Since the advent of the fishing rod, fishing gear has evolved intensively. Despite its structural simplicity, the rod is complemented by better and more modern components. According to experts, of all the elements, the float turned out to be the most variable. For fishing, the importance of it is undeniable. It is an indicator: indicates the location of snap-ins and signals bites. In specialized stores there is a wide range of different fishing floats. Each model has its own characteristics. Differences also affected the design, shapes and colors. The rod will function more efficiently if it is properly equipped. Information on what constitutes a fishing float, what types exist, and which one to choose for specific conditions is contained in the article.
Acquaintance
A fishing float is an ancient invention created specifically to see bites and to perform hooking in time. Since its inception, the appearance of these devices has been constantly changing. Only the principle of its work remained unchanged. Mostly foam floats are made. Options for gear from a wide variety of materials are not excluded. The fishermen formulated the requirements that were taken into account in the manufacture of these equipment. The float must be stable, namely it does not lie down in a strong wind or current. In addition, it is desirable that this fishing product is not wet, and was clearly visible.
About device
Structurally, the float consists of the following elements:
- Shells (bodies). It is the main part of the product. The capacity indicator of the float is determined by its body. Therefore, the fisherman can decide the most important practical parameter, which bait is better to use, how far you can throw the tackle.
- Antennas This structural element is located above the water. Used as a fisherman’s link and tackle. The task of the antenna is to provide the necessary visibility at a certain distance. According to experts, gear with bright and thick antennas is much more effective. This nuance is recommended to consider when choosing a float for long casting. For example, with an increase in distance of 10 m, the diameter of the antenna should increase by 0.1 cm.
- Kiel. Using this plastic or metal element, you can adjust the stability of the gear and balance the antenna. Bite indicators are more stable in those floats that are equipped with long keels.
About the appearance
On the shelves of specialized stores a variety of models of floats are presented to the attention of consumers. Each of them has individual characteristics. They differ in snap-in appearance.
- Tackles resembling olives. This species is considered universal. Used for strong currents. The float is characterized by high stability, due to which it is effective in all weather conditions.
- Spherical. These gears can also be used in various conditions.
- Teardrop-shaped. The working depth of the gear does not exceed 2 m. In an effort to make this model resistant to strong currents, another method of fastening was provided for the float. Unlike standard products, the center of gravity is lower in this embodiment.
- Inverted drop floats. Working depth increased to 5 m, even with strong currents.
- Spindle float. It is intended for use in stagnant waters. Floats are effective at a depth of up to 3 m. Judging by numerous reviews, these products are highly sensitive and are suitable for fishing very careful and quick individuals.
- Direct floats are considered the most common option among beginners. The optimum working depth is 2 m. Since instability is inherent in this option, it is undesirable to take it with you in strong winds.
- Flat float. The product is in the form of a disk, to which the antenna and keel are attached at right angles. According to the owners, this option is not afraid of strong currents.
About types of floats
Since various methods are used for the manufacture of floats, a beginner may have difficulty choosing the right model. The following types of these snap-ins are distinguished:
- Long floats.
- Products used with live bait.
- Floats for the current.
- Accessories used in calm ponds.
Depending on which fishing method was chosen by the fisherman, a deaf and sliding mounting option can be used in the floats.
Fishing gear for small individuals
Using this type of floats, you can fish perch, bleak and other fish at shallow depths. Due to the small weight of the body and the weight, the equipment mounted on the sting is slowly lowered in the water column. Her planning attracts the attention of perch and roach. Floats of this type are used with sinkers weighing up to 0.85 g. Light fishing products are designed for short rods, the length of which varies from 2 to 4 m. In floats of this type a blind mounting option is used - the scaffolds are attached tightly to the edge of the fishing rod.
About floats for fishing in stagnant water
The canals, ponds and lakes became the place of application of this type of gear. In addition, these floats can be used in bodies of water with a small current. The working depth is 1.5 m. The presence of wind and water ripples are considered the main interfering factors. In this regard, the floats are made in such a way that the antenna area protruding above the water and the resistance of the product body during biting are minimized. According to experts, the best are long fishing products made in the form of a spindle. The rate of loading is within 0.3-3 g. With floats of this type roach, crucian carp and bream are well caught. During the bite, the ease of movement of the float in the water column was noted. For example, after capturing the bait with a bream, the hook and sinker rise. If crucian pecks, the float often goes in different directions. Floats are used with a blind mounting option and fishing rods equipped with reels.
