I love fishing any time, any place. Unfortunately, I cannot afford a commercial fishing boat. Then somebody told me about float tube fishing and since then, I have never looked back. It is a great way for people like me who want to do fishing within budget.
I have explained all the basics of float tube fishing and the handy tips and tricks.
What Are The Basics Of Fishing From A Float Tube?
Anglers who want to fish using a float tube must first select a good-quality float tube.
Secondly, it is necessary to get top-notch equipment and accessories. These include fins, a pair of waders, boots, baits, rigs, and anchor weights. Finally, when you have everything you need, search for some good ideas to stay safe while fishing.
Choosing The Best Type of Float Tube
Spent plenty of time choosing the best type of floating tube if you want to fish in a lake or shore. There are three types of float tubes available in retailers and markets. Every type has its pros and cons.
Standard Tubes
To stay within budget, opt for the inexpensive option, standard tubes. Their prices are very reasonable. Another advantage of using standard tubes is the ease of maintenance. A standard tube can easily be fixed with an old truck tire tube.
Standard tubes have two major disadvantages. First, they are difficult to get into, and second, it requires a lot of effort to reach your feet when you get out on the water.
U-Tubes
It sounds familiar, right? Well, don’t confuse it with the video platform. As the name suggests, it is a U-shaped tube. The opening is at the front, and entry is much easier. It is a safe option for float tubers who have mobility issues.
The only con of using U-tubes for float tubing is that they don’t remain stable in water.
Pontoons
Pontoons are the most expensive type of float tube in the boat market. However, they have many advantages over standard tubes and U-tubes. Some Pontoon models do not inflate.
It offers more accessibility than the above two. Plus, it includes high quality oars that ensure fast speed. It can support good amount of weight, and offers extra storage.
Basic Accessories For Fishing From Float Tube
After buying a floating tube, it’s time to get ready to go fishing. You need some gear and equipment to help you fish from the float tube.
Remember that to fish off a float tube requires minimal expense. If you are trying to break the bank for the gear then it’s a bad idea. A simple, low-budget approach works very well to have the experience of a lifetime.
Selecting Fins
Fishing fins come in various shapes and sizes. They are readily available in pet stores and don’t cost you much. A good thing about diving fins is that they works best for a long time.
I suggest you go for long, narrow and vented-style fins. This way, your one foot will not bump into the second foot while kicking.
A long fin design displaces a good amount of water at once. Fins should be tight but not much; otherwise, it affects blood circulation.
To wear the fins, walk backwards into the lake with fins in your hand. When your knees get into water, sit down and wear the fins one by one.
Waders
You should wear waders even in hot climates. Waders and fins protect your legs from your abrasions. Waders come in different thicknesses, mostly measured in millimeters.
Use stocking foot waders, as they are the best for the job. If you cannot get your hands on stocking foot waders, you should go for the booted waders.
Boots
Spending some extra cash to get a good of boots is something I recommend. When fishing, nothing worse than accidentally stepping on a sharp rock that punches a hole in your waders.
Buy boots from a reputable brand with a comfortable sole that doesn’t rot in extreme conditions. You can also substitute other options, like using tennis shoes if you only want to reach the middle of the lake.
Anchor Weights
The hardest part of fishing from a floating tube is not fishing but keeping a balance. To maintain the balance, I recommend using anchor weights. Water is relentless, and it can make you out of position in a blink.
Using one anchor weight is not good enough; you might want to keep two weights. Find a point and put the weight there. Drift to the spot and toss the other weight away from you. When you spot lines, retrieve them slowly and strike at the right time.
Float Tube Tackle
Tackle is a fishing rod where you can tie the fish bait. It helps in catching fish with ease. If it gets tangled, you can untangle it quickly. A six-foot tackle is good, but a short rod works well, too, to land fish. With a tackle rod, you can easily reach closer spots with long casts.
Install easy-to-remove rod holders. You can put pliers and other necessary equipment in the rod holder.
Safety Tips
Once you’ve geared up, it’s time learn about safety precautions before going on a fishing adventure.
The first tip you’ll hear from every fishing expert is never to enter the water without wearing a life jacket. In case of any leak, a life jacket will save your life. Avoid jackets that get submerged at a rapid pace if you get wet.
Don’t over inflate your floating tube. Buy one with two bladders. If one gets leaked, the other can help you reach the shore.
Some shore anglers suggest that on windy days, tie a rope or strap between your float tube and the shore before you launch your tube. In emergency, you can easily swim or walk backward into the lake without any trouble.
You can also drag your tube towards the shore in case of leakage. Wear boots even if you are a few yards away from the water.
Final Thoughts
Please gain maximum knowledge about fishing from a float tube before you try it. Choose a dark-colored tube, it is the easiest to spot in dark conditions.
Following the guidelines is necessary whether you fish in freshwater or hard water. I hope that it motivates all new and experienced anglers and boaters to start fishing again.
