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Search found 73 matches for 1

Trolling motor on Cumberland - Thu Jul 18, 2019 12:39 pm

All, I am posting here by request more pictures and explanation of my MinnKota powered Cumberland.
I weight about 215#.  The Cumberland is rated at 350# load capacity.  The motor and sealed lead AGM battery and box add about 60#.  The motor is a 24 ft/lb 12v old MinnKota.  It is a standard rear transom mount that I simply removed one bolt in the down shaft and spun the motor 180 degrees to reverse the direction, so it now PULLS instead of pushes the tube.  The left side mounted transom is very comfortable to drive.  I added a large steel wide angle ‘Ski mirror’ I bought from Amazon so I can see where I am going since I face opposite the direction I travel.  I estimate the battery life to be over 4 hours with full time fish finder use and intermittent powering and trolling use of the motor.  The FF shows the battery voltage.
The following pictures [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] - [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] show the tube with the PVC assembly and motor on it and in the water.  Note in picture [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] that the tube is low in the bow due to the motor and battery weight.  When I set on the seat it balances out fine.  I have the battery mounted as far to the opposite side of the bow compartment as possible to offset the motor hanging off the left side.  Side to side is nicely balanced this way.  NOTE that this rod holder frame has been redone many times to improve it so it has a LOT of extra couplings etc.  I tried a center front transom first, but the motor steering/control was VERY uncomfortable, so I switched to the left side which is great.
I am now going to try to insert 28 pictures with some explanations.  
Let me mention that this PVC frame is made to take apart and fit in a cardboard box. The entire boat and accessories minus the poles and battery fit in a car top carrier as I travel all summer in a motor home.
In picture [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] the up arrow on the left shows the back of the tube a little up out of the water.
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

In picture [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] note the transom holds the cover on the battery box.
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Picture [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] shows the direction of travel and comfort of control.
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Picture [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] shows where each bow corner of the PVC assembly fits in relation to the air valves and the battery box location.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Pictures [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] hopefully leave few questions.  I do not include exact measurements.  You can modify to suit your needs as far as rod holders etc.  I fasten this onto the tube with four pieces of nylon rope from the corners to the D rings on the bottom of the tube.  I leave minimal stuff on the tackle pockets and of course carry the motor, battery, fins, poles, anchor and remaining tackle and bait in separate trips from the car or truck.  3-4 trips I'd say.

Send specific questions via PM or this thread if you have them.
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Search in: Float Tube and Pontoon Tips, Tricks and Mods  Topic: Trolling motor on Cumberland  Replies: 18  Views: 1742

Raffling off a Maxxon XPW 240 - Tue May 28, 2019 3:20 pm

OK guys this is a go we will be starting up the raffle June 10th for the Maxxon XPW 240 brand new in the box.  The Raffle for will a max of 25 spots open $50 per spot and a max of only 2 spots per person.  When I open this up I will put a message out and the first 25 slots filled will close the thread (I am sure it will go fast).  

Once they are all in I will turn around and start collecting payments there will be a time frame for that as well we will say 48 hours after I put out the PayPal link.  If you do not make the payment in they 48-hour time slot your spot could go to someone else that is waiting.

Next step will be to assign your slots and that will be by random drawing.  so if you have 2 slots you will be assigned 2 slots you just don't know what 2 slots they will be.  You could have any of the 2 from #1 to #25 it will be chosen randomly and the video of this happening will be available on the forum in the appropriate thread.  Once we have all the slots filled we will conduct the online raffle which will be done the same way that we used to select the slots your name was added to.  There can only be one winner and it will be simple by chance.

If we chose to run this again and I am sure we will the winner from the last raffle will not be allowed to be in the next raffle.  The hope here is to get this boat on the water with other people so they can also share with others what they think.  Please let me know what you all think and if you are interested in being in the raffle.

You must be in the U.S. to be apart of the Raffle.

