Look at it this way, do salmon eggs float down river in groups of 5-8 eggs tied in mesh? Nope, they float down river as singles, yet roe bags still work very well. These may not resemble eggs but the color is one that is proven to work on steelhead and the scent may be good too. If they float then they wont be the most ideal for float fishing but would work for bottom bouncing.
If you are new to steelheading I would suggest starting out fishing with roe bags because I think it is the easiest way to learn. From there you can branch out into the ridiculous amount of options available.