As some of you will know, I have decided that I would like to learn how to trot a float and this summer is whem I should do it. I have started this thread only for the purpose of getting a few tips, as it stands at the moment the whole thing confuses me. What is the difference between stick floats, chubbers, Avons and loafers? How do you plumb the depth for a swim where depth varies? What the hell is a back shot? What is mending the line? It's all making me feel a bit stupid.
Oh and finally, is there any recommendations on the ideal rod to begin trotting with?
Firstly, stick floats are usually slim floats better used for shorter trotts and more suited to smooth flowing water and combined with lighter lines although you can get quite large ones. Personally I can't see much point in them and i'd prefer to use a smaller avon or bolo float.
Chubbers and avons can both be used in turbulent water (wire stemmed bolos are good in this type of water) and are better to long trott as they are easier to see. Avons and chubber type flots are usually heavier floats than sticks and don't tend to pull off your trotting line as easy as a lighter stick float. My favourite floats are avon bolos in various sizes as they have long sight tips and hold their lines so much better, infact they're practically all I use.
I never plumb the depth, you'll learn the depths of the river infront of you by simply trotting the float through, if it drags under just keep shallowing off until it doesn't. Then you can fish over depth, up in the water etc etc. If you have a swim with a nice level bed but an odd place where the float is pulled under, to stop this happening you can just hold back slowing your float down which will cause your bait to rise up in the water going over the obsticle and when it's passed that point you can allow it to speed back up again and your bait will sink back down again.
Imo the best thing you can do is to just get your kit together and get out on the bank and learn yourself, it's not difficult. If you know someone who can show you that will be much better than trying to read about it on forums or in book etc.
Just a thought, don't think a large float won't be any good for delicate biting or small fish, even a small minnow will pull a 5 or 6 grame bolo float straight under!
