Choosing the Best Waggler Float For Still-Water Fishing

When fishing in still water, waggler floats are easy to use and a good option regardless of the fishing conditions or fish you want to catch. They work well in wind and can be used to catch small fish close to the surface or larger fish in deeper waters. So what exactly are waggler floats, and how do you know what type to choose? Here's what you need to know about using waggler floats for still-water fishing:

An Overview Of Waggler Floats

Waggler floats are long, thin floats that are secured to your main line at the bottom end only, unlike some bubble floats that need to be secured at the top and bottom. They are secured with split shot, so they're simple to set up and don't get tangled easily. Waggler floats can be used with any kind of bait and provide excellent stability regardless of the weather. Their shape makes it easy to sink the line deep into the water and cuts through surface debris.

Types Of Waggler Floats

There are a few types of waggler floats available, and you can use a silicone float adaptor attached to your line to allow you to change the float as the water and weather conditions change without having to rig your pole again.

Straight wagglers have thick tips and are ideal when you need decent casting weight or want to cast longer distances. Additionally, they offer good stability and won't get dragged under in blustery weather. Mini wagglers are a good choice when you are aiming for smaller species of fish that tend to stay close to the surface. They have a fine tip, so they allow for gentle, light casting that won't scare the fish. Loaded wagglers are slightly thicker than straight wagglers and are weighted at the bottom. They are ideal for targeting fish in deep water and can be used with slow sinking baits without losing stability.

Split Shot Patterns For Waggler Floats

The standard method of rigging your line with a waggler float is to use most of the split shot weight to hold the float in place and position smaller dropper shots around two thirds of the way between your float and hook. If you're fishing for larger fish in deep waters, place the majority of your split shot around two thirds of the way between your float and hook, and only use enough at the float to hold it in place. Alternatively, if you want to use a waggler for slow sinking bait, spread the split shot evenly between the float and the hook.

Waggler floats are versatile and easy to use. If you're not sure which float would work for the conditions you're fishing in, your tackle supplier can recommend a specific product and help you get the right setup before you head out. 


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