anyone use float tubes/belly boats?

[JP Z]

say_der,

Here is a link to a topic in the fly-fishing forum on Belly boats/Pontoons. It may give you some insite.

http://fishingminnesota.com/ubb/Forum87/HTML/000080.html

Also from what I've noticed you may encounter some *****s on the water who don't respect you in this boat.....that is why you find the lakes that are carry-in access only and then you've got the joy of catching un-spoiled fish and you get to use a boat.

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Tight Lines,
JP Z

[This message has been edited by jpz (edited 06-24-2004).]

[83walleye]

I hunted ducks out of mine once. Had a blast - then had a friend tell me it's illegal and most wardens would write me up. It's considered a sink-box, which means federal laws-not good.

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Work hard, play hard

[say_der]

I had actually planned on using mine for duck hunting too. I've known people who have done this for years. I'll have to check with the DNR on legality of this.

[say_der]

Due to life circumstances, I was unable to get the boat I wanted this spring. Then I was unable to fix the one I currently have.

So now, in an effort to fish more, I'm considering picking up a float tube. I'd use it only on small lakes or close to the access on larger ones.

Does anyone here use these?

Are they worth it?

Will people think I'm crazy using one?

Do jet-skiers and boaters make life miserable while using one?

Thanks for any advice.

[gundy89]

We use them up on the North Shore for trout. It is a blast. I brought the Girlfriend out last summer and she had a riot. Just make sure you are wearing your pfd and you blow it up all the way!!!

[fishface5]

Why would hunting out of a tube be any differant legaly than hunting out of waders?

[Ufatz]

You will thoroughly enjoy fishing with a float tube. BUT, be sure to wear a PFD and be sure to buy the best one you can. And get good fins (Forcefins for example) that will make it easier to get around. And don't be embarrased the first time you fall on your one-just-like-silly-me while trying to walk FORWARD to the water (walk backward).
They really are a lot of fun and very practical. I have graduated to a device called a Hobie (about $750) and at the moment don't even know where my "belly boat" is.
Have fun. Be safe.