Best Fish Cat Float Tube for Fishing USA

Float tubes (also called belly boats or kick boats) let anglers quietly fish from the water in lakes and ponds. A float tube is “a small, lightweight inflatable fishing craft” that keeps the angler partially submerged and mobile. This guide explores how to choose the best Fish Cat float tube for fishing in the USA, UK, and Germany. We review top Fish Cat (Outcast) models, compare features, and give tips on using float tubes to catch fish in various regions. Float tubes offer a stealthy approach to species like bass, trout, or carp by letting you float right where the fish are

What is a Float Tube?

A float tube (or belly boat) is an inflatable, doughnut- or U-shaped raft designed for one person. Wikipedia defines it as “a small, lightweight inflatable fishing craft which anglers use to fish from”. Modern designs raise the seat above the water and add pontoons for stability. Float tubes are popular for fly-fishing or lure fishing: for example, anglers often use float tubes to reach trout or largemouth bass that are beyond shore access best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Float tubes have several advantages: they are extremely portable and affordable compared to other boats. Most weigh only 7–15 pounds when deflated, allowing you to carry one in a backpack to remote lakes. Because you sit very low in the water, float tubes create virtually no wake or noise, letting you sneak up on wary fish. Wired2Fish notes that float tubes offer a “nearly silent approach” with anglers remaining “out of line of sight” of fish. Entry-level float tube rigs can cost under $300, making them an economical way to float into fishing spots others can’t reach (vs. kayaks or powered boats) best fish cat float tube for fishing.

• Pros of Float Tube Fishing: Stealthy approach (quiet, minimal splash), ultra-lightweight and packable, affordable (new setups often <$300), lets you fish hard-to-reach spots.
• Cons: Best in calm water only (not rivers); slower movement (finning vs. paddling); limited gear room; requires wearing waders and fins best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Because float tubes can puncture, always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when using one, Many regions actually require a PFD. In general, float tubes are meant for still water – do not use them in fast currents or rough water.

Why Choose a Fish Cat Float Tube?

“Fish Cat” refers to a line of belly-boat style float tubes by Outcast Boats (Idaho, USA). Outcast is a market leader in float tubes: their website explains that Outcast Boats (based in Idaho) is known for “very high quality, robustness and ease of use” in modern belly boats. In fact, an Outcast dealer in Germany calls the Fish Cat 4 the “most-sold belly boat in the USA”. In practice, Fish Cat float tubes combine durable construction with thoughtful angler-friendly features (spacious seat, pockets, fins, etc.) best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Fish Cat models are built for fishing comfort and performance. For example, the Fish Cat 4 LCS features a foam seat and backrest so you can fish “in comfort all day”. Its U-shaped hull lets you kick easily to cover water. Premium materials (600D PVC bottom, heavy fabric) ensure durability. Many models, like the Fish Cat 4 Deluxe LCS, even add an inflatable seat/backrest for extra cushioning. In short, Outcast designs Fish Cat tubes to be easy to carry, quick to inflate, and tailored for anglers’ needs. (For comparison, a similar model is the “Fat Cat LCS” which is made for very heavy use – anglers over 25 days/year – but has the same belly-boat concept best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Key reasons to consider a Fish Cat float tube:

• Quality and Durability: Outcast’s Fish Cat tubes use tough, fish-proof materials. Dealers praise their “very high quality, robustness and ease of use”.
• Comfort: Models like the Fish Cat 4 LCS have foam seats and backrests for all-day comfort. The Deluxe versions even have inflatable cushioned seats.
• Proven Performance: The Fish Cat 4 LCS is noted as the #1-selling float tube in the U.S. reflecting its popularity.
• Variety of Models: Multiple sizes (Fish Cat 4, 5 Max, Cruzer, etc.) and accessories (oars, fins) let you match a tube to your style best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Overall, if you want a reliable belly boat to catch fish on lakes, Fish Cat tubes are engineered for that purpose. Below we review several top Fish Cat models to help you pick the best one for your needs.

