Float tube modifications for bluegill fishing

[Michael J. Searl]

The float tube is a versitle tool for bluegill fishing as it comes from the factory. To make it more usefull for my use I have done some modifying. Having had a few of my valued spinning reels get dunked from sliding around on the tube, I set out to correct the problem with a simple rod holder. This holder keeps the rods in an upright position. The front holder is at a 45% angle to use for trolling. I also left one joint of it loose so I can angle it out to the side if I choose.
The PVC is thinwall 1 1/4". The stretch cord is (I think) 1/4" or slightly smaller.
The round foam piece is a piece of swimming pool play noodle.
The overall length can be altered to fit the location of "D" rings on your tube if a different model.
The 4 way fitting at one end should have been a T fitting, but I had this on hand and wanted to make use of it.
I'll appoligize in advance for hiding the text at the bottom of the photos.
I'm hoping the photos are rather self explanitory, but if there are any questions, please feel free to contact me and I'll do my best to help.
ole Mike

[Bruce Condello]

NEFGA thread on float tube modifications

[Alex G.]

thanks mike, you can follow it here.... http://www.nefga.org/forum/nebraska-fishing-forum/17627-float-tubers-need-winter-project.html

and we also like pics and posts from our angling friends to the east, have some members who are from IA as well.

[Michael J. Searl]

Alex G You are more than welcome to use any or all. The more folks that find this simple information usefull,the better. I fact if you need the phots mailed to you, I can do that also.
I was forwarned about the text being at the bottom ,but thought I had it figured out Obviously not. Mike

[Alex G.]

Mike, would you mind If I linked/copied this over to the Nebraska Fish & Game Association forum? We have a whole bunch of float tubers who would love to see this!

[Alex G.]

Yeah, that's what I'm talking about! Like Bruce, that is one of the things I'll be doing for my tube as well! thanks for sharing!!!!!!

[Bruce Condello]

I love this. Thanks a lot for taking the time to create this blog. I'm sure it will be interesting to a lot of people. I intend to integrate these ideas into my float tube this winter.

[Bill "Musky" Modica]

Hey Mike nice rigging...............I'm generally a one rod man, and a float tuber as well....I'm trying to rig my tube with a very small and light Sevlor trolling motor and power it with a very small deep cell....any ideas?