Choosing the right float

• When attempting to select a float, remember the cardinal rule: use the tiniest float possible to get the job done. This helps ensure that the fish are not frightened off by the disturbance made while casting the bait. Of course, this method requires consideration of the current water conditions. The rule of thumb is that the float size should be increased in proportion to the speed of the water. Where the water is calm, a relatively small float will suffice. After heavy rainfall or a storm, a larger float is required to place the bait close enough to the fish to attract them.
  
  Aside from the size of the float, the color and style matter as well. Care must be taken to select a relatively mundane float, as anything overly flashy will draw attention away from the bait at best, and outright scare the fish away at worst.
  
  

Choosing the right bait

• Selecting the proper bait to lure the desired species of fish is an art. In all cases, take extra time to ensure that the bait amply conceals the hook. Ideally, the bait should cover the hook as much as possible, as a visible hook is likely to scare off all but the most stalwart fish. Further consideration should be paid to ensure the size of the bait is matched to the size of the target fish. If the bait is too large for the target fish to consume, the possibility of catching said fish becomes a nullity.
  
  

Line placement

• Now that you understand the proper methods for selecting both the float and bait, the next step is deciding where in the water to place your line. A solid, if underutilized, are for the placement of float fishing lines is in weed-infested, rocky, or otherwise difficult to access areas. One of the advantages of float fishing over other forms of fishing is that these otherwise inaccessible areas become available to the entrepreneurial float fisherman.
  
  

When to fish

• Generally, the best time to fish is in the period after a rainstorm, where water levels are still elevated. The increased water activity causes increased fish activity, resulting in prime conditions for float fishing. On top of that, try to choose an area that is not already inundated with other fishermen. Where possible, try to time your fishing to non-peak hours, such as during weekdays. Try different areas of the river at first, and in the event that you find an area with sizable fish activity, stay there to exploit the condition.