How to plumb the depth

What the check tells you

Plumbing shows whether the bait will sit on the bottom, touch it lightly or fish above it. Repeating the check at nearby points can reveal shelves, channels, weed and softer areas. It does not prove where fish are; it gives the presentation a known starting point.

Prepare safely

Use a purpose-made plummet compatible with the hook and line, following its instructions. Check that the hook is contained or attached as designed, keep people clear and make gentle casts. Do not cast a heavy plummet towards other anglers, boats, animals or fragile features.

Find the bottom

1. Set a sensible starting depth.Move the float to an approximate position rather than beginning at an extreme.
2. Lower or cast the rig gently.Use a close, controllable line first and let the plummet settle.
3. Read the float.If it sinks below the surface, increase the distance between float and hook. If it lies flat or rises too far, reduce it.
4. Repeat until the normal tip shows.The plummet is then on the bottom with the rig set to that approximate depth.
5. Check around the target.Small moves left, right, nearer and farther reveal changes in contour or weed.

Turn depth into presentation

Mark or remember the float position and choose how the bait should behave. Fishing just off bottom may reduce snagging; touching bottom can steady the bait; laying line on can slow it further where the method and conditions allow. Make small changes and watch bite quality.

Remove the plummet before fishing and inspect the hook and knot. Combine the result with the complete float setup and swim reading.