For a change, I would like to talk about the bite signaling lights. In the review, we will consider several options for these fishing devices, we will try to choose the best method of attachment, we will figure out where they can be used at all.
Attention! Only those who read the review to the end will master my writings, as an encouragement, at the very bottom there is a small hilarious master class for a novice feederist (it can compete with a good onigdod).
Seasoned anglers know that some types of fish eat better at dusk or at night. For example, catfish or sometimes - carp, bream ... But it is very difficult to catch outside daylight hours, especially with those gear in which it is important to track bites visually. These include side fishing rods with a nod, different kind donks, float, feeder (especially feeder(!)).
As a way out, people use various kinds of electronic signaling devices or good old bells. But there is another option, which is popularly called "fireflies", or, as Google translated the inscription on the packaging of the review hero - "Luminous Wand".
We have several options in the city. Among them there is a “company”, and there are very unsuccessful models that shine dimly and have a lot of flash on the outside, for which the fishing line constantly strives to catch. But the recognizable green packs from Ocean-sun are sold out quickly and I like them.
Recently, they have risen in price significantly, therefore, when I saw such ones on ALI at a good price, I ordered them. The lot consists of 50 fireflies with a total price tag of $ 2.5, which, in terms of piece value, is about 3-4 times more profitable than offline in the city of Slavyansk, Donetsk region. The goods are still on their way, but I have a lot of these, so I’ll show you how, because the season, although it cannot be said that it is in full swing, has already begun.
How packed, how it works
There are usually two signaling devices in the package (in my order for ALI in a pack of 5 fireflies). Sometimes some kind of fastening is put there, mostly it is a silicone tube. Below in the photo is an American firefly from a well-known brand - there is only one signaling device in the pack.
The product is a small stick-flask made of transparent plastic. Here it is flat and smooth.
Inside the wand is some kind of liquid with a light rod floating in it. In order to activate the device, the wand must be bent so that the rod breaks (preferably several times), and then shaken a little. I saw how some fishermen also chew firefly to increase the mixing of substances. There were no depressurizations with poisoning, it seems.
The substances in the flask are mixed, and the solution begins to glow quite brightly with a pleasant green-acid color. They say that in nature there are fireflies that generate red light, but I did not come across such hands.
The magic begins. 
This is how it looks mixed up in the dark 
The most intense glow is observed for about 10 hours in a row - for one night fishing, such illumination is more than enough. You can see a green dot from 30-25 meters, at five meters - in general, a clear illumination. By the way, on the back of the pack, the manufacturer gives a dependence plate for distance, lumens and operating time. It is difficult to honor it without a microscope / magnifying glass, especially to take a picture. But in general, the data there are honest - I confirm.
Then the alarm gradually dims, but even after 40 hours there is a weak light. Here you can roughly compare a fresh and almost two-day-old firefly.
About form factor
I came across "mini" versions 25 mm long, as well as sticks with a thickening in the form of a light bulb at one end. Usually there is a choice of thickness - 3; 4 or 4.5 mm. However, for my purposes, 4.5 mm fireflies with a length of 37 mm, a clear cylindrical shape that are clearly visible and easy to attach, were the best fit. How to use
I note that I mainly fish with a feeder (English donkey). This tackle is characterized by the use of a sensitive rod with a flexible tip - "quiver tip". It is the quiver-type that, by its trembling or twitching, tells us that the fish needs to be hooked and exhausted. You have to see him if you want to catch him. That is why a firefly is attached to it at night. Bells and beeping electrical signaling devices are not in our honor.Let's immediately note that the device can also be put on the float antenna using a regular soft tube. True, it is necessary that the float has an antenna of the same diameter. I have one of these lying around. Here, the smallest glow sticks may be preferable.
It is also inserted into the famous Chinese bells (there is a special hole in the clothespin). Combining with a bell is convenient because, for example, when a catfish has several donks and he hears a ringing, he immediately understands by the twitching light which gear worked.
Fixing Methods
So, we figured out the choice, with the scope too. Let's move on to installation.Installation of a firefly in the feeder business is a paramount issue. This is because this tackle has to be recast very often, thin lines and cords are used, the tips of the rod are incredibly elegant, and the equipment (where there is a feeder with bait) is usually quite heavy. If the fishing line is overwhelmed by the quiver tip, then at best we have a “shooting” of the feeder, which flies to the opposite bank. And in the worst case, the fishing rod breaks (mostly the tips suffer, which, the infection, are very expensive).
