01-21-2003, 06:36 PM
[cool] As I recall, you have some "extra ballast" around the middle, like I do. That's why we both need the bigger craft. But that's not the reason for your overbalancing situation. I don't remember it being that much of a problem. The only suggestion I can make is to be sure the cover is tight after airing it up. It is cut a little bit fuller in the back, to create more flotation. If you launch in cold water, the air contracts a bit and you lose some of that added volume in the back. I always carried a small bicycle tire pump out with me to "top off the tank" when cold water shrunk my tube (and other parts of my anatomy).
Another tip, for more comforable seating, is to find a good piece of 4" high density foam, and cut it to fit around the back and sides...with cutout for your legs in front. It's a pain to lug around but it makes you sit a bit higher and helps prevent "crotch cramps" from the strap. Be sure to squeeze all the water out at the end of the trip, and store it on end in the garage to let it drain and dry between trips.
That's definitely an argument for some of the Uboat and mini pontoon craft. They not only sit you higher, but have a lot more even flotation. Once you decide you are thoroughly addicted to flotation fishing, we can help you graduate to the next level. By then you will be experienced enough to appreciate the subtle differences and to be able to decide which options are worth the money, and which are designed to catch fishermen.
In the meantime, concentrate on sitting upright and don't rear back too hard setting the hook on that 15 pounder from Strawberry.
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Another tip, for more comforable seating, is to find a good piece of 4" high density foam, and cut it to fit around the back and sides...with cutout for your legs in front. It's a pain to lug around but it makes you sit a bit higher and helps prevent "crotch cramps" from the strap. Be sure to squeeze all the water out at the end of the trip, and store it on end in the garage to let it drain and dry between trips.
That's definitely an argument for some of the Uboat and mini pontoon craft. They not only sit you higher, but have a lot more even flotation. Once you decide you are thoroughly addicted to flotation fishing, we can help you graduate to the next level. By then you will be experienced enough to appreciate the subtle differences and to be able to decide which options are worth the money, and which are designed to catch fishermen.
In the meantime, concentrate on sitting upright and don't rear back too hard setting the hook on that 15 pounder from Strawberry.
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