Despite common misconceptions, bobbers can be used by any angler, regardless of age and experience.
Bobbers are often associated with kids who are just getting started with fishing (the classic red and white bobber), but they offer several advantages you shouldn’t miss out because of what some people say.
First, they help you detect when fish are biting. It’s especially useful when using any type of bait.
Second, they help keeping your bait at a specific depth. If you fished a lake at every depth possible and still didn’t catch fish, it means they were really not feeding that day.
While I can’t recommend a specific brand or model for every type of float, I’ll guide you through their specific uses and what they do best.
The thing is, any type of float you use will work in some way. Back then they would fish with floats made out of corn cob. I’m sure some kids still do, but the main point is that you shouldn’t overthink your float selection.
Get an insight on what works and what doesn’t and stick to the ones you like the most. If you want to geek it out, it’s up to you.
So keep reading to get better at choosing floats for your specific situations.
1) Round Floats
I’m sure most anglers had at least one of these in their childhood. I’m saying “most” because I went straight to my dad’s wagglers, which are so weird to cast.
Their simplicity makes them such a lovely tool to use. When you go to your fishing spot just to relax, consider putting one of these on your line. It’s such a hassle-free experience for those moments when you don’t take fishing too seriously.
I could talk about aerodynamics and other things, but what you need to know is that they’re a cheap option that will do it’s job as you would expect. It’s best to use them in still waters, as they’re not the most sensitive by default and waves will make them almost useless.
Round floats may be affected by wind, causing them to drift or tip over, which can lead to false bite indications.
2) Slip Bobbers
Slip bobbers are a type of fishing float designed to slide along the fishing line, allowing you to easily adjust the depth at which their bait or lure is suspended in the water. Unlike fixed bobbers, slip bobbers can be repositioned along the line without the need to cut and re-tie the line.
Slip bobbers are secured in place on the fishing line by using a small knot or a bobber stopper, which prevents the bobber from sliding beyond a specified point.
They are particularly effective for presenting live bait at various depths, allowing you to target the whole water column.
Slip bobbers can be cast long distances, making them suitable for covering larger areas of water, especially when compared to some other float types.
The fact that the line passes straight through them also makes them more sensitive.
The sliding nature of slip bobbers can sometimes result in tangling, especially when casting in windy conditions or when the line is not managed carefully.
3) Cigar Floats
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Cigar floats are cylindrical fishing floats that resemble a cigar in shape. They are designed to be versatile and are often used in slip bobber setups. It’s shape provides provides buoyancy and stability in the water.
Like other slip floats, cigar floats are designed to slide along the fishing line. They are attached using a bobber stopper or knot, allowing for adjustable depth control.
The cylindrical shape minimizes water resistance, allowing for sensitive bite detection. You can easily spot subtle movements or changes in the float’s behavior, indicating potential fish activity.
4) Spring Bobbers
Spring bobbers are also a type of slip bobber, but with an added spring at the bottom.
And that spring makes this float one of my favourite to fish with. It allows you to either keep the bobber in one place or let it slide on the line. While they tend to cost a few dollars more than normal slip floats, I would say the added versatility is worth it.
5) Rattling Floats
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Rattling floats are designed to attract fish by producing vibrations or sounds in the water. These floats often contain small rattling beads or chambers that create noise when the float moves or shakes.
The noise generated can mimic the sound of struggling prey, enticing predatory fish to investigate.
While the intent is to attract fish, the noise generated by rattling floats might spook more cautious or skittish fish, particularly in clear and calm waters. It’s essential to consider the fishing conditions and the behavior of the target species.
6) Wagglers
As I mentioned above, the first floats I ever got to cast were wagglers. Mainly used them for carp and other species alike.
They’re the most sensitive floats out there, as you’re going to see every nibble and every move fish make on your bait.
Casting is where it gets hard with these floats. While I was also using an unbalanced setup that was not fitting my rig’s weight, the shape of these makes it awkward to cast. This usually translates into reduced casting distance.
Other than that, wagglers remain a favorite float that’s always in my tackle box.
7) Popping Corks
If the previous options struggled in rough conditions like windy days, popping corks just fixed that issue.
They’re my favourite to cast on these windy days and when the waves move faster than usual. They’re a lot less likely to tangle up. You can cast them very far, as opposed to thinner floats which create a lot of resistance.
