Which motor for a float tube?
Are you a fan of float tubes, or do you plan on buying a such a vessel soon? Have you ever wondered if you can install an electric motor on a float tube, what power, what battery will you need? About ten years ago, innovations were not as easily applied as they are today.
Today, Indeed it is much easier to find robust vessels exceeding 200kg of maximum load becoming a real alternative to boats. Installing an electric motor for your float tube can quickly become very complicated, between the choice of battery, the type of motor, the power (lbs). That's why we offer a guide to help you initially choose the right motor based on your needs.
Your fishing comfort will be determined by a motor powerful enough to achieve a satisfactory speed even in the face of wind and a battery offering good autonomy. Your equipment choice should consider where you plan to use your tube: a lake, a river, etc.
For beginners or for those who dislike complications, another important factor to consider is the ease of assembly of the motor on your float tube. Make sure to check for the presence of an attachment system on it. We understand that all this information to take into account and the vast number of references can be discouraging, as shown by our collection of float tubes.
But know that with a bit of courage it is widely accessible to all fishermen and you will not regret it, for sure! For the most hardy, it is even quite possible to create your own assembly with a homemade hull or stand.
Let's start without delay our guide with advice on choosing the power of the motor and the battery depending on your use then we will follow with a selection, of the best eclectic motors for your tube according to us.
The choice of the power of the electric motor, the battery, and the appropriate support
This is a very interesting alternative to boats, especially when they are equipped with a motor, allowing you to cover great distances. It is dangerous to venture alone into bodies of water using only the strength of your legs, the wind, and the current could quickly turn your session into a disaster.
Speaking of power, we advise you not to exceed 40 lbs, this will indeed be sufficient and not far from being too much. You will find a lot of brands and optional accessories, take the time to compare everything based on your real needs. There are more or less expensive motors, due to the different technologies of manufacturers with command heads located in more or less accessible places and with useful or not options.
The most effective choice will adapt according to everyone's means. A small purse will go for a simple, robust, and reliable motor, while a large purse will opt for high-end models with a remote control and sometimes integrated probe options.
Choosing your battery is very important, it will directly impact your comfort of use. It is important to know the three types of technology that exist:
- Classic lead batteries
- AGM batteries (absorbed glass mat)
- Lithium batteries
Lead batteries are very heavy, less efficient but also much cheaper than their counterparts. AGM batteries function using technology that offers better performance, more lightness, but as you might guess, they are more expensive. Finally, lithium batteries: top of the line with more autonomy, lighter, longer lifespan, but a price far exceeding the other two technologies.
You will choose according to your means. If you opt for a lead battery, go for the 90Ah range for example. With this kind of product, you will be able to reach a usage of 6 to 7 hours for about a hundred euros. Be aware that an AGM technology will cost you two to three times this price and a lithium one will exceed it five to six times.
