Thread: Got distance?

Originally Posted by fish_4_all

The thing I don't get is I don't know if they work the way I used to fishing a float. My basic fishing style with a float has been to use a stick bobber that lays flat on the water. When a fish hits it the bobber stands up and I set the hook.

The most sensitive float is the one with the least amount of float sticking out of the water. This also means that the fish feels the least amount of resistance. What you're talking about leaves the entire float on top of the water. This maximizes the resistance to the fish and minimizes sensitivity. That's the exact opposite of what you want.

Originally Posted by fish_4_all

I understand that the Waggler isn't fished this way or can it be used that way?

It can be fished that way but, for the reasons I mentioned above, it's not something you want to do.

Originally Posted by fish_4_all

I also see that it has the possibility to actually raise up out of the water when a fish hits the lure/bait because it also lifts a shot making the rig lighter.

Yes, that's one of the big advantages of a waggler -- the ability to show lift bites.

Originally Posted by fish_4_all

Can anyone help me decide on a float that I can cast a good distance, I know I have to sacrifice some, that I can fish without adding shot down the line from the float? I really like to fish a clean leader from the float to the bait without any weight at all away from the float. Either a float that only leaves the tip up or one that I can let lay flat on the surface to indicate even the slightest bite. And still only use the weight of a small bait?

I don't understand your aversion to having weight down the line from the float. You need some weight down the line to aid in sensitivity. That weight can be in the form of a small split shot 6"-18" from the hook or a light jig. Either way will work.

Originally Posted by fish_4_all

I guess I am being too picky but I know how I like to float fish. I think my methods can still work for crappie and gills. If they can't, please let me know and I can adapt my methods to match the floats I need to use so I can finally see that tiny little bite that I miss with other floats and not have the fish drop the bait before I can set the hook.

I abandoned my float methods about 15 years ago for the English style taught to me by my mentors (two transplanted Englishmen.) If you put a gun to my head I wouldn't go back!