Fishing floats, sometimes called bobbers, are familiar to most fishermen from when they first began fishing. A simple rod and reel, fishing line, a hook and a float were all that was needed. Although many experienced fisherman believe they have outgrown using fishing floats in favor of more sophisticated fishing techniques, such as artificial lures, float fishing still is an effective way to catch game fish, and it is regaining popularity.
Determine Which Float to Use
Round or pear-shaped floats are easy to cast and are highly visible, even in rough water, but they require more effort for a fish to pull it under the surface of the water. Thinner pencil floats cast farther and have the least resistance to being moved by the wind. These floats work best when fish are biting lightly. Floats with lights in them are particularly useful for low-light fishing conditions.
Use the Right-Size Float
Make sure the float you use is the proper size. Too large a float, and a fish will not be able to pull it under to indicate that it has been hooked. Too small a float, and it will sink under the weight of sinkers and bait. Rig your bait and weights first, then add a float that is just buoyant enough to remain at the surface.
Set Your Depth
Float fishing allows you to suspend your bait in the water column at just the right height. This can be on the bottom so the bait bumps and bounces along, just above the bottom and clear of obstructions, or midway between the bottom and the surface. Adjust the depth of your float depending upon the type of fish you're targeting.
Use the Right Amount of Weight
Use only as much weight as is necessary to keep your bait down. The lighter the weight, the lighter the float required. This will make your rig much more sensitive to a strike from a fish.
Watch Your Float Carefully
Keep an eye on your float, and watch for any activity that indicates a fish might be biting. Learn to tell the difference between a float that is going under because the hook has snagged the bottom from an actual strike. Watch carefully for changes in direction of floats that do not submerge--this can be an indication that a fish is hooked and swimming.
Drift The Float
When fishing rivers and streams, cast your float rig upstream, and allow it to drift downstream. This will carry your bait naturally along the course of the water, and your bait will pass by more areas where fish lie in wait.
Use Live Bait
Float fishing is perfect for presenting live bait. Minnows, shiners, crayfish and worms all can be live-hooked and presented under a float. This allows the bait to move freely in the water, presenting a more natural appearance that can prove irresistible to game fish.
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