Whether you are on a limited budget, have to hike to the lake to fish or your favorite fishing spot is closed off to boats, a fishing float tube is the stuff dreams are made of. It allows anglers to access lakes and rivers when other methods are not an option and some fold up and can be carried in a backpack.
You can use float tubes in mountain lakes, close to shore in larger lakes and remote ponds. They are the cheaper alternative to other vessels and make it easy to get out there where the fish are. The increased popularity of float tubes has somewhat inspired manufacturers to enhance construction and design. This has led to some pretty impressive options on the market.
With that in mind, we set out to compile a comprehensive guide that includes reviews of the best float tubes. Keep reading to learn more.
Last update on 2023-04-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Best Fishing Float Tubes: Our Top Picks
Below you can read our reviews of the best products available on the market:
Classic Accessories Cumberland Inflatable Float Tube
The Cumbersome Inflatable Fishing Float from Classic Accessories is our favorite pick for this list because it ticks all of the required boxes. It is lightweight and incredibly easy to transport thanks to the thick, adjustable straps. The float is sturdily made and can hold up to 350 pounds without risk of damage. You get plenty of storage for your gear in the form of pockets. There are two raised pockets on the armrests that can be used for stash food, and mesh pockets on the tube for things you need to access quickly.
This float tube is fitted with rod holders and has a high seat that ensures you sit above the water. This gives you better visibility and ensures that you stay dry. Also notable is that the seat is padded and can be adjusted for extra comfort. The mesh stripping apron has a ruler that makes it easier to gauge the size of your catch. You get adaptors to suit different pumps and the tube is inflated through Boston valves.
Pros:
- Backpack float tube has adjustable straps
- Can accommodate up to 350 pounds
- Hydrodynamic hull shape provides superior tracking and speed
- Padded seat has an adjustable backrest for custom comfort
- Plenty of storage for gear and other essentials
Cons:
- Not the best for tall anglers
Classic Accessories Togiak Inflatable Fishing Float Tube
Also manufactured by Classic Accessories, the Togiak Inflatable Fishing Float Tube falls into the backpackable category. It comes with two thick straps for hoisting on your back and at only 15 pounds, carrying the tube is not too cumbersome. It is designed with a hull shape that promotes buoyancy and stability. The shape of the hull also allows for improved tracking in water. It can hold up to 300 pounds and offers plenty of storage for your gear.
The tube has reel pockets, mesh pockets, reel pockets, flat zip pockets and pockets on the armrests. Combined with the mesh storage platform at the back, you can be sure that running out of space for essentials will never be an issue. You can use the lash tabs and D-rings to attach creel bags or larger equipment. The seat is quite comfortable thanks to its high backrest and adjustable design. Other notable features include a horizontal fish rod holder and detachable stripping apron with a ruler.
Pros:
- High weight capacity of 300 pounds
- Spacious armrest storage with gear pockets, flat zip pockets, mesh pockets etc.
- High back stadium seat design offers extra support and comfort
- Attach creel bags and gear with lash tags and D-rings
- Features rear mesh storage platform
Cons:
- Heavier than most float tubes
Classic Accessories Bighorn Inflatable Float Tube
The Bighorn boasts ample storage space with zippered armrest compartments and a rear storage compartment. It also comes with a safety flag pocket and a horizontal rod holder. We love the exterior mesh pocket as well as the D-ring since it allows one to bring along extra gear. The shape of the hull has a hydrodynamic design that promotes tracking in water while ensuring buoyancy and stability. This float tube benefits from a wide inflatable seat area. It has a large inflatable backrest that provides ample support and comfort when out on the water for several hours.
Pros:
- Multiple storage options for fishing gear
- Features a safety flag pocket
- Hydrodynamic design improves stability and tracking
- Comfortable seat and backrest
Cons:
- Customer service could be better
Caddis Sports Pro 2000 Float Tube
The Caddis Sports Pro 2000 Float Tube is a teardrop shaped tube that boasts great tracking and stability. It comes with an elevated seat that improves visibility. It is incredibly comfortable thanks to the 4-inch foam padding. The 2-inch foam backrest offers extra comfort and support when fishing for extended periods of time.
This tube can hold 250 pounds of weight and offers multiple options when it comes to storage. There are two large main pockets as well as two auxiliary pockets for cargo storage behind the seat. The tube is made from nylon packcloth and is double stitched on the major stress points for extra strength.
Pros:
- Teardrop low profile design enhances stability
- Durable build with nylon packcloth and double stitches
- Provides optimal comfort and support
- Easy to maneuver
Cons:
- Backrest support is a little weak
Caddis Sports Nevada Float Tube
The Caddis Sports Nevada Float Tube has a U-shape that helps with improved stability and navigation. Its outer shell is made from ripstop nylon pack cloth known for its compatibility to water. The double stitching on critical seams goes a long way towards promoting resistance to wear and tear. There is a wide nylon coated mesh apron with measurements printed on it. This allows you to keep track of your catch. The apron is connected to a padded to a stabilizer bar that balances out the tube. In terms of storage, Nevada incorporates two main equipment pockets and a front rod holder. The convenient carry handles combined with the lightweight design of this tube makes it easy to transport.
Pros:
- Includes multiple D-rings for extra accessories
- Offers multiple storage options
- Can accommodate up to 225 pounds
- Comfortable seat and padded backrest
Cons:
- Some customers cited quality issues
Criteria for Choosing a Fishing Float Tube
Design
The common options here include U-shape, V-shape, teardrop-shape and pontoon style boat. Round float tubes were the first to circulate and while cheap, they are difficult to maneuver because they create a lot of drag with the water. In addition, they don’t offer a lot of space for an angler to move around. With a U-shape tube, an angler faces towards the open and the backrest is usually inflated. Teardrop shaped float tubes are a cross between pontoons and U-shaped tubes. They have an inflated portion that extends to some point behind the user’s back, but still separate from the actual backrest. A pontoon style tube features cylindrical pontoons on either side of the seat. It offers ease of entry and exit, more room for back and feet, as well as improved maneuverability.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a float tube depends on its design and materials used for construction. In addition to the body weight, you should consider the amount of equipment and gear you intend to carry. This will help you determine how much weight capacity to opt for.
Portability
One of the primary factors that makes float tubes useful is their portability. Check the weight, how easy it is to pack as well as transportation features like straps. Some floats come with padded straps for carrying on your back like a backpack. Remember that light tubes are the better choice when it comes to portability
Storage Options
Fishing float tubes offer different storage options. Because the choices differ from one model to another, it is important to consider the size and number of pouches offered by each model. Keep in mind the type and amount of gear you intend to bring along on your trip. Look out for models with storage behind the seat.
Comfort
Your fishing trip will be a disaster if you are not comfortable. Look at the reviews and see what customers have to say about a float tube about the seat height. Consider choosing a tube with an elevated seat because it is more comfortable and improves the visibility of the surroundings. An adjustable backrest is a huge advantage as it caters to everyone’s unique needs.
Safety
The last thing you need is a float tube to flip when you lean too far on one side. If there is no quick release for the stripping tray, you could get trapped and eventually drown. Go for a model that offers plenty of stability (the bigger the better). Be sure to keep all of the non-floating tackle anchored to the tube and don’t use it in rough weather. Consider the number of bladders used by a tube. A model with one bladder will sink if leakage occurs so go for at least two bladders.