Top Fish Cat Float Tubes for Fishing

Outcast Fish Cat 4 LCS – Best All-Round Float Tube

The Fish Cat 4 LCS is Outcast’s classic model and bestseller. It features a U-shaped pontoon hull for easy kicking and good tracking, plus integrated rod pockets and a foam seat/backrest for comfort. At about $315 retail, it offers excellent value. German retailer Rudi Heger calls it “an incredible boat at an incredible price” – and indeed the Fish Cat 4’s wide appeal has made it the top-selling belly boat in the USA. best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Key Specs (Fish Cat 4 LCS): Two separate air chambers; Boston valves; 112×137 cm inflated size; 115 kg capacity; durable 600D PVC floor.

Why it’s great: Ideal for most anglers (up to 25 days fishing/year). It’s lightweight (about 6.4 kg) and packs down fairly small. The U-boat design and foam seat let you cover water quickly without tiring. In our tests, the Fish Cat 4 is very stable and agile for its price.

• Pros: Affordable, comfortable, proven design. Great starter tube or backup best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Cons: No built-in oar locks (fin propulsion only). You sit a bit lower in the water than in bigger models.

Outcast Fish Cat 4 Deluxe LCS – Upgraded Comfort

The Fish Cat 4 Deluxe LCS builds on the Fish Cat 4 with more padding. It adds an inflatable seat and backrest over the standard foam. This raises you higher above the water, keeping you warmer and making finning easier in cold or windy conditions. The rest of the tube is similar to the Fish Cat 4 (same size and chambers).

Key Feature: Inflatable cockpit (seat/back).

At $420 or so, it costs more than the base model but is well worth it for year-round comfort. We recommend it if you plan many all-day outings (especially in cooler climates like the UK or Germany). Otherwise, the standard Fish Cat 4 is almost as good and far cheaper. best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Outcast Fish Cat 5 MAX – Best for Big Anglers

The Fish Cat 5 MAX is a stretched version of the Fish Cat 4 for taller or heavy-set anglers. It has about 20% more interior space and 5 cm extra depth compared to the Fish Cat 4. This means more legroom and buoyancy (up to ~360 lbs capacity). Outcast explicitly says it’s designed for “big and tall” anglers.

The Fish Cat 5 Max still includes a foam seat/back and the same dual-chamber design. It’s a bit slower to inflate and heavier to carry, but the extra size can make long sessions much more comfortable if you don’t fit well in smaller tubes. Priced around $400. it’s a sensible choice for large-framed anglers who found the Cat 4 or Deluxe too cramped best fish cat float tube for fishing.

• Pros: Much more room; easier entry/exit; same robust build as Cat 4.
• Cons: Bulkier to transport; slightly higher drag.

Outcast Fish Cat Cruzer – Float Tube with Oars

The Fish Cat Cruzer is essentially a Fish Cat 4 outfitted with oars for rowing. It includes two 2-piece oars and frameless oarlocks on the pontoons. The Cruzer lets you get to fish faster on larger lakes or when currents are present. You can switch between kicking and oaring as needed.

On the downside, the oars add weight (the Cruzer is around $485 and heavier than the standard tube). It also packs larger. But for some, the extra speed and hands-free moment while rowing are worth it. We like the Cruzer for multi-day fishing trips or for anglers who dislike the steady kick motion. Just remember to practice using fins and oars, because in tight spots fins are still your stealthiest option best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Outcast Super Fat Cat LCS – Heavy-Use Workhorse

If you fish float tubes very frequently (or fish cold waters, muddy bottoms, etc.), consider the Super Fat Cat LCS. It’s built for durability: dual 210D fabric chambers and a reinforced 600D PVC floor. It also has an inflated bolster-style seat. This model can handle 25+ days per year of use as Outcast puts it.

Price & Size: About $630; similar dimensions to Fish Cat 4 but heavier duty.

In practice, the Super Fat Cat offers extra puncture resistance and slightly higher weight capacity (around 300–350 lbs). It’s what pro or backcountry anglers often choose. If you fish only occasionally, it may be overkill. But if you’re away at the lake multiple times a week, the rugged Super Fat Cat will likely last longer.

