Rating of the best fishing floats for 2024

The float (or "pointer buoy" - a term used among professional sports fishermen) is one of the most ancient and common fishing devices. Its main purpose is to notify the fisherman about the bite in time. Therefore, it should be freely observed on the water surface in all weather conditions and at any time of the day. Additional functions of the float include holding the nozzle at a set depth for fishing and the ability to deliver it (the nozzle) to the desired distance.

Lightweight and non-absorbent materials are the standard basis for floats. In ancient times, floats were generally made from dry reeds, goose feathers, cork, kuga, cattail and even porcupine needles (however, such samples did not differ in durability). Today there is a wide variety of shapes and colors of floats. Such circumstances are explained by the fact that at the moment a universal type of this device has not been invented, which would be suitable for all types of fishing (for example, one type of floats is suitable for stagnant bodies of water and calm weather, and completely different for a stormy river and windy weather).

Float device

Usually this device consists of three parts:

• Signaling antenna;
• The body itself;
• Keel responsible for stability.

Antenna is a visible element through which the fisherman learns about the bite. Antennas are different in length, thickness and color (most often multi-colored coloring is used). Professionals advise to select the antenna so that it is perfectly visible at the required distance and at the same time has as little resistance as possible when biting. Today this element is in most cases removable, so it can be adapted to different conditions.

Housing the float is responsible for its carrying capacity, i.e. what mass of body kits you can use on it (meaning swivels, hooks, attachments, sinkers). Accordingly, the larger the body, the more rigging it is possible to hang on it and the float will be able to fully function.

Keel is the element that is responsible for the stability of the device on the water surface. It can vary in length and is made of plastic / metal.

Various shapes of floats

Depending on the conditions under which fishing will be carried out, you need to choose the right float.According to their form, they can be divided into several types.

Spindle shape

One of the very common forms in which the keel and antenna are almost comparable in thickness to the hull itself. Ancient floats based on goose feathers can be attributed to this form. The shape of the spindle allows the device to have increased sensitivity, which means signaling not just about a bite, but even that a fish has touched the bait. Such sign buoys are great for lake fishing (in still water) and for calm weather. Their main drawback is that even with a weak wind, they begin to "lie down" on the water surface or even "dive" - ​​all this will make it difficult to signal a bite. Their other disadvantage is the reduced carrying capacity (only 2-3 grams). And in general, with such devices it will be difficult to throw a fishing rod far. They are most suitable for fishing near the coast.

Olives shape olives

This form is considered more versatile. Indicator buoys of this shape can be used not only on lakes / ponds, but also on rivers with a slight current. They have little tendency to react to small winds that cause small ripples in the water. Their distinctive feature is that they very clearly signal a bite (however, for this, it is necessary to correctly place / balance the leads and the bait). The main field of application is fishing with a swing rod at shallow depths (up to three meters).

Teardrop shape

Such a buoy can be called a modernized version of the "olives". Such devices are distinguished by maximum stability on reservoirs with a current of medium strength. Stability is achieved due to the thickening of the hull at the keel attachment point, therefore, their center of gravity shifts downward. Their versatility suggests that it is possible to adapt almost any type of equipment on them, however, it is desirable to fish with them at a depth of up to one and a half meters.

Ball shape

You can directly call such an indicator buoy a logical continuation of the "olives" shape. They differ slightly in shape, but the scope of their application is the same. It should be noted that the spherical type is slightly inferior to the "olive" in terms of sensitivity.

Inverted (inverted) drop

Specially designed for fishing in strong currents. They have the greatest resistance potential, unlike all described above. It is convenient to use such a buoy when it is necessary to hold the float during free floating (for example, fishing from a moving boat). Often such devices are used in Bolognese fishing rods.

Flat shape

These floats are made in the form of a flattened disk, and the keel and antenna are attached to it at the same level (however, a small angle is set between the keel and the antenna). These pointer buoys are most effective when fishing in strong currents. Moreover, special rings can be used in the construction for "dyeing" the float (they are installed either directly on the body, or on the keel - a little closer to the antenna).

