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View Full Version : Trying to buy float tube --Need help



BassEngineer
12-01-2008, 01:05 AM
I have some basic questions if someone could help...

1. U or V shape, does it matter? (I think open is better?)
2. Should I spend $100 or $400, does it matter? (Is it the number of bladders?)
3. Waders or Wet/Dry Suit (like for surfing or diving)?
4. How much do I need to spend on fins?
5. What other accessories do I need? (rod holder? Fish finder?)
6. Anything else I need to know?
7. Can someone please go with me just once, so I don't drown? (This coming Sunday?)

Thanks for your help.
B.E.

Badfish2
12-01-2008, 01:09 AM
I can answer #3.. get breathable waders

Nessie Hunter
12-01-2008, 06:38 AM
1. U or V shape, does it matter? (I think open is better?).
"V" shape is better,
most room,
Best flotation.. Seem faster??
2. Should I spend $100 or $400, does it matter? (Is it the number of bladders?)
$$ isnt as much an issue as what fits your needs...
I Like my ODC 420. the Valves are placed so I can get to them while on the water..
2 main Bladders for safety..
Has lasted several years without any issues..
3. Waders or Wet/Dry Suit (like for surfing or diving)?
Waders;
Stocking foot, BREATHABLES....
Most versatile, Hot & cold weather.
Get them a little large & can add layers under in Icy water..
Same Fins will fit stocking foot or bare foot (winter summer)..
4. How much do I need to spend on fins?
I always recommend Hot Spots ($80 class). But whatever you can afford is a good place to start.. Any will work..
5. What other accessories do I need? (rod holder? Fish finder?)
Tethers are a big plus... For rods and accessories that might fall off or get dropped. You will be a spaz when you first start, and once it is dropped, it is Gone!!! (I Can post pics of my home made tethers if any one wants easy & cheap, work great)
6. Anything else I need to know?
Legally required:
Flotation device, readily accessible.
Horn or whistle (warning noise maker)
Lights at dark or restricted visibility times (fog etc)..
7. Can someone please go with me just once, so I don't drown? (This coming Sunday?)

Your in Irvine, should be a ton of Tubers in the area...

Good luck & have fun....



.

tacklejunkie
12-01-2008, 09:14 AM
V shape is faster.

spend enough for an FC4 deluxe LCS. This is the most comfortable tube on the market.

Breathable waders.

Force Fins or Hot spots.

Get a berkley 3 tube rod holder or make one from PVC as did Socal Bassman and strap them on.

DO NOT FORGET to get ROD FLOATERS, or it is only a matter of time before you lose a spiffy combo to the drink!

And of course, the life jacket, whistle or airhorn and a glowstick in the low visibility conditions.

dar30
12-01-2008, 09:54 PM
Could you post a pic of your tethers and how you use them?
Thanks.

tacklejunkie
12-01-2008, 10:24 PM
Could you post a pic of your tethers and how you use them?
Thanks.
I didn't like the idea of tying or clipping things to my rod.
Sometimes I need to quickly swap rods and cast into boils.
I elected to go with these floaters after seeing Socal Bassman's review a while back. Basically some foam with a velcro strap.

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff280/tacklejunkie/Perris%20PIG%2010-16-08/DSCN1047-1.jpg

BassEngineer
12-02-2008, 12:38 AM
That's some good info guys. Thanks again.

What do you guys think of something like this?

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/4360,83599_Caddis-Navigator-Float-Tube.html

Socal Bassman
12-02-2008, 03:12 AM
V shaped tubes for sure. The FC4 is probably the best bang for the buck. The deluxe model can be had for a little bit more. It's basically the same tube as the FC4, only it has the inflatable seat which is supposed to be more comfortable than the foam seat. That Caddis Navigator seems to be a nice tube. Although, having fished out of a Caddis in the past, the majority of their tubes have the sling type seats. Though comfortable, you sit lower in the water.

Breathable waders are the way to go. Like Nessie said, get them a little large so you can layer clothes underneath them for the colder months. As for fins, Hotspots seem to be the popular choice around here. Others, myself included, use a good pair of dive fins. They usually run $60-$70 for a good pair. As a beginner in tubing, I'd suggest you stay away from the long dive fins. They offer maximum thrust, but they can tire you out quickly.

Of course a PFD (required), some type of noise maker, and a double action pump are basic necessities. You might also want to look into wearing neoprene boots to wear over the stockingfoot waders. On a final note, don't put too much thought on adding rod holders and a fish finder on your tube at first. Spend some time out there getting acquianted with your new ride. Once you are comfortable and got the mechanics down, then it's time to start thinking about add ons.

