Road Blocks

As you get started on goals of any kind you will hit road blocks.  The perverbial bump in the road.  I am in now way exempt from this.  As I prepare for my Bike Packing and Fishing adventures I have hit a road block.  I currently don't have the desire to ride and exercise.  How do you handle this.  Well in my understanding (which is limited) you need to push through.

When I was young and getting ready for the Fire Academy I need to start excerising to prepare for the physical rquirements I would be getting into.  Istarted running daily and very quickly hit a road block.  Iso badly wanted to stop.  And I almost did until I just simply pushed myself.  Runners know that if you push through eventually it gets better.  I understand this as in those moments I have pushed through before and sure enough in time I was past it and feeling energized and glad I did it.  So as Ishare this with everyone I sitting in the kitchen typing this post not wanting to ride.  So I will start here as it is time for me tyo push through.

My plans for Bike packing and Fishing

 I have for most of my life been either fishing for biking.  So to marring the 2 is just a have to.  I evite you to follow me as I work on getting into this new sport and the twists and turns that I will come across.   Here is the reason I will be embarking on this new adventure.  I turn 50 in less then year.  My health is not where it should be and if I don't start moving I will lose my ability to move and enjoy the outdoors as I once did in my 20's and 30's.

I will be starting from scratch as I don't own a bike any more.  It has been years since I have been mountain biking at least 20 or more and probably the same for camping.  So as I say I will be starting from scratch I mean  it to the 1oth degree.  The plan is to be ready for my first trip by the summer of 2024 if not sooner.  You will be following me as 1. I lose weight to prepare for then ability to get back on a bike an become comfortable doing so once again.  2. leaning what makes for the best bike for me and my needs.  3. All the camping gear I will need to make for a comfortable time on the trail between trips.  4. The right fishing gear that I will need to take with me. 5. and finally where will I be planning to do day trips and over night trips.

This will be an adventure and I hope you will join me as I break all this down and learn the ends and outs.  I will start here I will be working on losing 10 pounds to start this adventure.  I hope to drop close to 40 before I get on a bike again.  How will I start this you ask right here in my living room.  On my Schwinn exercise bike.  The plan is to ride 3 to 4 days a week for 30 minutes to a hour a week as I get started, Baby steps.  The hope will be to get back to everyone in the next few days for a check in on my progress as well and weight lose and when I am comfortable I will share what my weight is (LOL).  I will also be share information on all the product I have researched and information I have come up with.

Of course I will be taking the Float Tube Fishing Forum along with us as well and I am sure we will all learn a lot together.  Please feel free to let me know what you think, and share any info you have that could help.  Thanks for reading and tight lines as well as keep the rubber on the road.

FTFF Thread

 

Swim Dragon By Croissant Lures

So I was doing my daily posting on Social Media when I came across a new product I had never seen before called the Swim Dragon.  The design is from Crossman Lures in South Africa and these baits are unique to say the least.

The first thing that jumped out at me was that these are made of Silicone not plastics.  So it seemed that these baits would hold up well to the abuse the Saltwater bass could fish out.  

There colors are great and the added eyes and leg make for a great added attraction.  The paddle tail is designed upside down from your normal swim paddle tail and it seem to me it helps ok the fall to move the tail more.  Craig is fast at shipping these out and the price is resonable enough for orders.  I live in Southern California when I purchased it was 5 baits for $20 including shipping.

I rig mine on a Jika Rig but you can rig them many different ways.  The Jika rig keep them close to the floor and allows me to fish them slow or fast.  I can say that the Swim Dragon from Crossman Lures has earned a place in my line up each time out.  Check them out for yourself.

www.crossmenlures.com

Instagram

@crossmanlures

Slick Rod - Protect your Investments

 So I stumbled across and very unique product that I defiantly wanted to know more about.  So first what is Slick Rod?  It is a formulated product to spray on your fishing rod guides and reel housing to provide a ceramic coating that will both keep your investments clean as well as protected from UV light and outdoor elements.

