What pike float should I use? is one of the most popular questions that I get asked. When it comes to predator fishing, especially targeting pike, the right float can make all the difference. Floats come in various types and shapes, each designed to perform a specific function, whether you’re fishing in deep waters, fast currents, or around thick cover. Choosing the right float helps you present your bait effectively and improves your chances of detecting those subtle bites.
In this article, we’ll dive into the diverse world of pike and predator fishing floats, exploring the unique advantages of different designs—from traditional cigar-shaped floats to specialized pencil floats and sliding rigs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which float to use in any fishing scenario, giving you an edge in your pursuit of that next big fish.
There are several types of pike fishing floats, each designed for specific fishing conditions. Now, don’t get me wrong—any of these floats can still catch pike, even if used in less-than-ideal situations. However, choosing the right float improves your bait presentation, giving you a better chance of attracting a bite.
PIKE FLOAT DESIGNS
Sliders: These floats can slide up and down the line, allowing for precise depth control, ideal for fishing at varying depths in deep waters.
Dart or Vanes: Winged or vane-topped floats that catch the wind, helping to drift the bait across large areas to cover more water.
Pencils: Slim and highly sensitive, these floats offer minimal resistance, making them perfect for detecting subtle bites from a cautious pike in calm waters. They come in a sliding or running-eyed version.
Cigars: Thick and buoyant, cigar floats are stable and highly visible, making them great for holding bait in rougher waters and strong currents.
Sunk Floats: Designed to suspend below the surface, these floats allow a bait to drift naturally just below the waterline, making it harder for wary pike to detect.
Cork & cane: An old-fashioned cork and cane pike float is a traditional fishing float made from natural cork and cane materials, providing excellent buoyancy and visibility; it’s favoured by anglers who appreciate vintage or handcrafted tackle for its classic look and reliable performance.
Each type serves a specific purpose, allowing anglers to choose the best float based on water conditions, depth, and bait presentation style.
SLIDING FLOATS
A sliding float is a popular fishing setup for targeting pike and other species in deeper or variable waters. Its main feature is that it allows you to set the depth at which the bait sits below the water’s surface, making it easier to reach pike lurking at different depths.
Why Sliding Floats are Ideal for Pike
Pike are ambush predators often hiding in cover or at certain depths. With a sliding float setup, you can probe various depths without constantly re-rigging, increasing the likelihood of presenting your bait at the pike’s preferred level. Plus, the sliding float minimizes resistance. This allows for a natural, enticing presentation that’s highly effective for drawing strikes from cautious or pressured fish.
In summary, the sliding float setup offers versatility. Depth control, and excellent bite detection, make it an effective and reliable method for pike fishing.
Here’s a breakdown of how it works and the mechanics involved:
Components of a Sliding Float Setup
Sliding Float: A specially designed float that can move up and down the main fishing line.
Stop Knot: A small knot or rubber float stop tied on the line of the bead and float to limit how far the float can slide up the line. This knot marks the depth at which you want the bait to be suspended.
Float Bead: Often used between the stop knot and the float to prevent the float from snagging on the knot and to ensure smooth movement.
Rubber Bead: Used between the weight and the knot where your swivel is tied and protects your knot and acts a as cushion.
Weight or Sinker: Added to the line to help the bait sink to the set depth and keep it stable. There are oval-style weights available that are made for this purpose like Fox Rage Predator Quick Change Weights.
Wire Trace: A metal leader to prevent the pike’s sharp teeth from cutting through the line. Learn how to make your own pike traces.
Bait: Typically, dead bait like Roach, Mackerel, sardine, or Smelt.
How It Works
Setting the Depth: Start by securing a stop knot or rubber stopper on the line at the desired depth for your bait to be presented. Slide the bead then the float and weight. Then add a rubber bead (approximately 5mm) and tie on your swivel. The rubber bead acts as a cushion between the weight and the swivel. It helps by protecting your knot.
Casting: When you cast, the float slides down the line until it hits the stop knot. This sets the bait at the depth you choose. This allows for precise control of where the bait sits relative to the water depth and structure (such as weed beds or drop-offs) where pike might be hiding.
Adjustability: You can easily slide the stop knot up or down to adjust the depth, which is especially useful if you’re exploring different areas or if pike are suspended at different depths.
I have a great article on how to set up a sliding pike setup; Pike Float Fishing Setup.