In some cases, the ring can be replaced with a special tube going through the body. This is done so that the line could not damage the body when making long casts, or when making a sharp fish hook. It is worth noting that winding rings can be made of metal or plastic (it is used mainly in Chinese samples), however, as practice shows, it is better to refuse the latter, because they are easily cut with a fishing line after even a dozen long casts.

Differences in mounting method

According to this criterion, floats can be divided into two categories: fixed (they are also deaf) and sliding. The former may not have a winding ring for the keel at all and they use a single and unchanging permanent method of fastening. However, this method of fastening is considered more reliable and is used in most floats produced today, since.it provides the greatest sensitivity. The essence of the attachment is that the line is passed through the winding ring (or directly) on the buoy body, and is held on the keel by at least two clamps (while the lower clamp should go slightly over the edge of the keel).

There is a certain peculiarity of the fixed method of fastening, when displacers with a lower winding ring are used - in this case, instead of clamps, a fastener is used. It is made of metal wire, and after passing through the winding ring, it is simply twisted.

The sliding method of attachment is used only when the fishing depth exceeds the length of the rod itself. To do this, use a mast rod or a Bolognese fishing rod, while the line is threaded through the lower winding ring. However, professionals believe that the best option would be to use a special sliding rig with a swivel.

We should also mention sliding floats for wagler-type rods. They are designed for ultra-long casting and therefore have their own shipment in the lower hull segment. Most often, it is made in the form of twisting washers, the number of which can be varied - all this is needed more for sport fishing, where exact compliance with the specified conditions is extremely important for the result. As a rule, such devices have special markings, for example "4 + 2", where "4" is the float's own shipment in grams, and "2" is the weight of the load that can be hung additionally. This is how sports / professional gear can be distinguished from amateur gear.

Important characteristics for a float

For calm and confident fishing, in order to do without unnecessary problems and at the same time hope for a good catch, it is necessary that the indicator buoy used meets all the required characteristics. There are three main ones:

• Sensitivity;
• Stability;
• Carrying capacity.

Sensitivity They call the buoy's ability to respond in a timely manner to a bite (to surface or drown), that is, to notify the fisherman that the fish has started tasting the bait.

This parameter can be set for drowning ("bite on the drowning") - the fish captures the bait and tries to pull it to the bottom or drags it to the side. At the same time, the float sinks, and its body resists drowning, which will be a signal for the angler.

Also, the sensitivity can be set for ascent ("bite upward") - the fish picks up the bait from the bottom and pulls it up on purpose. Thus, the float, which in a calm state should be under water, begins to float. So, for example, they catch bottom fish (burbot, catfish, etc.)

The sensitivity will be greatly influenced by the volume of the buoy's body (hull). The thinner its upper part, the more sensitive it is and the less need for third-party shipment.

Sustainability This is the quality of the buoy, in which it is able to stay afloat in an upright position when exposed to external factors (strong current, gusty wind, etc.). Spherical floats, in which the center of gravity is specially shifted, and the keel, on the contrary, are made in an elongated shape, are especially stable. The stability parameter is most clearly manifested when fishing in calm waters and in calm weather conditions. The needle keel buoy, which is considered the most stable, is ideal here. In other cases, you should choose something in between in terms of characteristics, but avid anglers in most cases prefer to combine the "needle" with a ball-shaped body.

IMPORTANT! It should be remembered that in bad weather conditions, a supersensitive float set to bite on a drown will be absolutely useless, since when the water is rough, it will constantly crawl out of the water, thereby misleading the fisherman about the moment the bite begins.

Lifting capacity - this is the parameter that makes it clear to what depth the float can be sunk. He also determines the working limit.You need to know this parameter in order to:

• Correctly calculate the casting distance of the rod;
• For fishing at great depths, roughly orient yourself in time when the float reaches the bottom;
• Control the strength of the swing so that the baited hook does not fly in the other direction.