We at the Float Tube Fishing Forum as moved to be an Ambassador and have been offered a 10% discount code for your purchase.  When Purchasing use the code "FTFF10" at check out to get your 10% discount off your whole order.  I will be following up with some reports on how well the Slick Rod product works for me.  As well as what you can expect when you use the Slick Rod product for yourself.

Go to slickrod.com  and again use the code "FTFF10" for your 10% discount.  If you are are like me you enjoy fishing and have spent plenty of money on all your products.  Why not protect your investment.

                                              

Float Tubes are changing in the US are you on board

Maxxon Inflatables, Seven Bass Design, Savage Gear are just some of the top new brands that are out there in the U.S. market that are changing the Float Tube Fishing world.  Most of us that have been float tubing for years now are used to the old standbys of Cumberlands and Fish Cats.  Outcast and Classic Accessories have been for years the top choices.  That is changing and here is why. 

For years in Europe, they have been what are called hybrid boats.  What is a hybrid boat you ask well it is simply a float tube on steroids.  These are float tubes that have more to offer.  The big difference is the material its made of.  Most of them are either made of high-quality PVC or Hypalon.  These materials are unique to our sport at least here in the U.S.  The PVC and Hypalon materials make these boats 10x stronger which can handle some much more abuse from the fisherman.  These boats have no bladders which in some cases limit the overall weight of the boat.  The Seven Bass Expedition and Explorer are only 16 to 18 lbs so much much lighter than most. 

 
Some of these hybrid boats are heavier which can be an issue but besides the weight increase, they offer other options for moving around.  Most of the Hybrid boats have motor mounts so adding a trolling motor is fast and simple.  Some also come with oars a few if the top level hybrid float tubes out there with oars and or motor mounts are the Maxxon XPW 240 (Motor Mount and Oars), the Savage Gear 170 (Oars no Motor Mount) the Seven Bass Flatform ( Motor Mount and Oars) and the Maxxon 239 (Oars and no Motor Mount)
                                                       

                                     

Some of these hybrid boats offer us new options storing our tackle on them as well.  The older boats come with side packs that are sewn on with the hybrid boat most have cliplines or Gromet track systems that allow you to take their packs and attach them where you want them or maybe even DIY your own tackle packs.   Most of Seven Bass hybrid boats have the clipline and the Maxxon hybrid boats have the GTS.  With these systems, you can add whatever you want to where ever you want it.

 

We have options now in the U.S. and the options are with these Hybrid boats.  If you like to float tube fish and are looking for a new float tube why not try looking at some of these boats.  I can say they are worth every penny and you will not be disappointed.   

For more info and to order contact us at floattubefishingforum73@gmail.com

https://floattubeforum.forumotion.com/forum

The Element by Seven Bass

Introducing the ELEMENT’s size and shape is most similar to the SBD and incorporates responsive design features as defined by the North American waterways. This float tube generally fits all body types and is one of the most popular due to increased seat and weight capacity. V-shaped weighs approximately 15 lbs. and has two color-coded internal air chambers for easy inflation. We’ve incorporated a PVC bottom to minimize the risk of puncture from underwater hazards. For improved visibility, there is a security flag holder and bright orange accents. An adjustable foam seat positioned above the waterline for greater comfort. The Clipline consists of nylon webbing and Velcro which runs the length of the float tube. It is designed for versatility and to efficiently anchor loose equipment with lanyards and secure cargo side bags. There are two back seat rod holders, and open storage space behind the seat, ideal for assorted fishing extras (small cooler, pan net, etc.). Our exclusive pocket apron conveniently allows anglers to keep their lures and tackle essentials close at hand. The shallow pocket with double zip closer fits an assortment of small tackle boxes. Cargo bags sold separately. - Maximum weight capacity 300lbs.
For more information or to order contact us at floattubefishingforum73@gmail.com
https://floattubeforum.forumotion.com/forum

