French vintage metal float tri colour flag “Ferax, Manfuacture Francaise, Armes et Cycles of Saint Etienne

The French flag waving metal float c 1905. One of the most tactile and rare French floats is this hollow metal version here by Ferax. The principle is when a fish bites, the line attached to brass lever hinges and a spring rod in the centre of the float pops up On top is a cloth tricolour French flag making you aware you have a bite. Patent dates c 1905, this float has a brass plaque riveted to the hollow metal body stamped; “Ferax, Manfuacture Francaise, Armes et Cycles of Saint Etienne”. Not seen one with such a label before, the float is just a magical piece of fishing history and nationalist pride. Standing approx. 7” tall it’s a large float possible aimed at pike, zander or similar species.  a rare floats for the specialist collector