That is, you need to fasten the firefly very carefully, and the closer to the tulip, the better the bite will be visible in the dark. Accordingly, you need to choose the mount very carefully. And there are many options, and not all of them are equally useful in certain conditions.
Option 1: The most uncomfortable and massive. The grip on the rod is carried out due to the cut on the rubber tube. But the diameter of the hole is so large that the firefly will be outside the flexible zone of the tip. Yes, and with small rings, the fishing line will rub against the mount. Conclusion - this product will go only to relatively coarse gear, for example, for catfish drains.
Option 2: Acceptable for the feeder. The green plastic adapter is hooked onto the quiver with multidirectional clips, and the firefly is snapped into the stock.
The advantage is that such a mount can be placed between the 2nd and 3rd ring, which is buzzing. Yes, and it holds tight, does not rotate. The main thing is to choose a plastic for a specific tip diameter, for example, I have two sizes.
Option 3: Good for a feeder. Compact plastic product with two rounded slots. One for the stick, the other for putting on the tip. I really like it, because you can hook the fastener between the first and second rings of any feeder rod - and this is sensitivity and a chance to catch cautious fish that bite delicately.
Option 4: Very good. A trick with a tap (I don’t remember the manufacturer now - some kind of expensive, branded one). Split plastic part in the form of an oblique tee, has a longitudinal section. It wraps around the quiver and is compressed / fixed by a silicone tube, where, in fact, a firefly is inserted. The disadvantage is that you need to set it relatively far from the tulip. A huge plus - the firefly is perfectly visible, even when the tip is strongly bent, for example, by the current.
Option 5: Chic, but only suitable for feeders with a small tulip. Here, for fixing, a regular tube is used, which comes in the package. I used to think that it was only intended for a float, but as it turned out… In general, we cut the tube into pieces of 4-5 mm and put it on a quiver tip through a tulip.
Then we insert a firefly into them (previously slobbering). Pros: holds very tightly, protrudes minimally above the blank, is located at the very end of the rod. By the way, you can probably play around here with pieces of transparent heat shrink.
Option 6: The easiest and most reliable. Quite efficient. We take a narrow stationery tape and attach the activated firefly where we like. There is a trick here - it is better to make a smooth transition from the light signaling device to the tip, then the fishing line simply will not cling to anything.
How to replace a chemical firefly
Now a few words about what can be used to replace the chemical firefly in the absence of one. I always have three special items in my fishing box:1) A small LED flashlight with a clothespin that can be attached to a horn and illuminate the quiver tip with it.
2) Battery-powered fireflies - capsules with a sealed rubber gasket, inside which there is a red / green LED and 2 LR41 tablets.
3) 5 hryvnia lighter "with a flashlight". Once rescued me. Fireflies ran out, and terribly wanted to go fishing. I bought a lighter in a rural store, unscrewed a lighting device from there (3 tablets and an LED) and tied it to the tip of the rod. He shone for me more than 2.5 fishing trips.
Conclusions:
What can be said?
The device is indispensable for night fishing.
It is smaller and lighter than the LED options.
Lots of attachment methods.
The bite is better distinguished than under the light of lanterns aimed at the bait.
Does not attract midges and mosquitoes.
Cheaper than any other competitor in terms of visual bite signaling.
It is this model that shines well and for a long time, the body is smooth.
There are other options for use, if you dream up. Probably, it can be used in some emergency options for lighting a pet (attach to a dog on a collar). You can attach it to the rear fender of a bicycle or on clothes, and especially funny bikers can stick a signaling device on the spokes - for, so to speak, tuning. I don’t know ... - you can still go on a quadrocopter ...
Press if you want to laugh at the fishermen
For those who are patient, for a snack, I suggest reading a little joke about fiderists, well ... so that you understand what and where.
1. When going fishing, you should not dig worms, and even more so, buy in a store. You will forget them at home anyway. Much better then to run along the shore and beg for bait from the neighbors.
2. Arriving at the place, the first thing to do is bait - eat all the sandwiches and pies that you took with you.
3. Make fish food - stir the dry mixture in a bucket, scoop up water, add, mix thoroughly.
4. Fish your cell phone out of the water where it fell when you were fetching water. Remove the battery from it, and put everything in the sun to dry.
5. While the bait comes, equip the place so that it would be as inconvenient as possible. Place feeder stands, a platform or a chair, lay out the landing net.
