Use a hook size that’s meant for the fish you’re trying to catch. For example, a #2 hook works well for walleye and anywhere between #1 and #2/0 is great for bass. [2] X Research source
Choose a sinker that’s enough to hold your line down, but not so heavy that it pulls the bobber underwater. If you notice your bobber dipping below the surface after you cast, you may need to use a lighter sinker. Try using an 1⁄8 oz (3. 5 g) sinker for shallow water. For deeper water, put on a 1⁄4–3⁄8 oz (7. 1–10. 6 g) sinker instead. [4] X Research source
If you’re fishing in deep water, you’ll need a larger bobber so it’s easier to see. As a general rule, larger bait will need a bigger bobber. There isn’t an exact science to picking the right size, so you may need to try a few different bobbers out to see if they’ll work.
Keep the water conditions in mind when you’re attaching your bobber. If you’re fishing in an area with a lot of weeds or underwater debris, you may want to shorten the line below the bobber to 1–2 feet (30–61 cm). Putting your bobber much higher on the line makes it difficult to cast properly. If you want to fish in deeper water, you’ll have to use a slip bobber setup instead.
You can tie an overhand knot for added security to keep your bobber from moving further up the line, but it’s not necessary.
Pencil bobbers work great for trout, crappie, perch, and bluegill.
Try a bubble bobber for panfish or trout.
Slip bobbers work well for any type of fish, but especially for deep-sea fishing.
It’s okay to attach full minnows to your line as bait.
