Float Tubes Anyone?

[Felix77]

I have been considering adding a float tube to my recreational fishing.  I read the articles and did some digging on brands and such but don't see anything which recommends any float tube in particular.  

 

Anybody care to give a recommendations or general feedback on float tube bass fishing from their perspectives ...

 

Thanks

 

Felix

[papajoe222]

I used one for years on any of the ponds in my area. I would recommend one that is U shaped. Being in and out of the water can fe tricky with a closed float. It is a great, stealthy way to fish with the added benefit of being able to distinguish slight changes in water temp.

One thing I will suggest is to keep your gear to a minimum. One rod and a handful of baits to start out with and you'll discover that is all you really need.

There isn't a whole lot of difference in the performance of the different brands, but choose one with the accessories you think will be useful. If find that you could really use a Rod or beverage holder after you purchase, you'll definately have buyers regret.

[VegasFishing]

I float tube fish. I love it, it's relaxing and keeps me cool in the summer heat. The Creek Company ODC420, Classic Accessories Cumberland, and Outcast Fish/Fat Cat are all comparable. I have the ODC420. I made a rod holder from PVC which holds 3 rods, my GoPro, and a fish finder...The best things about float tubes is the ease of transport in any vehicle, they're lightweight, and can be fully inflated in 2 minutes.

[Dogmatic]

I have a Fish Cat 4, good tube, but any mentioned by Vegas are solid choices, and like any watercraft easily modified. I use a crate with pvc rod holders, and a fishing buddy FF in a neoprene holder, but I've seen some crazy mods. My advice, go as simple as possible.

[that possum]

I do..I got me a kayak this year so I haven't used it as much. I use both a round, canvas covered one that has mega storage, and I also have a U shaped one that's much lighter but doesn't have as much storage. Both tubes have their benefits and their shortcomings.

[Fishes in trees]

If you need to haul more gear while using your belly boat, get an inner tube large enough to float a cooler strapped inside it, and drag ti along behind you.  Back in the day, the one I had would float a cooler, extra baits, rigs, etc.  Pay attention and don't drop anything.

[FrogFreak]

I have a u shaped and a round. I much prefer the u shaped tube. Don't skimp on the fins. If they're uncomfortable or hard to use, your day could be miserable. 

 

Best part of float tube fishing.... you can just pee when you need to.

[desmobob]

I LOVE float tubing and have a couple of tubes: an old Browning Predator (extra-large old school tube) and an Outcast FatCat.  The FatCat is a fantastic piece of gear and worth the price, IMO.  I have some decent SCUBA fins as well as a pair of Force fins.

 

One of my all-time favorite kinds of fishing is float-tubing for panfish with a 2-weight fly rod in the summer.  You can leave the waders at home and fish wet... it's like fishing from an easy chair in the water!  

 

My only float tube bass fishing has been with a fly rod as well.  It's a blast!

 

Tight lines,

Bob