Seven Bass One Entry level float tube with muscle

Need an entry level float tube that has all you need to get you on the water in comfort let me share the Seven Bass "One"
Seven Bass Design’s the “One RENEGADE” is available in desert camouflage and weighs just 4.5kg/8lbs. This kick boat model is equipped with all the essentials for anglers new to the sport of float tube fishing. Two vinyl air chambers and seat inserts are quick to install. The seat and air chambers are inflated separately to ensure maximum safety. Once inflated, novices to kick boating will be riding high on the water and feeling comfortably secure. Equipment and tackle can be stored in the large attached side bags, the open space behind the seat, or in our unique pocket apron. - Backpack straps are included for convenient transport when inflated - Available in camouflage: desert - Maximum weight capacity 300lbs.
For info., questions and to purchase contact us at floattubefishingforum73@gmail.com

https://floattubeforum.forumotion.com/forum

Maxxon XPW 240 All you need to get on the water

So I have been lucky enough to have the ability to test and review some really great boats recently.  I have recently been using the XPW 240 from Maxxon Inflatable.  So let me start with this hybrid boats might be expensive but they are so worth every penny.  A hybrid is a float tube that is bladderless and tough. So many think that bladderless boats leave you with the possibility of catastrophic failure, and I was concerned about this as well.  But once I inflated the first Hybrid I was confident that I would be safe. These boats are built to last.

The Maxxon Inflatable XPW 240 is a drop-stitch flat float tube that is unusual looking.  Once you get on this boat and kick offshore you quickly notice this Hybrid boat is one solid and stable boat.  The size of the XPW 240 is almost 8' long and 4' wide and weighs 40 pounds.  Right away you can see that this is a large inflatable that can seem tough to move from the truck to the water.  First, it packs down into a bag that can be put in the trunk of a car with a lot of room left over. Also, you can simply carry it to the water as it has 2 handles perfectly placed to make it balanced and light when you carry it.  

The XPW 240 when on the water is just so comfortable and moves like a dream.  I have been in float tubes for a long time they move with such easy it's amazing.  So I really thought at first it would take more work and effort to move this boat in the water.  I figured I would be tired after struggling to kick this big inflatable in the water. Well, there is nothing further from the truth.  These flatboats glide over the surface of the water and have no drag. I remember being in the sling seat float tubes way back when. Those had drag as half your body was in the water, so it stands to reason the less of you in the water the less drag.  Of course, besides you not being in the water, there is less tube in the water as well. This boat sits right on top of the water.

The XPW 240 by Maxxon Inflatables is one of the top leave boats on the market.  I can safely say you will be happy with a boat like this any questions please ask I am happy to share more details floattubefishingforum73@gmail.com / https://squareup.com/store/floattubeforum

Float Tube Buyers Guide from my eyes

     I have been tubing now for the last 20 years.  I started off in a Browning u-boat which served me well over the years.  I fished it as much as I could and got some great use out of it.  Of course like most sports we are always looking for what is new and better.  I soon found the next best things started to move up in tubes.  Here is what I have floated in over that past 20 years.

• Browning Uboat
• Gallatin Pontoon boat
• Kennebec Pontoon
• Togiak Fishing Float Tube
• U-Boat 2000
• Big Horn Float Tube
• Caddis Pro 2000
• Stillwater Talon
• ODC 420
• Cumberland 
• Seven Bass Flatform

     Over the years I have had lots of experience in different types of tubes as you can see.  I have been able to fish them in different situations and locations.  I have built rod racks and fish finder mounts for them and have generally learned a lot as far as what worked best at least for me.  So what should you look for when you are buying your first or next float tube.

     I believe after fishing in the float tubes with sling bottom seats that being high out of the water is a plus, and would be what most are looking for.  However I have noticed that the higher you are out of the water the more you are at the mercy of the wind that comes up when you are on the water.  It is simple the more body under the water the less you are moved by the wind.  Of course the flip side is the more body in the water the more you are subject to the currents of the water.  So be sure to look at the areas you intend to fish and choose what would work best for you.

