This will float your rope and notify boaters of an object in the water. Now you can chase the fish with the boat. When done, simply return to the ball and reattach your anchor line to the boat. I use just enough weight to hold the bottom. Have a good selection handy so you can change according to the tide.
Pyramids hold better in fast water.
Be sure to attach the big end to your slider. During slower tides or windy conditions, I sometimes go to a flat weight so it will slide across the bottom easier if you are swinging. The basic setup I use is 18 - 24 inch with double, opposed hooks. I make my own, but you can buy these at any bait shop. They tend to be on the long side and I prefer to shorten them.