Float Tubing Advice

Im an avid flow fisherman and have been wading since I was old enough to. But as I have gotten a little older, I have realized that there could be other alternatives that could be great.

Tried 2 different kayaks in the past, sit in, and a SOT. but didn't enjoy the fishability of them at all.

I have looked alot at the ODC type and am really trying to avoid paddeling. I am leaning towards the Ushaped or pontoon shaped tube, but really don't know a whole lot about it.

I still will wade flows around here but what the Tube idea is really for is when I go to the New River in Virginia. The stretch i go to, college students use donuts to flow down. My idea is why couldn't I use a fishing float tube to move around as well? I don't really plan on fishing much out of it, just for getting around and storage, get out on a ledge and fish. Get back in float down to the next area, get out fish etc...

I notice some tubes say, for still water only, and some make no mention. Could someone with some experience or ideas for me please PM or post below.

Also plan on using some around here in lakes, ponds and some flows. Thanks in advance.

Let me tell you, you are looking in the right direction! Float tubes are great, and a lot of fun to fish from. There is no reason in the world you cant float in a float tube down a slow moving stream or river, just stay away from branches and snags.

One other thing, invest in a good fitting pair of fins for your feet to make your float trip a whole lot easier.

I own a float tube that is the full circle tube and I love it. I am sure the "U" shaped tubes would be easier to get in and out of though.

Thanks i appreciate the response and it helps. I wish i could get in one as a trial run and just see how i like it first.

A float tube will work fine for what you are looking for. I see guys using them on Hiwassee River alot doing exactly what you are talking about.

One more piece of advice about float tubing. Remember to go to the bathroom before you get in your tube...of and there is no possible way to walk cool when wearing a float tube and flippers lol!

haha Thanks for the advice Tim

I own a float tube and have for 5 years. I love fishing out of it but dont have anyone else to tube float with. Most warnings on the tube say to go with another person but i never have. Last time i went to a small pond and was fishing there was a huge beaver swimming around in the pond. I was a little worried that it would get courious and head my way. The problem with that is moving in the water is slow going with a float tube so thats probably the reason i dont use it that often. But as far as fishing out of one it is a blast ! I have caught bass in it that have jumped as high or higher than my head. Thats a little strange when it happens. Good tube fishing and luck.

I have fished out of float tubes my whole life, mainly fly fishing for trout out west, but also spin fishing for bass. They are great for packing into those secluded lakes and ponds where a boat just can't get to. I took mine back into a local lake that I discovered that there was no way to get a boat into...I ended up having one of the best bass fishing days I had ever had! I've taken float tubes down several rivers, and I highly recommend them on any non-turbulent waters. I also use a pontoon boat quite frequently. This is another personal craft great for rivers and lakes. You can either row or use flippers. During the summer, I just wear swimming trunks since the only part of your body that actually enters the water is from your knees down. These are great ways to access some fantastic fishing waters. Good luck and be safe.

I've got a pontoon for sale over in the classified (look down a page or two) if anybody's interested.

I just found that the kayak is a better all-around craft for my needs and ... well ... I can't keep them both around.

Denver