6. Feed the selected point with a slingshot.
7. Collect the feeder, put the coil, tie the feeder.
8. Tear off the feeder, thread the line through the rings and tie it again.
9. Fill the feeder with groundbait.
10. Unhook the hook from the pants.
11. Cast, make sure you don't cast to a bait.
12. Tie a heavier feeder, cast with maximum force.
13. Tie a new feeder and call an ambulance for the angler on the other side. Give it up.
14. Remember that you forgot to tie a hook, tie it.
15. Unhook the hook from the pants.
16. Cast.
17. Remove the rig from the tree.
18. Unhook the hook from the pants.
19. Get off the bait box you stepped on.
20. Collect what's left.
21. Cast.
22. Untangle the braid that has tangled over the tulip, tie a new feeder, replace the broken top.
23. Unhook the hook from your pants.
24. Dodge the feeder flying from the other side. Find it, you'll need it later.
25. Unhook the hook from your pants.
26. Take off those fucking pants!!!
27. Gently remove the stuck hook from the leg, treat the wound with iodine.
28. Put on your pants.
29. Get off the feeder you stepped on while putting on your pants.
30. Throw out all the bait and go home. There is nothing more to do here.
31. Go back to make sure that the mobile phone left to dry and the forgotten racks are gone.
32. Calculate your losses on the way home.
33. Find the one who advised you to fish on the feeder, and stuff his face.
34. Go to the store and buy fish.
Experienced fishermen claim that fishing at night is more productive than during the day. Especially if the goal is large specimens. There are varieties of fish that can only be caught in the evening or at night. When planning such an outing on a pond, you need to carefully consider the set of gear.
A firefly for is a simple but necessary device. It can be purchased at any specialized store. But if there is a desire and a sufficient amount of free time, this device can be made by hand. This will require the most common tool, which is often in the arsenal of a home master, as well as initial skills in working with it. Making gear yourself, it is quite easy not only to create a high-quality firefly, but also to have fun.
general characteristics
In twilight or night darkness, many fishing methods are only valid when using backlight. Some use special sound signaling devices. But these calls are not always effective, especially with careful bites or frequent bait tossing. firefly for night fishing considered a more viable option. It doesn't weigh down the tackle. But without this element, fishing in the dark will not work.
There are chemical and electrical devices. It is almost impossible to create the first variety at home. All components of such capsules lose their properties in air or simply evaporate. Therefore, they are made exclusively by the production method. But electrical types of equipment can be done independently.
Advantages of purchased models
When considering whether to make a firefly for night fishing with your own hands or buy it in a store, they weigh all the pros and cons. Purchased varieties are inexpensive. They are freely available everywhere. Such lamps are easy to transport to the pond. In operation with them most often there are no problems. If you don't really want to mess around with creating electronic fireflies, it's easier to go to the store and buy a few pieces of chemical capsules. This option is ideal for those fishermen who do not have enough free time or skills to work with the tool. But fishing fans know how much fun it is to make homemade tackle.
Disadvantages of purchased products
However, there are a number of disadvantages that chemical isotopes have. Fireflies for night fishing in capsules are used only once. Each role is designed for no more than 10 hours of glow. If the contents of the substance accidentally come into contact with the skin, some people experience an allergic reaction. It should also be noted certain inconveniences when casting. The fishing line can cling to the ampoule. The brightness of the glow of chemical species cannot be adjusted. Therefore, in some devices it is very strong. If the blue light color is selected, the eyes can get tired quickly. There are situations when the elementary supply of capsules is exhausted, and it's too late to go to the store. Making a firefly on your own is not difficult.
Features of electric fireflies
On sale there are, but in smaller quantities, electric varieties of fireflies. More often they are made independently than purchased. Simplicity of design distinguishes such fireflies for night fishing. LED varieties are the most popular. They consume little electricity, their glow is soft. The main advantage of electrical varieties is their reusable use. Therefore, among fishermen who prefer to make tackle on their own, this device is considered the most popular. It consists of 3 small round batteries and an LED. They are placed in a collapsible capsule. Batteries can be easily replaced if necessary. The technology for creating such fireflies deserves detailed consideration.
Do-it-yourself diode firefly
If you are going to make an electronic firefly for night fishing with your own hands, you should purchase diodes of the required brightness. You can unscrew the light bulb from an ordinary Chinese lighter. To do this, a bolt is unscrewed on the body. Next, the diode is carefully removed. It is attached to the capsule with 3 round mini batteries. The glow occurs after touching the iron plate to the leg of the diode. The circuit is closed.
