When livebaiting, what weight lead should I use on a sliding float setup?

When it comes to livebaiting with a sliding float setup, selecting the right weight lead is crucial to ensure your bait is presented naturally and stays in the strike zone. The weight you use will largely depend on the type of water body you're fishing in, the species you're targeting, and the specific conditions on the day.

How to Choose the Right Weight

1. Consider the Water Conditions:

   • In calm waters, such as a pond or a slow-moving river, you can get away with using lighter weights, often between 1/8 oz to 1/4 oz. This allows the bait to move naturally without being too restrained by the weight.
   • In faster-moving waters, such as a stream or tidal currents, heavier weights, like 1/2 oz to 1 oz, might be necessary to keep your bait from being swept away too quickly.

2. Match the Weight to Your Bait:

   • For smaller live baits like minnows or worms, a lighter weight is often more suitable. This prevents the bait from being overburdened, allowing it to move freely.
   • Larger baitfish, such as shiners or small shad, can handle a bit more weight, which can be useful in deeper or more turbulent waters.

3. Adapt to the Fishing Conditions:

   • If you're fishing in an area with lots of snags or rocky bottoms, a slightly heavier weight might help keep your bait in place, reducing snagging.
   • For a stealthier approach in clear water, reduce the weight to avoid spooking the fish.

Practical Tip

When setting up your sliding float rig, start with a lighter weight, and adjust based on the conditions you encounter. You can always increase the weight if you need more stability or if the current is stronger than anticipated.

Watch this helpful YouTube video on how to rig a slip bobber effectively. It's packed with tips that can enhance your rigging skills:

Remember, the goal is to balance the weight so that your bait can swim naturally and enticingly. With practice, you'll get a feel for the right amount of weight to use in any given situation. So get out there, experiment, and happy fishing!