The carrying capacity parameter has its pros and cons. A plus can be called the fact that with a heavy float, the fishing rod is thrown further and more accurately. The disadvantages include the fact that a very heavy float becomes less sensitive. Therefore, the shipment of the indicator buoy itself needs to be varied depending on the weight of the fish being hunted. The larger the intended prey should be, the heavier the weight of the float can be made. The same will apply to the speed of the current - in fast rivers, it is simply impractical to use light floats.

Rating of the best fishing floats for 2024

Teardrop-shaped

2nd place: Artax AX 1000

This attachment has a traditional droplet shape and is intended for fishing in slow-flowing waters or standing water. The hull is made of balsa, the keel is made of composite materials.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Italy
Case height in millimeters	300
Diameter in millimeters	130
Antenna height in millimeters	200
Keel length in millimeters	950
Price, rubles	85

• Quality workmanship material;
• Affordable price;
• Ease of installation.

• An elongated keel indicates a narrow specialization.

1st place: Mochkov 16-04

This piece of fishing tackle has a classic shape and is recommended for use on slow-flowing rivers or for fishing on lakes. The hull is made of ordinary plastic, although the buoy itself is a sports equipment.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Ukraine
Case height in millimeters	280
Diameter in millimeters	150
Antenna height in millimeters	180
Keel length in millimeters	850
Price, rubles	110

• Sports option;
• Easy to replace;
• Inexpensive price.

• The body uses ordinary plastic.

Spindle shape

2nd place: "DoR" series "Profi" EVA EP-003-2

This float is distinguished by its exceptional lightness. Designed for fishing in waters with a medium current. The small hull assumes effective fishing at a depth of no more than 1.5 meters.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Case height in millimeters	150
Diameter in millimeters	180
Antenna height in millimeters	200
Keel length in millimeters	750
Price, rubles	100

• The body and elements are made of composite materials;
• Installation of a winding ring is possible;
• Bright coloring.

• Light weight - 2.5 grams (without the possibility of weighting).

1st place: "DoR" series "Expert" EVA ЕЭ-004

A professional type of rig, it can be used in various competitions. Perfect for fishing in SLOW water. The elongated body assumes a slight increase in effective fishing depth - up to 2 meters.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Case height in millimeters	200
Diameter in millimeters	120
Antenna height in millimeters	200
Keel length in millimeters	650
Price, rubles	75

• The body material is composed of composites;
• The presence of a two-tone bright color;
• Crown ring included.

• Low weight limits the scope of application.

Flat shape

2nd place: Cralusso Bubble

The main purpose of this device is fishing with a plug rod. Among other things, the float travel speed can vary. It is a model of professional equipment and was awarded a special prize at the European Championship in sport fishing "Medunits-2005". Despite its flat shape, it successfully combines the qualities of flat and oval floats.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Italy
Body material	Polyurethane
Completeness in pieces	5 replaceable antennas
Weight in grams	5
Price, rubles	420

• Multifunctionality;
• Changing the antenna does not require complete disassembly of the device itself;
• Good equipment.

• Not found (for its segment).

1st place: Flagman FCS08

An expensive and reliable model designed for fast and ultra-fast water fishing with tackle. This indicator buoy is an extremely interesting sample, the components of which are made of completely different materials: the body is balsa, the keel is metal, and the antenna is plastic. All parts are properly balanced for the best results.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Great Britain
Body material	Balsa
Completeness in pieces	2 floats
Weight in grams	20
Price, rubles	670

• 2 units per set;
• The variability of the materials used throughout the structure;
• Ease of assembly / disassembly.

• Not found (for its segment).

Spherical shape

2nd place: NAKAJIMA 2

Model from a well-known Japanese manufacturer. It is intended both for sport fishing, and it can be useful for an amateur. Due to its spherical shape, it almost does not react to light gusts of wind, however, it is recommended for use in stagnant water.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Japan
Body material	Plastic
Completeness in pieces	2 floats
Weight in grams	2
Price, rubles	300

• Calmly tolerates slight ripples;
• A model from a well-known Japanese manufacturer guarantees quality;
• 2 floats included.

