Learn about Stick floats

Stick Floats: A Simple Tool with a Long History

A Brief History

Stick floats are among the oldest float designs in coarse fishing. They developed naturally along Britain’s rivers, where anglers needed a sensitive yet stable way to present bait while allowing it to drift naturally with the current. Early stick floats were handmade from river reeds, crow quills, or shaped pieces of wood, often weighted with wire or lead wrapped around the base. Despite modern materials and manufacturing, the basic design has changed remarkably little over more than a century.

What Stick Floats Are

A stick float is a slim, straight-bodied float designed primarily for river fishing. Its narrow profile offers minimal resistance to flowing water, allowing bait to move at the same speed as the current. This natural presentation is what makes stick floats so effective, especially for species that are cautious or feed mid-water.

What They Are Made From

Traditional stick floats were made from:

• Natural reeds or cane – light, buoyant, and sensitive

• Wood (such as balsa) – easy to shape and durable

• Quills – extremely sensitive for fine presentations

Modern versions may also include:

• Carbon or glass stems for strength

• Plastic tips painted in bright colours for visibility

• Wire or carbon bases to add stability and improve shotting control

When and Where to Use Stick Floats

Stick floats excel in:

• Rivers and streams with steady flow

• Shallow to medium-depth water

• Trotting tactics, where the bait is allowed to drift downstream naturally

• Clear water, where a delicate presentation matters

They are especially effective for species like roach, dace, chub, and grayling, where bite indication can be very subtle.

When Not to Use Them

Stick floats are not always the best choice. Avoid them when:

• Fishing stillwaters such as lakes or ponds, where waggler-style floats are more suitable

• In very deep or fast flood conditions, where larger, more buoyant floats offer better control

• Strong crosswinds make line control difficult

• Heavy baits are required, as stick floats are designed for relatively light shotting

In Summary

Stick floats are a classic, time-tested tool that reward good watercraft and careful presentation. Simple in appearance but highly effective, they remain a favourite for anglers who enjoy traditional river fishing and the satisfaction of mastering a subtle technique.

Browse my range of stick floats here

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