Floats

Slide or Fixed

by Terry Wiest

It's been well documented I like to float fish and it is my preferred method when the conditions allow - both salmon and steelhead. One question I get asked alot is, "What float do you use"?

Well, not such an easy answer.

I have many floats with me on each trip. Size is pretty simple - between 1/8oz and 5/8oz for steelhead and from 1/2oz to 3oz for salmon. Depending on clarity and depth I'll vary my float size to balance with m presentation.

Lure Weight + Weight = Float Size

Ex. 1/8oz jig + 1/4oz in-line weight = 3/8oz float.

You'll know if you have the correct balance if the water line is at the water indicator on the float. The bottom color will be under water. The next color is the water indicator. The top color is the site indicator.

So far pretty simple. The rest of the equation is about stealth and a natural floating presentation.

I've used black floats for years and continue to swear by them. But now Cleardrift floats comes into the mix with their clear float - which I'll have to admit is actually stealthier than black.

The two floats I've been using lately are the Cleardrift floats for a sliding float or a Over The Edge Float for a fixed float.

For deeper water than 6ft, or for salmon I'll use a sliding Cleardrift float.

For shallow water or when using a centerpin I'll move to the fixed Over the Edge Float.

Both these manufactures make top quality floats and are perfectly balanced, provides stealth and will give you a natural presentation.

Next time you're in the market for floats, pick up a couple of each and test the difference; they're consistantly perfect.