Questions from a Float Tubing Newb

[CPT. Kirk]

I am going to be buying a float tube and necessary equipment within the next month or so, but I have a lot of questions before I move forward. All advice will be appreciated.

Float Tube- I am 6’5” 255 lbs and I am leaning towards getting the Outcast Super Fat Cat LCS. Is this my best bet or do you guys have other suggestions?

Waders- I’m kind of lost here but I’m leaning towards breathable bootless waders and getting some wading boots. Question- Is this what you’re supposed to do? Or do you just go without the boots? I’m confused here.

Fins- I’m leaning towards the “strap on” type that go over the wading boots. Is this the way to go?

Please give me your suggestions.

Thanks,
Scott

Don't forget your wading belt very important (safety measure) just in case you slip and fall in the water. You don not want water running into your waders.

[snslarison]

Ok wading belt. Got that. Thanks!

[socal114]

I think the Outcast Fishcat/Super Fat Cat tubes are tough to beat for the money. I also use scuba "split fins" which I prefer. Very efficient and require less effort because of their design. I found the Hodgman Wadelite stockingfoot waders were inexpensive and very high quality. They were recommended to me by a number of fellow tubers. You can find them here http://www.hodgman.com/Sale-Fishing-C69.aspx at great prices.

Here are the Scubapro Twin Jet fins I have...

I wear a pair of Aqua Lung neoprene surf booties ($15 at Sport Chalet) over my waders to protect them from damage while walking. I don't wear wader boots inside my fins. Plenty warm, dry and less bulk than wearing a boot.

I'm gonna hit Corona in a few hours, so it's time to get some zzzz's. Happy shopping!

[MiM]

A decent set of breathable waders usually come with a wading belt. I bought a set of hodgmans from Sport Chalet and a set of Frog Toggs and both came with a belts. Check Bass Pro Shops they have their flats boots for about $25. http://www.basspro.com/World-Wide-Sp...55184/-1034271
Don't forget your PFD (Life Vest) again check BPS as they have them on ad for the Spring Sale starting tomorrow starting @$20 for the mesh top vest.http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shop...13766/-1644943. Hope that helps get you started a little easier.

[snslarison]

Great info guys. I really appreciate it.

[snslarison]

A decent set of breathable waders usually come with a wading belt. I bought a set of hodgmans from Sport Chalet and a set of Frog Toggs and both came with a belts. Check Bass Pro Shops they have their flats boots for about $25. http://www.basspro.com/World-Wide-Sp...55184/-1034271
Don't forget your PFD (Life Vest) again check BPS as they have them on ad for the Spring Sale starting tomorrow starting @$20 for the mesh top vest.http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shop...13766/-1644943. Hope that helps get you started a little easier.

Ok so a couple of questions...

If I go with the flats boots over my waders, can should I get a larger size in them? For instance I wear a size 13 shoe. If I'm wearing the waders will size 13 flats boots fit over them or do I need size 14?

Also with this type of boots should I use the strap on type fins or should I use the diving (slip on) type?

[MiM]

Best suggestion i have is go and try them on. They (BPS) have neoprene wader socks so you can get the feel for them before you decide. If they don't have a bigger size, Hodgmans has up to sz 14. http://www.hodgman.com/Neoprene-Wadi...-P2077C71.aspx. They are a little bit more but the same if not better quality.Yes, definitely use the strap on the back of the fins it would be the only way to keep them on your feet securely. On the flats boots or hodgman boots there is a notch in the back to keep the strap from slipping off. If you're concerned about them falling off there are fin lanyards available in case they do fall off you won't lose them.

[Trout Doctor]

Check out the OCD 420 on ebay. It is basically the same as the fat cat, and can be had for around $100 (just got mine for $110, shipping included).

[snslarison]

Just ordered these:

http://www.hodgman.com/Wadelitereg-B...-P2057C69.aspx

Great deal. Thanks for the link MiM!

[snslarison]

Check out the OCD 420 on ebay. It is basically the same as the fat cat, and can be had for around $100 (just got mine for $110, shipping included).

Hmm...Maybe I should. I will look into that one.