A thank you to all that unknowingly contributed to my decision to purchase an ODC 420. After coming to the conclusion I needed a new air pump, I've gotten it out on the water... twice. What a relaxing way to fish! I'm a bit of a minimalist so tackle storage isn't a concern, however, what are the safety equipment items I should be certain to bring with me. Of course I have a PFD, whistle, water-proof flashlight (when night fishing) and a net to land spiney fish with. I don't feel like bringing the air pump on board... am I foolish? Having previously used a nylon nut sling suspended in an uncovered truck innertube, my range was quite limited by comfort as well as the little common sense I do have. How far from your launch site do you feel comfortable traveling (for safety reasons)?
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I have a 420 and never carry a pump with me on the water. I have fished all day and never had a problem. It might get a little soft once you put it in the water if you don't top off but you will still float fine. I would say you can go as far as you can kick back.
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[cool][#0000ff]Glad you are enjoying your new ride. Your confidence will grow and your fears will diminish as you gain more experience with reality. Float tubes are inherently safe, and "accidents" are rare. But, it is good to be mentally and physically prepared to deal with them.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]The PFD is good...mandatory on some waters...not necessary to always wear them, but to have them easily accessible. However, even if you sustain a major leak, your craft will not totally deflate and sink to the bottom. There will always be enough air to function as a life saver, even if you slit the air chambers.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Pinhole leaks can (and do) occur. Taking precautions by not dragging your tube across "hostile" terrain...stickery soil or rough rocks or glass...will help keep you afloat longer. "Fish control" is another big issue. Having a long handled net and using it to subdue and contain active fish before bringing them aboard will prevent punctures to both you and your gear. A "lip gripper" is also useful for handling bigger fish once aboard.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Having a radio or signaling device...air horn, etc...might give you peace of mind, but it would be extremely rare that you would ever need it. However, if you fish at night or plan to tube in the middle of a bunch of wacko power boaters it might help save your life. Better to do your tubing in more quiet and solitary surroundings.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]If you do tube at night, take more than one light. Also, try to rig some kind of light that you can leave on at all times, to serve as a visual for boaters who might not see you in time. And, having both a powerful beam flashlight and an airhorn will help get the attention of those who are not paying attention. They won't save you from drunken bozos who think they own the lake and that everybody else should look out for them.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Keep all hooks secured in hard plastic boxes and do not leave treble hook covered lures on rods and them lay them across your tube. I have seen some "problems" develop by doing that.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Also, if you plan to cut bait or clean fish on board, bring a small cutting board. Do not assume that a fully taut tube cover makes a suitable fillet board. Also seen some embarassing moments as a result of someone overlooking the obvious there.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]There is a difference between FEAR and PRECAUTIONS. We fishermen know no FEAR. But, by using proper precautions we can save ourselves time, money and inconvenience.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]You are right to try to anticipate those things that can potentially go wrong. Just don't overdo it to the point that it ruins your fun.[/#0000ff]
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