Hey guys I was thinking about going out night fishing sometime this coming week.  I wanted to ask how is it this early.  The water temp is 47 F.  The fishing has been slow.   What bates would be effective?  

I usually start fishing at night when the water temp is staying in the upper 60s. Around here that is late May. From Memorial Day until Labor Day, I won't fish in the daylight unless I'm fishing a tournament.

Night fishing is not predicated on water temperature and can be done year round. Most people do not night fish during winter because the air temperatures make it close to unbearable but those who bundle up properly are quite successful.

I usually start night fishing in April and the only reason I haven't this years is high winds both day/night.  

I usually start fishing at night when the water temp is staying in the upper 60s. Around here that is late May. From Memorial Day until Labor Day, I won't fish in the daylight unless I'm fishing a tournament.

This is my time table too! But, you can fish now at night and do well. One thing I would do is fish very slow, baits like jigs,baby Paca craws,tubes,flukes,fin.worms, the 7" Anaconda, and maybe try a jerk bait.

Sharkbite - South Jersey here, yes to night fishing now. I've been at it about 5 or 6 weeks now, caught quite a few. Really cool nights will slow things down, but from here on out it will only get better.

hey guys thanx , I guess I better start then. Hey Burley you always night fish?  So if I go out at these temps i shouldn't try top water baits?

I detest topwater fishing.   :-/

I detest topwater fishing. :-/

Why is that?

Because he's a dink master

We don't start night fishing till the pressure builds or till the water temps warm up a tad.  It's not just the slow fishing (fish are most active during the warming hours of the day, 11-2) but it's a safety thing too.  45 degree water can seize you up pretty quickly.

LBH I had the same thoughts if something happen out there in that cold water would leave very little time for rescue.  Plus low visability.