Learn about Avon Floats

Avon Floats: Control and Stability in Moving Water

A Brief History

Avon floats originated on England’s River Avon, where anglers needed a float that could cope with deeper water and stronger currents than a traditional stick float. The design evolved to provide more buoyancy and stability while still allowing a natural presentation. Over time, the Avon float became a staple of river fishing across the UK.

What Avon Floats Are

An Avon float is a bodied float with a slim top and a thicker, buoyant shoulder near the base. This shape gives it greater stability in turbulent or uneven flow, making it ideal for holding back or checking the bait without the float being dragged under.

What They Are Made From

Traditional Avon floats were made from:

• Balsa wood bodies for buoyancy

• Cane or wooden stems for balance

Modern Avon floats often feature:

• Balsa or foam bodies

• Carbon or glass stems for strength

• Bright painted tips for visibility

• Wire or carbon bases to anchor the float in faster water

When and Where to Use Avon Floats

Avon floats are best used in:

• Medium to fast-flowing rivers

• Deeper water than is suitable for stick floats

• Holding back or laying-on tactics

• Runs with uneven pace or creases

They are excellent for species such as chub, barbel, roach, and bream, especially when fishing close to the bottom.

Learn how to choose the right Avon fishing float in this blog article - Click here

When Not to Use Them

Avon floats are less suitable when:

• Fishing stillwaters, where wagglers offer better sensitivity

• Very shallow, gentle flows, where a stick float is more refined

• Extreme flood conditions, where heavier specialist floats are needed

• Ultra-light presentations, as their buoyancy can mask delicate bites

In Summary

Avon floats bridge the gap between delicate trotting floats and heavy river designs. Their added buoyancy and control make them ideal for demanding river conditions where precision and stability matter.

Browse my Avon floats here

Looking for more advice? Visit my Fishing Float Guides page for more help on choosing and using traditional floats.