     I think the next thing to look at is the tackle storage pockets, some boats have different designs but they are not all equal.    I like the pockets that open to one large pouch using 2 zippers on either end, like what is found on the Cumberland.  The pockets that have 2 pockets on each side that opens with one zipper for each side limit the ability to put in and take out your tackle with out any issues.  Plus the sides matters you need enough room to put in your small size tackle boxes.  A quick fix for these issue are smaller sized tackle boxes or zip lock bags to hold your tackle, this may not be an option for some.

     Next you should be thinking of weight of the overall tube.  This matters especially if you are like to hike to those back country fishing spots.  Some tubes are pretty heavy some are amazing light and still some are right in the middle.  I have used some very light weight tubes and they worked well but in most cases lacked the other things I liked in a float tube like small pockets or low seats.  I have used much heavier tubes as well which have the quality and float high ability, but the weight does limit the distance you can park away form the water.  In my opinion if you are like me, you don't hike but you do like to find new waters, weight can be and issue and you want to find the tube that fits your weight needs.

     Finally you should also be looking for overall quality, or could I say longevity.  It is nice to have a boat that you know will last you a few seasons of fishing, and one that can take the abuse we have can put or tubes through.  The old adage is you get what you pay for and in the world of float tube fishing that is so true.  You can spend as light as $80 and as much as $1500 what is your budget and what are you looking for.  If you are someone that maybe goes out 2 or 3 times a year and just for the heck of it, maybe the low cost options are a good deal for you.  Whoever if you are someone that heads out 2 to 3 time a month or more and fishing is a true passion and not just a fun occtional activtiy they you will be looking to spend some money to get a float tube that with with stand the infalte and deflate over and over again and the constent tossing in and out of your truck or car.  It is very true you get what you pay for.  But even if you buy on the lower end of the scale as long as you take care of your boat you can make it last. 

     I have tried many different tubes over that last 20 years some were great and some were not.  Some I miss and some I do not, if you are looking to get in to this sport I hope I gave you some insight and helped you naviagate the wide world of float tubes that are out there.  Shop around and ask around there is a lot of info out there you just need to search it out.   The sport of float tube fishing is a passion of mine and I know it might not be for everyone, but if you get the right tube you might have a better experiance then you thought.  Good luck and happy shopping.

Float Tube Fishing Guiding in Southern California

I was in my 20's when I first started float tube fishing and it has now been more than 20 years for me.  I can say that is you love to fish like me you will love to float tube like me as well.  I have enjoyed this sport so much that I built the Float Tube Fishing Forum, and have even started Writing our own online Magazine "Float Tube Fishing Forum Quarterly Magazine".  There is something about it this that just makes it so exciting.  I think its that you are in the element with your catch which is so much fun and unique.  Also just being on the water can be so relaxing and I am sure that you will enjoy this sport Float Tube Fishing just as much as I have for the last 20 years. 

So I would like to offer once again my services if you would like to go on a trip to a local Southern California location and try for the first time float tube fishing I can do that for you.  We can fish one of the following locations.

• Puddingstone
• Santa Fe Dam
• Newport Harbor 
• Huntington Harbor
• Los Alamitos Harbor

Cost would be as follows 

• $100 per person for 4 hours on the water 
• $125 per person for 6 hours on the water
• $150 per person for 8 hours on the water

I can take 2 adults at a time and I will provide float tubes and PFD's (if needed).  You can also rent from me a rod and reel if needed for $10 per trip, and if needed I can provide tackle.  Fins and waders (if needed) can also be provided but if you have pair's that fit would be best for you (another $10 charge per person per trip). 

I cannot guaranty that we will catch fish but I can guaranty that you will have fun, be safe and learn all you need to know about float tube fishing and the ability to begin float tube fishing on your own.  You can contact me here or by e-mail floattubefishingforum73@gmail.com

I can float tube most weekend Saturday - Sunday, please allow at least a minimum of 2 weeks to set up a trip and by the time summer starts, I will be available most often Monday through Sunday.