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So i am looking at getting back in to the float tube world but it seems the changes made since i last floated the ol rubber yacht are huge to say the least. So i am looking for input. I know some like die hard fat can fans and they look nice but spendy. I guess what i am asking is what do you guys think the best bang for the buck is? I fish for all species from it and usually spend all day in it so comfort is of high importance. thanks guys and......
GO[fishin]
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Contact TubeDude... he's got an excellent write up on tubes and toons. Covers everything you need to know to get started in tubes and/or tunes.
BLK
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yea i for sure guessed he would respond. I go back with him a min. he is the tube pro for sure. Hopping to get alot of opionins from alot of ppl to.
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Thursday the 18th at the DNR building is a seminar on float tube fishing. Tube Dude will be among the presenters. It should be a great seminar for all who like to use these personal water crafts. See ya there !!!
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[#0000FF]Hey Hal, howareya? It's been a while.
You are right. There have been lots of innovations in the world of tubeology. You are also right that it is easy to spend a lot on the higher end craft. But with some of the new companies coming into the market, with price lines, you can get a serviceable tube for less outlay.
Creek Company, Griggs and Classic Accessories all put out U-tubes and V-tubes for much less than the Outcast models. But...as you might suspect...they are also not as well made. Still, for someone trying to hold to a budget they are a way to get afloat without "putting you under".
For comfort, safety and efficiency you should look for something other than a "traditional" round tube. Most of the newer models in the open front design have higher seating. Easier to get in and out of and you float higher in the water.
Today you can find various models of float tubes and pontoons in almost any sports outlet or even "big box" stores. Walmart, Costco and Sams Club carry some of the price lines. Shoot me a PM if you have questions on any particular model.
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And a PRE welcome back. Don't forget fins, waders and PFD.
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I'm definitely preferring the v shaped pontoon style to my old round one. It sits you higher out of the water, makes getting around much easier, and it is easier to add things like rod holders and fish finders.
I have a Classic Accessories Cumberland and it's decent. I tried to cram too much gear into the pockets though and broke both the zippers. Whoops [blush]
That said, the pockets are decent sized, it has Boston valves and vinyl on the bottom, so it's not a bad tube for the money. I'm not in love with the setup of the bar on the front. When you stand up it falls out, it only stays in place once you're sitting down. It makes things a little awkward. I'll probably save up and get a Fish Cat someday since I tube so much.
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I started out with a caddis tube from sportsmans back in the 90's, anybody remember those? Basic round tube, $79 bucks or something like that. You sit on the tube fabric down in the water.
World changed when I got a fishcat, V shape, double bladder rig. Has two stiff Styrofoam seat components, bottom and back, and a net/fabric type of setup across the front. Sits up a little higher, easy to get in and out of. Going on 10 years and no failures of any kind; much more maneuverable and safer than the round tube deal.
Don't know about costs, but definitely recommend the V shape double bladder type rigs with some nice seat components over a round or U shape rig for comfort and maneuverability. Good luck.
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