Topics tagged under 1 on FLOAT TUBE FISHING FORUM - Page 2 61086311
Search in: FTFF Auction Block and Sales  Topic: Raffling off a Maxxon XPW 240  Replies: 83  Views: 3984

Fish Finder - Fri May 03, 2019 6:49 pm

Also look into the Lowrance FishHunter PRO and the Lowrance FishHunter Directional 3D - Portable Fish Finder , almost identical to the Deeper pro in every aspect  . The lowrance has a better sensor and higher resolution for picking apart structure .  which is the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] reason we have a finder in the first place Smile At only $149

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Search in: Share Your Photos & Videos  Topic: Fish Finder   Replies: 22  Views: 1008

Newbie to the forum - Fri May 03, 2019 9:28 am

Alakai wrote:Welcome to the forum Chili, funny that I was just on a texas fishing forum about kayaks this morning. I have the cumberland also and love it.



It’s rated the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] tube of 2019 so far

Sent from Topic'it App
Search in: U.S. South Region Introductions and Discussions  Topic: Newbie to the forum  Replies: 22  Views: 580

bait size? - Fri Apr 19, 2019 6:25 pm

kin wrote:Out of curiosity, what is the largest bait size everyone is comfortable fishing spotties with?

I'm pretty big on 3.5" but i'm hesitant on going anywhere past 4.5". But thinking about the spinner bait fish, spotties will inhale the larger baits just fine. Should I just be throwing larger baits overall to better my chances at the true pigs?


GREAT QUESTION!

I'm definitely not as experienced as most that will chime-in here on this topic and I'm not really certain of what-it-is that you consider to be a "true pig".

Personally ... I stay true to my 1/4oz HUB's.
I've landed some pretty nice SW PB's recently and in the past using them.

My best PB pigs were a Spotty at 18 3/4", a 25" Barracuda a few weeks ago and (2) 36" 21-lbs Halibut out of the (6) legal Hali's I landed last season, to name a few.

For me what is important: ... [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] confidence in my lure, [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] timing: being at the right place on the water at the right time, [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] bait presentation ... [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] understanding the desired habitats of your targeted species and finally [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] which is the most important ....... 50% skill and 50% LUCK!

If you feel that going larger or changing colors will entice the bite for you .... then I say ... go for it! [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

Good luck out there landing your pigs!

SP Dan      <"))><
Search in: Salt water Fishing tips and tricks  Topic: bait size?  Replies: 8  Views: 886

Assaulted Mission Bay Sat 3-23-2019 - Sun Mar 24, 2019 8:54 pm

I made it home safely ...
However .. the drive home was 112 miles of stop and go traffic. Was it worth it? Yup!! [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

There was a weed fire in the center median, throwing 10' - 15' flames near San Onofre and then a bit later up the road there was a terrible multi-car accident evolving 8 -10 cars, I could see an injured person laying on the side of the road receiving (CPR) full-on chest compression's with breath assist! Dang! I hope that they were able to save the person.

Thanx for chiming-in Rick! [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.] Your [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] in my books as well Brotha!
Search in: Fishing Reports Western Region  Topic: Assaulted Mission Bay Sat 3-23-2019  Replies: 8  Views: 456

Assaulted Mission Bay Sat 3-23-2019 - Sun Mar 24, 2019 10:41 am

as long as you had a Good time stayed safe and made it back your still [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] in my Book Great job [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]
Search in: Fishing Reports Western Region  Topic: Assaulted Mission Bay Sat 3-23-2019  Replies: 8  Views: 456
[quote="fish stalker"]"Team Freshwater will be fishing for Largemouth Bass, and each bass will need to be 10” or more to count for the overall total numbers of fish.

Saltwater Killers will be fishing for Spotted Bay Bass and each bass will need to be 10” or more to count for the overall total numbers of fish."

This is from post [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.].

My opinion is we stick to the original rules.[/quote

That is perfect and only fair. I was just making sure.
"Team Freshwater will be fishing for Largemouth Bass, and each bass will need to be 10” or more to count for the overall total numbers of fish.

Saltwater Killers will be fishing for Spotted Bay Bass and each bass will need to be 10” or more to count for the overall total numbers of fish."

This is from post [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.].

My opinion is we stick to the original rules.

