Pwnisher

Same problem for me. I think the more experienced fishermen are able to feel their splitshots bouncing along the bottom but I just haven't been able to tell when the bait is close to the bottom. As for using the drennan type floats, the term you are looking for is a slip bobber rig. Here is a video that I use to set up my slip bobber rigs:

Hi Grappler,

I think the extra stick that you are referring to is used to screw into the head of a soft plastic worm when using a Texas rig setup. The extra stick is screwed through the plastic worm's head and then the actual hook is pierced at the mid section of the worm. Here's a video that I was watching a few days ago in which he goes over how to use that style of hook. He discusses it at 8:11. 

http://youtu.be/QT8wjfVlf9E?t=8m11s

As for tips for Algonquin Park, maybe someone can help you out as I have never fished there. Hope I helped you out a bit!