• Plastic lightweight body (suitable for catching small fish).

1st place: Mounchain-12

A common ball-shaped model from a Chinese manufacturer. It gained popularity due to its low cost and a very extended set (12 pieces of different sizes in a set). They are extremely easy to install. The case is plastic. These buoys are capable of resisting small ripples.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Body material	Plastic
Completeness in pieces	12 floats
Weight in grams	2
Price, rubles	250

• Various sizes in the set;
• Resists fine ripples;
• Budgetary price.

• Lightweight body.

Direct models

2nd place: Namazu Pro NP102

This buoy-pointer is directly recommended for fishing at great depths and far from the coast. The composite body and bright paintwork will be an excellent bite signal. Fishing from a moving boat is also possible.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Body material	Balsa
Completeness in pieces	1 float
Weight in grams	3
Price, rubles	50

• Robust body;
• Budget cost;
• Ease of installation.

• Short service life;
• Limited scope (mainly sea fishing).

1st place: "Expert-21" (201-06-035)

It has a variable body design (bamboo or balsa), intended for traditional fishing with a reel (fast current). The model can be fixed either directly to the line using a sliding assembly or using a swivel mount. Dismantling for transport is quick and easy.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Body material	Balsa
Completeness in pieces	1 float
Weight in grams	3.5
Price, rubles	90

• Variety of body design;
• The possibility of using on a spinning rod;
• Ease of disassembly.

• Narrow specialization.

Inverted drop shape

2nd place: Artax AX 1038

This attachment is in the form of an inverted drop and is intended for use on bodies of water with low / medium flow. It can withstand small waves and fairly windy weather. The case is made of balsa, there is a winding ring for fastening in the upper part of the case.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Italy
Case height in millimeters	530
Diameter in millimeters	110
Antenna height in millimeters	330
Keel length in millimeters	1070
Price, rubles	100

• Durable body material;
• Budgetary price;
• Installation reliability.

• The crown is located at the top.

1st place: "DoR" series "Expert" EVA ЕЭ-002

This float has an elongated keel, which allows it to be used effectively at medium speeds. It behaves steadily at small waves. The crown is attached to the bottom of the case.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Case height in millimeters	530
Diameter in millimeters	120
Antenna height in millimeters	230
Keel length in millimeters	970
Price, rubles	80

• Affordable price;
• Reliability and efficiency under recommended conditions of use;
• Multicolor coloring.

• Short-lived housing.

Double-sided cone shape

2nd place: Rizov RF-56

The model belongs to the sports professional equipment. It has excellent low / medium flow stability. Perfect for canal fishing. The float antenna is made of fiberglass, and the multicolor paintwork makes the indicator displacer highly visible in various weather conditions.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Ukraine
Body material	Fiberglass
Completeness in pieces	1 float
Weight in grams	3,5-5
Price, rubles	120

• Professional sample;
• Low price;
• Increased weight.

• Short-lived performance material.

1st place: DEER ZX-67

Another representative of the professional line of Western production. Demonstrates excellent responsiveness in midstream and below. All structural elements are made of fiberglass. Has the ability to weight.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Germany
Body material	Fiberglass
Completeness in pieces	1 float
Weight in grams	4,5-5
Price, rubles	160

• Homogeneous material is used;
• Variable weight;
• Inexpensive cost.

• Poorly visible coloring.

Instead of an epilogue

Nowadays, finding any professional fishing tackle is not difficult. In any more or less large city there is always a shop of the "Hunting / Fishing" type, the assortment of which is able to satisfy any customer - from a beginner to a professional sportsman. Still, it is worth noting that it is not worth saving on floats (due to their extremely affordable prices) - after all, they are the key to successful fishing. Therefore, purchasing such devices on Asian Internet sites will not be the best option, due to the fact that not only fragile materials can be used in their manufacture, but sometimes also environmentally hazardous ones.