what colors fish can see - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

GregAndrew · 11-02-2011, 03:38 PM

Longer wavelength colors, such as Red Yellow and Orange, penetrate less deep than shorter wavelength colors, such as Violet Green and Blue. The penetration of the various components of the light spectrum are controlled by the the amount of scattering and filtering due to particles. As I understand it, a flat surface reflects more light, and a choppy surface absorbs more light. Plankton and disolved solids (like salt) block the transmission of light. I believe that even thermoclines can further scatter light and reduce penetration. It is the distance traveled through the water that controls the light penetration, not the pressure.

The best color light to attract Squid is White (full spectrum), or the Squid boats would not use them. Now, that much light might not attract the WSB which may be why fishing boats use other colors. Even Red, the least penetrating visible color, can be visible up to 15 meters in good conditions.

11-02-2011, 03:38 PM	#4
GregAndrew Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 2,384	Longer wavelength colors, such as Red Yellow and Orange, penetrate less deep than shorter wavelength colors, such as Violet Green and Blue. The penetration of the various components of the light spectrum are controlled by the the amount of scattering and filtering due to particles. As I understand it, a flat surface reflects more light, and a choppy surface absorbs more light. Plankton and disolved solids (like salt) block the transmission of light. I believe that even thermoclines can further scatter light and reduce penetration. It is the distance traveled through the water that controls the light penetration, not the pressure. The best color light to attract Squid is White (full spectrum), or the Squid boats would not use them. Now, that much light might not attract the WSB which may be why fishing boats use other colors. Even Red, the least penetrating visible color, can be visible up to 15 meters in good conditions.