A casual trip around your favorite outdoors store, or even a fast search online for bobbers, will undoubtedly reveal that fishing bobbers exist in just about any color imaginable: red and white, orange, green, chartreuse, and any combo of these colors you can think of.
But, in terms of catching fish, does it matter what color bobber you use? Let’s take a brief look at the importance of bobbers in fishing and whether color matters.
Related: What Kind of Fish Can You Catch With a Bobber?
Does It Matter What Color Bobber You Use?
For the most part, no, it doesn’t matter what color bobber you use while fishing. The most important reason for choosing the color of a fishing bobber is to be able to see it better when it’s out on the surface of the water.
I’m not new at fishing. I’ve been doing it for many years. And I’ve never noticed that the color of the bobber makes a difference in whether or not more fish strike. But that’s just my experience.
Some fisherman believe that the color of the bobber you use becomes important as the depth of the water decreases. These anglers warn that once water depths are as shallow as 5 feet or thereabouts, fish may be drawn to the bobber rather than the bait.
In these circumstances, the fish will target or strike the bobber. This has happened to me while fishing for a variety of fish, including trout, bluegill, and catfish. However, I’ve seen that changing the color of the bobber has no effect on the fish’s behavior.
Why The Color Of The Bobber You Use Might Matter
If the color of the bobber doesn’t affect how well the fish bite your bait, then when does the color of the fishing bobber matter?
The color of your bobber matters for visibility. In most cases, a bobber is used to detect when a fish strikes at the bait. You’ll know when to set the hook if you can see the bobber clearer and notice when the fish is attacking the bait. This will boost your chances of catching the fish.
You’ll want to choose a brightly colored bobber that contrasts with the color of the water as well as any glare on the surface of the water.
Another consideration is how well you can see the bobber when it’s windy. A bobber can be difficult to detect if there are increased ripples and chop on the surface of the water, as well as some sun glare.
What Color Fishing Bobber Should You Use?
You’ll have to experiment with what color works best for you and your eyes in these scenarios.
Personally, I’ve found that orange or green bobbers are the best to have on hand. Of course, your eyes are different from mine, but these are the colors that will stick out the most on the surface of the water, making it easier for you to see.