What are your float tube goals for 2019 - Fri Dec 28, 2018 12:50 pm

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] To land just one more legal Halibut than my personal best Halibut count of my previous Seasons.
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] To contribute more towards the FTFF members
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] To offer more OPEN INVITES to the FTFF community
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Try to make it to the Fred Hall Show
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] To float tube fish in Montana
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] To invite a veteran to go fishing
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] To start saying "I would like to" instead of "I should".

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

SP Dan     <"))><
Search in: Fishermen helping fishermen  Topic: What are your float tube goals for 2019  Replies: 5  Views: 287

Vote for your favorite Pumpkin - Thu Nov 01, 2018 9:32 am

OK well we have 3 entry's so guys please vote who's pumpkin do you think was the best.  

Our 3 entry's are from Ornery Bob with is Logo Pumpkin.
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Next is Jerdon with his Parana Pumpkin
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Finally, we have Alikai with the Shark and Tuber Pumpkin
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The winner will get to sport this banner in three signature till next year.  
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Good luck to all and thanks to all that got involved including those that vote.
Search in: Contest, Fishing Events and Tournaments  Topic: Vote for your favorite Pumpkin  Replies: 9  Views: 487

Splitshotting plastic worm fishing - Sat Oct 13, 2018 12:55 pm

OK so I have not done this but I think I will give it a shot at the Toy Drive Nov. 18th. Just wondering and maybe I did not read it all but which style of slipshot fishing are we talking about.

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Search in: Freshwater Fishing tips and tricks  Topic: Splitshotting plastic worm fishing  Replies: 9  Views: 639

Splitshotting plastic worm fishing - Fri Oct 12, 2018 11:30 pm

Just wondered if anyone still uses the old method of "splitshotting" for bass? We used to use this method with a Kalin Salty 4 inch ribbon tail finesse worm or a 6 inch Sportsman's Superfloat purple plastic worm, a [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] or 1/0 hook and a [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] round split shot on 6 pound line. It was almost like fishing a crank bait or a spinnerbait. Reel it back in with a slow, steady retrieve that got that tail swimming like a minnow. Worked great at most of our lakes, but most of the bass were not giants. I still use it at my local park lakes and when I float tubed at Lake Perris, which was a pretty good producer to use as I drifted along in the breeze, though I haven't fished for bass there for a long time. Whatever happened to Kalins?
Search in: Freshwater Fishing tips and tricks  Topic: Splitshotting plastic worm fishing  Replies: 9  Views: 639
My $.02

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] - Has to have a ruggedized bottom. Rubberized or PVC bottom are non-negotiable. I launch and land in some rough places, and Cordura or ballistic nylon bottoms are non-starters. I'll kill them. I have.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] - Redundant Flotation. My beloved Wood River tube inflated the V pontoons, and also had an inflatable back rest. My current Fat Cat has a single inflation for the V pontoons but has a floating seat and back. Ideally, there will be two inflation points for the V pontoons (several have this now) so you can loose a 'toon and still limp back to shore. A round belly boat without an inflatable back or floating seat is dangerous to me.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] - Storage on the arms. Storage behind me doesn't do me any good - I toss leaders and other stuff I 'might' need back there. Storage on the arms (above the 'toons) is where the stuff goes that I WILL need. And I bring a lot of stuff.


[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] - Comfort. I will be in the saddle for hours. The seat can't be too long (some are) whereby they put undue pressure on the back of my legs as I kick and kick. I sit up nearly 90 degrees - so I like a tight back and clearance for my legs. My Fat Cat has both.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] - Capacity. I'm not a big guy (173#) so any modern tube will float me comfortably. If you're a big guy, you don't want to Jimmy Dean into the seat or sit too low in the saddle. Check capacity. All tubes have ratings. Remember, it has to float you AND your gear.


That's my short list. I don't care about weight, or rod holders or after-market accessories. I make my own stuff and I'm pretty strong. Getting my tube to the water fully loaded is not a problem. I'm not packing it in.... there are lightweight tubes for that purpose. For my every week, launch over the rocks, bounce off the docks and the trees kinda fishing I do - the 5 above are what I look for.

