What are Belly Boats and Why are They Great for Fly Fishing

Fly fishing in a pond or lake is one of the most popular ways to fish. While anglers can cast and catch fish while walking around the edge of a pond, using a boat is always more efficient. Belly boats are the ideal companions for snagging the perfect catch!

Belly boats are also known as float tubes or kick boats. They are U-shaped, or sometimes round-shaped, inflatable boats with a hammock seat in the middle. They are similar to the floaties that kids use when swimming in a pool, although they are more technical, advanced versions. The boat is propelled using the angler’s feet while wearing fins on each foot instead of using oars or paddles to navigate; this gives anglers the freedom to use their hands to cast their lines.

Belly boats are famous among fly anglers for being extremely easy to use with fly fishing. They are usually used in inaccessible ponds and lakes, where big boats are not allowed, in sheltered waters, and in small to moderate creeks and streams.

Origin of the Belly Boat

Float tubes were already being produced and sold to anglers in 1895. Belly boats later emerged around 20 or more years ago, during the 1970s to the 1980s, in the Western United States and Canada as a perfect way to fish in secluded mountain ponds and lakes. Makeshift truck tire tubings paired with nylon seats were used in those days, and only a few brands and models were in circulation. Brands have been around since the 1940s, like Fish Master and Tucker Duck and Rubber Fish-n-Float, manufactured basic, tarp-covered inner tubes used by anglers in the south area to catch warm-water game fish. The name “belly boat” was coined from “belly” plus “boat,” referring to where the floaties were worn. 

Belly boats nowadays are very different from the ones in the old days. They are very portable, light, and easy to navigate. You can even customize your craft with lights, electronic fish finders, rod holders, anchors, or dry bags.

Advantages of Using a Belly Boat

Belly boats are lightweight and can easily be stored when deflated, using only a small area of your house, garage, or lakeside. They require minimal upkeep, and there is no need for a trailer when transporting them from one place to another. In addition, you can pack them in a backpack when deflated while traveling to the backcountry. 

You also have precise control when propelling with the help of fins, depending on favorable weather conditions.

Belly boats are more affordable than boats, kayaks, or paddleboards. Depending on the material and craftsmanship, a quality belly boat can cost around $200, excluding optional gear and equipment.

Another advantage of using a belly boat is that they’re amazing for reaching areas where shore fishing is limited, like sheer cliff places and underwater drop-offs.

The Downside

One of the disadvantages of using belly boats is the limited tackle storage and the limited number of rods you can take. While tipping over is not a problem, casting over long distances can be reduced, and your ability to locate fish or underwater cover may be hampered. Mobility can be a problem with strong winds, and movement can be slow when traveling long distances. 

Accessorize Your Boat

Minimal equipment and accessories are needed when belly boating, but a few things can be helpful or vital when using one.

Fins are necessary to propel yourself through the water. These varieties get the job done, from minimalist styles to extra support around the ankles, so your budget and preferences will determine which will work for you best.

A pump is a handy thing to have when belly boating, although it isn’t a necessity. During road trips, a pump is a welcome addition to your gear since you won’t be carrying it around all the time unless you opt to go backpacking, where a pump isn’t a vital part of your must-bring list since it will tire you out real quick due to the extra weight on your back.

Other accessories, like rod holders, dry bags, and anchors, can be added to a belly boat. These are optional, of course, since it is totally up to your preferences and fishing style.

Belly Boat Upkeep

Belly boat upkeep is straightforward. Just rinse the boat with freshwater, ensure that all dirt and debris are off, and then air-dry it out completely. You can pack a belly boat wet when hiking out, but make sure to air-dry it off before storage. Belly boats dry pretty quickly when inflated, so by the time you have it packed up before heading or hiking out, it will have been completely dry.

Washing your belly boat with a mild soap is recommended when storing it for an indefinite time.

Belly boats can be stored either partially or non-inflated but never fully inflated. If storage space is not an issue, keeping them half-inflated is a great option since it saves you time the next time you use it. Another thing, never leave your belly boat fully inflated when storing it long-term, or leave it in the trunk of your car for an extended period, mainly during summer. Belly boat fabrics are not meant for exposure to high temperatures over long periods. 

A Few Belly Boat Fishing Tips

1. Use An Apron

An apron is a convenient place to put a pair of pliers, a fly box, or other small accessories when going fly fishing.

2. Always Put On A Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Safety is a priority, so always wear a Personal Flotation Device. The best option to consider is inflatable PFDs.

3. Opt For Short Swim Fins 

Short swim fins offer better feet support and are sturdy, whether on land or at the bottom of a murky lake or pond.

4. Have A Game Plan And Focus on Key Areas

Plan and map out your start and end places since you can’t cover a whole pond or lake in just one trip. Focus on key areas centered on the species you’d like to catch and the water type in that spot.

5. Pay Attention To Your Backcasting

Concentrate on your backcasting when belly boat fly fishing, being careful not to allow the rod tip to a dropdown.

Summing It Up

Belly boat fishing can surely open up new worthwhile adventures and be simpler than you think. It may not be effortless since it adds extra flexibility and workout to your fishing. However, before embarking on your first fly fishing belly boat trip to a remote lake or pond, make a map of the area. Check that you have everything packed and that you can carry it all.