Float tubes, opinions?

[shad309]

Any float tube users? I've been thinking about getting one for some better fishing opportunities. I really don't have the space or $$$ for a boat right now and hate being limited by small openings on the bank.

What should I look for and any accessories that are a must?

[woody]

Have you considered a kayak or a small potoon style boat?    The don't take up much room and are good to fish out of. 

 
I have fished out of a float tube.  They are kind of a pain.  Not alot of control, deal with water current, too low to water etc.  That was before the potoon style or kayaks were available.  I would never think of a float tube again. 

Here is a link to the potoon style:

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Boating/Canoes-Kayaks-Small-Boats/Pontoons%7C/pc/104794380/c/104710680/sc/104508180/Creek-Company-Sport-XR1-Personal-Pontoon/753297.uts?destination=%2Fcatalog%2Fbrowse%2Fboating-canoes-kayaks-small-boats-pontoons%2F_%2FN-1100576%2FNs-CATEGORY_SEQ_104508180%3FWTz_l%3DSBC%253B%2BLNcat104335380%253Bcat104710680&WTz_l=SBC%3B+LNcat104335380%3Bcat104710680%3Bcat104508180

[Ozark Ridge Runner]

I've spent a jillion hours with my feet dangling below a tube.  I have an old Bucks tube that I got back in my guiding days in Idaho and Montana (had to eventually get a real job...good while it lasted ).  They are distance limited as compared to others devices but it sounds like you are OK with that.  You might want to look at one of the "U" shaped tubes as opposed to a "O"  as they are easier to enter and exit.  The Force Fins are the cats meow for flippers but they are REALLY proud of em...$$$.  One thing that I have observed is that the pontoon guys seem to have to put the rod down to move from A to B and from a tube you can maneuver with your feet and cast at the same time.  Maybe not a big deal for you but when flyfishing from a tube I like that.  Good luck with your choice.