I went from using a float tube for years to a kickboat. I don't know why I didn't buy one sooner. They're awesome for fishing!

What did you use to make the rod holder? I'd like to do something like that on my boat. There are some velcro rod holders at Fisherman's warehouse that I might try to rig up. I worry about trees and shrubs thrashing my rods with the vertical setup. Plus, a horizontal mount will work well for rivers with overhanging trees. My boat is 10'6" so the pontoons will protect the pole in case I bump into anything. :7