Looking for the best fishing float tube?
Many anglers may balk at the idea of a fishing float tube. However, if you’ve ever been float fishing then you know it’s a peaceful yet thrilling way to be one with the water.
Here are four great options to help you reach elusive fish. Whether you’re looking for a versatile option that can handle a variety of water conditions, or something more specialized, we’ve got you covered. So read on to find the perfect fishing float tube for your needs!
Top Fishing Floats
One of the primary concerns is punctures. Don’t worry, these tubes are robust and are hard to sink.
In this article, I am going to cover some of the best fishing float tubes and how they may surprisingly fit just what you are looking for.
4 Best Fishing Float Tubes Reviewed
- Best Fishing Float Tube Overall-Classic Accessories Cumberland
- Best Lightweight Fishing Float-Outcast Fishcat 4-LCS
- Best Cheap Fishing Float Tube with Fins-Classic Accessories Teton
- Best Fishing Float Tube with Pump-Classic Accessories Bighorn
1. Classic Accessories Cumberland
Best Fishing Float Tube Overall
Considered the Mercedes of float tubes this one is a gem. It’s large enough to handle you plus a bunch of gear.
Just make sure you remember that most of your storage will get wet, so pack accordingly.
This one has a few rod holders which makes managing different setups a breeze.
Just note since this is a large tube, it’s not advised to take this one on long hikes or backcountry camping trips.
2. Outcast Fishcat 4-LCS
Best Lightweight Fishing Float
This float is a steal at the price. It’ll keep you up and out of the water even if you’re a little over 200 pounds.
It’s easy to carry from your car to the water. The seat should keep you high enough out of the water that your neoprene waders will keep you dry.
It’s easy to maneuver too!
3. Classic Accessories Teton
Best Cheap Fishing Float Tube with Fins
If you’re new to float fishing and not sure if it’s right for you, then go for the Teton. It’s low cost yet will last you if you decide you end up liking it.
You’ll be sitting a bit in the water so just be cognizant of that.
It has plenty of storage, is lightweight, and a pump will be inflated in no time.
4. Classic Accessories Bighorn
Best Fishing Float Tube with Pump
This is a newer float that should be purchased if you’ve had experience. There are some design issues that need some slight tweaking to make it better.
The way the seat is positioned will have you pushed forward a bit when fully inflated. Of course, this ultimately depends on your body type, so just warned.
If you’re more on the slender end, this could be the float for you.
What Is a Fishing Float Tube?
A fishing float tube is a small inflatable fishing vessel that can easily be transported from one place to another.
When first produced, they were designed much like a tire innertube that we are used to seeing with a seat in the center “doughnut hole”
Also known as a belly boat or kick boat, these inflatable fishing vessels come in V shapes or may have pontoons on each side.
Made with highly puncture-resistant rubber, fishing float tubes can prove to be more durable than you may expect.
One thing that makes a fishing float tub desirable is its ease of transport. They can be carried in a fishing backpack and ready to use in just a few minutes.
This allows anglers to be able to get into areas they may not otherwise be able to access or come upon during a day of scouting new sites.
How to Use a Fishing Float Tube?
Most fishing float tubes work in basically the same way. Once inflated, you sit in the middle or “seat” and use swim fins or “flippers to paddle the float tube along the water.
If the water is shallow, some anglers will use hip waders to “walk” along the bottom.
Puncture Concerns
Obviously, fishing hooks are a concern because of the puncture factor. Since most of the better quality fishing float tubes are made of strong, thick rubber, they hold up fairly well to being snagged. This is provided it is not a deep puncture.
That being said, you would not want to use your fishing float tube in areas that had a lot of brush and debris.
Fishing float tubes have some advantages over say for example fishing kayaks. For one they are actually more stable and more tip-resistant. This is because their center of gravity is much lower.
Some anglers may be turned off by a fishing float tube for reasons other than the fact that they are inflatable.
Be Careful of Predators
One of these is having parts of your body in the water. Depending on the area you live in, there is a real threat of snakes, alligators, and debris that may be in the water with you.
For this reason, it is a good idea to know the area you will be using your fishing float tube in to judge whether or not it is the best option to use.
Float fishing has been around for as long as people have been fishing. Many different types of floats have been used over the years. However, the problem has been in transporting them.
Float Tube Pumps
If you have big lungs then you won’t need a pump. For those who would rather get to the water and start fishing quickly, then it’s worth picking up a pump. If you have a bike pump, then you’re already set.
When camping or hiking with the tube, we recommend you grab a smaller handpump for your backpack.