Such a finished system is installed on the rod. You can create a diode circuit yourself, but this option is one of the simplest. It will require a minimum amount of effort, cost and time. If desired, you can use mini-AA batteries. The duration of the device will increase significantly. However, in the first version it will be a reusable firefly. Its properties are fully suitable for night fishing.
Features of the device
When creating fireflies for night fishing on batteries, it will be interesting for the master to know in advance about its properties. The operation of the device was tested under conditions of night fishing. At the same time, a number of positive characteristics were found. The diode system with batteries from a lighter worked for 2 full-fledged night fishing. At the same time, the entire structure did not overheat.
As for the weight of such a firefly, it turned out to be more than that of a chemical capsule. However, even under conditions feeder fishing it did not affect tip sensitivity or casting distance. Also, the accuracy of sending the feeder did not change. The advantage of the diode firefly turned out to be a beam directed upwards. Eyes did not get tired in the process of night fishing. The light is clearly visible from different angles. The device is quite simple, but effective.
Scheme improvements
Some fishermen have improved the presented system. To do this, they make an adjustable firefly. Night fishing only benefits from this. If the master has a soldering iron and a little wire of a small cross section in his arsenal, you can separate the diode with its batteries. This will lighten the load on the tip or float. Of course, there is no cardinal difference. But for greater signal accuracy, this will be a good solution.
Solder the wire to the diode. It will connect the light bulb to the batteries. The power supply is mounted on the handle or slightly higher. The wire with adhesive tape is attributed to the rod. In this case, it will be easier to measure round small batteries for 2 finger batteries. This significantly increases the duration of the glow of the diode. If for some reason the light bulb from the lighter does not fit, purchase it yourself. White LEDs LR41 are suitable for these purposes. The store will just pick up the brightness. This will make the process of night fishing as comfortable as possible for the fisherman.
How to install a firefly
Firefly fasteners are performed depending on the type of gear. If the fishing rod has a float, the device is attached directly to it. The system is placed in a transparent tube. It is strung on the top of the float. Even for gear with thin antennas, such tubes and fireflies are used for night fishing. How to use such a device is of interest to beginners. Professionals know that you need to put 2 rubber bands on the float antenna. They already have a tube attached to them.
If fishing is supposed to be on the feeder, the firefly is installed on the tip. For this, 2 elastic bands are also put on it. The LED in the capsule is placed in the space between them. The firefly is best treated with tape. This will eliminate the possibility of line snagging. On sale for attaching fireflies are special plastic brackets. When using them, installing the device will be easy.
Novice fishermen will not be superfluous to familiarize themselves with some recommendations on the use of fireflies. it simple rules, performing which you can not worry about the durability of the device. Fireflies for fishing at night are important not only to properly fasten, but also to operate carefully. The system should be turned on immediately before the first cast. So the batteries will last longer.
There should be no gap between the LED capsule and the rod. To do this, the firefly is taped to the base with tape. Taking the feeder out of the water, you need to monitor the fishing line. She must be tight. With this method of fishing, the feeder is placed on the stand smoothly (so that the tip with the LED does not loosen). Before casting, the fishing line is checked for smoothness of sliding. She shouldn't be bothered by anything. This prevents tackling. The use of fireflies will be comfortable.
foil firefly
In addition to the method discussed above, you can make a homemade firefly using other methods. A very popular approach among fishermen is the use of a foil reflector. To make such a firefly for night fishing, you will need its white or yellow variety. The sheet of foil is cut into strips 5 mm wide. The strips are attached to the float with waterproof glue.
To see the bite in the dark, you need to turn on the flashlight. Its beam is directed to the foil. This is enough to distinguish the bite in the dark. If the weather is windy, the foil is rolled up in several layers to give it rigidity. The light source can even be an ordinary one. Its brightness will be quite enough to illuminate the reflector. The simplicity of this approach has proven to be to the liking of many fishermen.
Alternative fireflies
Improving the firefly for night fishing, which is made by hand, fishermen come up with various options systems. The idea of creating such gear from a jar of ascorbic acid has the right to exist. A bright LED and batteries are installed in an empty vitamin container. A window is cut in the box (several holes can be made).
Another interesting solution for lighting gear is the use of special paint. It is purchased in special stores. The paint can glow in the dark with a phosphorescent color. It is applied to the float or top of the feeder. If for some reason the paint is incompatible with the base material, a plate is made of wood. It is shaped like a chemical firefly. It is painted, and then attached to the tackle in the standard way. Therefore, when going fishing, it is better to give preference to electrical varieties of devices.
