What If? $$$$

Hi Everyone…
I've been around long enough to know that the highest priced "I want that" isn't always the highest quality. So… Please tell what The Best Float Tube is…
I also realize that Budget is always a concern when looking for New Equipment. I'm not a really BIG guy 6' 2" about 225 lbs…
I haven't tubed for about ten years. I used to have a Caddis U Tube… But to be honest I can't make an honest assessment of the craft, since I used to Tow my young son around behind me. We always fished together… so I can't really tell you how the tube handled, since I was asking it to do 'Double duty' along with my knees.
If money was not a consideration (and it is, to a point) What would you buy. I've looked at the Prowler and just cannot see spending that kind of money (although I have found one still in the box for $425.00… that's pretty high priced for a float tube)… I've also read reviews that put the Super Fat Cat way or even the Regular Fat Cat... ahead of the Prowler. I would appreciate any suggestions. I primarily fish Lakes and reservoirs and haven't ventured into salt water, as of yet. I would love to hear opinions on the following: 1. Which Tube and why? 2. Rod Holder modifications (I use relatively short... less than 6 feet...spinning rods and rarely carry more than 3)   3. Fish finder … which one and why… Easy install would be good here… and 4. How to best video my float tube outings. Which equipment, where and how to mount said equipment… I have several under privileged children that I know and I can't think of a better way to get them away from their couches and into the outdoors, than showing them a few videos of my last fishing trip. Sorry for the long post and apologize if I should have asked these questions in separate groups… I ask your indulgence at my lack of etiquette… on this my first post. I eagerly await your input.

Let me just say the Classic Accessories Cumberland, I know that most guys will post up soon and the majority will say the same. Good price and all around great tube with nice futures. I wish I had one I ride in a ODC 420 and I really like it but I have use a Cumberland and it is just that much better in my opinion.

I ride a Fish Cat 4 and absolutely love it! I think it's the best tube but that's just my preference

For sure can't go wrong with a Cumberland though lots of people use them on here

I had a cardiss navigator2 shortly and that was fine but once I received my cumberland I was a happy man. I'm pushing 240 and this puppy keeps my vast rump and my excessive amount of gear fishing comfortably for hours without breaking a sweat. I paid $170 shipped for it through cover bonanza (15% discount if you mention you're a member on this site). I don't see how spending more money can give you a much better package.

I have an outcast fish cat4 deluxe...and man I've never rode any other one but think this will b the one for a very long time.....I'm very comfortable in it...love it...no problems at all....but have only had it for 2 months so will see with time....just my 2cents

Tony g

not that I have any affiliation with Classic Accessories, but the Cumberland is the way to go in my opinion for the money. Add a rod rack like this and your golden.

here is the Cumberland Spokes Person Model, taking it for a spin and sporting one of those cool looking "AK47" Rod Racks!

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For your size I would go with a Cumberland more roomier than the fish cat.

Cumberlands are like the cadillacs of the tube world. Look at the size of that trunk. Plus they're rated for 350lbs

Well to Answer your Questions :
1. Cumberlands Seem to be very Popular , Followed Closely by the Fish Cat and ODC 420 .. Take into account the features you are looking for Weight of the Tube , Storage , Modifications I am placing on the Tube (rod racks , fish finder , Camera) All 3 of these tubes Ride high in the water and allow for easy kicking and maneuvering.

2 . There are a ton of Different Designs on the Rod rack for these Tubes out there if you search around the fourms, as well as a few members I know that used to build / sell them here ( ask around ) I believe Castmate makes one Ready to go or build your own .

3. Fishfinder : Popular units seem to be the Garmin Echo 150 and the Lowrance Elite-4x which can be had for a great price (Do a search on the Forums and you will find a lot of detail on Fishfinders and mounting systems) Float Tube Fanatics have mounting systems available for a wide range of Fish finders .

4. Taking Video of your Adventures is simple Most people use the GoPro as it is a wide angle camera and readily available at most electronic's stores (and the New GoPro+ editions just got smaller and have extended battery life on the water and better View find mode for your Smart Phone) also capable of recording up to 4k resolution

Do a Search on the forums and you will find a lot more detail on some great posts comparing tubes and rod rack systems you can build your self or Purchase that will have more then enough holders for all your needs .

Welcome back to the Addiction and see you on the water ,

WES

Why ride the Cadillac of the tubes when you can ride the Lamborghini of the tubes?!
Get the prowler!! I used to have the fish cat 4 delux which I loved, then I upgraded to the prowler. I think that's my last tube for ever. Of course there's nothing to upgrade to lol. But is so spacious and dry on the back space I even bring my doggy fishing! Is very heavy duty constructed and so stable i can stand on it when nature calls. Well I do have a low center of gravity! Lol
On cameras, chack gopro and contour! And if you talk to our rack specialist Loli he could customize a rack with camera mounts.
I use the hummingbird 140c fish finder and I really love it. It drains batteries fast for which I just bought rechargeable ones.