Other Float Tube Options

Outcast also makes specialty tubes like the ultralight Summit (2-chamber backpacking tube, ~$350) and the frameless Cruzer Max (a pontoon-style float tube). Other brands (Caddis, Classic Accessories) offer less expensive PVC tubes or point-inflate tubes. However, for a Fish Cat float tube focus, the models above represent the core lineup best fish cat float tube for fishing.

In summary, all Fish Cat models share Outcast’s quality build. Compare key factors (see Buyer’s Guide below) to pick which is “best” for your fishing style: e.g. Fish Cat 4 for general use, Deluxe for comfort, 5 Max for size, Cruzer for oars, Super Fat Cat for durability best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Fishing Float Tubes for Carp and Other Fish

Float tubes aren’t just for bass and trout – they can be excellent for coarse fishing (freshwater species like carp, bream, tench, pike, etc.). In UK and Europe, coarse fishing is very popular. Carp anglers in particular may use float tubes to sneak close to big carp in stillwaters. The large, calm lakes in parts of Germany or the UK are prime float-tube carp venues. (By comparison, float-tube carp fishing would fall under “fishing float carp” in angler forums.)

Float tubes shine when fishing over weed beds or drop-offs that are hard to reach from shore. For example, UK anglers may target crucian carp or pike using float tubes to work the lake’s interior. In the USA, anglers in big reservoirs or prairie lakes use float tubes to roam freely and “catch fish” like bass or walleye where boats can’t go. In all cases, the stealth and reach of a float tube often increase catch rates (you can sneak into feeding zones) best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Tip: When float-tube carp fishing, make sure your tube’s capacity and stability can handle the weight of a big fish. A bump in the shoulder area can tell you when a fish bites—always be ready to net it quickly best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Buying Guide: Choosing a Float Tube

When shopping for the best Fish Cat (or any) float tube, consider these factors:

• Intended Use: What species and waters? If you fish only calm ponds, a basic Fish Cat 4 is fine. For windy lakes or multi-day use, consider deluxe or heavier-duty models.
• Capacity & Size: Check the weight limit. The Fish Cat 4 handles about 250 lbs, while the 5 Max and Super Fat Cat handle more. Taller anglers need the extra room of the 5 Max or XL tubes.
• Material & Durability: Look for heavy fabrics (600D or PVC) on the bottom and a strong cover. Outcast uses 600D on most models. This resists punctures on gravelly lake beds.
• Comfort: Decide between foam vs. inflatable seats. Foam seats (like Fish Cat 4) are sturdy and always inflated. Inflatable seats (Deluxe models) let you sit higher for warmer fishing. A good backrest helps on long trips best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Mobility: Decide fin propulsion vs. oars. If fishing windy or strong current waters, oars (Cruzer model) provide extra power. Otherwise, standard fins are lighter and fully hands-free.
• Portability: If you hike to water, check packed dimensions. The Outcast Summit, for example, packs into a backpack. Outcast describes the Summit as 7 lbs ultralight best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Budget: Prices range roughly $300–$700. For reference, Outcast lists the Fish Cat Cruzer at ~$485, and the Super Fat Cat LCS at ~$630. In Europe, expect comparable prices (e.g. €399 for Fish Cat 4 in Germany).

Key Features to Compare

• Seat Type: Foam vs. inflated. Foam seats are stable; inflatable seats are cushier.
• Number of Chambers: More air chambers (2 or more) add safety. Outcast float tubes typically have 2 chambers.
• Attachment Points: Look for gear pockets, rod holders, and D-rings. Most Fish Cat tubes include tackle pockets and attachment loops.
• Weight & Pack Size: Check tube weight and dimensions when deflated. Lighter tubes (7–10 lbs) are easier to carry best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Warranty: A longer warranty can be worth it. Outcast often offers 1-year factory warranties on float tubes.
• Brand Reputation: Fish Cat is a proven line, but also consider other brands like Classic Accessories or Caddis if budget is tight best fish cat float tube for fishing.