Despite the demand, today the market for bite alarms does not really play with offers, limited to floats, bells or electronic signaling devices, which are especially popular in feeder fishing, but at the same time entail significant financial and time costs.
Bells and other rattles are a different story, extremely irritable. In most cases, according to my observations, the bell is hung directly on the rod .. but I want to hang it anywhere, even on my nose, but not on the rod - it bites or it doesn’t go, but it constantly rings and annoys everyone and everything.
A float is good for everyone, but if there are vision problems, or the sun is too blinding, or dusk sets in, you have to look for universal solutions and in most cases buy special glasses, and sometimes even several.
But what signaling device to choose for night fishing? The most correct solution would be the same electronic light and sound signaling device. If you want to save both in money and in carrying weight, while maintaining mobility (electronic signaling devices require racks, preparation, settings, etc.) or does not involve bottom fishing, have to be content with bells. But how to enjoy the silence and beauty of the night nature, if something is constantly beeping, chirping and whistling?
We return to the old grandfather's way - we play sniper in position - we listen, we feel, we strain our eyesight. Or make the float glow.
Back in the distant 70s (I personally saw this date), smart Soviet engineers invented bulky but interesting night floats - inside there was a light bulb on a movable contact pad, a tablet battery, the float was located in the water from bottom to top, when biting, the fish pulled fishing line down, the float turned over, the circuit closed and the light turned on - everything is simple.
It all ended there - I have not seen more such floats.
In 2012, in one of the fishing shops, I was offered Finnish night floats - I still regret that I didn’t buy it. The operation of the LED in them was similar, but the float itself is much more compact.
Perhaps now somewhere you can buy something similar, but the same query on google does not really give anything.
Many fishermen, like me, have had to settle for fluorescent floats or fireflies (their work is based on the chemical reaction of several liquids when mixed, resulting in a slight glow for up to 5-6 hours). But, to be honest, I personally don’t like one option or the other - I almost don’t see a float at a distance of more than 5 meters.
The solution, in fact, was found in the Chinese market - LED floats.
Night Fishing Float Overview
Price: depends on the seller - from 300 to 400 rubles. (free delivery)
Package contents: tube 3 pcs, float — 3 pcs, 3 batteries
Length: 32.5 to 33.5 mm
Weight: 2 to 2.2 gr
Float material: plastic (debatable)
Battery type: specialized 3V lithium battery CR425 (price for 1 pc - from 25 to 30 rubles)
Comparative model of typical batteries
It consists of 3 floats, 32.5, 33 and 33.5 mm long, respectively (very long). Weight from 2 to 2.2 g in increments of 0.1 g.
The curb weight of the float + 0.8gr (battery). The material, according to information from the seller, is plastic, but wood chips are clearly visible inside the float (I’ll find out for sure when I break it).
What I especially liked was that each float was in its own rather strong tube!
Principle of operation
Battery+LED+optical cable(?)
We insert the battery - the float consists of two parts connected through a reliable threaded connection, we just insert the battery into one of the parts, then the circuit closes - the LED lights up and transmits light up the plastic fiber. I'm not exactly sure about the latter, but most likely it is he, or some conductive plastic that is ultra-sensitive to light.
The float has 5 sections on the tip through which light passes (in theory, this is exactly that part of the light that was not reflected from the walls after refraction due to the low reflectivity of the walls). The cut of the tip produces the brightest neon beam, the sections are dark red (bottom) to orange (top) - perfect colors!
The length of the float can be easily reduced - by carefully breaking off part of the same top (nothing will go bad!).
According to equipment - the float is not equipped with rings either from above or from below, so cambric can be used.
Battery life up to 4 hours, taking into account the fact that the battery can always be removed.
The battery is very small
Insert the battery and screw it on.
If necessary and in order to avoid leaks, we apply a sanitary film to the threaded connection
As soon as the two parts of the float are connected, the contact closes, the diode starts to shine
Total - the float is clearly visible both at dusk and at night at a distance of 10 meters
(with my vision of -2 in each eye, it was not a problem for me to fix bites).
Leaks, short circuits or malfunctions have not yet been noticed.
The only thing is that the float is heavy - all the equipment is not designed for catching small fish (in principle, at night, a trifle does not bite willingly)
Night fishing is no less interesting and popular activity than its daytime variety. During certain periods, for example, when the weather is extremely hot and dry, fishing at night is often much more effective.
