Pronunciation: [bˈɒbəz] (IPA) 
The word "bobbers" is spelled with two Bs because it is a plural form of the word "bobber," which refers to a fishing float. In IPA phonetic transcription, "bobber" is pronounced as /ˈbɑːbər/, with emphasis on the first syllable and the "er" sound at the end represented by the phonetic symbol /ər/. To form the plural, the regular English plural rule of adding -s is applied, resulting in the spelling "bobbers" pronounced as /ˈbɑːbərz/.
Bobbers, also known as floaters or floats, are buoyant devices that are attached to fishing lines to indicate when a fish has bitten the bait. They are typically made of foam, plastic, or wood and come in various shapes and sizes. The main purpose of bobbers is to keep the fishing bait at a specific depth in the water and to provide a visual indication of any fish activity.
When a fish takes the bait, the bobber will not only move but also submerge or "bob" in the water, alerting the angler to a potential catch. Bobbers are generally positioned above the fishing lure or bait, allowing the angler to cast the line and rest assured that their bait is at the desired depth. By using a bobber, fishermen are able to suspend their bait at a specific level in the water column, increasing their chances of attracting fish.
Bobbers are commonly used in freshwater or calm saltwater fishing scenarios, such as lakes, ponds, or slow-moving rivers. They are particularly favored for catching species like panfish, trout, or largemouth bass, where maintaining a specific depth is crucial to accessing their feeding areas. Additionally, bobbers are popular among novice anglers or children, as they provide a visible and exciting element to the fishing experience.
In summary, bobbers are essential tools in fishing that allow anglers to control and monitor the depth of their bait in the water while providing a visible indication of fish activity.
The etymology of the word "bobbers" can have different origins depending on the context in which it is used.
1. Fishing Bobber: If you are referring to "bobbers" as a term for floating fishing devices, the word originates from the action of movement or bobbing up and down in the water. This term dates back to at least the late 19th century, derived from the verb "bob" meaning to move up and down suddenly or jerkily. So, a fishing bobber is a device that bobs on the surface of the water to indicate a fish bite.
2. Motorcycle Bobbers: If you are referring to "bobbers" as custom motorcycles, the term originates from the modification and customization practices in the 1950s and 1960s. Motorcycle enthusiasts would strip unnecessary parts from their motorcycles to create a minimalist, lightweight, and streamlined design.
