A float for long casting makes it possible to fish at a considerable distance from the shore using appropriate fishing rods. Such fishing rods are used in cases where it is not possible to feed fish close to the shore, or it is located at a distance inaccessible for casting with standard tackle.
Long casting is also used when catching large species of fish, when a slow and smooth release of the line is required. The equipment used for long-distance casting consists of: a leash with a hook, a stopper, a weight, the main line, a reel, a float and a rod. The float for such a fishing rod can be sliding or fixed.
Features of the float for long casting
The casting distance and fishing efficiency are affected by the weight of the rod and its accessories. In this regard, floats designed for long-distance casting have significant differences from standard models. As a rule, they are long, which can reach 40 cm. This length allows the fisherman to see the movements of the float from the shore.
Externally, the float looks like a thin torpedo or arrow .
This appearance allows it to remain unnoticed by fish. Although at great depths this is not so necessary, since the fish there are less shy of foreign objects. The torpedo-shaped shape allows the float to align itself during flight and enter the water at the correct angle. Casting with its help is possible to a length of up to 80 meters.
Hungarian long casting tackle
For more than 15 years, the Hungarian team has been one of the best in the world. This country is also the main supplier of fishing goods and is famous for Clarusso and Perfect floats.
Perfect was the first to produce excellent models for English fishing. Clarusso created a fundamentally new model Zero. In reality, wagglers are equipped with a built-in release so that when casting they are adjacent to the main release. An unloaded float can move along the line and the tackle loses accuracy and casting range. Clarusso thought about developing models without internal shipping, which would be fixed on the fishing line during casting and move freely in the water. They managed to bring this idea to life by making a special base through which the fishing line passes and secures the float when casting.
Gallery: sliding float for long casting (25 photos)
Characteristics of a sliding float for long casting
The sliding float looks like a ballistic missile combined with an arrow. The arrow-shaped section of the float can reach 200-500 mm in length, and its thickened segment - 20-100 mm . A fixed float can have a lifting capacity of about 3 grams and is equipped with a long keel made of metal or plastic and a thick antenna. Sliding floats have a thinner antenna and usually have a lower carrying capacity.
In equipment with a sliding float, the fishing line must be submerged. For fishing with such a float, a standing or low-current reservoir is suitable. A plug rod with 10-16 rings and light equipment for better casting are used. A reel holder with rings that slide along the handle is a better choice. Reels are suitable for sports ones with a minimum number of bearings, so as not to make the structure heavier. The thickness of the fishing line should be 0.08-0.18 mm , and the length should be 60-80 meters.
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A tackle with a sliding float must have stoppers consisting of three elements: a sliding bead, a stopper assembly and a lower stopper pellet. A stopper at the bottom prevents sliding towards the main load. A stop bead fixed in front of the float element prevents the unit from getting into the keel cavity. After the bead, a locking knot with a 2 cm mustache is knitted from the thread.
Sliding float - equipment and use of equipment
The first question that arises when considering a sliding float is what is it for?
Let's imagine a situation: you need to cast a tackle 10-15 m with a rig depth of 6 m, using a 4 m long fishing rod.
Imagine how you suffer and try to quit? This task is not possible if you use a fixed float.
How the tackle works
The float, sliding along the fishing line, lowers to the main load, which makes it possible to wind the fishing line under it.
When casting, you have a dangling line of no more than 1 m, which will not interfere with casting using a 4 m long fishing rod; after casting, the line is released through the float to the depth set by the rubber lock.
Which float to choose
The range of sliding floats is quite extensive. They vary in weight categories, just like regular floats. The more weight you can put on, the easier it will be when casting long distances. Also, for ease of casting, such floats are equipped with a certain weight inside the body.
But I would like to pay a little more attention to the shape of the float itself. Conventionally, they can be divided into three types of forms:
- round – for casting over a short distance in calm weather;
- oval - for medium distances, with average wind;
- extended – designed for long casts in windy weather.
Rigging a fishing rod with a sliding float
Since this tackle is intended for long-distance casting to great depths, the fishing rod must have rings and be equipped with a reel.
The installation of the sliding float itself does not have any special tricks. You just need to know a few nuances and you're done.
In order to set the depth, use a locking unit for the float. Some fishermen stop the float with rubber (silicone) stoppers or lead shot, which makes it very difficult when casting, clinging to the fishing rod rings.
Stopper assembly for sliding float. Such a knot passes through the rings much easier and does not interfere with casting. For the knot you need 15 cm of fishing line, which is used as the main one (you can also use soft nylon rope, thin section). How to tie a knot is demonstrated in the picture.
For convenience, sometimes a knot is tied on the insulation of an electrical wire or some kind of rigid tube. Then the fishing line is pulled through the tube and the locking knot is pulled off the tube onto the main fishing line, all that remains is to tighten and trim the excess ends.
