How to Pontoon Float Fish
Anglers use many different techniques, which vary depending on the body of water, climate, season and the species of fish being targeted. Float fishing--usually for panfish such as bream or crappie but sometimes for bass--is a technique specifically for still or slow-water conditions that gives the fisherman a visual indicator when a fish takes the bait. The weighted float is connected to the center of the line and is tugged underwater when the fish begins to swim away. A pontoon boat is perfect to use for still or drift fishing, because the wide, comfortable setting allows several fishermen to enjoy the sport while socializing.
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Things You'll Need
- Pontoon boat
- Float
- Lead split shot weights
- Fishing pole
- Fishing line
- Hooks
- Live bait
Instructions
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Launch your pontoon boat and find a sheltered cove with relatively shallow water near deeper water. Fishing a few feet above bottom structure such as brush, old stumps or grass beds in still water is the perfect technique for float fishing from a pontoon boat. Lower the boat's cover, which provides shade and protects from rain, to allow for easier casting of the bait with long rods or poles. Whether you're in a single-seat fishing pontoon or a platform pontoon, these boats are great for fishing because they sit high above the water level and don't slap against choppy water like flat-bottom boats. Turn the boat motor completely off so the noise won't scare fish.
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String the fishing line onto your pole as you would with any other style of fishing, or use a ready-to-cast rod and reel combination from any sporting goods store. If you are confused about how to properly thread a fishing pole, follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific brand. Thread the float onto your line. Your float may come with specific instructions; pay heed to any literature that comes with your float. Determine the distance that you want between the baited hook underwater and the surface. Pull that length out of the pole end and place your float at the top of that length.
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Research or use trial-and-error to find out how much weight each float will require to keep its head above water and standing straight, keeping in mind the weight of the live bait you are using, such as worms, minnows or crickets. Check the literature that came with the float, or the weight in grams may be written on the side of the float. Split lead shot comes in different sizes and has weights measured in grams. A No. 8 split shot is a good place to start. Cast and let the float lay on the water to determine whether the weight is heavy enough. Add more split shot if needed.
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Set two-thirds of the amount of shot weight necessary on the line just below the float and the other third six to eight inches above the hook at the end of the line. Simply place the split side of the weights around the line and squeeze with a pair of pliers to secure on the line. Avoid breaking the line by squeezing them too tightly. Often the pressure of your thumb and finger will work fine.
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Tie the hook securely at the bottom of the line and set the bait on the hook. Wind the line on your fishing pole so that the float hangs a few inches away from the tip of the rod. Cast the rod in one smooth motion and slow the line with your casting finger once the float nears the spot you want to fish. This will help the float land without creating a big splash.
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Wait for the float to dive below the surface of the water. Once the tip dips down, you will know that a fish is nibbling at the bait. It is best to wait until the entire float is pulled beneath the surface before you set the hook with a sharp pull and begin slowly reeling in your catch.
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Tips & Warnings
Drop the anchor on your pontoon boat if you are in a good spot. Or, if the lake's cove is large and the wind is not too strong, simply drift with the wind with your float fishing lines trailing.
References
- Photo Credit bunch of floats image by Witold Krasowski from Fotolia.com
