Float Tube Fishing in Ireland
Having a really great time fishing from the world's best floating fishing
platform
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When fishing from a
float tube we often encounter large sized fish at a shorter
range than our bank of boat based angling colleagues. This gives us a requirement for a slightly more robust rod. Slightly more backbone, without making it overly heavy or strong. Make the longer rod through action like the fly rod to ease a days fishing. The handle
should stay clear of the clutter that goes with fishing from a
seated position. A double hander will not have the reel foul clothing jackets etc. But the lower end of the handle should be clear. This can be a problem, given that there is a fashion for long rod handles. The solution is to buy a rod with sliding reel fittings. Set the reel at such a height that the rod butt is just short of your elbow, and all will work nicely. Note that setting the reel lower, makes the top end of the rod longer. A 10' rod will reach almost as high as a 11' rod with the reel in the standard bank fishing location. so you can get a shorter rod. |
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 For double hander rods, the lower end should be correctly placed for comfort - tube is different from bank |
Rods that are
Suitable A 6' single hander for light jigs, minnows and ultralight spinning. Lines 2lb to 4lb bs. A 7' single hander for trout, perch. Spinning and jig fishing light to medium work. Lines 4lb to 8lb bs. I use a 1.75 test curve 10' carp rod for average medium use small lures and spinners. Lines 10-12lb bs. This might be a teeny bit nicer in 9 1/2 feet length. A 2.25 lb test curve 10' rod for piking with small deadbaits and heavy lures. Lines 12-15lb bs. |
 Reel high & handle too long - rod butt will catch in tube sides, jacket and apron while casting |
 Reel correct - rod butt is clear of elbow |
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Using the heavy rod from
the tube to cast a lure for pike on a Shannon lough. Note how the lower hand is positioned nicely clear of obstructions while casting. |
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