About products for strong current ponds
Unlike lakes, during fishing in rivers, water jets, turbulences and whirlpools are intensively affected by floats. From this influence, the forest with sinkers is bent, as a result of which the floats stretch down. To make the tackle more resistant to various overloads and not to lie on one side from strong winds or currents, a special barrel-shaped configuration was developed for it. With a large diameter, the float does not sink in whirlpools and turbulences. The antenna of the gear can be of any thickness. The length of the keel in floats for strong currents should be longer than in products used in lakes. Thanks to the extended keel, the tackle has additional stability and is easier to control. Such floats have a wide range of load capacities, which can vary from 20 to 33 g. For this type, blind equipment is recommended. Mounting is carried out in two places: the fishing line is passed through the ring in the lower half of the case and pressed with the rubber ring near the antenna. Floats are considered quite convenient to operate and noticeable on the water surface. With these gears it is advisable to use fishing rods equipped with reels. This type of float is suitable for long casts.
About fishing bait floats
As experienced fishermen advise, for such cases it is advisable to use massive barrel-shaped floats. The main thing is that the live attachment should be stably kept by tackle in the water column at the established fishing level. Judging by the numerous reviews, these floats do not deter fish. They are attached to the forest in a sliding manner with special rubber rings. In addition, the tackle can be secured with a locking assembly. For this, the keel of the float must be equipped with a ring.
Products for long casts
Judging by the reviews of fishermen, there are times when fishing is necessary in reservoirs in which places with large individuals are fenced with long ditches or channel beams. In such situations, massive gear can help out, the device of which makes it possible to perform distant casts. Often, such floats have to be thrown at a distance of more than 40 m. A fishing product is attached to the forest using a locking unit. In an effort to make this float heavier, many manufacturers additionally equip it with a thickened metal keel. A double digit is used to indicate capacity. For example, 5 + 2 g. With this type of floats, fishing rods with reels are recommended.
About color design
According to experts, winter floats are noticeably different from summer models. Differences affected both the size and nature of fishing. Winter floats are characterized by the presence of a very catchy fluorescent backlight.
In addition, such gear is produced with bright tips. In the daytime, it is recommended to use products whose caps are painted in red, burgundy or orange. It will be inconvenient to fish with such floats at night, as these colors visually merge with the water surface. In the dark, much more effective snap with white tips. In addition, many fishermen varnish the floats. It is noted that varnished products are easier to clean from ice. According to experienced anglers, when choosing summer floats, preference should be given to those models whose color is close to the color of objects found in the water column. Therefore, often many consumers use snap-ins with green, blue and black tops. You can use devices equipped with multi-colored interchangeable tips.
About fishing rods
A specific type of fishing rod is provided for each particular fishing method. For example, flywheel rods are used in bodies of water in which there is no current. The float for such a rod is selected with a lifting capacity of not more than 3 g. The tackle is highly sensitive and signals when you lightly touch the bait. Bologna or match fishing rods are taken over long distances. The floats used in such a fishing rod are also called “waggons” among fishermen. Plug rods are equipped with indicator gear with a flat shape. Fishing floats are used in strong current ponds.
About artisanal tackle
Despite the presence of branded fishing products, many fishermen prefer to fish with homemade floats. Judging by the reviews, a fairly good tackle is considered a device made from a pen.
It is not difficult to find material for a home-made float in a reservoir, chosen by geese or ducks. Making tackle is easy. It is enough to clean the feather from fluff with an office knife. It is important to ensure that during operation not to damage the tightness of the product. The remains of fluff are removed by fire from the lighter. After these steps, colorless varnish is applied to the surface. This will get rid of microscopic holes and cracks. The upper part is painted red or orange. Then the feather should be equipped with two cambrics or a small wire loop.
To increase the weight and load capacity to the workpiece, a housing should be made. The material for the body will be polystyrene or cork. Then, with the help of a caliper, the thickness of the pen is measured and a hole is made in the foam. It is important that its diameter is 1 mm less than the thickness of the antenna. At the last stage, the pen must be inserted into the hole made and smeared with glue.