Do you love fishing?
If you answered yes, then you know how important a float tube is to hit the remote fishing spots.
Plenty of angles won’t come in contact with water without a boat landing.
Therefore, float tubes can be used for those purposes and more.
Here is my selection of the best float tubes in the budget-friendly category!
Classic Accessories Cumberland
The Cumberland float fishing tube from Classic Accessories, a well-known brand in the fishing community is my top pick.
The tube is comfortable and has a supportive seat with a convenient back, that allows you to concentrate on fishing.
The tube has two cargo pockets with zippers and an individual drink holder.
If you need more storage space, you can find it on the backrest in the large mesh stuff pocket.
The pocket has a drawcord and two interior zip pockets.
The float tube is durable and has a rugged PVC bottom, which is safe against puncture.
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- The backrest is customizable
- A lot of storage space
- Drink holder included
- Easy to transport
Cons
- The upper part isn’t protected against punctures like bottom
Dylan's TakeYou will hardly find a better float tube under $280 on the market.
It even has an impressive weight capacity of 350 pounds.
Outcast Fishcat 4-LCS Fishing Float Tube
The Outcast Fishcat 4-LCS is a high-quality and budget-friendly piece of watercraft.
The tube features a thick foam seat and has an adjustable backrest, also padded with comfortable foam.
You can replace the foam seat with an inflatable seat if you want, but I prefer the foam seat because it layers higher than the alternative.
However, if you need to transport the tube, you might have an easier task with an inflatable tube.
The tube has a weight capacity of 250 pounds.
The pontoons are rugged and puncture-resistant, and the overall impressions of this float tube are highly positive.
It is comfortable and durable.
Pros
- Convenient shape
- Quality constructions
- Firm and high seat
- Enough storage space
- Include D-Rings
Cons
- No drink holders
- The backpack straps aren’t included in the price
Dylan's TakeThe Fishcat 4 float very high and fast, while providing excellent comfort.
But, it lacks drink holders and a mesh pouch.
Caddis Premier Plus Fishing Float Tube
The Caddis float tube is been on the market for a long time, and the popularity isn’t deteriorating.
The tube is made from rip-stop material and has a convenient design and comfortable seat.
The belly of the boat and pontoon front parts are rugged, puncture and abrasion-resistant.
I like the think seat and adjustable backrest.
As for the storage, the tube has too large pockets, but the quick-filling valves are in the pockets.
Therefore, the storage capabilities are reduced.
The backpack straps aren’t included in the price, which is one of the downsides.
The total weight capacity is 325 pounds and the tube has D-rings for attachments.
Pros
- Impressive weight capacity
- Adjustable seat and backrest
- Durable
- Large side pockets
Cons
- No backrest pockets
- Back straps aren’t included
Dylan's TakeCaddis float tube has quality construction, which overcompensates for some drawbacks.
It is affordable and has an impressive weight capacity.
Classic Accessories Togiak Float Tube
The Togiak float tube from Classic Accessories is another excellent product under a reasonable price range.
It is back-packable, it floats high and gives the user an optimal level of stability.
The tube is also comfortable and has a convenient size.
It has tough nylon covering, and quite a log of storage space.
The armrests are spacious and come with additional pockets for tools and fishing gear.
The seat has a thick foam insert and provides a suitable level of support.
Pros
- Easy to transport
- Excellent storage pockets
- Include D-rings
- Hydrodynamic hull design
Cons
- Only one color available
Dylan's TakeThe construction of the Togiak float tube is tough, and you can rely on it to last for years.
There is enough storage space, but the tube lacks cup holders and only comes in one color.
Caddis Sports Pro 200 Float Tube
Lastly, Caddis Pro 2000 float tube is affordable and has a durable construction.
The tube features rugged nylon construction and has double stitches to improve the shell strength.
Because of the low-profile pontoons, Caddis is extremely stable.
The seat has a thick foam insert and backrest with adjustable straps.
The pockets on the pontoons are large and have double-pull zippers which makes them suitable for one-handed operation.
The float tube comes with backpack straps and is easy to transport from one place to another.
Also, the tube includes D-rings and has a weight capacity of 250 pounds.
Pros
- Rigid material
- Enough storage space
- Durable
- Affordable
- Can fit in the car
Cons
- Weak backrest support
Dylan's TakeThe Pro 2000 by Caddis is build to last and provide an excellent user experience.
It is the last on my list, but it definitely worth your attention because of the good design, spacious storage pockets and durable construction.
Buying Guide
Let’s talk more about float tubes – safety, use, features, etc.
Float Tubes Safety
Float tubes are safe, but if you use them safely and follow the recommendations.
First of all, float tubes aren’t for fast-moving water.
To ensure you’re using float tube safely, follow the instructions:
- Check the weight capacity, and include your body weight and the fishing gear weight
- Only use float tubes that are sturdy and have rip-stop fabric
- Don’t use float tubes on large bodies of water
- Don’t use float tube around kayaks, boats
- Don’t use a float tube when it’s windy and doesn’t go too far from the shoreline
Are Waders Required?
Waders are an essential part of your fishing gear.
Waders protect you from hypothermia, keep your legs safe from water bags and cuts and bruises.
Neoprene waders are most practical because they are durable and protective.
If possible, choose stocking foot waders, chest high.
Fishing Kayaks VS Float Tubes
You have several options to go deep in the small and stable body of water.
Most people choose fishing kayak and float tube.
The float tube is better for smaller areas, where a boat cannot fit.
Using an inflatable tube is much simpler and easier to transport.
But, a float tube isn’t sturdy as a kayak.
Kayak is generally a safer and better choice for moving a body of water.
It will allow you better control and more stability.
Kayak is also a better choice for dealing with underwater obstacles.
Things to Consider When Buying a Float Tube
Let’s go briefly through several float tube aspects that might help you choose the right float tube for you.
Comfort
As you will probably fish in a float tube for prolong time, comfort is important.
There are comfortable float tubes on the market that provide good back support.
The sling-style seats aren’t very comfortable, and avoid them for prolonged use.
Ride Depth
Float tube fishing is good when you are in freezing water.
High-riding seats are also practical and have additional benefits.
The higher you seat, the faster you’ll move in the water.
Don’t use a float tube with a sling seat, because it can be tiresome to move quickly.
Weight Capacity
Check how much weight can a float tube hold.
Don’t forget to include your body weight and the fishing gear weight.
Generally, float tubes with high capacity ride higher.
Hike-In Friendly
If you plan to hike to the distant body of water, look if the float tube has D-rings.
It will help you to attach the backpack straps.
Because you can not wear a backpack and a float tube on the back, make sure that the float tube has enough storage pockets.
Conclusion
Which float tube is your top pick?
Do you prefer Caddis or Classic Accessories?
If you are just starting fly fishing or you are an experienced angler, I am sure the recommended models will meet your needs.
Let me know what you think about my list!
Best Overall Choice
Classic Accessories Cumberland
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