Anglers can always gain an advantage with watercraft and there are more options out there than ever. From inflatable motor boats and rafts to decked-out Bass models and deep V-hulls, there’s a boat for everything. But float tube fishing is a world all of its own.
Sometimes, a simple, portable watercraft offers the perfect combination of convenience and the ability to reach places that aren’t accessible from shore. A float tube fits the bill in many of these instances.
I’ve been using float tubes for decades and they remain a valuable tool in my quiver. Read on to learn about the best practices and situations for using a float tube.
Why go float tube fishing?
The question I hear most often is “Why don’t you use a bigger boat with a motor?” Many people also ask, “Why not just fish from shore?” Well, a float tube can offer a major advantage over other watercraft and shore fishing in some situations. It’s not always the right choice, but when used properly, anglers can really excel using this simple vessel.
Advantages of float tube fishing include being able to:
- Reach areas where larger boats can’t travel
- Cast to spots that shore fishing won’t reach
- Control the tube with fins, leaving your hands free to fish
Float tubes are also portable, making them excellent for travel and even backpacking to remote waters.
Disadvantages of float tube fishing include:
- Inability to travel long distances on the water
- Limited power making control difficult in heavy currents and windy conditions
- Being only suited for a single angler
While float tubes serve specific purposes, they aren’t do-it-all watercraft. That said, they’re affordable and pretty amazing in the right conditions.
Types of Float Tubes for Fishing
Several styles of float tubes exist for fishing, and each has a different set of advantages. The lines get blurred a bit with the new hybrid-style watercraft, but I’ll include anything that offers fin-controlled navigation to help you really understand the options available. For each style, there are several brands and features like built-in storage pockets and other comforts. Let’s take a closer look…
Round Tubes
The classic float tube is a round inner tube with a fabric cover. I still have and use my class Caddis tube that’s 20 years old! The fabric has an integrated seat and a few pockets as well. These “belly boats” are packable and they offer a simple and effective platform for fishing. Look for one with an additional inflatable backrest to make for a more comfortable ride. I like how these tubes sit a bit lower, making it easier to gain leverage with fins. The round design isn’t suited to gaining speed, but it’s easy to control and pretty stable.
U-Boats
The majority of modern float tubes have an open front and a U- or V-shaped design. They’re a bit speedier and are also easier to launch as you have an open front entry. I really enjoy these boats and think having an open front is safer in the case of an accident, as you’re not strapped into the boat. You’ll find a number of designs in this category, but Outcast is a leader in terms of quality and features. Most models are fin-controlled but some offer a hybrid with mini oars included. Personally, I think fin-only is the best option for these smaller float tubes.
Pontoon Boats
The next category to consider is a pontoon boat. These are controlled by fins and/or oars. Some models have oars built into the frame with pins, whiile others use a true oarlock. I prefer the oarlocks and believe they’re not only stronger but also less prone to breaking. Pontoon boats function like a miniature cataraft. They have two inflatable pontoons that strap to a metal frame with a seat. They remain portable but not packable in a backpack with the addition of the frame.
Hybrid Fin and Oar Inflatables
A new class of inflatables has gained popularity in recent years. Watermaster is really the innovator in this space, but Outcast and NRS also produce some wonderful boats. These are oval inflatables with a seat and open front half of the cockpit. This open area allows for fin control but they also offer oars for control. If you plan on running moving water, look to pontoon boats or one of these hybrid models. They have similar performance features but are more portable and packable than pontoons, as they require minimal frame parts.
Float Tube Motors
Want to expand the range of your tube and reduce the need for fin efforts? Adding a motor is entirely possible, but it’s not always the best thing for your tube. The classic round boats are not great candidates for motors. The V-shaped belly boats track better and some come with a motor mount that can handle the lightest of trolling motors. You really need to think about weight and battery storage, however.
I find that motors aren’t great on most fin-controlled boats but they work well on pontoon boats. The metal frames are more rigid with metal motor mount plates that can handle the torque of motor propulsion. They also have more storage and safe space to mount a battery for a trolling motor.
Keep in mind that motors will still have a limited range when compared to a typical boat. They reduce the need for physical effort and fin kicking to reach your destination, but aren’t meant for covering long distances.
Float Tube Fishing Gear
Your float will require some additional equipment for functionality. Some things are mandatory while others are optional. Think through your fishing style before adding a bunch of accessories. I like to use the boat a few times, then add accessories as the need becomes clear.
Fins and booties are the first things you will need. Most float tubing is done while wearing waders, but you can tube in warmer waters with just the fins and neoprene booties. Look for fins made specifically for float tubes, as they have a wider and shorter design than snorkel fins.
Adding a rod holder is a good idea for many anglers, as you can either carry a spare or use it for mounting a single rod while navigating. Additionally, you can use the included pockets for gear but you should also consider a waterproof dry bag for rain jackets, food, water, and anything additional you want to pack along.
Float Tube Fishing Safety
As with any watercraft, safety is a major concern. I see far too many anglers in float tubes and other boats without PFDs. I wear a fishing PFD in my float tube just in case I become separated from the boat. It’s comfortable and has pockets for my pliers and other quick-need accessories. Anytime you fish moving water, wearing a PFD is mandatory, but I also wear mine in still waters.
In terms of navigation, pay close attention to wind, currents, and snags. Logs and other obstacles can present hazards and should be avoided at all times. Wind and currents are also a major factor with float tubes, as they can really make tubing difficult. Avoid days when the wind is ripping.
That being said, I actually use the wind and subsequent currents as an advantage at times. Pay attention to the direction, and you can plan a drift, using your fins to slow down while fishing across a shoreline or lake. By knowing where you’ll land, it’s possible to walk back to the vehicle for a quick shuttle!
Float Tube Fishing FAQs
Are you ready for some float tube fishing?
A float tube is a great addition to any angler’s quiver. It won’t solve all of your boat needs or desires but it opens a ton of opportunities. I use mine on local lakes and love that I can have it loaded and set up in minutes. It’s also come in handy on travel adventures to places with long, bumpy roads that are too much for boat trailers. Throw in a float tube and go fishing!
Do you fish from a float tube? We’d love to hear about your favorite models and strategies for float tube success. Share in the comments below!
The post How to Go Float Tube Fishing: An Angler’s Guide appeared first on FishingBooker Blog.
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