Floats can be used to place your baits anywhere from just above
the bottom to just below the surface.
In shallow water or over weed beds you can have your bait drift
inches above the weed bed or bottom, keeping your bait in the target
zone.
The stop knot (wool or stop rubbers are commonly used) sets the
depth your bait sits at. Enough weight should be added so the float
sits upright in the water but not sink it.
Split shot sinkers are ideal for fine-tuning the float.
You should watch your float and make sure the tide or wind doesn't
make it cross other angler's lines.