The Mechanics of the Sliding Float in Action
Buoyancy: The float is buoyant and keeps the bait suspended, making it visible to pike and keeping it out of snags and weeds.
Bite Detection: When a pike hits, the float will typically dip or move sharply, signalling a bite. Since the float is free to slide on the line, it allows for easy line release when the pike pulls, which minimizes resistance and makes the pike less likely to drop the bait.
Flexibility in Depth Changes: The sliding float system allows you to cover a wide range of depths effectively, which is key for targeting pike that often move throughout the water column based on temperature, prey availability, and light levels.
Under the heading sliding floats there are a variety of designs that the angler can chose from. Below are a selection of the most popular styles.
Slim Sliders
Slim sliders are ideal inline dead baiting float designed for presenting smaller baits and fishing at close range. The Predator HD Slim Slider float is constructed from an extremely durable material, and features a high-quality finish and bright orange tips so that you never lose sight of it. Good examples of slim sliders includes the Fox Rage Predator HD Slim Slider and Drennan Zeppler.
Stubby Sliders
This inline dead baiting float is ideal for presenting larger baits and trotting baits on running water. The Fox Rage Predator HD Stubby Slider is a great example of this style of pike float. Additional buoyancy allows you to easily fish bigger baits at greater depths.
Cigar Slider
A cigar sliding pike float is highly versatile and ideal for fishing at varying depths, making it popular in deeper waters or areas with unpredictable pike movements. Its thick, buoyant shape keeps it stable and visible even in rough conditions. The sliding design allows the float to move freely along the fishing line, controlled by a stop knot that sets the bait’s depth. This setup enables anglers to adjust the bait’s position to target pike hiding near the bottom, suspended in mid-water, or closer to the surface. The cigar float’s buoyancy also ensures that it can support larger, heavier baits without being pulled under, providing a steady presentation that’s easy to monitor.
Blob Style Sliders
The Drennan E-SOX Pikebob Float is a favourite among predator anglers for its durability, visibility, and versatility in various conditions. Its buoyant, high-visibility design ensures that it stays upright and easily seen from a distance, even in choppy waters. The Pikebob is ideal for both live and dead bait fishing.
Dart Sliders
A dart or vane pike float is specifically designed to help anglers cover more water when fishing for pike. Its winged or dart-shaped top acts like a sail. Catching the wind helps drift the bait naturally across the surface, making it ideal for fishing larger areas. As the wind moves the float, it gently pulls the bait, mimicking the natural movements of prey. This float’s design also improves stability and visibility. Even at a distance, this float makes it easy to track while maintaining control over the bait’s presentation.
Homemade Sliders
When I need a pike float tailored for a specific venue or presentation, I turn to making my own homemade floats. Crafting these floats allows me to fine-tune details like buoyancy, visibility, and shape to perfectly match the conditions I’ll be fishing in. Whether it’s for drifting bait across large waters or staying steady in fast-moving currents, a custom float gives me that extra precision and control. Plus, making these floats by hand adds a personal touch to each fishing trip, giving me gear uniquely suited to my style and the demands of each location.
Dart and Vane Floats
A dart or vane pike float is designed to help anglers cover more water with minimal effort, using wind and current to naturally drift the bait across the surface. The float’s distinctive dart or vane at the top acts like a small sail, catching the wind and gently pulling the bait along in a lifelike, enticing way.
This setup is ideal for large or open bodies of water, where the float can travel across a broad area, increasing the chances of passing by a lurking pike. The dart design also helps with stability and ensures the float remains upright and visible from a distance, making it easy to monitor movements and detect even the lightest bites. This type of float is especially useful in windy conditions, as the vane enhances drift and mimics the natural flow of prey, helping to attract predator fish.
Setup
Setting up a dart or vane pike float is effective for covering larger water areas by taking advantage of wind drift. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Attach the Float
Thread the dart or vane float onto your main line. These floats are usually sliding, which means they can move up and down the line to reach your desired depth.
Tie a Stop Knot
Above the float, tie a stop knot or add a float stop to control the depth of your bait. Adjust the knot’s position depending on how deep you want the bait to be presented. This is key for targeting pike at different depths.
Add a Bead (Optional)
Place a small bead below the stop knot and above the float. This bead prevents the float from catching on the stop knot, ensuring smooth movement.
Add Weights
Add a few split shot weights or a sliding lead below the float. These help keep the bait at the set depth and stabilize the float in the water, especially in windy conditions.
