Anyone own a Dave Scadden Zonker Lo-Pro?

Dear Board,

I have several float tubes and float boats, but they are all kind of clunky to transport with a Subaru Outback or a Ford Expedition while fully inflated.

I am interested in the Zonker Lo-Pro because it says it will handle my weight, and fit in my Outback.

But I'd like to hear from someone who owns one or has used one before I pull the trigger.

Given where I live and the time of year, I probably won't buy anything until Spring unless a swinging deal hits me in the face.

I'd like something that I can carry fully inflated in an Outback and that will float a fat blob like me at 6'5" and 350 pounds.

I'm open to suggestions too, so let me know.

Regards,

Tim Murphy

Harrisburg, PA

Picked up a zonker from Dave in March to replace my ODC 420.
Pontoons smaller diameter so sits low to the wind.
Rigid seat is similar to paddle board provides outstanding floatation.
Fits inside my excursion.
But really light tube so can just strap to the roof of your outback.
Already had the bigger 9' detonator lo pro for a couple of years for longer trips and to carry cooler, rods, trolling motor and 2 batteries
Would buy either one in a heartbeat if I needed to replace.
See my prior reports
Wi tuber also with zonker

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I have used one.

My opinion is strongly that 350 lbs is too much for the Zonker. You won't sink, but you will sit too low in the water - just my opinion.

Tim Murphy wrote:Dear Board,

I have several float tubes and float boats, but they are all kind of clunky to transport with a Subaru Outback or a Ford Expedition while fully inflated.

I am interested in the Zonker Lo-Pro because it says it will handle my weight, and fit in my Outback.

But I'd like to hear from someone who owns one or has used one before I pull the trigger.

Given where I live and the time of year, I probably won't buy anything until Spring unless a swinging deal hits me in the face.

I'd like something that I can carry fully inflated in an Outback and that will float a fat blob like me at 6'5" and 350 pounds.

I'm open to suggestions too, so let me know.

Regards,

Tim Murphy

Harrisburg, PA

Thank you both for your responses.  I always thought Scadden was very generous with their capacity listings.  

I guess I'll get Bucks Bags Roughneck or the FRM Hybrid in the Spring.

I'm big and fat and want to live!

Regards,

Tim Murphy

Tim Murphy wrote:Thank you both for your responses.  I always thought Scadden was very generous with their capacity listings.  

I guess I'll get Bucks Bags Roughneck or the FRM Hybrid in the Spring.

I'm big and fat and want to live!

Regards,

Tim Murphy

Agree. Scadden has some good products, but I find his marketing to exceed his products - this is just my opinion. I've tested two of his designs extensively. Also he priced his 'retail' high, and then discount from there.

Tim Murphy wrote:Thank you both for your responses.  I always thought Scadden was very generous with their capacity listings.  

I guess I'll get Bucks Bags Roughneck or the FRM Hybrid in the Spring.

I'm big and fat and want to live!

Regards,

Tim Murphy

Don't give up on the Scadden watercraft!  I'm 6'2" and 265 lbs.  I bought a Scadden Raptor Lite Speed X and I absolutely love it.  

I also drive a Subaru... and the Raptor fits in the back of my Forester (with the rear seat folded) with a little deflation so I can fold it inwards a bit and fold the tips of the pontoons over.  
It only takes a minute or two to top it back off before fishing.
Leaving it inflated and strapping it to the roof is another totally viable option.

Hi Tim,

I have a Hobie Float Cat 75 for sale. Great condition and complete. It has a capacity of 350lb and the advantage of not having to be inflated. Check your Outback - it is 75 inches long and will break down but the pontoons are still that length. [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]