Fins for float Tube??

[dudleydog73]

I bought a float tube last year in hopes of getting in on some tubing trips down the Hooch. You know how things go... I've never even put the thing in the water yet, but I plan on it this year. Do I really need fins when using the float tube?? What about stopping to work shoal areas and wading around? Kind of hard to walk in fins. Last year I saw some things at bass pro shops fly shop that strapped on your boot/ankle that were hinged and when you kicked forward they folded in and when you kicked back the opened up to push you in that direction. Seemed like a good concept, but I haven't seen them since then.

Any suggestions? Fins, No fins, or alternative method?? for float tubes.

[William McClendon]

The overall feelings on fins is...great to have in still water (ponds/lakes), dangerous in moving water.

I don't know how dangerous they would be in moving water, but there is a possibility of hooking one under some underwater debris/rocks in a swift current and bad things happening.

The alternative is to use paddles to move around when you can't touch bottom. Most people use dust pans tied to their tubes for this. From what I can see, these work really well. I usually just kick my feet and try to move, but sometimes its pointless.

As for the hinged fins, I have them and use them on still water with good success. They work pretty well and don't seem to get in the way much. They aren't as good as regular fins for turning a tube (to get into the position you want), but they do work good for propulsion. BTW, its a good work out too!

Milliam

[Sharkey]

Don't wear fins on the Hooch.
They will trip you up and get lost. You will fall over and get wet. Buy some cheap ping pong paddles and use them as mini oars. They work fine and you can store them in your side pockets. Be sure to tie strings to the handles so that when you drop one they done float away.
Also, beware of the U tubes on the Hooch. I know a number of people who have gone inverted with them and required assistance to get out of the situation. Had a good friend almost drown before we got to him. He ended his trip that day in the back of an ambulance. Enough said.

Bruce Rickey

[dudleydog73]

The feedback is appreciated! Looks like I don't need to buy any fins. Ping Pong Paddles and Dust Pans.... Good Ideas. Heck I could probably find those floating down the Hooch or on the banks.

However I do have a U shaped Tube. Think this will really be a problem? If so I could probably sell it. It's brand new still in the box.

:rotfl:

[T.Flyer]

dudleydog73,

Take a look at this string on the subject. http://www.georgia-outdoors.com/forum/showthread.php?t=50491

T.

[T.Flyer]

The originating string.
http://www.georgia-outdoors.com/forum/showthread.php?t=50479
T.

[Jason]

dudley,

I have a pair I'll sell you cheap if you'd like. I tried floating and perfer a kayak.
Email me we'll talk.

[stiritup56]

Jason, if Dudley isnt interested in your fins let me know, I am looking for a pair! Thanks!
~Tyler

[mmarkey]

Dudleydog

That tube in the box. If you bought it from one of the bigger outfitters like bass pro or cabelas you should be able to return it anytime and get your purchase price back. Time isn't a factor. or condition for that matter.

[Bigt]

Just Bought a float tube on ebay, it is a U tube. I am assuming from your input that this is not a good thing.