We had a request for tips on how to use the Ultra Antenna Slider Float in deep water (thanks Andy, Nice question). This float is not loaded so does not set naturally.
So I have put together a couple of examples of how I use this great float.
So the float is quite long, ideal for using a slider knot when fishing the bottom in deep water. The benefit being that if the depth is uneven by a few inches the float will be good to register bites every cast.
The first diagram is a set up that is pretty universal in terms of the species you are aimimg for, so long as you are wanting to fish the bottom.
The ball leger is obviously over weight for the float but sets the float quickly against your stop knot and with a stop shot, anchors your bait to the deck.
Any bite will be with vertually no resitance, so make sure the slack is taken up to strike right in.
Variations on this rig would be using a different anchor lead depending on the state of the bottom. You might want to use a barrel lead for clay pits to avoid embedding or whatever you think suits the environment.
The second diagram is ideal if you are fishing for Tench or Bream, looking for lift bites.
The bulk shot gets the line through but should not be what sets the float, an SSG that takes the total shot over weight would be the suggestion as a weight nearest the hook so when lifted it has a positive upward response on the float.
Upon a rise, strike right away as there will have been some lapse in time from the initial take to the indication especially in deeper water.
There are many variations, for instance you might want to fish just off the bottom in deep water and therefore consider an anchor weight with a swivel and boom. The swivel to allow the main line to go straight through to the hook (To register the bite) and boom to avoid tangles. (Booms may spook so use a long hook lenght).
You may also consider putting some rubbers lower than the tip so if your cast does fall in slightly shallow water you will have marks on the float to help notice bites.
Typically I always forget to use the line clip on my reel, if you have made the effort to plumb and set the spot that you are fishing then picking a land mark in the distance to aim for and clipping the line on the spool after the first successful cast will ensure you hit the right spot with the right depth for your slider knot every time!
Good luck Andy, I hope you bag up!
Steve.
PS. Buy an Ultra Antanna Slider Float