Badfish2
12-02-2008, 04:13 AM
so is the extra money worth it on the Fishcat 4 deluxe?? Or no, just get the regular one.

tacklejunkie
12-02-2008, 06:26 AM
For $65 more than the FC4, you can ride higher out of the water, (yes, pretty unbelievable you can ride higher out of the water than the normal FC4!), The seat cushions are inflatable, which means they are also adjustable tension and cushion on your bum, and the pontoons don't fold inward and cramp your legs like I thought they would with an inflatable bladder separator.

The FC4 deluxe also folds up smaller since it has no foam cushions. It would be the model I chose if I wanted to pack it into back country lakes. Although it is still 14lbs as with the normal FC4 and my caddis nevada is only 6lbs..
but the dang seat on the caddis nevada cuts off circulation to my legs quickly and is very uncomfortable.

But yes, if you can afford the extra money, the FC4 Deluxe is worth it in my opinion. They did a great job on both the FC4 and the FC4 Deluxe either way, and you'll be happy with both models.

FC4 Deluxe LCS below. You can see a yellow rod floater on my rod too in the pic.

p.s.. check ebay for the best deal on the deluxe. $200 shipped if you look around! $265 plus tax at bass pro =(
The outcast site lists it as $229msrp. The standard FC4 is now $195 at BPS, and you can get the Deluxe for $5 more brand new on ebay.
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff280/tacklejunkie/DSCN1414.jpg

BassEngineer
12-02-2008, 04:16 PM
Thanks again for all the help fellas...

I think I have to re-evaluate my budget. I was hoping I could get everything for $200-250...but it's not looking like it.

:Evil:

GeordyBass
12-02-2008, 05:10 PM
That's some good info guys. Thanks again.

What do you guys think of something like this?

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/4360,83599_Caddis-Navigator-Float-Tube.html
i have that one and used it only once...it is very comfortable to cast on!I like it,,,lol,,,

tacklejunkie
12-02-2008, 07:11 PM
$250 will get you going easy! Seriously, if you don't use ebay for cheap new and used gear, now is the time to start.
Just make sure to keep tabs on those ebay goofs.

A used Fc4 going for $110 in the classified section of this site. Then add some fins, waders and a rod holder to fill that other $140.

You may not be able to get all the best gear in each department for your tube, but you can always upgrade later. The most important thing to start with is a good tube, good fins, waders and a life jacket. Life jackets are cheap at walmart, but be sure to test it once to make sure it holds you and your gear. A cheap life jacket that doesn't work is no good! lol

BassEngineer
12-02-2008, 10:10 PM
OK ....I am seriously considering getting this float tube at a local store for $59....
http://www.jtbuckonline.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=99
OR should I pay more and get a "V" shaped tube?

I think I am going to get these fins:
http://www.google.com/products?q=caddis+kick+tube+fins&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGIC_en&um=1&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title

...still researching waders.... I have no idea what to spend yet.

greg
12-02-2008, 10:14 PM
BE – lot’s of great suggestions posted so far. I've been tubing for over 15 years now. For years, I was in a Caddis Pro 1000. Last year, I stepped up to a Fish Cat which I purchased on sale at Sport Chalet for $120 (regular price was $160). The "V" shape and the slick bottom makes it fast in the water. Plus you sit up higher to see the fish better. Another advantage of sitting up high is you don’t get as cold (especially when the lakes are icing out in the Sierra’s). But those foam seats take up lots of room when storing the Fish Cat. I like the idea of an inflatable seat…

As mentioned multiple times above, breathable waders is the trick. Wearing fleece sweats and ski socks keeps you warm on those cold mornings. Also, if you move from lake to lake, getting in and out of the breathable waders is quick (you don’t want to get your car seats wet when driving, even worst, getting your buddy’s car seats wet – that will be the last time you’re allowed in that car!).

I like my scuba fins with my Fish Cat – I can really move quickly around any lake. You can get some great deals at Play it Again Sports on used fins but be sure to bring your waders in with you to make sure you get the correct size.

Look for a tube with lots of pockets and D rings. I also picked up some hiking straps to carry my tube on my back for those short hikes from the car to the lake. (I will pop on my roller blades to get up and down those paved roads getting to the lake with my tube on my back and rod/fins in my hands.)

Other items include a PFD, whistle, electric air mattress pump then top off with a double action pump, net, hemostats tied to a D ring on by tube (instead of needle nose pliers) and stringer. I picked up a used Fish Buddy on EBay for half the cost of a new one (including shipping). Another suggestion is picking up a pair of (fake) crocs so you don’t wear out the bottoms of your wader booties when walking around.

There's nothing like getting around on a lake to catch fish where those shore anglers can't cast to and those boaters are pulling and dropping those heavy anchors...

