The Preston Innovations 4–6 mm Jigger Float, is one of the most popular rigs for F1s and carp on UK commercial fisheries. Unlike a normal shallow rig, the float is designed to register bites while you actively “jig” the bait up and down.

How to set it up

A typical setup would be:

• Pole elastic: Size 8–12 hollow or 10–14 solid (depending on fish size).
• Main line: 0.16–0.18 mm.
• Hooklength: 0.13–0.15 mm, 4–6 inches long.
• Hook: Size 16–18 for pellets, 18–20 for maggots.
• Float: Preston 4 mm for calmer conditions or smaller baits; 6 mm for more buoyancy, bigger baits, or windy conditions.

The float is usually locked with silicone sleeves, with a bulk of shot positioned below it to cock the float correctly. Leave just enough weight off so the brightly coloured tip sits proud and is easy to see.

Plumbing the depth

The rig isn’t fished hard on the bottom.

Instead:

• Start with the bait around 18–30 inches (45–75 cm) below the surface.
• If you see fish swirling higher or lower, adjust the depth until you’re fishing through them.

Fishing the rig

The key is to keep the bait moving naturally.

1. Ship the pole out over your feed.
2. Lower the rig into the water.
3. Lift the pole tip so the bait rises 6–12 inches (15–30 cm).
4. Lower it slowly so the bait falls naturally.
5. Pause for a second or two.
6. Repeat continuously.

Many bites happen as the bait is falling, so don’t rush the drop.

Feeding

Feed little and often to keep fish in the upper layers:

• 4–8 mm pellets if you’re fishing pellets.
• A pinch of maggots every 20–30 seconds if using maggots.
• Match your feed to your hook bait where possible.

Striking

Watch the float carefully. Strike if:

• The float dips.
• It slides sideways.
• It stops unexpectedly during the drop.
• It lifts when you expect it to sink.

Keep the strike short and crisp with the pole rather than sweeping hard.

4 mm vs 6 mm

• 4 mm: Better for calm days, smaller baits, shy-biting F1s, and a slower, more natural fall.
• 6 mm: Better in wind, for larger pellets, and when targeting bigger carp that need a more buoyant float.

Match tip

Many successful commercial anglers don’t use a constant, rhythmic jig. Instead they’ll:

• Jig the bait 3–5 times.
• Hold it still for 5–10 seconds.
• Jig again.

That change of pace often triggers fish that have followed the bait but haven’t committed.