Float
Types
Float types come in many different sizes, colors and shapes
to accommodate even the harshest conditions presented to the
angler.
For years floats has been exposed to constant changes in fishing
tactics and gone through a total evolution to accommodate
the needs of an American angler. There are three main types
of floats: the waggler, stick,
and pole.
Waggler Float
Without doubt the most used and versatile float in the tackle
box today. The waggler is a float that is attached bottom
end only. Because of its shape, it is capable of flying through
the air like a dart and allows the angler to cast the float
at great distances.
This type of float is fastened to the main line by way of
either an eye or by rubbers and is locked by split shot on
both sides. Depending on the fishing conditions, a waggler
can be locked in one fixed position, or left free to slide
up and down the line.
The waggler versatility allows it to be used for almost all
forms of fishing. There are two types of waggler floats: the
bodied and straight waggler. Both types of waggler float can
be used for fast to slow, to deep, to shallow waters.
The waggler’s main advantage is its great sensitivity,
ease of casting without tangling and ability to combat windy
conditions. When fishing in choppy water, the extra buoyancy
helps to stabilize the float, preventing the tip section from
waving around too much.
This ultimately assists in greater bite detection. The body
of the waggler acts as a stabilizer in windy habitat. It is
an ideal type of float for shy biting fish, lift and the drop
bites.
The shape of the body also affects the performance of the
float. Wide body at the bottom portion of the wiggler gives
more balance in choppy conditions and allows it to have a
much visible and ideal presentation. Waggler float has by
far the most diverse design.
When to use the waggler float:
• Still water or slow to medium paced rivers
• Turbulent water
• Still water in windy condition
• Still water with big waves
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Stick Float
The stick floats are attached top and bottom with rubber bands
or rubber band at the top and through eyelet’s at the
bottom.
This holds the float in place, but allows the angler to easily
allocate the float position along the line.
Because these floats are fixed into position, they have limited
use for fishing at depth. The advantage of using this float
is that it can be immersed in the flow of the water against
a tight line without the float submerging as the tide pulls
on the trace.
Stick floats are designed for river fishing. The top portion
of the float gives adequate buoyancy, while the bottom material
acts as a stabilizing weight, preventing it form riding out
of water when being held back.
The tendency to sit in a more upright position in the water
allows it to be a perfect choice for choppy water conditions.
The stick floats offer less resistance to wind and water,
they drift slower and cast farther, as well as respond quicker
to light bites and give anglers a better chance to see the
bite before the fish releases the bait.
When to use the stick float:
• Choppy and open water
• Running waters with strong current
• River fishing
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Pole Float
The pole floats are very small and do not require much weight
to control stability. These floats are ultra sensitive.
They range from many shapes and sizes, allowing anglers to
fish most venue types. Each pattern of a pole float has been
designed to do a specific job.
Using the correct float for a particular venue enables anglers
to achieve a perfect presentation of the bait and therefore
catch more fish. Pole floats tips are made from wire, nylon,
balsa or cane. Float stems are usually made out of carbon
fiber. Carbon fiber steams are very durable and heavy enough
to give a float suitable stability. The pole floats are considerable
by most professional fishermen as all around type of the float.
When to use a pole float:
• River fishing (float with the widest part of the body
at the top)
• Fishing in windy conditions on still waters
(float with the widest part of the body at the bottom)
• Fishing deep and shallow lakes and canals
• When fish are shy (float with slim body as they will
indicate the most delicate bites)
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