Floats - all you need to know

Floats are available in a host of different shapes and sizes and are all designed with a specific type of fishing in mind. That said they can be split into two specific groups - those that are connected to the line at the bottom end only belong to a generic group called wagglers and those that are connected to the line both at the bottom and the top for example stick floats, avons and loafers.

Wagglers tend to be fished at longer distances than the top and bottom connected group. The heavier the weight requirement of the further it can be cast. There is even a group of wagglers called loaded wagglers which have a weight at there base (see picture) to allow for maximum casting distance without the need for large amonts of shot on the line.

Crystal wagglers are a clear, transparent, colour that can be used in shallow water without spooking the fish. Darts are smaller version of the waggler which are particularly suited for small still waters or canals.

Stick, avons and loafers are specifically designed to tackle moving water and tend to be fished closer in than wagglers. The weight carrying capacity for these is related to the pace and turbulance of the river being fished. For example on a fast moving river a heavier version would be required to give stability and provide the correct bait presentation. In a relitively stedy flow the usual shot pattern for these is 'shirt button' style i.e. equally spread beneath the float down to the hook. However on pacier swims a bulk shotting pattern would create the stability near the hook allowing the bait to be presented naturally.

Just like floats for running lines there are a huge range designed for pole fishing these are described in more detail in our Pole floats and Accessories section.

The links below will take you to more specific details on a whole range of currently available fishing tackle in the worldwide maket today and hopefully will help you to make an informed decision if you are looking to by any of these products.