Nessie Hunter
12-03-2008, 07:43 AM
OK ....I am seriously considering getting this float tube at a local store for $59....
http://www.jtbuckonline.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=99
OR should I pay more and get a "V" shaped tube?

I think I am going to get these fins:
http://www.google.com/products?q=caddis+kick+tube+fins&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGIC_en&um=1&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title

...still researching waders.... I have no idea what to spend yet.

The Tube is fine....

DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT get those fins... :Twisted:

You have to wear shoes/boots with those, and strap your shoed foot in them.. They are CRAP.....
Get anything but those... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



.

wetbait
12-03-2008, 10:15 AM
For $65 more than the FC4, you can ride higher out of the water, (yes, pretty unbelievable you can ride higher out of the water than the normal FC4!), The seat cushions are inflatable, which means they are also adjustable tension and cushion on your bum, and the pontoons don't fold inward and cramp your legs like I thought they would with an inflatable bladder separator.

The FC4 deluxe also folds up smaller since it has no foam cushions. It would be the model I chose if I wanted to pack it into back country lakes. Although it is still 14lbs as with the normal FC4 and my caddis nevada is only 6lbs..
but the dang seat on the caddis nevada cuts off circulation to my legs quickly and is very uncomfortable.

But yes, if you can afford the extra money, the FC4 Deluxe is worth it in my opinion. They did a great job on both the FC4 and the FC4 Deluxe either way, and you'll be happy with both models.

FC4 Deluxe LCS below. You can see a yellow rod floater on my rod too in the pic.

p.s.. check ebay for the best deal on the deluxe. $200 shipped if you look around! $265 plus tax at bass pro =(
The outcast site lists it as $229msrp. The standard FC4 is now $195 at BPS, and you can get the Deluxe for $5 more brand new on ebay.
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff280/tacklejunkie/DSCN1414.jpg


sweet set up. I am about to get what you got showing in the pix. but not sure on some of the acc.

are those outcast fins you got there?
you have stockfoot or bootfoot wader?
if stockfoot do you strap straight into the fins?

See Chris Fish
12-03-2008, 11:16 AM
Nessie nailed it. Follow his advise. I used his advise when I was doing research before I purchased my tube. I got the Fish Cat 4 (old style). AWESOME tube!!! You'll never want to fish from shore again.
You need the BREATHABLE waders!! Way more comfortable. You want them to fit like a pair of "clown pants". Make sure you have free movement while wearing them. I brought the clothes I wear while fishing to test fit the waders in the store. Most lakes don't allow "body contact" while you're tubing and a "surfing wetsuit" isn't water tight, so it won't be allowed.

baadfish69
12-03-2008, 02:10 PM
OK ....I am seriously considering getting this float tube at a local store for $59....
http://www.jtbuckonline.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=99
OR should I pay more and get a "V" shaped tube?

I think I am going to get these fins:
http://www.google.com/products?q=caddis+kick+tube+fins&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGIC_en&um=1&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title

...still researching waders.... I have no idea what to spend yet.


Having fished several styles of float tubes, I would never buy a tube that is set up like that. Like most people have mentioned here, the V-shaped tubes are far and away the best tube to use. I now have the ODC 420 which is priced pretty cheap for V-shaped tubes, and being 6'4" 270 lbs, I have no issues staying high and dry. Those pontoon style, donut style and U shaped tubes are uncomfortable, unstable, and SLOW as heck (meaning more energy wasted kicking around to spots) compared to V-shaped tubes. Take it from us experienced tubers and dont waste your money. Youll just end up upgrading to a V-shaped tube eventually anyways.

BassEngineer
12-03-2008, 10:08 PM
OK..OK...TJ, Nessie, Baad you have convinced me.

I bought the Fish Cat 4!! :Cool:
I did a lot of research and Cabelas.com has it for $159 and a $20 rebate for purchases over $100.

So after shipping it was $153.95...cheapest I could find on the internet.

Now the next biggest discrepancy in price is waders. I have seen breathable waders from $50 to $500. How much do I need to spend?

TIA...again.

baadfish69
12-04-2008, 11:25 AM
OK..OK...TJ, Nessie, Baad you have convinced me.

I bought the Fish Cat 4!! :Cool:
I did a lot of research and Cabelas.com has it for $159 and a $20 rebate for purchases over $100.

So after shipping it was $153.95...cheapest I could find on the internet.

Now the next biggest discrepancy in price is waders. I have seen breathable waders from $50 to $500. How much do I need to spend?

TIA...again.



Good job! Now on the waders, I would say you dont have to be so picky. Just make sure they are breathable. While float tubing, you dont really encounter bushes and sticks and stuff that can rip your waders so, I dont think you have to worry about buying an expensive pair that are Goretex or anything like that. Just a cheap pair of Hodgemans should work fine.