I drive a Toyota and would NEVER pay the extra $$$ for a Lexus!  That being said, I have a Cumberland. I was along side a Prowler at the lake one day and could not see any difference, let alone $300 worth.   I am about your size +10 lbs, and I sit in about 3/4" inch of water.  I love the twin-zippered over-sized compartments.  They are easily opened with one hand.  

At 18 lbs they are heavy for a hike-in tube. I don't do that.  If I did I would build a cart or trailer.

You did not mention fins, but after the tube, they are your most important investment. Force Fins are the way to go. They are pricey. Use the $$$ you save not buying a Prowler, or look for a used pair.

Hey guys,
You know me!…. PONTOON!!! Best all around fishing platform. I have been out of the toob for over 20+ years and I will never go back! Ok,.. it is a leap, but I still think if you are deadly serious about fishing there is little choice…


bodfish

I am thinking of getting a Toon in the future, would be nice to try out. I still say the Cumberland rocks, so Bodfish which toon would you recommend for or new friend should he decide to go that direction.

I would pay a little more for comfort, look for a seat with a bladder on whatever tube you get you'll thank me later. For fins I have both dive and force fins, dive fins work great and cheap. Force fins work great too but the price tag isn't worth it unless you score on a used set for a good price. Your fishing slow unless Ed puts on another race...

Comfort that is the old age talking   and I should know because the last few times out I was looking forward to getting out of the water.   I need a nice soft seat to float on.

jeffcpr wrote:Comfort that is the old age talking   and I should know because the last few times out I was looking forward to getting out of the water.   I need a nice soft seat to float on.

very true, I'm old and want the comfort... Haha

jeffcpr wrote:I am thinking of getting a Toon in the future, would be nice to try out. I still say the Cumberland rocks, so Bodfish which toon would you recommend for or new friend should he decide to go that direction.

hey jeffcpr,
there are so many toons out there it is ridiculous! Virtually every toob company has a toon as well, and thankfully, most all, are quite good. The two or three biggest competitors are Outcast, Bucks, and Cumberland. My suggestion to our new member is to research the three and based on budget and application make his selection. I am a big fan of the quad toon design so my first picks are,…

The Outcast Fish Cat Panther
The Bucks Alpine quad toon
The Bucks River Ghost

WARNING!: These are not cheap! for the most part you are looking at  a thousand dollars or more. But you are also looking at a life investment. I just recently sold my 20 year old Buck's Bronco, and I  expect that boat to go another 20 very easily.

What you are investing in is,…
Speed and seaworthiness
Comfort and safety
and most importantly…. Fishability!!

The advantages of the toon as compared to the toob made it the natural choice for me when my game needed improving.

Now don't get crazy on me guys,… there is a great argument brewing here, I know. But I am about the fishing part of the platform, and for what I need the toob just falls short.

Anyways,… If money is no object… well you know what I mean….

      bodfish

Gotta X2 with the CUMBERLAND. I have two. They are killer. Great price, good quality, rated for 300+ and their customer service is incredible.

Yes the Cumberland is great I have as well and no conplains

bodfish wrote:
Now don't get crazy on me guys,… there is a great argument brewing here, I know. But I am about the fishing part of the platform, and for what I need the toob just falls short.

Anyways,… If money is no object… well you know what I mean….

      bodfish

I'll bite! Had a friend with a toon and he had two complaints:

1. Set up time. The thing was like setting up a tent!

2. The wind. The profile was so high that he blew around like a leaf.

If I did go that way it would have to be the kick type. I love being able to navigate with my feet while fishing with my hands.

I still have my force fins hanging in the shed… still like new. They really helped because I used to Tow my boy around behind me. He liked to stay on the water all day and without them… My knees would have been shot. I fish for Big Bluegill and Redear.. so slow and quiet is normally the order of the day. I would love to post a pic of some of our catches but can't seem to figure it out?
Is that Cumberland Tube available with an inflatable seat… all I could find was foam… and everyone seams to agree they get very hard alter a while.

Cumberland's are not offered with inflatable seats but there are some guys on here that have modified them to have an inflatable.

I was wondering if a little Donut Inflatable inner tube would work? Hey Lolly How do i get a Pic under my Username? Or is that reserved for Moderators only?

No go for the V boat or U boat the Doughnut tubes tough to get in and out of and with all the options of the U and V Tubes it is just a better way to go. That is my opinion.