02-13-2010, 02:28 PM
[cool][#0000ff]Proper maintenance and correct inflation will reduce or eliminate deflation problems on the water. But, when you fish for spiny fish...like cats, perch, bass, etc....there is always the risk of getting spine holes in your craft. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Over the years TubeBabe and I have had to make a few unscheduled returns to shore to repair a hole and reinflate our craft. If the leak is slow enough, you can often just add some more air and keep on keepin' on until the fishing is over. That's a good argument for having a pump and some repair patches with you when on a fishing jaunt.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]It is highly unlikely that you will EVER suffer a sudden and unexplained deflation. Although I have "heard tell" of seams splitting I have never heard of it directly from a credible witness (fisherman).[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]There are also some precautions to take to help insure that you remain afloat. KNIVES: Be careful. Do not cut bait without using a protective board or similar surface. Keep them properly sheathed when not in use. HOOKS: Don't drop loose hooks or lures into a pocket on your craft. Keep them in protective boxes. Also, be careful when fishing or when handling hooked fish...especially with trebles. Don't use gaffs...except in salt water for big fish. And then it is still safer to use a big net. Gaffs are also illegal in most inland waters.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Don't bring glass containers on board. Carry all liquids, bait items, etc. in plastic or metal. Broken glass and inflated air chambers do not go together well.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Stay away from the shoreline unless launching or beaching. There can be unseen underwater dangers as well as shoreline barb wire, sharp branches, etc. No need to tempt fate.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]After that it is common sense. You should also be aware of your craft's condition at all times. If you notice any changes stop fishing and check it out. Might only be pressure change due to warming or cooling. If it is anything else you need to deal with it. Stay aware of your surroundings and always have an escape plan if emergencies occur. Watch the weather and water conditions and don't put yourself needlessly at risk.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]That's about all I can think of.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]Over the years TubeBabe and I have had to make a few unscheduled returns to shore to repair a hole and reinflate our craft. If the leak is slow enough, you can often just add some more air and keep on keepin' on until the fishing is over. That's a good argument for having a pump and some repair patches with you when on a fishing jaunt.[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]It is highly unlikely that you will EVER suffer a sudden and unexplained deflation. Although I have "heard tell" of seams splitting I have never heard of it directly from a credible witness (fisherman).[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]There are also some precautions to take to help insure that you remain afloat. KNIVES: Be careful. Do not cut bait without using a protective board or similar surface. Keep them properly sheathed when not in use. HOOKS: Don't drop loose hooks or lures into a pocket on your craft. Keep them in protective boxes. Also, be careful when fishing or when handling hooked fish...especially with trebles. Don't use gaffs...except in salt water for big fish. And then it is still safer to use a big net. Gaffs are also illegal in most inland waters.[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]Don't bring glass containers on board. Carry all liquids, bait items, etc. in plastic or metal. Broken glass and inflated air chambers do not go together well.[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]Stay away from the shoreline unless launching or beaching. There can be unseen underwater dangers as well as shoreline barb wire, sharp branches, etc. No need to tempt fate.[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]After that it is common sense. You should also be aware of your craft's condition at all times. If you notice any changes stop fishing and check it out. Might only be pressure change due to warming or cooling. If it is anything else you need to deal with it. Stay aware of your surroundings and always have an escape plan if emergencies occur. Watch the weather and water conditions and don't put yourself needlessly at risk.[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]That's about all I can think of.[/#0000ff]
[signature]