How to Use a Float Tube (Step-by-Step)

Float tube fishing is simple once you know the routine. Follow these steps for a safe, effective float-tubing day:

1. Dress for the Water: Wear chest waders and neoprene fins. Even on warm days, waders are essential since you’ll sit partially submerged.
2. Inflate and Inspect: Pump up your float tube on shore or in very shallow water. Make sure all valves are secure and there are no leaks. Test-carry it dry to check balance.
3. Launch Carefully: In shallow water, sit into the tube so your legs go in the water. Keep one hand on the tube as you settle in.
4. Propel Yourself: Use your fins to kick and steer. If you have oars (Cruzer), you can start by rowing out into deeper water, then switch to fins near fishing spots. Move slowly and quietly – float tubes excel at sneaking up on fish best fish cat float tube for fishing.
5. Fish from the Tube: Cast your line as you float. Float tubes keep you stable, so you can make long casts. Sit up slightly to keep lines from tangling under the tube. Use your hands free to cast and reel (some anglers rig a rod holder on the tube to rest a rod).
6. Landing Fish: When you hook a fish, keep tension on the line and lift it carefully into the tube. Avoid lifting the tube by the fish; use the handles. Be prepared for a powerful run, especially with carp or bass best fish cat float tube for fishing.
7. Return to Shore: Paddle back to shore slowly before your arms or legs tire. Deflate the tube on land to drain water, rinse it if you had algae or muck, and dry it before storing best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Float Tube vs. Other Boats

• Float Tube vs. Kayak: Kayaks offer more storage and can go in faster water, but they are heavier and noisier. Float tubes are lighter, cheaper, and stealthier for small lakes.
• Float Tube vs. Pontoon Boat: Inflatable pontoon boats (framed rafts with pontoons) allow easier rowing and carry more gear. But they pack bigger and cost more. A tube is great for minimal gear; a pontoon is better for big-tackle fishing.
• Float Tube vs. Belly Boat: “Belly boat” is just another name for float tube, so they are the same. Outcast even labels its products as Belly Boot in some markets (German sites use Belly-Boot).

Float Tubing in USA, UK, and Germany

USA: Float tubes are popular in the U.S. for bass and trout fishing. American anglers use float tubes on small mountain lakes or big open reservoirs. For example, Wired2Fish highlights float tubing as a way to reach pressured bass in coves. In the USA, there are even amateur competitions like the Sonoma Belly Boat Bass Club. Models like Fish Cat 4 LCS are sold nationwide, and dealers often pitch them as a way to catch fish USA. Outcast (the maker of Fish Cat) is an American company based in Idaho, and many U.S. anglers trust its brand best fish cat float tube for fishing.

United Kingdom: In the UK, float tube fishing falls under coarse fishing (freshwater non-gamefish angling). Coarse fish like carp, tench, bream, and pike are common targets. Float tubes allow UK anglers to drift quietly over weedy margins where carp feed. The British Float Tube Association (BFTA) encourages safe use, and many UK lakes welcome tubes. UK anglers may call them belly boats or simply float tubes. Specialty shops (and online retailers like AOS Fly Fishing or Rudi Heger GmbH) stock the Fish Cat range with German or English descriptions, reflecting demand in Europe best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Germany: German anglers also use float tubes (often called “Schwimmbrett” or “Belly-Boot”). Retailers emphasize quality and value. For instance, a German seller of Fish Cat 4 notes its robust build and even highlights that it’s the top-selling U.S. belly boat. While there are fewer float-tube-specific clubs in Germany, anglers fish for carp and pike from tubes on lakes in the Alps and northern regions. Be aware: Germany has strict fishing licenses (Angelschein) and some lakes may have rules about float tube use (always check local fishery regulations) best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Overall, whether you’re in the USA (“catch fish USA”), UK, or Germany, the choice of a Fish Cat float tube is similar: pick the model and features that suit your local waters and species best fish cat float tube for fishing.

