and store, which is ideal for users with limited space. However, the kit does not feature multiple light modes, which might restrict its use in varying visibility conditions. Additionally, it should be noted that it does not meet U.S. Coast Guard regulations, limiting its use to non-regulatory waters. The Attwood 14192-7 kit is well-suited for casual, recreational users who enjoy paddling in calm waters and need a simple, efficient lighting solution without complex installation. It is less ideal for those needing robust waterproofing or regulatory-compliant navigation lights.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,323
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Life
Mounting Options

Most important from
724 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The lights are bright and can be seen clearly, providing effective visibility for nighttime navigation.
Battery Life
Using commonly available AAA batteries is convenient, and investing in rechargeable ones is recommended for cost efficiency.
Mounting Options
Multiple mounting options, including adhesive pads and screws, offer flexibility for various surfaces, making installation straightforward.
#2

Tendelux Underwater Fishing Light, 110V & 12V Super Bright Green LED Submersible Light Attractants for Docks, Boats or Kayaks, IP68 Rated for Fresh & Salt Water (30ft Cable)

Rating
9.6
Brightness (Lumens)

Most important from
163 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The light is extremely bright and highly effective at attracting a variety of marine life, from baitfish to manatees.

The Tendelux Underwater Fishing Light is a versatile and powerful option for kayak lights, boasting 2300 lumens for excellent brightness. This makes it very effective for attracting fish, as it creates a food chain in the water. The light is designed to be efficient, using only 23 watts, which means it won't drain your power source quickly. It is submersible with an IP68 rating, ensuring it is completely waterproof and suitable for both fresh and saltwater use.

With its 30ft cable, it offers flexibility in positioning and mounting options, allowing it to be used in various settings such as docks, boats, or kayaks. The light includes multiple mounting accessories, such as battery clamps and a cigarette lighter adapter, providing more options for power sources, whether you're near a boat outlet or using portable batteries. It doesn't have multiple light modes, which could be a limitation for users looking for adjustable illumination settings.

The light comes with a waterproof carrying bag, suggesting ease of transport and storage. Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent marine fouling, which might be inconvenient for long-term underwater use. Users will appreciate the 18-month warranty and lifetime support from Tendelux, which adds value to the purchase.

Rating
9.6
Brightness (Lumens)

Most important from
163 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The light is extremely bright and highly effective at attracting a variety of marine life, from baitfish to manatees.
#3

YOLOtek 4ft NavLIGHT SHOW - 360º LED Boat Navigation Lights - VeteranOwned - Coast Guard 2NM 12Solid & 130+Patterns Whip Anchor, Running Stern Light Accessories - Power Boat, Deep V, Bass Boat & More

Rating
9.4
Brightness (Lumens)
Light Modes

Most important from
135 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The illumination is incredibly bright and evenly distributed, enhancing nighttime boating and docking.
Light Modes
The 300+ colorful light shows are impressive, making the boat highly visible at night and easy to control.

The YOLOtek Veteran Owned 4ft NavLIGHT SHOW 360º LED Boat Navigation Lights promise solid performance with a focus on safety and versatility. With Coast Guard compliance for 2 nautical mile visibility, it ensures a high level of safety in low-light conditions, making it ideal for night fishing or general boating. The light offers an impressive array of options with over 130 different patterns and 12 solid colors, allowing for both steady and dynamic lighting effects suitable for various uses such as anchor, running stern, or boat whip light.

This flexibility is enhanced by the three different collars provided, which accommodate different speed requirements and mounting options up to 90MPH and make installation relatively straightforward. Additionally, the product is designed to be universally compatible with all boats, which is great for users looking for a hassle-free setup. The remote control feature adds convenience in managing the different light modes efficiently.

Given its size (49 x 2.6 x 2.5 inches) and weight (1.9 pounds), it is relatively compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and install. The acrylic lens and waterproof feature ensure durability, even in harsh weather conditions. The YOLOtek NavLIGHT SHOW stands out for its safety, versatility, and ease of use, making it a strong choice for boat owners.

Rating
9.4
Brightness (Lumens)
Light Modes

Most important from
135 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
The illumination is incredibly bright and evenly distributed, enhancing nighttime boating and docking.
Light Modes
The 300+ colorful light shows are impressive, making the boat highly visible at night and easy to control.

Buying Guide for the Best Kayak Lights

Choosing the right kayak lights is essential for ensuring your safety and visibility while paddling, especially during low-light conditions or at night. The right lights will help you see where you're going and make sure other watercraft can see you. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting kayak lights, along with explanations to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Brightness (Lumens)Brightness, measured in lumens, indicates how much light the kayak light emits. This is important because it determines how well you can see and be seen in the dark. Lower lumens (around 50-100) are suitable for calm, well-lit areas, while higher lumens (200-500) are better for darker, more remote waters. Choose a brightness level based on the typical conditions you'll be kayaking in.
Battery LifeBattery life refers to how long the light will last on a single charge or set of batteries. This is crucial for ensuring your light doesn't die while you're out on the water. Shorter battery life (2-4 hours) might be sufficient for short trips, while longer battery life (8-12 hours or more) is better for extended outings. Consider how long you usually kayak and choose a light with a battery life that matches your needs.
Waterproof RatingThe waterproof rating indicates how well the light can withstand water exposure. This is important because your light will inevitably get wet while kayaking. Look for lights with at least an IPX7 rating, which means they can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. Higher ratings (like IPX8) offer even more protection. Choose a waterproof rating based on how wet your light is likely to get.
Mounting OptionsMounting options refer to how the light can be attached to your kayak. This is important for ensuring the light stays secure and is positioned correctly. Common options include suction cups, clamps, and adhesive mounts. Consider how and where you want to mount the light on your kayak and choose a mounting option that fits your setup.
Light ModesLight modes refer to the different settings the light can operate in, such as steady, flashing, or SOS. This is important for adapting to different situations and signaling to others. Basic lights may only have one mode, while more advanced lights can have multiple modes. Think about the different scenarios you might encounter and choose a light with modes that suit your needs.
Size and WeightSize and weight refer to the physical dimensions and heft of the light. This is important for ensuring the light doesn't add too much bulk or weight to your kayak. Smaller, lighter lights are easier to handle and store, but may have fewer features. Larger lights might offer more brightness and battery life but can be cumbersome. Consider the balance between portability and functionality that works best for you.

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