- Ken


Well, I find myself continually tweaking my arsenal to better fit myself, the conditions and
the weight and strength of my nemesis, my targeted species.

So as of today ... this is how my 3 stixs are set up for LAH:


[b]Stix [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
: (Main meat stix, Jika-rig, DS or 2nd sleeper rod)
Name: St Croix BassX Model: BXS68MXF 1-piece Graphite SC11 6'-8"
Line rated: 6 - 12lb, Lure Rated: 3/16oz  - 5/8oz
Reel: Shimano Ci4 Stradic 2500 Line: Diawa Samurai 8-carrier 30 lb braid w/ a 4-ft long clear Seaguar InvizX 15 lb Fluorocarbon leader.
Knot used for fluoro to braid: RP (Royal Polaris).
Used to toss: 3/8oz, 5/8oz HUB's, Drop Shot rig[/b]

[b]Stix [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]: (Main meat stix, Jika-rig, DS or 2nd sleeper rod)
Name: St Croix AvidX Model: AXS68MXF 1-piece Graphite SC111  6'-8"
Line rated: 6 - 12lb, Lure Rated: 3/16oz  - 5/8oz
Reel: Shimano Ci4 Stradic 2500 Line: Diawa Samurai 8-carrier 30 lb braid w/ a 4-ft long clear Seaguar InvizX 15 lb Fluorocarbon leader.
Knot used for fluoro to braid: RP (Royal Polaris).
Used to toss: 3/8oz, 5/8oz HUB's, Drop Shot rig[/b]

[b]Stix [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]: (Finesse Stix, DS, Jika-rig and dock shooting)
Name: B "n" M Sharpshooter Model: SSD60 1-piece Graphite SC11  6'
Line rated: 4 - 8lb, Lure Rated: 1/8oz  - 1/4oz
Reel: Shimano Ci4 Stradic 2500 Line: Diawa Samurai 8-carrier 20 lb braid w/ a 4-ft long clear Seaguar InvizX 12 lb Fluorocarbon leader.
Knot used for fluoro to braid: RP (Royal Polaris).
Used to toss: 1/4oz HUB's, 3/16oz Hammerheads w/ 3" Hammers, 3/16oz Cool Baits w/ under Spin, Jika-rig w/ creatures[/b]

Also as of today ... this is how my 3 stixs are set up for LAB, HH, NPH & SDMB:

[b]Stix [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.], [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] & [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] are all the same Stix: (Finesse Stix, DS, Jika-rig and dock shooting)
Name: B "n" M Sharpshooter Model: SSD60 1-piece Graphite SC11  6'
Line rated: 4 - 8lb, Lure Rated: 1/8oz  - 1/4oz
Reel:Shimano Ci4 Stradic 2500 Line: Diawa Samurai 20 lb braid w/ a 4-ft long Seaguar InvizX 12 lb Fluorocarbon leader.
Used to toss: 1/4oz HUB's, 3/16oz Hammerheads w/ 3" Hammers, 3/16oz Cool Baits w/ under Spin, Jika-rig w/ creatures[/b]

I hope that by sharing my gear set-up with all of you, that you may also tweak your gear and end-up catching more quality fish as well during your sessions! [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

Tight Lines ...

SP Dan     <"))><
LAH ... Sunday 6-17-2018
I put in a semi-long session with Lee and Ken a.k.a. Mo2vation today. Thanks for the great time men!!
I was privileged to have fished in the shadows of these two well seasoned FT anglers today ... thank you!

It was exciting to see the large leaf kelp forest flourishing so well once again! It means that the fishery is healthy as well!
Lee, Ken and I spent a few hours fishing today in the newly re-born forest. it still needs to populate with more fish.

