Dave's How To - Shotting A Stick Float

This entry was posted on 18th August, 2017

Strung Shot A great way of starting a stick float session is to use evenly strung shot. You can use number 4,6 or 8 split shot sizes to do this on the main line, then attach a hook length loop-to-loop style. Use a fairly long 18- 20inch hook length and have two evenly spread number 8 or 10 micro shot on this. Spread shot allow you to let the tackle fall slowly, in unison with loose feed, which often results in positive bites on the drop. With strung shot you can search out all of the swim, from the surface to the bottom.



Bulked Shot After starting a session with strung shotting on your stick float rig, if you find the fish are staying close to the bottom, or small stuff is attacking your hook bait on the way down, you can always push the main shot down to just above your hook length. Forming a bulk like this gets your hook bait down to the lower levels of the swim faster, also allowing you to hold the tackle back against the flow. Holding back or edging through with stick tackle often brings bonus bites, especially later on in the session as fish become wary.

Summary The best way to use a stick float is with baits like maggots or casters, feeding small amounts every cast. Try to run your stick float through the swim in unison with loose feed, using strung shot when looking for bites on-the-drop, or bulked shot if the fish are feeding deeper.

Trotting stick float tackle can account for species like roach, dace, perch, chub…even barbel.

This method suits traditional 13 to 15ft float rods best, combined with a reel loaded with 3 to 6lb main line, depending on the size of fish expected. Hook size can vary from 16 to 20. Use size 16 for double offerings of maggots or casters, switching to 18 or 20 for single baits. Medium wire gauge hooks are best for most species.