Float tube fishing is an enjoyable way to experience nature while forging lasting bonds and memories with others.
As with other forms of fishing, float tubing requires specific essentials for its success. This article will focus both on these necessities as well as some desirable extras that might come in handy during your tubing adventures.
Choosing a Tube
Float tube fishing provides many advantages over more traditional forms of fishing, including being less strenuous than using a boat and providing access to normally inaccessible parts of a lake or loch, as well as offering a more relaxing fishing experience. Furthermore, unlike boats which may disturb other wildlife or fishermen nearby, the float tube does not make noise that disrupts wildlife or fishermen in its area.
When selecting a float tube to use, it is crucial that it is constructed from high-grade materials and capable of supporting an angler safely. Furthermore, its size and weight should also be taken into account as this will determine how quickly an angler can traverse their loch as well as whether or not they find it comfortable.
Look for a float tube with features that make it easier to navigate, such as rod holders and stripping aprons that allow users to easily pile up line when casting and pulling, thus saving time retrieving it later.
A good float tube should also offer adjustable padding that can ensure maximum comfort for longer trips, where an angler might spend hours sitting still in one position. Furthermore, most footrests on these float tubes can also be moved up or down according to angler height requirements.
Another key feature when selecting a float tube is durability and strength. Selecting a tube constructed from high-grade materials will ensure it can withstand repeated kicks as well as rocks, sticks and other forms of underwater debris. Furthermore, opt for one with double stitching and thick hull fabric for increased robustness.
Once an angler has chosen their ideal float tube, they should start considering which equipment will be necessary for use. At minimum, essential items include the float tube itself, life jacket and tackle box; but as they gain experience using this unique fishing method they may increase their gear collection accordingly.
Getting Started
Fishing from a float tube can be an extremely enjoyable and effective method of fishing, being easier on both your body and wallet than using a boat. Not only can it reach places inaccessible by boats, it also gives anglers access to places typically inaccessible via boat – as well as providing close encounters with target fish. In windy conditions it offers virtually noise free conditions! Plus it makes prospecting easier as its steady movement covers water areas without disturbing their natural ecosystems.
Launching into this form of fishing doesn’t require a great deal of equipment; all that’s necessary are a float tube, rod, and some clothing – but there are certain considerations you should keep in mind as you begin this type of fishing.
First and foremost, fishing from a float tube requires some practice and concentration. As with fishing from shore or a boat, keeping your line away from rocks and debris that could snag it requires constant attention from you as you cast. But once you find your footing, casting will become second nature and casting will become second nature to you quickly!
One key consideration in planning float tube outings is carefully planning them. Unless you intend on fishing all day, ideally plan short excursions of two or three hours in length in order to avoid overexertion and potential injury. As you gain more familiarity with fishing from a float tube, your outings may extend for longer periods.
Tubing fishing requires none of the same skills or tactics used when fishing from shore or boat; therefore, don’t feel like you need to learn anything new – instead use tubing as an opportunity to hone your techniques by being more stealthy and cautious not to scare away fish!
Once you are comfortable with your float tube, it may be worthwhile considering ways to enhance the experience and increase chances of catching fish. Most accessories that can help enhance this aspect can easily be attached to its side without adding much in terms of weight to its total mass.
Fishing Techniques
Float tube fishing gives anglers access to new waters, fishing in areas which would normally be inaccessible from boats. Plus, its less physically taxing than using boats and provides quieter fishing experiences!
Once you’ve found an ideal location, the best approach for fishing brown trout is methodical drifting over it. Doing so allows the fish to become comfortable without being scared away by motor noise; wild brown trout are generally opportunistic feeders who take to taking your fly when feeding windows arise – don’t be surprised if it takes time before getting a bite.
Anchor in an advantageous spot and let your weight sink slowly into the fishing zone you wish to fish, then allow yourself to drift over it without disturbing or scaring away fish. However, be wary when fishing near other anglers: careless maneuvers could result in you becoming entangled with their lines, making your experience frustrating as well as theirs!
When winds pick up, it can be challenging to stay anchored, but using your hood as protection can help to shield both your head and face from being exposed to wind gusts. This tactic can also be very effective at scoping out big fish along the bank!
There are various tactics available when float tubing, but remembering the key element for success should always be covering as much water as possible and moving along at an effective speed. Also keep an eye out for boaters and shore anglers; any interference between lines could spook fish away and reduce your chance of getting bit.
Float tube fishing can be an extremely satisfying experience – be it searching kelp forests for stripers or trolling the backlines of lakes for trout. All it takes to enjoy yourself on the water is choosing the appropriate equipment, being prepared, and being open for fun on the water!
Safety
Float tube fishing is an effective way to access remote waters where launching a boat would be challenging, or impossible, while also offering anglers an affordable alternative to maintaining their own powerboat. A floated tube, waders, fins and pump can easily fit in the trunk or back seat of any car for quick deployment; for remote locations you could pack everything into a backpack/large daypack before carrying to its location.
Safety while float tubing relies on keeping your feet away from the bottom of a lake or river. Even an accidental trip could leave your foot caught between rocks or logs that puncture your tube hull causing serious damage to it and to you. Wearing sturdy rubber boots and in colder climates neoprene waders is recommended to reduce risks.
An additional important consideration when fishing is carrying a bailer and net, in case of landing any fish. Furthermore, extra fins and a repair kit should also be brought along as these will allow more effective movement through the water than simply using your feet alone; punctures or tears caused by hooks or other mishaps can quickly and easily be repaired with these supplies.
An extra layer of clothing and rain jacket are wise choices when fishing from a tube. Even though your body heat may remain, any unprotected spots in the water could allow your own heat to escape and leave you cold without adequate protection from outside elements. Also remember that personal flotation devices must always be worn even in shallow or clear waters.
Finally, make sure that you know exactly where your fishing spot is and avoid trespassing on any private property. Float tubes can be great tools for exploring backcountry waters; however it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
