Here is how I rig my wieght for float fishing.
I use a piece of hollow core lead. I use enough to load the float the way I like it, About an inch and 1/2 of top of the float riding above the water.
I put my float on my main line, Tie on a barrel swivel. Then I tie on a piece of lighter line about 10 inches long. I slide on 1 3mm bead then I slide on my lead onter bead and then another barrel swivel. The beads are knot protectors. Then I tie on my leader.
I usually use 15lb mainline, 12lb for my leadline then a 10lb leader.
If Im fishing an area that is snaggy I cover my lead with surgical tubing.
I usually set my depth so my lead is about a foot of the bottom.
I hope this helps