Every angler has their own idea of the perfect fishing experience. Some may want to brave rivers and streams by crossing them on kayaks, while other are content with fishing from the shore. Still others prefer a more gentle fishing experience, and for those people, I’ve got a list of the best fishing float tube ready for you.
5 Best Fishing Float Tube List
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What is a Fishing Float Tube?
A fishing float tube is an inflatable fishing craft where one person can sit and relax while keeping only their feet submerged. It’s best envisioned as a seat with tubes (or pontoons) fitted below and beside it so that it stays afloat.
While every fishing float tube can be used as a regular float tube, the opposite doesn’t apply. If you’d like to learn the ins and outs and what else to look for when buying a fishing float, read on.
Fishing Float Tube Buyer’s Guide
First and foremost, I need to underline that not every float tube is ideal or safe for fishing. Sure, you might get by in a round tube, but the combination of the lack of a backrest and the awkward position means you won’t last long. For that reason, always get a u-shape or v-shape chair design when shopping for a float tube for fishing.
Secondly, you’ll want something that’s waterproof. Most fishing float tubes have seats of either nylon or polyester. Both of these materials are water-repellent, but what you really want to have a look out is the denier rating. The higher the denier rating, the more water-resistant the fabric is – and the more expensive it becomes.
Lastly, consider the weight capacity. If you can afford it, I’d highly suggest going for a fishing float tube that’s above your weight. For those of us that are a little paunchy (myself included), don’t fret too much about the weight capacity either as you can still use a fishing tube below your weight. Just be sure not to push it too hard and always perform maintenance checks before using the fishing float due to the added strain.
Now that you know what to look out for, here’s my list of the best fishing float tubes you can get on the market today.
Best Overall Fishing Float Tube
Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube
Special Features
- Abrasion-resistant PVC bottom and hydrodynamic hull shape
- Comes with cargo pockets, drink holders, rod holders, and other storage compartments
- Fish ruler for quick measurement
Pros: Incredible durability, high seat and great flotation
Cons: Pricey
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
The Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube is one of the best fishing float tubes on the market, as well as my personal favorite.
This floattube is an incredible piece of fishing gear, with a tough, abrasion-resistant PVC bottom to keep you safe and dry, as well as a high seat that gives you a commanding view of the surrounding waters. Anglers both new and grizzled will be happy to note that the Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube comes not only with rod holders and storage components, but also a fish ruler for quick fish measurement.
Bottomline: While the Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube does admittedly command a high price, what you get is a float tube that’s virtually unrivaled in both quality and reliability.
Best Versatile Fishing Float Tube
Classic Accessories Togiak Fishing Tube
Special Features
- Hydrodynamic hull shape for maximum stability and buoyancy
- Lots of storage compartments
- Backpack straps for easy transport
Pros: Stylish gold and gray design, high seat, comes with a fish ruler
Cons: Foam seat pads aren’t a perfect fit
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
If the Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube is a little out of your price range, give its younger brother a spin. The Classic Accessories Togiak Float Tube is a pared-down version of the Cumberland that’s still plenty tough and a great choice.
Everything that’s great about the Cumberland is mostly here – the high seat, the hydrodynamic hull, the storage compartments, as well as the fish ruler. However, the Togiak’s fabric isn’t as tough and abrasion-resistant as the Cumberland’s, which results in a lower price tag.
In spite of this, the Togiak is still a fantastic pick for a float tube. And it really helps that this one is slightly lighter on the wallet, too!
Bottomline: If you’re unwilling or unable to shell out the money for a high-end Classic Accessories fishing float tube, the Togiak presents a good compromise between affordability and quality.
Best Sturdy Fishing Float Tube
Goplus Inflatable Float Tube
Special Features
- Adjustable shoulder strap for easy transport
- Waterproof polyester construction
- Easy to inflate and deflate
Pros: Great durability, net behind seat for carrying big fish, puncture-resistant design, affordable
Cons: Hard components are bit flimsy
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
The Goplus Inflatable Float Tube is my pick for the best affordable float tube for fishing you can get online.