Socal Bassman
12-04-2008, 10:24 PM
Excellent choice! I'm sure it will serve you well. Like baadfish said, don't put too much thought on waders. Chances are you'll probably fish without them in the warmer months like many tubers I know, myself included. Get yourself an inexpensive pair of breathables then spend the money you save on other things. Pretty soon you'll have a tube looking like mine. :LOL:

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk264/Socal_Bassman/Perris001.jpg

tacklejunkie
12-04-2008, 10:54 PM
sweet set up. I am about to get what you got showing in the pix. but not sure on some of the acc.

are those outcast fins you got there?
you have stockfoot or bootfoot wader?
if stockfoot do you strap straight into the fins?

Yes, those are outcast fins.
They will work with boot foot waders AND stocking foot waders!

I have stocking foot waders.
I use "diving booties" on top of my stocking foot waders. Then I put the fins on. Click here (http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_55184____SearchResults) to see what I mean by "diving booties (http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_55184____SearchResults)". :Wink:

These help protect the stocking foot on the waders from wearing down or getting holes.

BassEngineer
12-05-2008, 10:58 AM
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk264/Socal_Bassman/Perris001.jpg

That is a bad ***** tube!! Nice work! I am going to have to come up with something...like that!

baadfish69
12-05-2008, 04:41 PM
Excellent choice! I'm sure it will serve you well. Like baadfish said, don't put too much thought on waders. Chances are you'll probably fish without them in the warmer months like many tubers I know, myself included. Get yourself an inexpensive pair of breathables then spend the money you save on other things. Pretty soon you'll have a tube looking like mine. :LOL:

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk264/Socal_Bassman/Perris001.jpg


Hahahaa! My gosh man.....that is one heck of a set up!

hughpam
12-05-2008, 11:12 PM
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff280/tacklejunkie/DSCN1414.jpg

I have the EXACT same set up. Love it! I don't use the PFD too often as my home lake counts the inflatable seat as one.

One more thing - I had to add blaze orange to mine for use in the bays. I just got a used t shirt in blaze orange and put it over the headrest Works great and it was very cheap.

Good idea on the rod floats. Looks like closed cell foam insulation for hot water pipes?

One more item: I went and got some huge carribeeners (how do you spell that?) at Walmart. It is very helpful to be able to hook up to your fishing buddy, or a post, etc while fishing. It stays on my tube at all times.

wetbait
12-06-2008, 01:25 AM
Carabiner....

u use it with ropes and latch on to post or tree branch?

wetbait
12-06-2008, 01:27 AM
Yes, those are outcast fins.
They will work with boot foot waders AND stocking foot waders!

I have stocking foot waders.
I use "diving booties" on top of my stocking foot waders. Then I put the fins on. Click here (http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_55184____SearchResults) to see what I mean by "diving booties (http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_55184____SearchResults)". :Wink:

These help protect the stocking foot on the waders from wearing down or getting holes.
yeah i was thinking bout wear dive bootie over stocking foot...what u use as rod holder?

BassEngineer
12-07-2008, 09:15 PM
Bought some fins...spent $69.95 and waders for $74.95...just waiting on the tube.

I still need:
Life Vest
Rod Holder

Anything else I SHOULD have out there?

Socal Bassman
12-07-2008, 11:25 PM
Bought some fins...spent $69.95 and waders for $74.95...just waiting on the tube.

I still need:
Life Vest
Rod Holder

Anything else I SHOULD have out there?

Don't forget a whistle or some type of noise maker. Some people out there (especially non regulars in rental boats) may not be paying attention or aware of your presence.

joe man
12-24-2008, 03:17 PM
That's some good info guys. Thanks again.

What do you guys think of something like this?

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/4360,83599_Caddis-Navigator-Float-Tube.html

I bought a used Caddis about 2 years ago and it has served me well. It is not the roomist model that I have seen and it is not as well made as some of the others but it is affordable.

joe man
12-24-2008, 03:19 PM
OK ....I am seriously considering getting this float tube at a local store for $59....
http://www.jtbuckonline.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=99
OR should I pay more and get a "V" shaped tube?

I think I am going to get these fins:
http://www.google.com/products?q=caddis+kick+tube+fins&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGIC_en&um=1&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title

...still researching waders.... I have no idea what to spend yet.

That is the tube I use and it gets the job done for a fair price. Of course I also fish Shakesphere reals.

fishtales
01-12-2009, 11:37 PM
The Tube is fine....

DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT get those fins... :Twisted:

You have to wear shoes/boots with those, and strap your shoed foot in them.. They are CRAP.....
Get anything but those... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



.

I absolutely agree, do NOT get those fins!!!!!!!!!