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Access to new spots
The first big advantage of the float-tube, and the one that usually makes the angler want to jump in, is the fact that it allows access to new spots. Indeed, most of the fishermen begin in this passion by prospecting from the shore, but quickly find themselves limited to access certain sectors, either because of the vegetation in the rivers and lakes or because of too steep banks in the canals, lakes of dam or big river.
In addition to accessing these new spots, the float-tube allows you to diversify your fishing, where fishing from the shore only allows you to fish "the edges", fishing from a float-tube allows you to fish deeper areas, to fish vertically, to exploit the maps and the use of the sounder. This approach also allows access to very crowded spots such as forests of semi-submerged trees in which boats can not pass. This advantage allows float-tube anglers to hit fish that are under less fishing pressure than others, thus increasing the results!
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Easy to launch
Another undeniable advantage of the float-tube is the possibility to launch it! Indeed, it is possible to get into the water almost everywhere with a float-tube, which is not possible with a kayak or a boat which requires a certain proximity of the parking place and even less with a boat, for which a slipway is essential! Indeed, most float-tubes are equipped with straps to carry it like a backpack, allowing to move easily to an inaccessible dead end, a lake lost in the vegetation, or a river reach with crowded banks for example.
The launching is generally done in a few minutes only, the time to put your buttocks in the float and to put on your fins. The same goes for getting out of the water, which can be done at another place, allowing you to do river courses, without having to come back to the starting point!
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Transport and storage
Important point also, the transport. Indeed, a float-tube is generally sold in its transport bag, and once deflated, it remains very compact and easy to transport. This bag allows it to fit in any car trunk easily, unlike a kayak which requires a large roof rack or a boat which must be towed on its trailer. The same goes for storage! No need for a big garage or an outdoor area to store a float-tube, the compact dimensions of this one allow it to be stored in a simple closet.
This small size also allows the float-tube to be slipped into the trunk of the car when leaving on vacation. Indeed, which fisherman has not regretted the lack of boat when arriving in an unknown area and difficult to access from the shore?
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Ease of use and repairability
Although its use may seem complicated for beginners, the float-tube is very easy to handle, or rather to use as a fin! Indeed, the movement of the float-tube, even though it is backwards, is very intuitive and all the beginners become familiar with this principle within the first 5 minutes of practice! The stability and comfort, although different according to the model, are very comfortable for beginners and they quickly gain confidence in their new boat.
Although float tubes are more fragile than a rigid boat, they are easily repairable thanks to the repair kits, most often supplied with them. Indeed, when fishing in crowded areas, or when a fish or a hook is mishandled, a small hole can happen. Gluing a small patch is then a real child's play once back home.
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An attractive price
Last but not least, the price! Indeed, although some top-of-the-range models exceed 600 euros, it is possible to equip yourself for a limited budget, something impossible with other boats such as boats, kayaks and other boats.
Generally speaking, the prices of float-tubes have decreased since several years with its democratization, and it is possible to find well equipped models around 250 euros. The second hand market is also to be taken into account for beginners who do not wish to invest too much before trying the float-tube adventure.