This float tube is deceptively sturdy, with a waterproof polyester construction that ensures you’ll be safe and dry during your fishing trip. An adjustable shoulder strap and extra components make transporting items both in and out of the water a breeze, and this float tube is very easy to inflate and deflate.
However, some users have reported that the harder components in this float tube, such as the PVC bar tend to break quite easily. Because of that, be a little more wary about overloading this fishing float tube than other products.
Bottomline: The Goplus Inflatable Float Tube doesn’t particularly stand out in any regard, but it provides reasonable performance for its cost and is still a reliable and affordable fishing float tube.
Best Safe Fishing Float Tube
Caddis Sports Nevada Float Tube
Special Features
- Double stitched critical seams
- Heavy duty rip stop fabric
- Padded stabilizer bar
Pros: Super secure, affordable, great customer service
Cons: Lower weight capacity than similar float tubes
Weight Capacity: 225 lbs
The Caddis Nevada Float Tube is another great fishing float tube that you can get on the internet today, with this one standing out thanks to its many safety features.
This float tube features both double stitched critical seams and a heavy duty rip stop fabric construction. A custom vinyl u-shaped main floating bladder is further augmented with a backseat bladder, ensuring you stay high above the water’s surface. The Caddis Nevada Float Tube also comes with fluorescent safety accents and a padded stabilizer bar for even more control over your fishing adventures.
While this is undoubtedly a very safe piece of kit, potential customers should be wary of the lower weight capacity on this fishing float.
Bottomline: Thanks to its ton of safety features and impeccable customer service, I can definitely recommend the Caddis Nevada Float Tube for anyone who’s looking for that extra dash of security on the water
Best Affordable Fishing Float Tube
Xproutdoor Inflatable Fishing Float Tube
Special Features
- 600 denier oxford fabric construction
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Buckle straps for added safety
Pros: Waterproof storage compartments on both sides, great weight capacity for its cost, affordable
Cons: No replacement bladders
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
The Xproutdoor Inflatable Fishing Float Tube’s low price belies its dependability. This fishing float is both affordable and sturdy, which are qualities that you’ll always be on the lookout for.
This float tube comes with a 600 denier oxford fabric construction for a waterproof design that’ll keep the rest of your body dry while on the water. It’s got storage compartments on both its left and right side as well as a net bag for larger catches behind the chair.
While this product is both relatively lightweight and buoyant, potential customers should note that the bladders always need to be checked before use, and there are no replacement bladders for this tube.
Bottomline: The Xproutdoor Inflatable Fishing Float Tube is a reliable piece of kit that offers good quality for its low price.
FAQs about Fishing Float Tubes
Are fishing tubes safe?
Yes, they are very safe. Getting used to one takes time, but once mastered, these vessels provide a safe, fun experience on the water.
What are the best designs for a fishing float tube?
The best fishing float tube design is either a u-shape or a v-shape. These shapes offer a good mix of safety, maneuverability, and comfort.
Do I need waders when fishing via a fishing float tube?
They’re not strictly required, but I highly recommend using waders alongside your float tube unless you like getting your legs and feet drenched. Waders will also protect your legs from nasty critters like leeches.
Can I use a fishing floats on larger bodies of water?
Unless they’ve been cleared for fishing tubes use, do not use your fishing floats on the sea or ocean. While fishing float tubes are very comfortable, they’re not built to withstand rough waves and choppy waters.
Can I use a fishing float with a lower capacity than my weight?
In general, yes – fishing floats are certified only up to a weight that they can carry indefinitely. With that said, I’d highly advise not pushing the weight limits too far, and using the fishing float for a shorter period of time.
Enjoy Your New Fishing Float Tube
Whether it’s to laze in a pond or to cruise down a river, your new float tube is sure to open your mind to whole new world of fishing possibilities. Fishing floats are undoubtedly tough, but always remember to use your best judgment when setting sail!