Jacklighting is the illegal practice of hunting at night using a bright light, often a spotlight or powerful flashlight, to locate and temporarily blind animals, making them easier to hunt. The light is typically directed at the animal's eyes, causing temporary blindness or disorientation, which makes the animal more vulnerable to being shot or captured.

This practice is commonly associated with hunting for nocturnal animals, such as deer, coyotes, and other wildlife, but is highly illegal in many areas due to its unethical nature and potential to harm wildlife populations. Jacklighting is considered a form of poaching because it involves circumventing hunting regulations, such as hunting during illegal hours or using methods that do not offer the game a fair chance to escape.

In addition to being illegal, jacklighting is dangerous for both hunters and wildlife, as it disrupts natural behaviors and can lead to the injury or unnecessary killing of animals. Many jurisdictions have strict penalties for those caught engaging in jacklighting, including fines, the loss of hunting privileges, and even jail time.

Conservation laws and regulations are in place to ensure fair and ethical hunting practices, which is why methods like jacklighting are prohibited. Ethical hunting practices focus on respecting wildlife and following legal guidelines that promote sustainability and the health of ecosystems.