Fishing with devices that keep the bait near the water's surface is an effective way to target different species of game fish. Corks, bobbers, balloons and kites will keep bait near the top of the water column, ready for a strike from a large fish. Kite fishing involves more work than the other methods and is also more expensive but will allow the angler to position the bait exactly where desired. The popping cork is probably the most commonly used float for saltwater fishing and makes an effective set-up. Balloons are great because they are cheap, easy to store and are easy to spot, even in choppy seas. Target fish that cruise the surface of the water with any or all of the methods described below.
Instructions
- 1 Deploy kite from the fishing craft. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for rigging the kite and fishing tackle. Release the line to both the kite and the fishing line to position the bait fish on the surface of the water. If desired, the bait can be made to splash right atop the surface of the water.
2 Rig the fishing line with an appropriate hook and leader size for the size and species of fish that is being pursued. Attach the leader and hook to the main fishing line with a barrel swivel or with a surgeon's knot or uni-knot. Position the popping cork on the main fishing line and insert the peg to hold the cork at the desired spot. Depth can be easily changed by readjusting the cork's position. Once the bait is cast, pop the cork in the water, which will make a splashing sound and attract fish that are in the area.
3 Inflate balloon to 5 or 6 inches in diameter. Rig the fishing line with a leader and hook that is the correct size for the type of fishing being done. Attach the balloon at the barrel swivel by tying a knot in the tag end of the balloon or use a piece of lighter line to tie the balloon to the fishing line. The balloon will burst or pull off when a fish hits the bait.
