How to Air Up a Caddis Float Tube

Caddis float tubes are made of an inner inflatable tube enclosed in a nylon shaped sack that gives shape, strength and protection to the inner tube. The inner tubes of most models include three separate air chambers for safety so that even if one chamber is somehow punctured, sufficient flotation remains for a fisherman to get to shore.

Things You'll Need

  • Hand or foot air pump or strong lungs
  • Caddis float tube
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Instructions

  1. Inflating the Tube

    • 1

      Spread the float tube out in an open location. Watch for any sharp objects that might pierce the tube. If the inner tube is not inside the nylon outer shell, then slide the inner tube in through the flap. Most of the Caddis tubes use a fabric fastener to close the shell. It can be helpful to slightly inflate the tube when doing this, but do not inflate too much or you won't be able to slide it into the shell.

    • 2

      Inflate the main air compartment of the inner tube first. The main air compartment is either a circle or "U" shape depending on the model. The air fill is located on the left side (if you were sitting in the tube) and is a black tube with a screw-on cap. This main air fill is accessed through a small flap inside a small pocket.

    • 3

      Inflate the back tubes. Access the air fill nozzle of these chambers through the fabric fastener or zippered opening along the top of each back chamber section.

    • 4

      Install the safety-support bar, seat webbing and any fishing gear. Now you are ready to get out on the water.