Pontoon Boat & Deck Boat Forum

I am sure this has been discussed-I need advice on bow lights for my toon-it is really dark when easying around at night -I was thinking about rectangler type driving lamps from local auto parts-any suggestions-thanks

plane jim wrote:I am sure this has been discussed-I need advice on bow lights for my toon-it is really dark when easing around at night -I was thinking about rectangle type driving lamps from local auto parts-any suggestions-thanks

I think you're going to dislike this response, but if you were sharing the water with me I'd definitely would develop a real disliking of you for destroying my "night vision". In most if not all states running docking lights at night on open water is well "illegal". Here's an excerpt I found on a quick search on the subject:

Boats must have all navigation lights on from sunset to sunrise even while “free floating,” trolling or fishing. All motorboats are prohibited from displaying; any flashing lights (except in an emergency), docking lights or spotlights while on open waters or channel, or any lights that overpower the effect or are contrary to the navigation lights. Exceptions include: 1) Anchor light only when anchored. 2) Boats with no mechanical means of propulsion but must have a light to shine to prevent a collision.
Source: Marine Patrol

Yep, nothing will get you a ticket faster than using docking lights as "running lights" in my state. Learn to use a spot light properly by just using a quick trigger pull to inspect something that caught your eye or to check navigational buoys as to not destroy your own night vision.

They're definitely not supposed to be left on while underway, but they sure are handy for, well, docking. Not to mention using them for quick log/iceberg checks. I also keep a small, bright flashlight within reach for the same reason.

Yes, those rectangular car driving lights will work. The factory ones on my boat though aren't the greatest. They're halogens so suck a lot of power (they motor alternator can't keep up at idle) and they're really not that bright. I plan on someday adding a couple more somewhat hidden under the deck but going LED instead.


LC.

thanks for the replies-I think a handheld self contained spot light is all I need, just would like a quick peek when creeping around at night between the stumps.

Go to tractor supply and get you a couple of small tractor lights. They are more rugged and water proof then the ones at auto stores.

Like was said please don't use them on the lake at night. If you don't know the lake well enough for night cruising stay home.

LocoCoco, you aren't going to like the LED lights any better. They came standard on my Benni and I think they're just about useless. I carry a 1 million candlepower light for those times when there's a lot of crap in the lake (I try not to be out when that happens, but sometimes it's unavoidable). The big problem with the big light is that it does tend to screw up the night vision for everyone.

lakerunner wrote:Go to tractor supply and get you a couple of small tractor lights. They are more rugged and water proof then the ones at auto stores.

Like was said please don't use them on the lake at night. If you don't know the lake well enough for night cruising stay home.

YES SIR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I bought two of these to install on my toon

Go with a habd-held spotlight, or just mount a couple up high like ours. I'll be replacing them soon as they no longer move by remote control, plus they suck a LOT of power.
Another advantage of the handheld is being able to shine it around when another boat approaches in case they don't see that tiny anchor light or small stern light. Avoid shining it towards the approaching boat unless its obvious they do not see you - don't blind the other operator!

Bamby wrote:

plane jim wrote:I am sure this has been discussed-I need advice on bow lights for my toon-it is really dark when easing around at night -I was thinking about rectangle type driving lamps from local auto parts-any suggestions-thanks

I think you're going to dislike this response, but if you were sharing the water with me I'd definitely would develop a real disliking of you for destroying my "night vision". In most if not all states running docking lights at night on open water is well "illegal". Here's an excerpt I found on a quick search on the subject:

Boats must have all navigation lights on from sunset to sunrise even while “free floating,” trolling or fishing. All motorboats are prohibited from displaying; any flashing lights (except in an emergency), docking lights or spotlights while on open waters or channel, or any lights that overpower the effect or are contrary to the navigation lights. Exceptions include: 1) Anchor light only when anchored. 2) Boats with no mechanical means of propulsion but must have a light to shine to prevent a collision.
Source: Marine Patrol

I wish all the people doing a mass exodus from the fireworks the other night knew this! I honestly think half the party barge owners think the docking lights are headlights. They blind other boaters and honestly don't put out much light that is useful for driving at speed. When I'm sharing the lake with 500 other boats in close proximity I'd appreciate only seeing the navigation lights so I have a sure idea of what direction everyone is going, etc. The docking lights are very useful for, you guessed it, docking

Playcat-I sure like the hardtop you have on your toon!!!!!!!!!!!!!