Attach a Wire Trace and Hook
Below the weights, attach a wire trace (essential for pike fishing to prevent bite-offs) and your chosen hook. Use a suitable hook size for the bait you’re using.
Add Bait
Secure your live or dead bait onto the hook. A larger bait works well with dart floats, as the float’s buoyancy can handle it, and the drift effect will help cover more water.
Let The Wind Help You Cover Your Whole Swim
With this setup, the float’s vane or dart top catches the wind, slowly drifting your bait across the surface. This setup allows you to cover wide areas naturally, making it easier to entice pike in open water or large bodies of water. Keep an eye on the float, as any sudden dips or movements are usually signs of a strike.
PENCIL FLOATS
A pencil float is a slim, sensitive option ideal for detecting subtle bites when pike fishing. Its narrow profile creates minimal resistance in the water, so even the slightest movement is visible, which is particularly useful when targeting cautious or pressured pike. Pencil floats are best used in calm or slow-moving waters, where their sensitivity can give an immediate signal of a bite without spooking the fish. This makes them an excellent choice for presenting smaller, more natural baits in conditions that require a delicate approach. They are available in loaded or unloaded versions.
Loaded Floats
Choosing a loaded float for pike fishing offers distinct advantages that can make a significant difference in your setup and presentation. The built-in weight of a loaded float helps it cast farther and more accurately, essential for reaching pike lurking at a distance. Additionally, the weight keeps the float stable in the water, even in windy conditions, making it easier to maintain position and monitor for bites. Because loaded floats require fewer additional weights on the line, they allow the bait to move more naturally, reducing drag and making the setup more sensitive to light takes from wary pike. This streamlined presentation can be especially helpful in attracting cautious fish, as it creates a more lifelike and appealing bait movement.
Unloaded Floats
Choosing an unloaded float for pike fishing gives you greater control over how you balance and present your bait. With an unloaded float, you can adjust the weight on your line as needed, which allows for a more customized setup depending on the depth, current, or size of the bait you’re using. This flexibility is particularly useful when fishing in shallow waters, as you can minimize weight to prevent the bait from sinking too quickly or appearing unnatural. Additionally, unloaded floats can be more buoyant, making them easier to spot in rough water or low-light conditions. For anglers who like to fine-tune their rigs for specific conditions or presentations, unloaded floats offer the versatility to get the perfect setup for each unique pike fishing situation.
Setup
Setting up a pencil pike float is straightforward and ideal for detecting subtle bites. Here’s how to rig it:
Attach the Float
Thread your pencil float onto the main line, usually through a small eye at its base. Some pencil floats are fixed, but sliding versions allow for more flexibility in adjusting depth.
Add a Float Stop or Stop Knot
If you’re using a sliding pencil float, tie a stop knot on the main line above the float to set your desired depth. Adjust the stop knot to determine how deep your bait will be positioned.
Add Weights
Place small split shot weights below the float. Pencil floats require minimal weight for balance, so add just enough to keep the float upright without sinking it.
Attach a Wire Trace and Hook
Below the weights, attach a wire trace (to prevent the pike’s teeth from cutting the line) with your chosen hook, ideally sized for the bait you plan to use.
Add Bait
Hook your bait, whether live or dead, and ensure it’s secure. Positioning the bait slightly off the bottom often works well for cautious pike.
This setup keeps the pencil float sensitive and stable in calm or slow-moving waters. Its slim shape offers minimal resistance, making it an excellent choice for detecting light bites, especially from wary pike in pressured fishing spots.
Drifting Floats
A drifting pike float is an excellent choice when you want to cover a large area of water. Unlike stationary floats, drifting floats utilize the wind and current to naturally move your bait across the water. This approach is ideal for searching out active pike that might not come to a stationary bait.
How to use a Drifter
This float is specifically designed to drift baits over large water areas. This allows you to present bait naturally in the strike zones of predatory fish like pike. Here’s how to set it up and use it effectively:
Setting Up the Float
Begin by threading the drifter float onto your main line. This float is designed as a sliding float, which allows it to move up and down the line freely. Add a stop knot above the float to set your desired depth. This knot determines how deep your bait will sit beneath the float
Adding Weights and Trace
Below the float, add weights to ensure the bait stays submerged and stable.. Then, attach a wire trace below the weights to protect your line from the pike’s sharp teeth. Secure a suitable hook, large enough to hold your live or dead bait, to the end of the trace.
