Contents
- The Use of Float Sizes 0, 00, and 000 in Fishing: A Discussion on Float Types and Their Applications
- A 0-size float is best used when the bait needs to float just on the surface or at a shallow depth, usually in water that is not very deep (5-10 meters). It works exceptionally well when fish are cautious and the angler needs to detect even the smallest bite. The 0 float’s ability to float with minimal resistance helps to gather all subtle bites, making it ideal for shallow layers.
The Use of Float Sizes 0, 00, and 000 in Fishing: A Discussion on Float Types and Their Applications
What is the difference between float sizes 0, 00, and 000, and how should they be used?
Let’s first understand why we developed the 0, 00, and 000 size floats.
Fish tend to avoid the resistance created by traditional floats and rigs, and they are often not responsive to the bait. In some cases, even when the float does not show a bite, bait may be stolen by small fish. At other times, the fish might give a subtle indication but fail to bite. The key is that fish are very cautious and won’t easily take the bait. That’s where “Free-Swimming Fishing” comes in. In this method, using a size 0 float, the main line is not fixed. Instead, the weight of the hook, leader, and bait slowly makes the bait sink.
This technique allows bait and feeder to descend synchronously, which reduces the chances of the fish sensing the resistance from the main line, allowing the fish to take the bait with less caution. Even if the fish flips, the main line is slowly released through the float’s hole without any noticeable resistance. As the line tightens, resistance increases, but the fish will already be hooked before it can spit out the bait. This “slow descent of bait” is a more evolved approach to fishing for wary fish.
The Differences Between 0, 00, and 000 Floats 
0-Size Float Characteristics:
The 0-size float is designed to float on the water’s surface in both freshwater and seawater. In freshwater, it floats just level with the water, while in seawater, with the right setup, it will float slightly above the surface. The 0-size float uses the weight of the leader, hook, and bait to slowly sink the bait into the water, without requiring a sinker. As the bait descends, fish cannot feel the resistance of the main line, which makes it easier to hook larger fish.
This float is ideal for fishing at depths of 5-10 meters, and when the bait is not sinking as intended, you can use a small sinker of size 2-5 to help the rig reach the target depth.
000-Size Float Characteristics:
The 000-size float is known for sinking at the same speed as Antarctic shrimp. It gradually descends after the rig hits the water and the line becomes taut. Whether you use a free-swimming setup with no sinker or a setup with a fixed knot on the main line, the 000 float ensures that the bait and feeder sink together at a uniform speed. This synchronized sinking action helps to eliminate the fish’s wariness. The 000 float is known for its precision in matching the sinking speed of bait, allowing for efficient and smooth fishing.
This float is best used in deeper water, where the fish layer is unclear, or when the fish prefer scattered feed over hooked bait. The uniform sinking speed helps to deliver the bait to the fish more effectively, especially in deeper waters, ranging from 5 to 15 meters.
How to Choose Between 0, 00, and 000 Floats
Despite their differences, these floats are not one-size-fits-all. The conditions of the fishing spot—such as water salinity, temperature, and the presence of tides and winds—will all influence how these floats behave.
When to Use a 0-Size Float
A 0-size float is best used when the bait needs to float just on the surface or at a shallow depth, usually in water that is not very deep (5-10 meters). It works exceptionally well when fish are cautious and the angler needs to detect even the smallest bite. The 0 float’s ability to float with minimal resistance helps to gather all subtle bites, making it ideal for shallow layers.
- S (Small): For main lines below 2#, used for fishing depths within 10 meters.
- M (Medium): For main lines between 2-3#, used for fishing depths of 10-20 meters.
- L (Large): For main lines above 3#, useful for long-distance casting or windy conditions.
When to Use a 00-Size Float
A 00-size float is perfect for when the exact location of the fish layer is uncertain. It performs especially well in exploratory fishing at varying depths. The float will float on the surface initially and then remain suspended once it adjusts to the water’s environment. This makes it an excellent choice for fishing when the depth of the fish layer is unknown.
The 00-size float allows for a more controlled descent, which is useful when fishing in depths of around 5-10 meters. It also excels when the bait and feed need to sink in unison, with the float remaining unaffected by wind or slight currents.
When to Use a 000-Size Float
The 000 float is the most advanced version of these three and is ideal for fishing in deeper waters (5-15 meters). Its sinking speed is synchronized with the bait, creating a natural effect that the fish won’t easily notice. This float excels in finding the convergence points of tidal currents and is perfect for fishing near reefs or underwater structures where the fish layer is deeper and less predictable.
In rough weather conditions or calm waters, the 000 float ensures that the bait and feeder sink at the same pace, offering a highly effective fishing method. It’s particularly useful when fishing in challenging conditions, such as deep waters with strong currents or when the fish are highly selective about their feeding.
Conclusion: The Best Float for Your Fishing Conditions
Understanding the specific traits of 0, 00, and 000-size floats can greatly enhance your fishing experience. Each float serves a unique purpose, and knowing when and how to use them will help you adapt to various fishing environments. Whether you’re fishing at shallow or deep depths, in calm or turbulent waters, the right float can make all the difference.