I Was Born to be in a Float Tube
I have always been passionate about fishing ever since I was 5 years old catching my first panfish at our local city park Laguna Lake in Fullerton. Over the years I have tried many kinds of fishing one of which includes float tubing. I found the sport of float tube fishing when I was just a kid. Fishing in the mountains of San Bernardino back in the 80’s with my father one summer I saw a float tube fishermen from the shore of lake Gregory. Being just a kid it would be another 12 years before I would get the chance to try the sport for myself. I was at a play it again sports while on duty as an EMT in Orange County where I saw my first complete float tube setup. Stopping in at a local play it again sports store I saw it. I asked the shop owner how much for the whole setup. That was fins waders, a browning u-boat tube and a basic life jacket , he quoted me $85, all I needed to do was find a spot on the ambulance and it was mine. We had the room so I had my first float tube. The next week after some testing to see if it would it hold air at home I got up the courage to take it out for a maiden voyage.
My first trip was Irvine Lake in the late 90’s tubing was still allowed and at this point was the only place I could figure was ok to tube. I got to the lake bright and early for my first trip with nerves on high. I found a nice launch spot in secluded spot as I did not want to look like a fool in front of everyone. I double and triple checked everything and finally felt I was ready to go. Very gently I slipped into the water and sat back on the sling seat and felt the water rise up to just slightly above my waist. I was off and I really felt at this point float tube fishing was meant for me. It took to it very quick and easy with no trouble. It quickly relieve however it would take a few more trips out to understand the basics of moving in the water but I was already truly enjoying.