When live baiting for pike with a 30 gram float, what weight lead should I use?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

When you're out there trying to entice those elusive pikes with live bait, ensuring you have the right setup is crucial. Using a 30-gram float is a good choice for targeting pike, as it provides the necessary buoyancy and visibility. Now, let's talk about the lead weight.

**Choosing the Right Lead Weight**

For a 30-gram float, you'll want to match your lead weight accordingly to ensure that the float sits perfectly in the water. Typically, you would use a lead weight that allows the float to be partially submerged, leaving just the tip visible. This helps in detecting any subtle bites from the pike.

A good rule of thumb is to use a lead weight that is slightly less than the float's capacity. So, for a 30-gram float, you might start with a lead weight around 20 to 25 grams. This ensures that the float is not overly weighted down, allowing it to remain sensitive to bites. This setup allows the bait to move naturally with the current, making it more attractive to pike.

**Practical Tip**

When setting up your rig, consider using a sliding float setup. This setup allows you to adjust the depth easily, which is crucial since pike can be at various depths depending on the time of day and weather conditions. Attach a stop knot on your line to adjust your float depth as needed.

For those interested in visual guidance, check out this [**video on setting up a simple pike float rig**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCoEyzWcLwU) by Des Taylor, a seasoned angler with over forty years of experience. It’s a great resource to see how a pro does it!

**Encouragement**

Remember, the key to successful pike fishing is patience and adaptability. With your float and lead properly balanced, you're one step closer to landing that trophy pike. Tight lines and happy fishing!

![Simple Pike Float Rig Video](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kCoEyzWcLwU/hqdefault.jpg)

Pike & Musky Questions

More Questions

What are the differences between fluorocarbon and monofilament fishing lines?

Is Gamakatsu treble hook size 16 suitable for bass fishing, and how should I use it?

When and how to best use a darter head?

Where is the best place in Sicily to catch palamita from shore?

Where can I buy worms?

Where can I catch snapper in Jervis Bay NSW?

fish

When live baiting for pike with a 30 gram float, what weight lead should I use?

Related Videos

Community

Pike & Musky Questions

rate my muskie setup out of ten: bass pro predator musky rod heavy, piscifun alijoz 400, and 80lb braid

What is the best lure to fish for pike in Sweden during summer?

where to fish pike in denmark ikast

Is this good fishing weather for pike?

When live baiting for pike with a 30 gram float, what weight lead should I use?

Related Videos

Community

What are the differences between fluorocarbon and monofilament fishing lines?

Is Gamakatsu treble hook size 16 suitable for bass fishing, and how should I use it?

When and how to best use a darter head?

Where is the best place in Sicily to catch palamita from shore?

Where can I buy worms?

Where can I catch snapper in Jervis Bay NSW?

fish

rate my muskie setup out of ten: bass pro predator musky rod heavy, piscifun alijoz 400, and 80lb braid

What is the best lure to fish for pike in Sweden during summer?

where to fish pike in denmark ikast

Is this good fishing weather for pike?