Priorities: My [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Rule is to always check and or change out my leader line and to make certain that my hooks are needle sharp.
Well ... I didn't follow my simple rule today and I lost one of the best and heaviest strikes ever!!! My leader had nicks in it and my line was not in very good condition for the fish strike that I received ... a rookie mistake and I knew better! Ouch!!
So the first thing that I did after washing all of the salt off all of my gear was to cut-off approx 1.5 ft of my braid above my RP knot and replace all of my leaders with a fresh RP knot, a fresh 4' long [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Inviz fluorocarbon leader and a new HUB on each rod setup. Now ... my gear and I am ready to go at it again in the suds!!

Gray light: 0450 hrs
Miles Kicked On FT: 2.60 miles
Calories Burnt: Approx 904 if we had been walking so I'm going to guess approx 1,000+ calories burnt today.
Swell: SSW
Air Temp: 62 deg to 65 deg, cloudy cool sky's w/ a marine layer all day.
Water Temp: 66 - 68 deg
Session Duration: 0500 hrs until 1230 hrs (7.5 hrs).
Sun Rise: 0542 Hrs, Sun Set: 2005 hrs
Moon Phase: waxing crescent
Wind: 0600 hrs 2-mph SSW, 1200 hrs 10-mph SW
CE: 80 in the morning, high average
Bait Presence: massive amounts of bait and bait balls in the water every where
Sea Dog Presence: just a few
Sea Bird Presence: no diving birds to report
Dolphin Presence: a pod of 6-7, a joy to watch them work the harbor waters
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

Surf: 1 ft, Swell: 1.5 ft, Sec's Between Sets: 6
Tidal Condition: 0500 hrs 0.8 ft, 0600 hrs -0.3 ft, 0700 hrs -0.7 ft, 0724 LT hrs -0.8 ft, 0900 hrs 0.0 ft, 10.00 1.1 ft, 1100 hrs 2.2 ft, 1200 hrs 3.1 ft, 1300 hrs 3.8 ft.
Isolunar: End of Major period 0458 hrs until 0628 hrs, Minor Period: 0915 hrs until 1045 hrs.  <"))>< <"))>< <"))><
Bait used: 3/8 oz Glow Green Sardine, 1/4 oz Mint and 1/4 oz White Shad colored HUB's with Bio-Edge scent.

Lee and Ken on a double hook up!!
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Ken's fish count:  (34 fish) 4-different species, (1) new species, the Bass trifecta and 6 legals and a Bat Ray on "The SS Enterprise FT"
Bait used: 3/8 oz mint, 1/4 oz Mint, 1/4 oz White Shad, 1/4oz Green Sardine and 1/4oz Red Crab colored HUB's
(30) Sandy's w/ 6-legals
(2) Spotty's
(1) Calico
(1) Rockfish (NS)
Ken is a 100% CPR sportsman ... he only captures, photographs/measures and releases his catch as quickly as possible!

Lee's fish count:  (18 fish) 4-different species
Bait used Sardines
(4) keeper Rockfish
(2) keeper Sculpin
(12) short Calico's and Sandy's combined

Dan's Fish Count: (42 fish) 5-different species, the Bass trifecta and 8 legals and a Bat Ray on "The SS Stitch FT":

(2) YFC  best 10 1/2"
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

(32) Sandy's w/ 7-legals: 14 1/2", 14 1/4", 14 1/4", 14", 15", 14 3/4", and 14,
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(1) Kelp Bass 13 3/4"
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(5) calico's best 11 1/2"
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(2) Spotty's best a 15" legal
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I only post one of each species unless there are multi legals, PB's or NS (new species).
PS ... I am a 100% CPR sportsman ... I only capture, photograph/measure and release as quickly as possible!

And ... thank you to everyone for taking the time to view my posting!    [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

SP Dan     <"))><
Search in: Fishing Reports Western Region  Topic: Celebrated Father's Day in LAH Sunday 6-17-18  Replies: 4  Views: 217
Hey folks

Been tubin' from the start. My current ride for the last 5 or 6 seasons is a Super Fat Cat by Outcast.  After about 20 years of using the Caddis rod holders (finest tube rod holders on the planet) - I've decided to take the plunge and build a proper rod rack.  

a) two rod  holders often isn't enough.  I generally take out 2 spinning and a fly rod for fresh... taking a 4th or 5th rod is pretty impractical without a rack, and I want to add another fly rod

b) I'm adding a Helix 5 GPS to the rig this week... and it will sit where the Caddis holder has sat forever.

