Maiden Voyage 7/1/13

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

I finally made my maiden voyage yesterday at the LAB.  I put the tube in the water for about 30 minutes.  I fished just off of PCH right across from a huge shopping center near 2nd street in Long Beach.  I caught my first spottie there from the shore, so I wanted to give it a shot in the tube.

What I learned:
1) When the current is ripping like a river, it is probably not a good idea to put the tube in the water especially solo.
2) I need a rod holder for the tube.

3) I need a tubing partner.

4) I need more practice turning.

5) I need a baseball hat vs. my huge Asain style straw hat to see over my shoulder while tubing.  Afterall, you drive that thing in reverse, which takes some getting used to.  A rear view mirror would be nice when tubing so close to the docks and rocks.

My tube is a ODC 420 and I love it.  It was easy to pump up and deflate.  Lots of storage space on it.

I just have 1 question for you guys. How much air should I put in the tube? I first did it really tight then realized that it was probably too much air so I let some out. When I squeezed it there was a little give. I figured that my 230lb ass would put extra pressure on the badders and keep me a float, and it did. Would not having enough pressure slow me down in the water as it would create more friction? God, I really sould like a newbie. Well we all have to start somewhere.

Congrats on your first outing.

Once inflated and you poke it with your finger it can not be too stiff. There has to be a little give. At the speed tubes travel you don't have to worry about a few PSI's in difference slowing you down. The only way it will slow you down is if it is drastically low and at that point you have an entire different set of problems.

awesome u got out n ya rod holders help alot n have someone with u is always good i pump my tube all the way up and the let air out as i fish and as it gets hotter during the day

Congrats on the water baptism. Since you are exposing yourself on a very hot day, start out the tube about 90% filled, since you're going to experience a heck of an air expansion in your bladders. Fill the bladders just enough to fill a play, an ability to depress your bladders about 1/4" to 1/2". No air pressure gauge is needed. As LOLLY indicated, a few PSI won't effect your cutting through the water. It's all about how much leg strengths you have fighting against the current. Always fish with a buddy, or you better have something to notify others you need help, beside your screaming like a little girl

You launched right on the Cerritos channel... Be careful there because the current gets very strong there because the power plant sucks water to cool down their machines I suggest you launch more on ocean by the jetty more calm for a beginner tuber

Any locations in the LAB that are better than another for a beginner?  I did pretty well with moving against the current as I have long blade fins, which are sort of stiff.  If anyone is down to tube with me in the LAB during normal businsss hours during the week, please let me know.  This is the only opportunity I have to fish as I have the "Warden" at home, I mean the wife and 2 kids.  Weekends are out of the question as I spend with my kids (age 4 and almost 1).  I just want a location were I can catch fish and it is safe.  Not trying to jack any secret spots, but just want to catch fish and get used to the tube.

Congrats on your first trip i agree with .:LOLLY:. As well PSI shme.s.i just firm enough to give slightly. Make sure you have a partner with you. Of course that is tough will your schedule maybe i will swing a week day trip next week if possible i will let you know.