thanks for all your contributions, guys. it's been 5 days and it looks like drifting is the more effective method by a ratio of almost 2:1 based on the poll.
i've now tried both methods, and i've yet to interest a fish to bite - minor point.
anyhooo, i'm liking the bobber a lot better compared to drifting, coz:
a) i could fish all kinds of water; fast, slow, deep, shallow, etc.
b) i definitely do not lose as much gear
c) i can rig up anything under the bobber
d) i can cast more accurately (more weight)
e) i'm sure i can detect the bite easier (bobber down - no brainer)
so with all these factors, i'm definitely building more confidence in this method.
question is, if i keep fishing the bobber, will i be cutting my chances of getting bites since drifting seems to work so much better?
p.s. if any of you bobber guys want to share some tips/pointers, please let me know. i'd like to master this technique better.