I use my kayak to float down a river (about 2-3ft deep) and I was going to try a fly popper.  I use a spinning rod with about 6-8lb test, and trying to throw it wasn't the greatest.   It would only go about a few feet because it is so light.  I did see some fish come up and look at it.  If I could cast it closer to shore it would be a good bait.  How can I get the lure farther?

With a fly rod! Sorry couldn’t resist…..

 

With spinning I would try to maybe use a bobber for some weight to cast 

You can try putting an adjustable bubble float on the line a couple feet ahead of the fly.  Typically a round or cylindrical clear plastic float you can add some water to give some weight, and they'll make it castable.

2 minutes ago, MIbassyaker said:

You can try putting an adjustable bubble float on the line a couple feet ahead of the fly.  Typically a round or cylindrical clear plastic float you can add some water to give some weight, and they'll make it castable.

 

Will that add a extra water splash or because it is clear the fish won't see it?

3 minutes ago, tntitans21399 said:

 

Will that add a extra water splash or because it is clear the fish won't see it?

 

yeah, it's not a super stealthy option despite being clear. it's another thing on top of the water that will splash down at least a little, and will move when you move the line, so I'm not sure how well it would work with a popper.

What is the rating on your rod for the weight of bait you can throw?

We use the clear float here but its mostly the one you can fill with water so we can still use streamers and crabs for red fish in spots too narrow for fly rods. I have tried the floating version and it works,for some things but on a popper it would probably effect the popping part as it would add momentum to the lure. you can sling them a little bit on a long ultralight with 4lb test and hope the wind is over your right shoulder.

I use The Best Spinning Secrets clear floats and The Torpedo float with spinning gear on small ponds and lakes for a change of pace using various floating bugs including Bass Bugs which are bigger.

Prefer the Torpedo float.

Lots of fun and they do work.