Float Tube Fins
Since you’re in the water and too low for a paddle, you’re going to need fins. Float tube fins are short but provide plenty of power for you to kick your way to different parts of the river or lake.
You don’t necessarily need fins, but if you want to get anywhere fast or through the wind, we think it’s worth it.
Wooden Fishing Float Downsides
Take for example, in some countries floating or paddle boats are constructed of hollowed-out logs. This is known as wooden float fishing.
These vessels get the job done but can be quite heavy to transport across land and virtually impossible for one person to transport.
Plastic fishing kayaks became popular because of their lightweight but can still be fairly large in size.
Fishing float tubes can be easily packed away for transport and inflated fairly quickly and ready to use once you arrive at your location.
Methods for inflating fishing float tubes are primarily manual. This, however, can be time-consuming and exhausting to hand, which works very well for small battery-operated pumps.
Where to Find Fishing Float Tubes
You can find fishing float tubes at many outdoor sporting goods stores as well as online through different retailers.
Keep in mind, that there is a difference between actual fishing float tubes and the float tubes kids use in a pool.
Those types of float tubes will not be as well constructed or suited for fishing due to their lower puncture resistance.
It is a good idea to check the reviews on the different brands and styles on the market to see which best suits your style of fishing.
Things to Consider When Buying Fishing Float Tubes
If you plan to buy a fishing float tube, you can’t help but look for specific features. Such as what you might need and what you want. There are five things you can consider if you are planning on buying one.
Design
The design and durability of float tubes are a significant concern when on the water. You should choose a float tube that is made of solid materials. Besides, float tube materials must be resistant to abrasion and tears.
The shape of float tubes will also contribute to the stability of your float tubes. Note that the U-shaped and V-shaped float tubes are more stable than the traditional float. These shapes are also a safer option. Many anglers love U-shaped fishing float tubes because of their shape and size.
Comfort
Comfort is another factor that you should look out for. As an angler, you will need to sit on the float tube for an extended period. This means you should choose the one that is best for your comfort.
Before, the older designs had low seats. These seats were less efficient when kicking or paddling through the water. This also made sitting uncomfortable for anglers. Plus, poorly designed float tubes will make it feel collapsed. It is also awkward if you have your life jacket with full pockets on.
On the other hand, a well-designed float tube will be comfortable to stay and sit on. It is because comfortable float tubes will have thick cushioned seats. The seat should also be adjustable so the angler can adjust it when leaning back. After all, a seat at its 90-degree angle can be uncomfortable.
Capacity
You need to make sure that the carrying capacity of the float tube is suitable for you and your gear weight. If a float tube cannot handle too much, it could submerge while you are on the water.
Remember to add extra weights. Don’t forget to consider your fishing gear and other things you will bring on your next fishing trip. When the float tube and equipment get wet, this can add extra pounds to the total weight.
Weight
You need to consider the weight of a fishing float tube. This is important because you need to know if you can carry it from your truck to the water and vice versa.
Some fishing float tubes with sturdy designs and materials tend to have extra weight. If you want a bigger capacity, it is possible to have a heavier float tube. You must consider how heavy you can carry.
Storage
You should also check for pockets and storage compartments. The external side pockets are functional, and large bags have their advantages. Keep in mind what you need to bring and what you want to get. This is to make sure that you can store everything when you are on the water.
You can have a float tube with surrounding pockets, internal or external pockets. These pockets will be helpful to keep the small and even large equipment that you need to bring.
These are some factors that you need to consider before buying your own fishing float tube. When you know these, you will have an easier time buying one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are fishing float tubes safe?
A: As with any vessel on the water, caution must be used. It is important to always wear a properly fitting life jacket and be aware of your surroundings. With that being said, fishing float tubes can be a safe way to enjoy a fishing trip.
Q: Do fishing float tubes cost a lot?
A: Although they vary in price depending on the quality, they are not very expensive to purchase.
Q: Can fishing float tubes be repaired if they get punctured?
A: There are repair kits on the market however, it would probably be the safest choice to replace it.
Q: How long do fishing float tubes last?
A: With proper care, they can last for many years.
Insider Advice
Float fishing can be quite a relaxing experience and should not be ruled out by anglers before you try it.
They are popular and there are areas where anglers have fishing competitions devoted to using them.
Examples of this are the American Sonoma County Belly Boat Bass Club. Also, the Bass Challenge in South Africa offers a tournament trail called the Kickboat Bass Challenge.
We hope this article has given you some insight into float fishing. We also hope you will give it a try if you haven’t already and let us know about it.
Founder & Angler 
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