It is really a trial to see how much of the stopper or bobber you have to cut off of the stopper or bobber.( I am talking about the red and white 1 and 1/2" bobber made of stroform.) The closer to the surface of the water you can get the better. The wind does not effect the bobber and the slightest movement either way causes a poppin noise. I have all my bobbers about 3/16". Works real good. It is all done inside of the 2 liter bottle so you can see exactly what is going on. The more weight the less you you will have to cut or visa verser. Sorry I didn't go into more detail. I will continue try to explain until you'll get what I am talking about.