I've gone down the PVC route, and always come back to the Caddis holders.  They are simply a marvel of perfect design.  Proper angle easy to adjust with one hand, accommodate fly rod or spinning rod effortlessly, the mount is in the back and not in the middle... they're simply perfect.   As an alternative to the PVC rack, I've opted for the Cast Mate.  I have two and I' working through them this weekend.

I'll have shots of them later.  Still working through things.  I'll be rigging them OB-style - on top of the float, around the pockets, under the cup holder.  I seriously can't see any other way of installing them.

They are a pretty neat set up.  They are far from perfect, but they are absolutely built for this purpose, and I like purpose-built stuff.

If you're considering the Cast Mate system (and you should), here are my early thoughts:

1) assembly can be problematic. The screws are tapping as they're screwing.  The instructions state you MUST use a [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Phillips driver.  I have half-a-dozen... not the best fit.  Too much torque required to tap.  After spinning out the first two screws, I ended up using a robo-grip to turn the screw past the tapping stage, and finished with the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.].  Much better way to go.

2) the rod holders are awful.  I have the Cast Mate Fly Rod holders.  The mount is cool - love that I can slide along the rail.  But the rod holding tube is an awful design - especially for a fly rod.  And even for a spinning rod.  

At first, I simply black tape-wrapped my beloved Caddis rod holders (to increase the diameter) and made them work in the Cast Mate rail mounts.  But I realized I do much more spinning of the rod holders (trees, docks, tight spaces, etc.) than I do sliding them.... and the tape solution effectively nullified the spin feature.  

I've tossed the Cast Mate holders and upgraded to Scotty rail clamp base.

With the Scotty [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] base I added the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] bottom plate - these two will grip the 1" OD tube of the Cast Mate rails and will allow any Scotty post mount to be inserted.  

I ended up swapping out the 4 bolts that came with the Scotty.  They use 1/4-20 bolts (nice) but they are too long, and they protrude a bit... I don't trust something that thready that close to my tube.  So I made a trip to HD and grabbed some 1/4-20  1.5 inch.... perfect!!

Rod holder mounts and Transducer mount all done.  Still cycling through rod holders to figure out which I like best.  Its getting down to the Scotty or the Brocraft holders.  

The Scotty holder won't fit into the Brocraft base, but the Brocraft holder will fit into the Scotty base.  Scotty holders are designed, by and large, for trolling... so they are a very tight fit.  The Brocraft is so much easier to lift and turn than the Scotty... we'll see.  The major upside to the Brocraft is they're designed almost like the Caddis - with a drop in notch design.... as all rod holders should be.

SO:

* Rack done (Cast Mate)

* Rod holder mounts done (Scotty)


NEXT:

* Fish finder mounting (It'll be here Monday - a 5 ah from Wade at FF Mounts.  Such a nice guy)

* Picking the Rod Holders

* Net solution - I fashioned a net mount years ago.  I have to move it now with the FF and the racks.  I may just let it ride shotgun in the back of the tube.  I don't need speed with the net, just accessibility with my left hand.  

More in the next few weeks as I test and perfect, re-config and get this on the water.

- Ken


Caddis Float Tube Rod Holder... best ever.
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Caddis with Spin Rod - Nice!
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Caddis with Fly Rod- Nice!
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Brocraft - very good, drop in design... good for Spin or Fly Rods

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Awful design of Cast Mate Fly Rod Holder.... most sub-9 wt fly rods don't have butts.... how is this thing going to hold the fly rod?  Sorry guys. Love the rack, tossing the holders.
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Too scary with the stock bolts.
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Shorter bolts rule!
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Search in: Share Your Photos & Videos  Topic: Updating The Ride - building out my Super Fat Cat  Replies: 42  Views: 2358

Floating around sunken timber and stumps - Thu Mar 01, 2018 2:42 pm

Hey Mudduck,

4 out of the 5 voices that I hear in my head say to .... "go for it!"
I'm assuming that you can always keep a certain distance between yourself and the hazardous debris. Is this correct?
Just keep your own safety as your [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] priority, invite a buddy, always wear your PFD and have on a safety whistle.

