You would think that freshwater is a piece of cake, but I can say with experience that this is not the case. I still like to use Google maps to pick a location if the water is new to me, but you don’t have to worry too much about your launch site changing because tides are not an issue at least on most bodies of freshwater. Weed lines can play a big part of your launch site and can prove to be a tangling mess. A popular big campsite in Big Bear California I like, is great for the family but is horrible for the tube, due to the weedlined shore. Another one of my favorite lakes to float tube is Puddingstone in San Dimas which provides you with limited access to the lake but the fishing is in a protective cove. Launching is limited to the boat ramps and small sections of shore line that are not too steep and rocky to walk out into the water. The launch ramp can look safe but the contour of the concrete is unforgiving on your feet and on hot summer days the moss is almost deadly as you will end up head over heels in seconds.
For those that are new to our sport and even those that have done this in the past. Float Tube fishing is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to fish. But this simple act of launching (ie… getting in and out) while float tube fishing can be the difference between fond memories and stories of mishape. Be prepared and plan your attack. The sport of float tube fishing is the best especially when you are well prepared for all possibilities.