Sometimes I can't decide before fishing, what to try first. Then I give priority to a float rod. And that's not just why, that with the use of a float you can fish in ten effective and attractive ways and catch practically any fish – from a barely regrown perch to a huge catfish. Maybe that's why, that in this slim one, I can see a bit of romance in a colorful miracle gracefully swinging on the tops of the waves… The float is also used to a great extent to train fitness and reflexes, and its use is an excellent school of mastering other fishing methods.
The length of the rod for this method should be minimum 3,5 m. To the length 6,5-7 m the rods may be provided with guides, the longer ones are used rather for non-reel sets, ie vias are unnecessary here. Both types have advantages, and disadvantages. The advantages of a standard reel rod are this, that it allows casting even over long distances, it is also very helpful in possible jamming and hauling of larger pieces. The advantage of using a long threadless rod is the ability to build a perfectly light rod, simple, a reliable and sensitive set without any strain. It enables light and accurate casting and reliable hooking, thanks to the length of the rod, because the set, when hooking the prey, creates an almost perfect right angle with the rod. Such a rod also allows for proper steering of the float and the lure in running water or, possibly, in the wind and wavy water surface.
In both cases the rods should be delicate, fondly, and the best, when they also have a harder action, which enables efficient casting and - what is especially important – instant response to fish interest in the bait. (There is of course the risk of losing a larger fish with a harder rod; you have to be prepared for that too).
The reel used for this method should be relatively small and light, matched to the rod. However, it should have a roomy one, wide spool. Hooks should be delicate, sharp and durable. Adaptable plant baits should have a short shank, while for animal baits – longer. The thinner the line we use, the better – both due to easier manipulation, and the suspiciousness of fish. Even the thinnest lines are not to be feared – from 0,10 into 0,15-0,18 – however, the choice also depends on the size of the anticipated prey. Softer lines will be more suitable, it is also worth paying attention to their color: should be e.g.. in sand colors and the like, inconspicuous. The float can be of different sizes - depending on the load, however, we choose smaller rather than larger. The choice of float type for different waters should depend on the circumstances: slender floats are more suitable for still and slowly flowing waters (due to the lower water resistance), for rougher waters, the floats should be more stable, so more massive, barrel-shaped or even flat. Pellets or small weights such as teardrop or olive are used as loads.