When tightening the knot, be sure to wet it so as not to deform the main line. Also, when cutting off excess line on a knot, you need to leave 2-3 cm at the ends so that the knot can fit well through the guide rings of the rod.
I suggest watching an example of tying a stopper knot in a short video.
Now we pass a special swivel onto the main line to attach the sliding float. You can see several types of such swivels in the picture on the right. This will allow the float to slide freely along the line.
We need to decide what type of cargo we will use. If we use a sliding one (in the form of an olive), then it must be threaded after the float swivel. If we use a simple fraction, then it can be attached later.
Now we attach a small swivel to the end of the main line, to which the leash with a hook will be knitted.
Loading the sliding float
Some fishermen use one weight, without additional weights (light weight shot) and, in my opinion, this is not entirely correct.
When using one weight, your tackle will be vulnerable to snags and not very practical when fishing with a wire, but it will be suitable for fishing in still water.
When fishing in a current, the loads should be placed in descending order, starting from the float and leaving 1-2 pellets at the lower end in front of the leash (picture No. 3).
Which equipment option to choose is up to you. Figure out what suits you best under the conditions of the reservoir and act.
You can either buy a sliding float or make it yourself. Before answering the question: How to make a sliding float? It is necessary to consider the difference between a sliding float and a regular one.
They differ only in the presence of a ring (spring) for fastening at the bottom of the float. If your float does not have such a fastening, then you can make it yourself by bending a loop of wire, which we glue to the float. If we use a goose feather, take a pin with an eye, which we stick into the lower part of the float.
A float rod with a sliding float is very effectively used when catching bream, carp, perch and many other fish.
In order not to be unfounded, let's watch a video that dynamically displays the entire process of fishing using a sliding float.
Fishing equipment with a sliding float
For comfortable and productive fishing, you need to prepare the right gear.
Selection of sinkers
Fishing with one sinker is only possible in calm water. For bodies of water with current, it is necessary to use several weights arranged to reduce weight. The main sinker, located at the very top, plays the role of a lower stopper and must be well attached to the fishing line. It is recommended to place a rubber or silicone tube on top of the main weight to cushion the float.
Selection of fishing line
The thickness of the chosen fishing line increases depending on the type of fish and the casting distance, but the base should always be thicker than the leader. The fishing line is threaded through a wire eye or passed through the body of the float through a special channel. For strong currents, it is better to choose a load-resistant float with a channel. For match fishing, a fishing line with a diameter of 0.18 to 0.20 mm is used.
Selection of swivels
The main function of the swivel is to prevent the line from twisting . It is important when fishing using a spinner or spinning rod. Twisting of the fishing line occurs due to the rapid rotation of the spinner, which reduces its strength by up to 70%, and periodic winding on the spool. The swivel helps maintain the strength of the fishing line and prevents it from twisting. Carabiners with special clasps also simplify the process of changing bait.
Preparation for installation: necessary equipment elements
Sinker
When using a fixed float, the entire weight of the load is collected in the float and closer to it. When attaching sliding elements of equipment with a load weight of more than 4 g, their location moves as close as possible to the leash.
With this loading method, the fisherman receives several advantages:
- during casting, this type of fastening allows you to easily overcome wind resistance;
- the large weight of the load makes it possible to quite quickly lower the hook with the appropriate bait to the depth or bottom area of the reservoir;
- diving the gear to depth increases the chances of catching a hefty fish trophy.
To properly load the float, you will need sinkers or, as fishermen are accustomed to calling them, “olives” weighing 3.5-8 g. And in order to be prepared for any changes in weather conditions, the right decision would be to make several options for equipment of different weights at once.
When choosing a sinker, it is better to choose a removable type, which has a rod in the center, using the ends of which and two sections of silicone tube to attach the olive to the fishing line. In addition to sinkers, it is worth stocking up on several clamp-type pellets. With their help, the sinker will be attached.
fishing line
The fishing line should be taken with a diameter of 0.12 mm. Of course, you can take a thicker one, but in this case the casting range and accuracy will suffer. Using a sliding type of installation, the load from the main fishing line is evenly distributed over all parts of the tackle.
You can’t do without a mounting line, although it in no way affects the operation of the gear, but it must have increased strength. Its diameter should be in the range of 0.14-0.18 mm, it directly depends on the weight of the sinker.
You will also need a soft line for the leash. The optimal diameter is 0.1-0.12 mm. An excellent option would be a specialized fishing line that can withstand extreme breaking loads.
It must be remembered that, without the skills, thin fishing lines for installation will cause constant tangling of the gear. At the same time, their use will not last long as they cannot withstand long-term loads with frequent casting. And they often become the main cause of gear breakage.
