Fishing is a relaxing and exciting activity in various styles and techniques. Fishing requires a lot of appliances. There is also the option of fishing on different boats like kayaks, fishing float tubes or traditional boats. These are often used in diverse circumstances and scenarios and depending on the area you are fishing, such as rivers, oceans, lakes, and others.
Float Tube Fishing
Float tube fishing means fishing while floating in simple rigid-inflatable boats. Float tubes, also renowned as kick boats or belly boats, seem small, foldable, and simple. It is compared to relaxing in a floating with your legs in the water kind of activity.
Float tube fishing enables eager sailors and anglers to get into private sections to capture more fish away from the crowded areas. It is among the most economical choice of fishing and one of the quite entertaining outdoor activities in which you can participate regularly and adore it. The Float tube is convenient to carry, making it a great option for anyone who needs to travel a short distance to the water. However, they can also access zones that other boats may not reach.
Benefits of using the float tube while fishing
- Fishing necessitates a high level of concentration and awareness. Like meditation, it diverts your attention away from internal conflict and stress. It aids in relieving anxiety, regulating depression attacks, and promoting recreation activity.
- Fly fishing from a float tube is a fantastic aerobic exercise that works your legs, core, and shoulders.
- Increase in environmental responsibility due to interest in outdoor activities frequently. Your involvement in conserving our rivers and the creatures that live in them will expand as your expertise in fishing rises.
- Creation of bonds and memories: Sharing experiences creates bonds and memories that last a lifetime. Camping fishing weekends with friends and relatives, making fun, taking in natural scenery, celebrating the joy of a catch, and acquiring knowledge from more experienced anglers.
Equipment Required for Float Tube Fishing
When going for float tube fishing, there are necessities that you should bring with you for a successful adventure. Here is a list including the essential things for float tube fishing and some extra items you would like to bring along.
Personal flotation device and a life jacket
Protection should always come first when it comes to fishing and any other outdoor outings. Bring a life jacket or personal flotation device with you on the trip. Furthermore, it is mandated by law to come prepared with any protective gear that you may need.
The personal floatation device should always be there during any watercraft sport, whether you decide to strap it to your chest or the side of you.
Waders
These will keep you safe if the cold water swirls you or in case you fall in for a short period. Waders will also help you remain warm and dry while out of the water.
Fin
The fins come in handy when manoeuvring the boat. Even though you might be a great swimmer, these will be useful to help you along the way for a smoother ride.
Essential fishing gears
The basic fishing gear you will require could be anything you would use on a normal fishing trip. These consist of the pole, bait, line and others.
Personal belongings
You'll need some personal effects that you should bring on any outdoor adventure. First-aid kit, water bottles, sunscreen, and other necessities are among the few necessities.
There are a few more items you can bring with you to make the trip feel like home. These are;
1. Holders for rods
You could use a rod holder to retain your fishing rods in place while boating or enjoying the water.
2. Extra Fins and waders
It is a good decision to have a standby pair of fins and waders just in case anything happens to your fins and wader, and you can change them.
The wader garments and boots are also voluntary. They are suitable if you wish to wade in the water at all during your trip.
3. Wool socks
Wool socks will keep your feet warmer throughout your trip, especially if you're going out on the ocean during the cold season.
4. Puncture kit
Afloat tube puncture kit will come in handy in case of any mishaps with your float tube, for if it bursts, you cannot refer to it as a floating tube.
There are other various bits of instrument and gear that you could probably bring on your travel, like camera mounts or a fish locator. There is no restriction on what else you can carry on your float tube fishing trip as you have the basic requirements.
Types of Floating Tubes
1. Round Style - The round style is one of the ancient float tubes, and it was this design ignited the creation of new, sailable models. It is similar to an inner tube, but it has additional back and armrests features. However, they have been unused for a while.
2. Teardrop Style is a newer float tube design that incorporates the features of the U-shaped tube and the pontoon, having two tubes on each side, the seat at the centre, and an inflated teardrop portion at the back of the seat that is hooked up to both tubes.
3. U / V-Shaped - this tube is similar to the round tube but has an open area for your feet and legs. U/V shape makes it possible to navigate than the round tube. It still provides the same attributes as the back and armrest.
4. Pontoon Style - This float tube resembles a boat, with two tubes on each side and a seat in the middle. The seat is generally slightly higher compared to other float tubes, therefore, giving you higher clarity. They have a catamaran-like appearance with a less circular shape and are often developed with long-lasting materials.
The things to consider in Fishing Float Tubes selection
There is a significant distinction between actual fishing float tubes and pool float tubes. You should think about five things while choosing the best float tube for fishing.
1. Design
You should select a float tube made of solid components, and float tube materials must be wear-resistant. The shape of your float tubes will also add value to the stability. Fishing float tubes, made of highly puncture-resistant rubber, can be longer-lasting than expected.
2. Comfort
This factor suggests you go with the most comfortable one for you as you will be sitting for a long time. Comfortable float tubes will have spongy soft, and comfortable seats. The angler must also be capable of adjusting the seat while bending down.
3. Capacity
You must ensure that the carrying size of the float tube is adequate for you and your gear. If a float tube cannot withstand excessive pressure, it may drown while you are in it.
You can test this by including additional weights and considering your fishing equipment and other items you'll carry on your next fishing trip. When the float tube and materials become wet, the total weight can increase by several pounds.
4. Weight
The weight of a fishing float tube must be a major consideration as you must determine whether you can transport it from your truck to the water and vice versa.
5. Storage
Check for pockets and backpack straps as well. External side pockets are beneficial, and large bags have perks. Keep in mind what you'll need to carry and what you'd like to collect. It helps to ensure that you can store everything while sailing.