One disadvantage is the fact that they suspend your bait in the shallower part of the water. Because of this, they’re best suited for shallow water.
But that’s what weighted corks were created for. The extra weight helps sink slightly, making it good for deeper water.
Popular Fishing Bobber Brands
There are a few brands that are particularly popular among anglers. Here are some of the most well-known brands and their top products:
Eagle Claw
Eagle Claw is a well-known brand in the fishing world, and they offer a variety of fishing bobbers. One of their most popular products is the Eagle Snap-On Float (see on Amazon), which is a simple, inexpensive bobber that is easy to use and effective.
Trout Magnet
Trout Magnet is another popular brand that offers a range of fishing bobbers. Their E-Z Trout Float is a top choice among anglers, thanks to its versatility and ease of use. This bobber is designed to be used with small jigs and hooks, making it ideal for trout fishing.
Billy Boy
Billy Boy is a brand that is known for its high-quality fishing bobbers. Their 94 Weighted Snap-On Float is a top choice among anglers, thanks to its durability and effectiveness. This bobber is designed to be easy to use and can be attached to your line quickly and easily.
Thill Floats
Thill Floats is a brand that is known for its innovative bobbers. Their America’s Classic Float is a popular choice among anglers, thanks to its unique design and effectiveness. This bobber is made from high-quality materials and is designed to be easy to use.
Bobbers for Various Environments
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a unique type of fishing that requires specialized equipment. When it comes to fishing bobbers for ice fishing, you want something that is small and sensitive enough to detect even the slightest bite. The Thill Gold Medal Ice ‘N Fly Special Float is a great option for ice fishing. It is small, lightweight, and sensitive, making it easy to detect when a fish is biting your bait.
Drift Fishing
Drift fishing is a popular technique that involves casting your line and letting it drift with the current. When it comes to fishing bobbers for drift fishing, you want something that is large enough to keep your bait off the bottom, but not so large that it scares away the fish. The Thill Pro Series Slip Bobber is a good option for drift fishing.
Specific types of environments:
- Shallow water: You want a float that is small and sensitive. The Trout Magnet E-Z Float works very well.
- Deep water: You need a large and visible bobber. The Bett’s Mr. Crappie Weighted Bobber is a great option.
- Lakes: The Thill Crappie Cork is the best option. You can use it for a variety of fishing techniques.
- Saltwater: You want a bobber that is large and visible. It also needs to withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater.
- Rivers: A sensitive float is the way to go. The THKFISH Balsa Wood Bobbers are suitable for most rivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bobbers to use?
The best bobbers to use depend on what type of fishing you are doing. Slip bobbers are great for fishing in deep water, while fixed bobbers work well for shallow water fishing. Some popular bobbers include oval balsa slip floats, rattling floats, and weighted clip bobbers. It’s important to choose a bobber that is appropriate for the type of fish you are trying to catch and the water conditions you are fishing in.
Do real fishermen use bobbers?
Yes, bobbers are a common tool used by many fishermen. Bobbers are especially useful for beginners who are just learning how to fish. They help to keep the bait at the right depth and can also indicate when a fish has taken the bait.
What is the most sensitive slip bobber?
The most sensitive slip bobber is one that is made from a lightweight material such as balsa wood. The lighter the bobber, the more sensitive it will be to even the slightest nibble from a fish. Thill Pro Series Slip Bobbers are a popular choice for their sensitivity and durability.
What is the difference between a bobber and a bubble float?
A bobber and a bubble float are similar in that they both float on the water and help to keep the bait at the right depth. However, a bubble float is typically filled with water and can be adjusted to change the depth at which the bait is suspended. A bobber, on the other hand, is typically made of foam or plastic and is fixed at a certain depth on the fishing line.
Are cork fishing bobbers better than plastic ones?
Cork fishing bobbers are often preferred by fishermen because they are more sensitive and easier to see than plastic bobbers. They also tend to be more durable and can last longer than plastic bobbers. However, plastic bobbers are often more affordable and come in a wider variety of shapes and sizes.
What size fishing bobber should I use for crappie fishing?
The size of the fishing bobber you should use for crappie fishing depends on the depth of the water you are fishing in. In general, a smaller bobber is better for shallow water fishing, while a larger bobber is better for deeper water. Thill Crappie Corks and Trout Magnet E-Z Trout Floats are both popular choices for crappie fishing.
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