02-18-2009, 03:58 AM
Greetings,
I have used my float tube in the river many times. As long as it is a calm river, you should not have any problems.
I have gone through a few sections that might be considered class II.
I use a Waterskeeter Daytripper. It sits a little higher than most tubes, so I don't have to worry hitting my butt on rocks. For me it is pretty easy to lift my feet out of the water. The only downside to this, is that you are now at the mercy of the current. This can lead to going through that section of river backwards. In my mellow river backwards is okay. I am sure that it could be dangerous on other rivers.
I normally float the same section of river each time. There are very few suprises except for a few new logs or logjams after a flood. I started floating this section of river with a buddy who floated in Trout Unlimited Bighorn. He did have to worry about his butt hitting rocks but still had no problems keeping his feet clear of danger.
I always wear my flippers because sometimes when floating with current you have to turn and maneuver quickly to avoid an obstruction or just to stay out of a over hanging tree branch or spiderweb.
I have been amazed at how well my tube covers have held up to the constant scraping of rocks and gravel. My original Daytripper that I have had since 2001 has around 100 river trips on it and I have only had 1 small tear in the fabric and I have never punctured the bladders.
If you would feel comfortable swimming it, I say go for it.
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I have used my float tube in the river many times. As long as it is a calm river, you should not have any problems.
I have gone through a few sections that might be considered class II.
I use a Waterskeeter Daytripper. It sits a little higher than most tubes, so I don't have to worry hitting my butt on rocks. For me it is pretty easy to lift my feet out of the water. The only downside to this, is that you are now at the mercy of the current. This can lead to going through that section of river backwards. In my mellow river backwards is okay. I am sure that it could be dangerous on other rivers.
I normally float the same section of river each time. There are very few suprises except for a few new logs or logjams after a flood. I started floating this section of river with a buddy who floated in Trout Unlimited Bighorn. He did have to worry about his butt hitting rocks but still had no problems keeping his feet clear of danger.
I always wear my flippers because sometimes when floating with current you have to turn and maneuver quickly to avoid an obstruction or just to stay out of a over hanging tree branch or spiderweb.
I have been amazed at how well my tube covers have held up to the constant scraping of rocks and gravel. My original Daytripper that I have had since 2001 has around 100 river trips on it and I have only had 1 small tear in the fabric and I have never punctured the bladders.
If you would feel comfortable swimming it, I say go for it.
[signature]