Shock leader
The shock leader performs a protective function, preventing damage and breakage of the gear. Therefore, the fishing line used to make it must be very strong.
The shock leader takes on the maximum load, both when casting and when retrieving large fish. Its diameter should be between 0.18 and 0.2 mm. When fishing at short distances, there is no need for it and 0.14-0.2 mm of fishing line is wound onto the reel spool.
Swivels
An integral element of mounting a float for long-distance casting is swivels of sizes from No. 20 to No. 24. They are attached in two places:
- between the mounting line and the leash;
- at the distance between the mounting line and the shock leader.
The use of small swivels gives the fisherman a number of advantages:
- this element is not confused;
- the swivel helps to avoid tangling the leash and the fishing line attached to it;
- does not significantly affect the loading as a whole.
Sliding elements
Other equally important sliding elements of installation include a snap hook with a Teflon or ceramic ring, which allows sliding along the fishing line.
If you have a standard carabiner with a swivel in your arsenal, then they will also work. But in this case, a damper (bead) is attached in front of the locking knot so that the knot does not slip through the eye of the swivel.
You also need to prepare hooks and elastic bands that will secure them. And it is better to reel the ready-made tackle onto pre-prepared reels.
Features of a fishing rod for long casting
For fishing with long casting, fishing rods with a long rod , which can reach 3.6-4.5 m. The fishing rod must be sufficiently rigid, but at the same time have little weight. A fast action is used for this type of rig. The knees of the rod bend closer to the top and maintain rigidity in the rest of the rod. This type of structure helps to maximize the distance of casting the bait.
The rod for long casting has the form of a plug design with three elbows. For compactness during transportation, it is better to choose models with 4-6 parts. The handle is made of cork or rubber with a porous texture.
“Match” reels are ideal for long casting due to their long, lightweight spool and small convex drum. This design allows you to use thinner lines.
The softness and reliability of the product depends on the number of bearings on the reel. But with a large number of them, the weight of the fishing rod also increases, which can lead to rapid hand fatigue. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a product for yourself that will be optimal in terms of smoothness and overall weight.
Amateur fishing allows the use of fishing line with a diameter of 0.12-0.18 mm. For sport fishing, the thickness is reduced to 0.1-0.16 mm. A fishing line 60-80 m long is wound onto a reel with a release of 0.5-2 mm from the edge. If you choose a fishing line with a higher density than water, it will sink well without reacting to the wind.
Choosing a rod by height
When choosing the length of the rod, you need to keep the fisherman’s height as a guide:
- If your height is less than 175 centimeters, then you need to consider a rod from 3.5 to 3.7 meters for universal models, from 3 to 3.9 meters for parabolics, for powerful models designed for long distances - 3.6 meters.
- If your height is shorter, then the length of the rod should be 3.7 - 4 meters for universal rods, for parabolics: 3.3 - 4.2 meters, for long casts: 3.8 meters.
Tips for a fisherman: How to make tackle for carp fishing - Choosing the best
Tip 1: Before buying a carp fishing rod, it would be a good idea to test it: ask fishermen you know to “try on” the rod for yourself, or try to choose it in a store based on size and weight.
Fishing rods for carp are made from composites, graphite or modern plastic. These are durable, flexible and lightweight materials. Inexpensive tackle is made from fiberglass.
Fishing rods for carp are made from composites, graphite or modern plastic. These are durable, flexible and lightweight materials. Inexpensive tackle is made from fiberglass.
All fishing rods are divided into working and auxiliary. There are such types of the first of them:
- Universal (Multirange). These rods are the most common. Their test is 2-3 Lb. Used at all depths and types of reservoirs. Using a universal bait, a bait weighing 60-90 g is thrown to a length of up to 100-120 m.
- A parabolic rod or a fishing rod with a slow action (Slim). Used for working at short and medium distances up to 70 m. Their blank completely dampens strong jerks of large fish.
- Long-range. Tackle for extended distances has a fast action (Fast) and a length of up to 4 m. It throws bait weighing up to 180 g at a distance of up to 150 m.
- A shortened rod with a length of 1.7-2.7 m. Convenient for boat fishing or fishing in tight spaces at distances of up to 30 m. This rod casts bait weighing up to 70 g.
- Feeder. These rods have good range (up to 150 m) and sufficient strength to retrieve large prey. The length of the blank is 360-450 cm, it is capable of throwing equipment weighing 100-250 g.
The most common auxiliary rods are marker rods. Before feeding and catching prey, the fisherman needs to know the depth, structure and topography of the bottom in the working area. This is done using a marker rod. It is equipped with a special sinker and float. The test form is 2.7-3.5 units.