Using the Drifter Float
Once set up, cast the float into the water, ideally in a direction where the wind can carry it. The Fox Rage Predator Drifter Float’s unique vane helps it catch the wind, allowing your bait to slowly drift across the surface. This natural movement is enticing to pike, as it mimics the behaviour of prey fish. You can adjust the drift by reeling in slightly or recasting if the float moves too far.
Keep a close eye on the float as it drifts. Any sudden dips, movements, or directional changes likely indicate a pike strike. The sensitivity of the drifter float makes it an excellent choice for covering wide areas and targeting active pike that may not strike at stationary baits.
This setup is highly effective for scanning large, open waters where pike are known to roam. This allows you to cover more water and increase your chances of a successful catch.
Sunken Floats
A sunken paternoster pike float is a specialized float setup used to present bait just off the bottom. This makes it ideal for targeting pike that lurk near the lakebed or in deeper waters. Unlike traditional floats that remain on the water’s surface, a sunken paternoster float is submerged. This method allows the bait to stay at a fixed depth while still providing bite detection.
In this rig, the float is attached to a paternoster setup, where the main line is weighted to anchor it in place. The bait is suspended a set distance above the bottom via a branch or “paternoster” link. The float is submerged however it remains sensitive, helping you detect any movement or bites. This rig is particularly useful for fishing in weedy or rocky areas. It keeps the bait visible to pike while avoiding snags on the bottom.
Setup
A Sunken Paternoster Rig is an effective way to keep your bait just off the bottom. It’s perfect for targeting pike that are hiding among weeds or near the lakebed.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set it up:
Attach the Lead Weight
Begin by tying a lead weight to the end of your main line. This weight will anchor the rig on the bottom. So you need to select a size suitable for the water conditions. Heavier weights for strong currents or windy conditions, and lighter weights for calm waters.
Add the Paternoster Link
About 12 to 24 inches above the lead weight, create a dropper link for your bait. This can be done by tying a short length of line to the main line using a swivel or a three-way swivel if preferred. This dropper line is where the bait will be presented, keeping it just off the lakebed.
Attach a Wire Trace and Hook
To the end of the dropper link, attach a strong wire trace to prevent bite-offs from the pike’s sharp teeth. At the end of the trace, attach an appropriately sized hook for your bait. This is usually one or two treble hooks, depending on the bait type.
Add the Sunken Float
Attach the Fox Rage Sunken Paternoster Float to the dropper link. This float will be submerged, yet it remains buoyant enough to lift the baited hook above the bottom. Additionally, this float is specifically designed to hold the bait in the strike zone without surfacing, thereby giving you a stealthy presentation.
Set Your Depth and Cast
Adjust the length of the dropper link to position the bait at your desired depth. Once set up, cast the rig to your target location. The lead weight will anchor the rig, while the sunken float lifts the baited hook, keeping it suspended. However since the float is submerged, it won’t show surface movements, so watch your line. Any tension, slackening, or slight twitches can indicate a bite.
Use setup, laying your weight just on the bottom and your float tilted or laying on the water. As a result when a pike takes off with your bait the float will immediately cock.
Traditional Cork & Cane
The old-fashioned cork and cane pike float is a classic fishing float. Crafted from natural cork and cane with materials that date back to early float-making traditions. These floats became popular among anglers in the early 20th century. Favoured by traditionalists, this style of float embodies a vintage, handcrafted appeal. The combination of cork and cane delivers reliable performance and a nostalgic look.
These floats perform best when fished at a fixed depth in water up to eight feet deep. There is nothing more satisfying than when I catch a pike on my own homemade cork pike floats. I made these two in my shed including one made from an old champagne cork. It is a bit of fun if you have them and the will to make them.
What Size Float?
Below is a chart that gives you a good start as to what size float you should use. You may need to scale up due to the wind or changing conditions. Consequently you may have to play around with different adjustments to achieve the desired presentation.
Summary
In conclusion, understanding the different types of pike fishing floats and their specific uses can make a real difference in your fishing success. From pencil floats that offer sensitive bite detection to robust dead bait floats for drifting across wide waters, each float serves a purpose depending on the conditions and presentation you’re aiming for. Choosing the right float will help you tailor your approach, keeping your bait exactly where it needs to be for the best results. With this knowledge, you’re better equipped to select the perfect float for any fishing scenario.
Tight lines and happy fishing!