One of the main disadvantages of such fishing is poor visibility in dark time days. The appearance of fishing fireflies completely solves this problem, this device becomes one of the main assistants, which allows you to see the bite even in complete darkness.
The composition of such devices includes the following substances:
- Luminol- one of the most common components. It has a powder form, and when it enters an acidic environment, it begins to emit a bluish glow.
- Hydrogen peroxide, oxalate and dye. Components that mix with each other form a chemical reaction, due to which light energy is released.
At the same time, it will not be possible to open fireflies for processing them with components of other objects, since all active substances enter into an instant reaction with oxygen, after which they evaporate or simply lose their basic properties.
Appearance and colors
The color scheme of fireflies can be the most diverse today, you can find devices that emit a green, yellow, pink, orange or blue glow. However, it is the yellow-green variant that has received the most widespread and continues to be popular. This is due to the following factors:
- For the chemical reaction that causes such a glow, inexpensive and safe components are used.
- The color is quite bright and well distinguishable in the dark.
- The color is quite calm and does not irritate human vision.
The firefly itself outwardly represents the following construction:
- A small capsule made of plastic, filled with active ingredients inside.
- Inside it is a second capsule, which is filled with other components.
In a state of calm, the substances from different capsules do not mix, but when a mechanical effect is applied to the firefly, the components mix, after which the corresponding chemical reaction occurs.
Advantages and disadvantages of using
Fireflies have become widespread and are very popular with anglers due to a number of their positive aspects, The main advantages include the following features:
- A significant increase in the comfort of fishing at night.
- Versatility that allows you to use them when various ways fishing.
- Fasteners are distinguished by their ease, for its implementation it is not required to have specific knowledge or skills.
- The composition is completely safe, the active ingredients do not pose a threat to human health or the environment.
- The dimensions are distinguished by their small size, so these devices are easy to store and transport.
- The price is affordable for all categories of persons.
- A wide range of backlight colors, allowing you to choose the most attractive and suitable option.
However, with so many advantages, fireflies also have certain disadvantages, primarily these include:
- All fixtures are disposable and cannot be reused.
- Some components that make up the composition can cause an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with the skin of a person.
- When using a feeder, there is a risk of the fishing line being overwhelmed by the firefly.
- Some devices have too intense a glow, which can cause eye fatigue when watching them for a long time.
Main varieties
The main classification of fireflies is their division according to the principle of functioning, taking into account this parameter, two varieties can be distinguished:
- Chemical variety is by far the most common. This is due to the ease of operation: to bring the firefly into action, you just need to bend the plastic flask, due to which the inner glass container breaks. Components mix with each other, causing a chemical reaction. After that, the device is ready for use.
- Fireflies, the design of which includes LED and a couple of small batteries. This option is less common, but it has one significant advantage, which is the possibility of reuse. Visually, they actually have no differences and also represent a capsule, but have a collapsible design. This allows you to periodically replace the batteries for reuse.
Fastening methods
The fastening of this device sometimes raises a number of questions for novice anglers, but in fact there is nothing complicated in this process. Exists Several variants firefly mounts:
- Fasteners directly to the float, practiced when using the appropriate variety of fishing rods. The attachment process takes place using a tube made of silicone, which is usually included in the basic package when purchasing fireflies. It has two holes on each side, a firefly is inserted into one of them, and the other is strung on the top of the float.
- Some floats are not designed to use silicone tubing, this happens when top part made in the form of too thin antennas. In such a situation, fastening can be done using an alternative technique that involves the use of rubber bands that can be cut from the nipple pipe. In total, two elastic bands are required, they will be put on a float antenna, and a firefly can also be passed through them.
- Some large floats have a fairly large antenna at the top with a significant diameter. If this particular variety is used, then the firefly usually fits well inside the existing hole, which is then closed with a cap.
- You can also attach this device directly to the end of the fishing rod, this method is most often practiced when using feeders, since their design does not imply the presence of a float. In this situation, several rubber bands of silicone are threaded right through the end of the feeder, and the place that is intended to fasten the firefly will be the space between the rings. Usually it is installed between the second and third or third and fourth rings. If such a technique is chosen, it is recommended to additionally wrap the firefly with transparent tape, which will minimize the risk of fishing line hooks, the likelihood of which occurs during casting. After that, a constant visibility of the location of the end of the feeder will be provided.
