Boating at night can be one of the most enjoyable experiences on the lake. My advice to you would be to travel in areas you are comfortable in by day. If you have some idea of what is out there to begin with, it makes navigation that much easier. Be very aware of your surroundings (360 degrees all of the time). Be careful not to confuse lights from shore with navigation aids and other boats. Some people like to put red and green light on docks or homes which can be a distraction to say the least. Moonlit nights are best for visibility, but venturing out on a moonless night can also be very rewarding. The only negative experience I have had while boating at night was when a bat hit me square in the forehead while traveling at 25 mph (stay below the windshield if possible
). Be safe and enjoy.