Your comments and opinion on game-fishing matters
Isn't it a float?
I was fascinated by Fred Bainbridge’s article (April) and the complex method he has devised while avoiding admitting that he uses a float.
In terms of fishing, the broadest definition of a float is something that floats and is used as an indicator for a bait, whether natural or artificial, suspended under the water. Dry droppers, wool or polypropylene indicators and bungs are all floats.
When I’ve discussed the use of a bung with my fellow anglers, they haven’t produced any logical arguments for not using them — just a gut feeling that it doesn’t feel right. However, take a bunch of wool or polypropylene fibres and attach them to a line or tie them to a hook, and that is fine with them. But, essentially, the fibres are just the same as a bung, or polymers that float or can be made to float. Totally illogical, as Spock would say.
So, come on! Why not stop shilly-shallying around and admit that, if you are using a floating indicator, you are float-fishing? And then fish with the one that is easiest to use — whatever you call it. A float by any other name is still a float.
Personally, I use a foam bung of the Airflo indicator type in various sizes, depending on the weight of the nymphs, the size of the river and the conditions. I find the smaller (12mm) EVA foam bung is easy to see, slides up and down, offers good presentation, is very sensitive, lasts all day without needing to be replaced or re-greased, and makes little disturbance when landing. I keep the larger ones for fishing where these factors are less important. They are easy to remove, so I can quickly switch from nymphing to dry-fly without having to change the leader if the fish start rising.
