Flounder gigging is a one-of-a-kind experience — a quiet night, a calm shoreline, and the thrill of spotting a flatfish in the shallows. But to make your trip successful (and safe), having the right equipment is critical. Whether you’re brand new to gigging or a seasoned gigger looking to upgrade your flounder gigging gear, this guide breaks down the must-haves, compares budget vs premium options, and offers expert tips for making the most of your next trip.
🎣 Must-Have Gear for Flounder Gigging
Before you head out under the stars, here’s the essential flounder gigging gear you’ll need to do the job right:
1. Flounder Gig Pole
Your primary tool for the catch. Gig poles come in various materials and lengths.
- Budget Option: Wood or fiberglass pole with a 2–3 prong stainless steel gig head.
- Premium Option: Lightweight aluminum poles with replaceable stainless heads and ergonomic grips for control and balance.
🛠 Tip: Choose a pole that’s long enough for your fishing depth (typically 6–8 feet for wading, longer for boat use).
2. Flounder Gigging Lights
A high-quality light helps you spot flounder clearly and cuts through murky water.
- Budget: Handheld LED lights or clamp-on waterproof lights
- Premium: Jerry’s JLED 40CU or JLED Boat Light Kits — high-lumen LED setups that mount easily and offer unbeatable clarity
🔗 Shop Gigging Lights
3. Light Mounting Options
Keep your hands free by securely mounting your lights.
- Budget: PVC pipe DIY pole mount or clip-on systems
- Premium: Jerry’s Boat Mount Kit – durable, adjustable, and ready to pair with JLED lights
🛠 Tip: Mount lights low and forward-facing to reduce surface glare and improve visibility beneath the water.
4. 12V Battery or Power Source
Your lights won’t do much without power.
- Budget: Basic 12V sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery
- Premium: Lithium marine batteries – lighter, longer-lasting, and recharge faster
🛠 Tip: Always bring a backup battery or power bank, especially on longer trips.
5. Waders or Water-Resistant Footwear
If you’re wading, staying dry is key.
- Budget: Neoprene boot-foot waders
- Premium: Breathable stocking-foot waders with wading boots for better mobility and comfort
🛠 Tip: Make sure your waders are properly fitted and insulated for the season.
💰 Budget vs. Premium: What’s Worth the Upgrade?
| Gear | Budget | Premium | Worth Upgrading? |
| Gig Pole | Fiberglass | Aluminum with ergonomic grip | ✅ Yes — better balance and durability |
| Lights | Clamp-on LEDs | JLED high-lumen kits | ✅ Yes — brighter and longer-lasting |
| Mount | PVC DIY | Custom aluminum boat mounts | ⚠️ Optional — budget works for beginners |
| Battery | SLA 12V | Lithium marine battery | ✅ Yes — lighter + more reliable |
| Waders | Neoprene | Breathable + boot system | ⚠️ Only if you gig often or in warm temps |
📦 Storage & Transport Tips
- Use a gear tote or bin to keep wet and dry gear separate
- Secure lights and mounts in padded bags to avoid dings during transport
- Label your batteries so you always know which is charged and which is drained
- Use a roof rack or pole holder for long gig poles if you’re traveling by truck
🌙 Nighttime Safety Tips
Gigging is a nighttime sport — and safety is no joke.
- Wear a headlamp for hands-free navigation
- Use a red light for preserving night vision when scanning or checking gear
- Always tell someone your location and ETA back
- Carry a marine whistle or flashlight in case of emergency
- Keep a first-aid kit and extra dry clothes in your vehicle or boat
💡 Expert Tips for a More Successful Trip
- Scan slowly and look for movement, not just the shape of the fish
- Go during incoming tides for the best flounder movement
- Use a green LED light — it penetrates water better than white or blue
- Clean your gear after each saltwater trip to extend its lifespan
- Don’t gig undersized flounder — always know your local regulations
🛒 Gear Up with Jerry’s LEDs Flounder Gigging Equipment
From rugged boat mounts to high-output LED lights, Jerry’s LEDs has what serious flounder giggers need. Whether you’re just getting started or upgrading your entire rig, we’ve got gear that’s built to last and ready to perform.