Exposed trees, submerged trees, rock piles and stumps all make for some really outstanding fish structures.
Why not plan a RECON mission to your new AO and really check it out ... of course, entering it with a certain degree of caution.
This could actually turn out to be a great "honey hole" for you ... and for a lot of your future FT sessions.

Just my 2-cents,  [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

SP Dan     <"))><
Search in: Fishing Related Discussions  Topic: Floating around sunken timber and stumps  Replies: 4  Views: 500

My SAFETY IS #1 - Fri Oct 20, 2017 11:19 pm

At times I'm motivated to load everything that I own; for fishing, into my FT because everything seems so important or that it will be needed during one of my sessions.

One of the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] most important things to carry; to me, is my is my float tube inflation hose, next to my PFD and my assist whistle.

A while back I was fishing in the LAB with fellow FTFF member David886720, I was releasing a fish and it flipped-up off my lap tray and landed ontop the right side baffle, puncturing a hole thru my float tube bladder. Hssss!!!!!!
We were approx an 1/8 mile from our launch (close) and David came to my rescue with his float tube inflation hose that he always carries with him on his FT.
Was I ever surprised and relieved!
I inserted the hose into the Boston Valve and left it connected as I needed to blow air back into my FT bladder approx every 10-minutes.

David really came to my assist and rescued the remainder of my session and my dignity, I was able to fish another two hours with the hissing puncture.

Since that time with David, I have been punctured again at the LAB, but this time I am carrying my float tube inflation hose with me.
And now, I'll never leave the shoreline without it.

I've been punctured two more times.
This one time, I was approx 3/4 mile from my launch; deep in the Jungle, and a repair patch failed me. S_hit does Happen!
And the other time was once again another fish attack ... Hhssss!!!
This time it punctured the bottom side of the bladder on it's release.

Then on two other occasions, I had lent my float tube inflation hose out to singletrack because he had either a puncture leak or a failed patch. He was also able to continue his session of catching more fish than me. lol What can I say!

Bottom line: with a puncture, I don't panic because I know that I have the means to put air back into my FT bladder and to make it back safely to my launch with all my gear in-tact without sinking.

FYI: You can puncture your air bladder by rubbing it against the docks, piers, columns, mussels, docked boats, clams, barnacles ...... ect.

Maintaining the air in my tubes is one of my [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] priorities!
So ... I recommend that we all be sure to pack our float tube inflation hose's on our FT's along with our PFD's and our safety whistles.

PS ... Thank you David, you inspired me to carry mine at all times, I am so grateful to you!  [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]
I now carry mine; at all times, behind the driver seat of my Cumberland in it's extremely convenient cargo storage pouch.

PSS ... Not everyone has the Boston Valves on their float tubes, so be certain to bring the one that fits your valve.

Thanx for putting up with the extremely "YAWN" long read.  [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

SP Dan    <"))><
Search in: Float Tube, Pontoon, and Equipment Related Discussions  Topic: My SAFETY IS #1  Replies: 8  Views: 585

Wear PFD or not? - Fri Oct 20, 2017 10:09 pm

You have both brought up some very valid and practical points.

Preparing yourself for a safe and fun experience on the water is a good thing and to know your own limits is key.

Our safety; while we are out there on the water, is our [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] priority and FUN is [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to me.

Bottom line: Wear you PFD's people.

Thanx guys,

SP Dan     <"))><

PS ... stop post hijacking, it's not appreciated. [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]
Search in: Float Tube, Pontoon, and Equipment Related Discussions  Topic: Wear PFD or not?  Replies: 9  Views: 811

Another Mod To My Cumberland - Mon Jun 26, 2017 6:51 pm

After quite a few discussions; with fellow Float Tubers, about the PROs and CONs of each FT, I put on my thinking cap.

