old_gh

Glad to hear that Newt ... and thanks for the warm welcome

Save up your money and buy the best you can afford... a cheapie will be heavy, sloppy and a nightmare in windy conditions. If you are new to pole fishing, I would consider trying to get hold of a "decent" second-hand pole, preferably one you can inspect before buying, so you can check for wear in the joints or damage etc. and you can also fit together and handle at its maximum length. If you're considering buying new, check out the sales/special offers on "last seasons" better range of poles... you'll save a fortune and still get a pole that is light and strong plus comparable with the latest hi-tec version. Also look for deals where you get plenty of extra top 2/3/4 sections, as these will become hard to get or very pricey as time goes by. Basically, you are paying for lightness, strength and rigidity at its maximum length (and the brand name), when buying a decent pole. Remember, unless you're built like the incredible hulk, weight is a big factor when fishing a long session where you need to be fishing 14 metres plus to get into the best action.

Strange you should mention ruffe tiddlertamer.... in the early 60's I used to night-fish for chub on the severn at Tewksbury. I'd ledger a huge cube of canadian cheddar, and suddenly there would be a heavy rattle on the rodtip, and I'd strike into it expecting a chub - only to find out it was a ruffe. They became a real nuisance and 50% of the bites were ruffe... they were very common then, but not so common now.

I've used a small bubble float in the past (use weak link to lead if very weedy/snaggy bottom)

Just introducing myself.... as an "old boy", who has been fishing for about 52 years, and has seen many changes in the angling world