- You can also fasten to the end of the rod using special plastic fasteners that are sold in fishing stores. This somewhat simplifies the process, and such devices are designed for the possible installation of one or several fireflies at once.
Selection Criteria for Fishing Fireflies
It is necessary to take into account a number of factors in order to buy the most suitable option and subsequently not regret the purchase made. The main criteria influencing the choice are:
- Product manufacturer. It is recommended to choose a product famous brands, which have already been tested by other fishermen and have managed to prove themselves on the positive side in the corresponding market segment.
- glow duration, because with an incorrectly selected parameter, fading can occur at the most inopportune moment for this.
- Glow intensity, which is also one of the most significant parameters because it affects the visibility and comfort of use.
- The volume of components contained in the flask. This indicator directly affects the intensity and duration of the glow, although both of these parameters may not be interconnected with each other.
- The presence of additional fasteners, which are included in the package, while they must fully comply with the selected type of fishing tackle.
- Glow color. Despite the fact that green and yellow shades are the most common and popular, it is necessary first of all to focus on your own preferences and individual characteristics of perception.
On average, a firefly is able to emit light for 8-10 hours, a similar duration is enough for one session of night fishing.
After that, a weak and insignificant glow should remain for another day, which is an indicator of quality. Weaker models emit light for no longer than 4 hours, and in a weaker mode they function for several more days, their cost is usually much lower.
Instrument instruction manual
In general, the use of such devices does not cause difficulties, it is enough just to break the flask, and then fix it on the float with one of possible ways. The situation is a little more complicated when using a feeder, in In such a situation, it is recommended to adhere to the following algorithm of actions:
- Activation should be carried out shortly before dark or before direct use.
- Place and fasten the device between the feeder rings according to the already disassembled method.
- Additionally, secure the firefly with a narrow adhesive tape so that there are not even minimal gaps between it and the rods.
- After pulling out the feeder for any purpose, it is necessary to ensure that the line is always in the tight position.
- The feeder is placed on only with smooth movements, free loosening of its upper part is not allowed.
- Before making a new cast, you need to make sure that the line moves freely through the rings.
Following this simple instruction will minimize the likelihood of overlaps when using such lighting fixtures.
How to make your own
Some fishermen prefer not to use store-bought varieties of fireflies, but models that they make on their own. The most popular way is to use a foil that has the ability to reflect light. To carry out this process, it is necessary to follow following instruction:
- Initially, the base material is prepared, the yellow or white foil must be cut into strips of the same size. The recommended width is 5 mm.
- After that, the foil strips will need to be glued to the float, for these purposes it is necessary to use a special kind of glue that has waterproof properties.
- To activate a firefly, a flashlight is pointed at it, while it is not necessary to use powerful light sources.
Another variety can be a device that is made using a can of ascorbic acid and an LED. Suitable for creating next instruction:
- To begin with, a jar of ascorbic acid, produced in the form of a dragee, is being prepared. The standard volume is 500 gr.
- An LED and batteries are placed inside the container.
- The bank is attached to the feeder or to the bells, which additionally provide a sound notification of the presence of bites.
- One or more windows are cut inside the jar, this will make the glow more noticeable at long distances.
An alternative is to use special paints that glow in the dark. For implementation, it is necessary to adhere to the following algorithm of actions:
- The easiest option is to apply glowing paint directly to the float.
- If for some reason painting the float is out of the question, then you can apply a luminous substance to a homemade capsule. This element is cut out of wood, it must be identical in shape to a shop firefly, then the fasteners can be made using standard methods.
Many devices have been invented for night fishing - bells, flashlights, signaling devices. Fireflies do not lose their popularity because of their low cost and ease of use.
fishing firefly for night fishing, this is a modified “flashlight” that is attached to a feeder rod or to a float antenna. They have a different shape, length and thickness, and are also designed for different periods of work.
On the appearance, fireflies are plastic capsules that contain special chemicals. Inside each capsule is another one with a different chemical solution. In a calm state, the liquids do not react with each other, but if the capsule is mechanically acted upon (bent), it emits light.
Depending on the reagents, the color can be different - blue, yellow, green, but yellow-green is considered the most popular among fishermen. It is this glow that is easier to perceive by sight and does not irritate.
The firefly consists of two capsules - one is plastic and the other is glass. The glass capsule contains hydrogen peroxide, while the plastic capsule is filled with fluorescent dye and oxalate.
