Drifting Floats for Luderick in East Coast Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

Drifting Floats for Luderick in East Coast Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Float Fishing

Fishing along the East Coast of Australia offers a diverse range of species and fishing techniques. For anglers looking to target luderick, a popular and challenging fish to catch, drifting floats can prove to be a highly effective and rewarding method. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the art of drifting floats for luderick, including the right equipment, setup, bait selection, and essential tips for success. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner eager to try something new, this article will equip you with the knowledge to enhance your fishing adventures.

Understanding Drifting Floats for Luderick

Drifting floats, also known as bobbers, are an integral part of the drift fishing rig used for Luderick fishing. The setup allows your bait to drift naturally with the water’s current presenting it in an enticing manner to the herbivorous Luderick. As Luderick graze on algae and marine vegetation along the rocky shorelines and reefs you want to present your bait as naturally as possible. Drifting floats help keep the bait within the strike zone increasing your chances of attracting these light biting fish.

Choosing the Right Drifting Float

Selecting the appropriate drifting float is crucial to achieve a successful Luderick fishing experience. Consider the following factors:

Size and Buoyancy

Opt for a drifting float with sufficient buoyancy to support the bait’s weight and remain visible on the water’s surface. The size of the float should be balanced, taking into account the tidal currents and wave conditions of the area you’ll be fishing in. You want just the stem of the float visible above water. Balanced well, a good drifting float has little resistance to shy biting Luderick. When the float hs too much resistance Luderick are apt to spit the bait out as they know it is unnatural.

Shape and Visibility

Choose a drifting float with a shape that provides stability in the water. Oval or cigar-shaped stem floats are commonly preferred for Luderick fishing. Additionally, opt for bright-coloured floats with high visibility to make it easier to detect subtle movements and bites. Larger egg shaped floats have too much bouyancy and Luderick notice the excessive resistance so they will not fully take the bait. A poorly matched float will greatly reduce your chances of having a proper hook up and you will miss a lot of fish.

Setting Up Your Drifting Float Rig

Properly setting up your drifting float rig ensures the bait drifts naturally and remains enticing to Luderick. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Assemble the Equipment

Gather a suitable fishing rod and reel for luderick fishing. A medium-action rod paired with a quality reel that has a smooth drag system is ideal for handling the fight of these strong fish. Ocean or rock fishing rods are typically much longer (12 to 15 ft) because they need to clear the ocean swell and underwater ledges. In a boat or off the bank of tidal rivers a shorter 7 or 8 foot rod can be used unless such clearance is necessary.

Step 2: Choose the Right Line and Leader

Select a mainline that offers a good balance of strength and visibility. Fluorocarbon leaders work well for their low visibility in the water. Opt for a leader slightly shorter than the distance between the drifting float and the weight. At a minimum the leader should be 40cm. You will want to use a lighter leader in the 8lb range with 6 lb being an option. Heavier leaders deter fish especially in calmer water.

Step 3: Attach the Drifting Float

Add a bobber stopper to the mainline first. Slide the drifting float slide snap onto the mainline. Add another float stopper under the float. You will want the extra protection in case you snap off wuou will not be as likely to lose your float as well. Secure it at the desired depth by sliding the bobber stop or adjustable knot up or down the mainline. Add a snap swivel to the end of your mainline to attach leaders to quickly as conditions may change or you may break off.

Step 4: Add the Weight

Tie the appropriate weight, such as a sinker, to the end of the mainline below the drifting float. The weight’s size should match the tidal currents and water depth, allowing the bait to drift at the desired level. Ensure the float remains visible and stable on the water’s surface. You will also want to add one or two small weights to the leader so keep that in mind when you are adding weight to your mainline.

Step 5: Attach the Leader and Hook

Connect the leader to the main line and tie the hook at the end of the leader. Choose an appropriate hook size to match the bait and conditions you’ll be using. Estuary and tidal Luderick will fall to a smaller hook than int he ocean. Ocean Luderick also tend to fight harder. For rivers and estuaries a hook size from 6 to 12 is a good option. Smaller size hooks are less visible and can hook up more frequently but are also more likely to pull out leading to losing good fish. This is a trade off and as you get better and more skilful you will lose fewer and fewer fish.

Bait Selection for Luderick

Luderick are herbivorous fish and primarily feed on algae and marine vegetation. The best bait for Luderick fishing is weed. Green weed and green cabbage are the best baits in many fishos eyes. Freshly harvested green weed and cabbage is highly effective in enticing Luderick to bite. luderick will also take bits of prawn and bread tightly balled onto the hook. The most reliable way to catch Luderick though, is to use weed and burley up your spot.

Tips for Drifting Float Fishing Success

Increase your chances of luderick fishing success with these valuable tips:

Time Your Fishing Expedition

Plan your fishing trip to coincide with the rising tide, especially the last two hours leading up to high tide. During this period, Luderick move closer to the shore to feed on algae making them more receptive to your drifting bait. If the tide isn’t perfect or to your liking it is still better to go fishing than to go to work.

Stay Stealthy and Patient

Approach your fishing spot quietly and avoid sudden movements that might scare away the skittish Luderick. Be patient and attentive to subtle movements or dips in the drifting float, indicating a bite.

Keep the Bait Within the Strike Zone

Pay close attention to your drifting float and adjust your rig to keep the bait within a few meters from the shoreline. Luderick tend to graze on algae close to rocks and structures so staying within the strike zone is crucial. When Luderick strike they will take the float one of two ways. The float may simply disappear or the float may slowly wiggle down under the surface of the water. Either way gently set the hook by pulling the rod back smoothly to tighten the line and set the hook. Yanking heavily will result in lost fish. A smooth even hookset will work the treat when drift float fishing for Luderick.

Float Fishing Rivers and Estuaries is a Great Way to Catch Luderick

Drifting floats for Luderick fishing on the East Coast of Australia offer an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers. By understanding the equipment, setup, bait selection, and applying essential tips, you can increase your chances of catching Luderick and create memorable fishing moments. Remember to respect local fishing regulations, wear appropriate gear for safety, and cherish the beauty of the East Coast as you embark on your drifting float fishing adventures.