One of the primary concerns that I have with the Cumberland is the exposed stitching on the end-caps of each bladder.
I've gone so as far as to have the end-caps professionally sewn ... not a good enough fix tho!

So ... AS-SEEN-ON-TV

I purchased (2) two spray cans of Flex Seal.
I masked off the end-caps to approx 1" below the largest circular stitched fabric ring.

I applied the rubber spray in two coats.
My goal was to protect the end-cap fabric and their stitching.

1) I first inflated my float tube a bit fuller than I would normally.
2) I cleaned all of the area to be coated with isopropyl alcohol.
3) Masked the area off real well.
4) I did this in a well ventilated area but out of the wind.
5) I followed the MFGR's application directions.
6) Removed the masking immediately before it began to dry.
7) I left the tube inflated over night to mold the rubber.
8 ) I waited a day
9) Repeated steps [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] thru 8 after 24-hours.

Please let me know what you think about my original idea.

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I'm planning on doing my screened bow netting next. It's just another flaw in the Cumberland in my books.

I hope to see ya'll out on the water!

Tight lines,

SP Dan    <"))><
Search in: Float Tube and Pontoon Tips, Tricks and Mods  Topic: Another Mod To My Cumberland  Replies: 48  Views: 3925
you know so many people I have talked to this spring only bought there fishing license to fish the bass spawn and then store there boats until next year and I asked why and the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] reason I was giving was the drought and low water conditions  and it had made conditions for a lot of angler's too challenging .. so most people then take there $$ to salt water charters and to the pay to fish lakes where most do not require a state license and have frequent stocks.

Will going to a 12 month license help ? maybe , but if you really look at the numbers they posted on $$ loss it happened right when lakes started dropping Water all over California , but you look at the hype of catching a 20# bass in the 80's - early 90's was real especially at Castaic Lake was when they earned the most $$ ...  

The fact is people will pay and have no problem paying , Fishing really is a hype game and if you dont believe it look at how many people will go out and buy that same $200 lure just because it produces

Wes
I'll be heading up to my Spring time time-share this next Fri; the 12th, and as most of you already know about me,  ...  I know squate about fresh water Bass fishing and I avoid it if at all possible.

I normally sit on my dock and cast an adjustable slip bobber w/ stopper with an inflated worm or Power bait to fish the top water or I'll fish up from the bottom using power bait and or again use an inflated worm. Of course corn and garlic scent on everything.

I will also bring along my assortment of flies and some clear water bulbbers

So I'll be FT fishing BBL for the first time and I'm open to serious suggestions.
Of course I'll be heading over to BB Tackle for some fresh gear and INTEL from there Pro's.

My number [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] question is:
How much of my SW harbor gear will work at BBL if I wanted to hunt Bass?
What should I bring along with me from my SW arsenal?

Are Hammerheads and 3" Big hammers effective.
Would the Coolbait be effective there?
Or ... what should I purchase for the Bass in order to slay them?
Who am I kidding (Ha ha ha!) ... in order to land my first FW SM or LM Bass!

Any and all help will be much appreciated!  [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

Thanks in advance .... the Grasshopper,  [You must be [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] to see this image.]

SP Dan
Search in: Fishing Related Discussions  Topic: Calling On All The FW Guys For Some Help!  Replies: 5  Views: 456

Dry fly magic - Wed May 03, 2017 7:08 pm

I have quite a few small stream spots, probably my favourite form of trout fishing creeping up tiny becks (creeks to you guys) with a 6'9 [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] or 7' [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.], I've just ordered a 7' [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] glass rod so I'm looking forward to that arriving.
I found some other shots I missed off, I released a lot of trout without a photo as well lol

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And these from an impromptu trip up into the north Yorkshire dales the week before last
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Search in: Europe Region Fishing Reports  Topic: Dry fly magic   Replies: 4  Views: 877
Jigs and dropshot are by far my favorite ways to fish with jigs being [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]. A lot of people look down on dropshot and I don't understand it. Any time you can go out and catch 25 fish is a good day no matter what you use. I've done well in boat tournaments with both and they are definitely my confidence builders.

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