Float fishing is probably one of the easiest way for new steelhead fishermen to learn. It is similar to bobber fishing for trout, except you use a unbreakable float instead of a plastic red and white bobber. Floats come in many shapes and sizes. In clear water use a clear float or a natural cork float.
Float fishing is a very effective method in calm pools, and boulder strewn rivers.
Without float fishing in your arsenal you may be missing some very good opportunities to catch more fish. Floats come in many shapes and sizes. You can cast a float farther upstream than a drift fishing approach since the float will keep the line from going around rocks. As a float comes down stream reel up the slack, and as it goes down stream free spool with just enough tension not to disturb the float but enough to set the hook immediately. It is extremely important not to drag the float which will cause the bait to rise off the bottom out of the strike zone.