When the glass shell bursts, the components react, from which energy is released. It, in turn, is absorbed by the dye, from which light radiation appears. Different types of dyes emit different color radiation.
content
What are they for?
Universal mounting options allow them to be used both for feeder fishing and float gear. The glow period of one firefly can be from 5 to 15 hours.
The benefits of fireflies include:
- Ability to use for different types fishing.
- Glow duration.
- Ease of fastening.
- Small sizes.
- Low price.
- You can choose a different backlight color.
Some cons:
- Used only once.
- Chemical constituents may cause irritation if contacted with the skin.
What are there?
There are two types of fireflies - with a chemical composition and battery-powered:
Chemical
The most common option, because it does not require special knowledge during operation. It is only necessary to bend the plastic capsule until the glass one bursts. Then it is attached to the gear and ready to go.
Battery operated fireflies
These fireflies consist of an LED bulb and several small batteries. Externally, these fireflies also have the shape of a capsule, with only one advantage - they are collapsible. This allows you to use them repeatedly, the main thing is to change the batteries on time.
How to fix?
Depending on the type of fishing, firefly mounts differ:
To the float
To a greater extent, they are designed specifically for float gear. They are attached using a silicone tube that comes with the kit. One side of the tube is put on the float antenna, and a firefly is inserted into the other.
Often there are floats with a thin antenna, and it is not possible to attach a firefly in the standard way. In this case, you can use the rubber bands cut off from the nipple tube. Two elastic bands are put on the antenna, and a firefly is passed through them.
More recently, large floats have appeared, in the antenna of which fireflies are placed. In its upper part there is a hole with a cap through which the alignment process takes place.
To the tip of the rod
When fishing with the feeder method, a float is not needed, which makes the process difficult, and bites often lead to fish coming off, because you can’t see them in the dark. In this case, two silicone rubber bands are threaded through the tip of the feeder rod. The gaps between the 2nd and the third ringlet (it is possible between the 3rd and the fourth one) become places for attaching the firefly.
This method has its pros and cons. Plus - this is a good visibility of the movement of the rod tip directly close. The downside is the possible hooking of the fishing line during the casting of gear, which can lead to its breakage. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended that the edges of the firefly be covered (wrapped) with tape.
There are special ready-made plastic attachments for fireflies to the tip of the rod. They are designed to work 1 or 2 fireflies at the same time.
How to use and choose fishing fireflies?
Before starting night fishing, you need to make sure that there are fasteners and they are in good condition.
To "make" the firefly glow, you need to bend it until the glass capsule cracks, and shake it several times. The result will become visible immediately - a small cloud of luminous substance will appear inside.
Recommendation: the outer shell must not be damaged. When oxygen enters the middle, the chemical reaction stops and there will be no effect. Also, reagents, getting on open areas of the skin, can cause allergic reactions.
There are many types of fireflies on the fishing market, but there are several factors to consider when buying.
Criterias of choice:
- Fireflies must be purchased from well-known firms, which have an excellent reputation, and products are time-tested.
- Fireflies should be designed for a long bright glow.
- It is advisable to choose fireflies with a large internal volume of reagents.
- Fasteners of fireflies must correspond to the gear used.
There is no single price for fireflies, each manufacturer has its own product ratings. As a rule, fireflies are sold in packs of 2. The price ranges from 40 to 90 rubles. for packing. It all depends on the number of fireflies, shape, thickness, period of bright glow.
High-quality fireflies are able to emit bright light for 8-10 hours, and another day - a weak and dim light. Less high-quality fireflies last 3-4 hours in bright mode, and in dim mode up to 2 days. It is better to choose the average option, which allows you to fish for about 7 hours, which is quite enough for one night of fishing in the summer.
How to do it yourself?
It is impossible to make an identical product, as from a factory, at home, but you can replace the luminous capsule with improvised materials. The similarity of a firefly will be painting the antenna of the float with fluorescent paint. It is able to glow when the slightest light from a flashlight hits it.
If there is no paint, the antenna can be pasted over with a special light-accumulative tape, which is not inferior in light output to a liquid analogue.
Results
Most large specimens of fish prefer to peck at night, when the water becomes a little cooler and there is less otherworldly noise in the reservoir. Going night fishing without fireflies is often a waste of time.
It is they who help to notice the bite in time, and the correct hooking and the process of fishing is a matter of the skill of the fisherman himself. It is advisable to always have fireflies in stock, because unforeseen situations with the glow are possible. Good preparation- recipe for success.