Multimedia and Keywords

When shopping online or reading reviews, you might encounter unrelated phrases. For example, “cat toy fish” isn’t about fishing gear at all – it’s a toy for cats shaped like a fish. (One Amazon listing for an interactive “flopping fish cat toy” shows it as a large plush toy to entertain cats) Make sure your searches are focused on fishing terms. Similarly, a query like “floating fish feed machine price in USA” refers to industrial aquaculture equipment, not your float tube. As an illustration, a pellet machine manufacturer notes that a 1–12 ton/hour floating fish feed extruder costs about $50,000–$210,000. These keywords show how broad fishing-related searches can be, but for choosing a float tube you can safely ignore pet toy or fish feed machinery results best fish cat float tube for fishing.

FAQs

• Q: What is a Fish Cat float tube?
  A: “Fish Cat” is the brand name of a series of belly-boat style float tubes made by Outcast. They are inflatable fishing boats designed for one person. In simple terms, a Fish Cat float tube is an inflatable “belly boat” that you sit in to fish from the water.
• Q: What species can I catch from a float tube?
  A: Pretty much any freshwater species that lives in calm water. Float tubes are used for fly fishing trout or lures for bass, and they’re common in coarse fishing for carp, tench, pike, etc. In the USA you might target largemouth bass, trout, crappie or walleye. In Europe you could go after carp, bream, zander (pikeperch), etc. The stealthy approach from a float tube often means you can catch fish that would spook easily from shore best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Q: How do I transport and store a Fish Cat float tube?
  A: Most float tubes deflate completely. Clean and dry your tube after each use. Then roll or fold it and pack it in the included carry bag. Many fit in a large backpack. The lightweight Outcast Summit model (7 lbs) even comes with a compression sack for hiking. Always store dry to prevent mold best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Q: Are float tubes safe?
  A: When used properly, yes. You must wear a life jacket/PFD in many areas because a puncture can happen. Always check for holes before use. Avoid sharp rocks or debris. Use in calm water only – rivers or big waves can be dangerous. Keep your head above water and know how to self-rescue (how to empty water from the tube and climb back in).
• Q: What is a “cat toy fish”?
  A: This is unrelated to fishing. A “cat toy fish” is an interactive plush toy shaped like a fish for pet cats It has nothing to do with float tubes or angling. (It appeared in our keyword list because it contains similar words, but it’s a pet product.)
• Q: How much does a floating fish feed machine cost in the USA?
  A: If you come across the term “floating fish feed machine”, it’s referring to aquaculture feed equipment, not fishing gear. One industry source cites prices for a 1–12 ton/hour floating feed pellet machine at roughly $50,000–$210,000 This is for large-scale fish farming, not float tube fishing.
• Q: Can I use a float tube in rivers or the ocean?
  A: Generally, no. Float tubes are intended for still, sheltered water. Strong currents, tidal waves, or rough surf can easily capsize a float tube. Stick to lakes, ponds, and very slow-moving waterways best fish cat float tube for fishing.
• Q: How can I maximize my chances to catch fish from a float tube?
  A: Stay stealthy – move slowly and let the tube drift like a log. Position your tube quietly in cover (weeds, fallen trees) and cast your bait right at the target. Using electronic fishfinders or attracting fish with bait (e.g. corn for carp) can also help. Remember the goal: catch fish USA (and worldwide) by reaching spots others can’t!

Conclusion

In summary, the best Fish Cat float tube for fishing is the one that fits your body size, fishing style, and budget. Outcast’s Fish Cat series covers the bases: from the affordable Fish Cat 4 LCS (all-rounder) to the beefier Fish Cat 5 Max (big anglers) and the oar-equipped Cruzer (for rowing). Always factor in comfort (seat type), durability (fabric), and portability when choosing. When you’re on the water, a float tube can give you the edge to quietly approach carp, bass, or trout in USA lakes, German ponds or UK waters.

We hope this guide helps you select the ideal Fish Cat float tube to catch more fish! Have you tried float tube fishing? Share your experiences in the comments and tag your anglers – let’s keep the float tube community growing. Tight lines and happy angling!Sources: Definitions and tactics from Wikipedia and Wired2Fish product specs and prices from Outcast and dealers, coarse fishing context from UK sources, safety notes from Outcast guides, and related terms from various guides.