Capabilities and range of inflatables.

[lhiggins]

Hello. I'm considering buying an inflatable to use on vacation this summer. I would like to know a little more about what I'm getting before I invest any money in one.

I plan on launching near river mouths and mudflats in florida and fishing for whatever I can catch. Does anyone know how far out these things can go safely? I'll definately be staying in site of shore but even that seems a bit dangerous as the flow of the river might push me out further than I plan on going. I'm open to suggestions of good brands and models and could use some information on reasonable prices. I have a small trolling motor already but I doubt it could fight against a strong current(Worst case scenario I'll just go perendicular to the current until I get away from it.).

Has anyone had any problems with hooks, gaffs, or fish punching holes in their raft?

 

[lhiggins]

Re: Capabilities and range of inflatables.

<http://www.gettington.com/product.aspx?groupxid=86110&CTid=655&mr:trackingCode=61507703-B8A7-DE11-A7DF-002219319097&mr:referralID=NA>

What do you guys think about this one? $400 and it appears to have slat floors and tough skin.

 

[nightstalker]

Re: Capabilities and range of inflatables.

I spend a lot of time in florida fishing the flats in a 14" jon boat. I wouldn't even think of using an inflatable there because of the oyster bars. Run over one of them, and you will cut her open like a tin can.
Nightstalker

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: Capabilities and range of inflatables.

It appears to be a POS...Seriously. Do yourself a favor and visit your local inflatable dealer for a quick education in materials, styles and brands. Then make an informed choice about what to get.

 

[likalar]

Re: Capabilities and range of inflatables.

Kind of like a motorcyclist trusting his head to a $30.00 helmet. You'll find many low priced boats that are just not worthy. Sure, you might have fun with them, but when conditions turn less than perfect you'll want a strong vessel under you. Visiting a dealer for advice is a great suggestion as a starting place.

Larry

 

[Luvinflatableboats]

Re: Capabilities and range of inflatables.

Hi,

Firstly the boat has a slatted floor which is good for rolling up but is not as good as a more rigid solid floor. If fact if space is not a problem you might consider a rigid inflatable which has the best performance but the trade off is in space.

Secondly, the material that the boat is made of is a big issue. If it is cheap PVC it won't last long and ruin a good day on the water.

The best advice is to inform yourself about inflatables have a working knowledge of the brands and choose a reliable brand and dealer who will look after you should the need arise.

Unfortunately there are lots of cheap inflatables on the market that are made cheap by cutting corners. It is better to spend a little more up front than to throw good money after bad by trying to fix something that is not worth fixing.

Good luck and do your homework


Darryl