By design, gear is divided into telescopic and plug-in:
- When folded, the first type is convenient to transport. It is convenient to set up a telescopic rod in advance, without haste and without errors. Disadvantages: inconvenient, thick handle, reduced casting length due to the rings located on top.
- Plug gear consists of sections connected by an elbow. They have handles that fit comfortably in your hand. They can make the most distant and accurate casts. The tip of the rod is sensitive to the bite. Disadvantages: high cost and large length of the disassembled structure.
Finding a high-quality and budget carp fishing rod is not as easy as it seems at first. Even despite the huge selection in stores, not every form can withstand casting heavy tackle. In the segment up to 3,000 rubles, the best fishing rods for hunting carp and crucian carp were representatives of Salmo, Volzhanki and Mikado.
Features of choosing a float
There is a large selection of sliding floats that have a single attachment point . These floats are suitable for small currents or standing water. The choice of model depends on the behavior and weight of the fish, as well as the fishing depth. The float element with a single attachment point provides a more accurate hookup and makes it easier to spot a bite on the rise. They are more accurate and smooth when casting.
If the current is strong, fishing with a sliding float will be difficult. He will dive, colliding with any debris that the current brings and create a false biting effect.
Installation of a fishing rod for long casting with a sliding float
Proper collection of float gear for long casting directly contributes to successful fishing. Sinkers are the most important element of fishing rod equipment. For sliding equipment, they are located at a close distance from the leash , and for fixed equipment, closer to the float. The role of sinkers is played by pellets of different shapes. They are selected according to the type of float. The weight of the sinker is related to the diameter of the fishing line.
Sinkers are distributed by weight. Heavier olive-like elements are fixed on top, and smaller pellets below. Heavy weights attract the equipment to the bottom, and small ones stabilize the leader and hooks.
Using carabiners, the leash is attached to the fishing line. The use of protective clips that secure the hook with the bait will prevent the line from tangling when casting.
A cross-lock fastener is attached to the end of a 75 cm long fishing line . A clip is attached above it for protection, then a bead is put on. Next, without clamping, a crimp sleeve is installed and another bead is placed on top. The line goes into the eye of the swivel and is passed through the last bead. An additional swivel is attached to the free end of the fishing line. A leash with an existing hook 60 cm long is attached to the remaining eye on the first swivel.
Casting technique
The technology of fishing with a fishing rod for long casting is similar to using a spinning rod. For a successful throw without overlapping tackle, the weight of the sinkers should be 25%, and the rest of the weight should be on the float.
Before casting, the float should be at a distance of 1-1.5 m from the top of the fishing rod. There should be no objects around that interfere with the swing and flight of the tackle. Before the hook with a load falls into the water, the fishing line is slowed down with your fingers, and the equipment rushes forward.
After the float touches the water, the bow on the spool closes and the line is submerged by the end of the rod. Then the bow can be opened again and the line released. The float element rests against the stopper after standing on the water.
After casting, the rod is placed on a stand with the top as close as possible to the water. The tension of the fishing line will provide high sensitivity when biting.
Casting technique is perfected over time. For successful fishing, it is important to properly prepare your gear. You can build a sliding float with your own hands; you don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive equipment.
Inexpensive models (up to 3000 rub.)
Finding a high-quality and budget carp fishing rod is not as easy as it seems at first. Even despite the huge selection in stores, not every form can withstand casting heavy tackle. In the segment up to 3,000 rubles, the best fishing rods for hunting carp and crucian carp were representatives of Salmo, Volzhanki and Mikado.
Salmo Sniper CARP 360 (3255-360)
- plug
- test 120 g
- optimal length 3.6 m
- good balance
The plug composite rod consists of 3 segments. It feels good in the hand, the cork does not slip and provides some cushioning. There is a good balance when swinging. Bend test optimal, 3 lb. The line glides well through the SiC rings. The form is suitable for beginner fishermen to practice their carp hunting skills.
VOLZHANKA Volzhanka 3.6 m up to 100 g (051-0002)
- weight 308 g
- soft handle
- transport length 0.92 cm
- SiC rings
- neoprene is erased from the handle
- no cover
Tips for fisherman: Which rod to choose for carp fishing - Answers for beginners
One of the best telescopes in the particularly heavy class pleases with its lightness and excellent balance. The 7-section blank is made from a mixture of carbon fiber and carbon, which gives it a good margin of strength. But over time, the soft handle wears off, users note.
MIKADO X-PLODE SPECIAL CARP 390 (WAA248-390)
- length 3.9 m
- plug
- slow build
- large 3-point rings
- case
- transport length 2 m
The plug-in design provides comfort when playing fish and soft shock absorption. With a blank length of 3.9 m, the tackle flies hundreds of meters from the shore without much effort. But you should transport the fishing rod carefully: after all, 2 m when disassembled.
The most important parameters are length and test.
