Float fishing was first developed by the English and quickly gained popularity with the ability to make natural, lifelike bait presentations to feeding fish. Fly-fishing for steelhead requires specialized techniques for success, and float fishing provides the required versatility and presentation. Using a float and jig, anglers can cast the bait upstream and allow the bait to float past a steelhead. Proper technique, however, is essential for overall fishing success, and you may need several attempts to attain proper execution.
Step 1
Set up the fly-fishing equipment. Jigs come in a variety of sizes, from 1/32 oz. to 1/4 oz. and will change based on the fishing location, size of the steelhead and time of year. Use 1/16 oz. to 1/8 oz. for the summer runs and 1/8 oz. to 3/16 oz. for cold-water fishing.
Step 2
Select the jig color based on the time of year. Summer fishing may include a combination of colors ranging from pink, red, white, purple and black while winter colors include only pink and white.
Step 3
Cast the float upstream. From the location of the steelhead, cast the bait upstream in the general location so the float will move naturally downstream with the current.
Step 4
Control the line. You can adjust the exact positioning of the float and bait on the water by controlling the line with the rod and reel. Retrieve the line to bring the float closer to you or allow small amounts of line out of the reel to move the float away from you. The goal of controlling the line is to keep the float in the general location of the steelhead, also referred to as the "strike zone."
Step 5
Control the depth of the fly. You adjust the depth of the float by attaching weights to the float. Keep the float and bait from excessively dragging the bottom of the water. Shorten the distance from the float to the weight and lure to bring the bait to the surface.
Step 6
Detect the strike. This step may be the most difficult part of steelhead float fishing. Use a strike indicator that sinks after a steelhead strikes the bait, or watch for the float to sink when a steelhead strikes and swims downstream.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a light leader on the line to prevent snags. Use a long rod for precise casting. Keep the float and bait within a short distance of your location to accurately detect strikes.
Things You'll Need
- Float rod
- Fly-fishing reel
- Fishing weights
- Floats
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