Using light as an attractant to catch fish is not a novel idea. There are several light-based fishing products available. But, the most innovative product that I have seen is esca.
One of the fascinating things about esca is it’s simplicity. No moving parts. No power source. No assembly required. So how does it work?
The esca is activated via sodium chloride ions in sea water. To prove this to my self, I conducted a simple experiment. I filled a bowl with water; added some salt; and stirred until all the salt was dissolved (i.e. ionized). I placed the esca in the bowl.
After a “few” seconds, there was light!
After I convinced my self that a device without any moving parts or a power source can actually emit light at a predetermined frequency, I started thinking about how to rig the esca without interfering with the action of my lures.
For vertical jigging rigs, I attach the Esca to the split ring holding the hook using a Wolverine split rings.
This rig works well. No impact to the lure’s jigging action. When you are jigging for bottom dwellers in 200+ feet of water, having an esca on your jig puts the fish at a disadvantage. 😉
For plugs, I secure the esca to two fisher finder plastic sliders via Wolverine split rings.
I tested this rig with plugs that work the entire water column. The presence of the esca did not impact casting distance or the plug’s action.
But, I must say that I am very biased to swimmers with this rig.
Whether you are jigging or plugging, the key thing to keep in mind is that fish do not follow any rules. Sound and scent techniques are widely exploited by anglers world wide. The use of light as an attactant has just reached a whole new level, complements of esca. Think outside the fish bowl. Experiment with light during your next fishing trip.
