COLORADO PONTOON REVIEW (CLASSIC ACCESSORIES) and a few gear tips to make it more fishable!

[@RAGEFISHING]

Looking for a way to store your Colorado Pontoon? Check out this video utilizing an electric hoist to store it on your garage or shop ceiling. 🎣 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJXQdYWAqLWhptk

[@M4L1CH43]

I watched your video a little too late. No other video out there explained the included anchor system and I already bought a Scotty anchor system 😅 My boat is being delivered today, I'm so excited. Thanks for the vid!

[@RAGEFISHING]

Oops! Can you send it back?

[@M4L1CH43]

@@RAGEFISHING I also have an intex excursion 5 I can put it on, so it's all good 👍

[@JustinBeyerlin1]

Thanks for the video! I just picked up the same pontoon and brought it out today to troll plugs for lake trout. I set the rod holder that comes with it up 90 degrees to the left, and the location seems terrible. I was trolling by rowing and the oars kept hitting my rod and nearly knocking it out of the rod holder. I’m definitely going to need to buy a deeper rod holder and custom mount it out of the way of the oar movement. Otherwise, I absolutely love this thing!

[@RAGEFISHING]

Yeah, the rod holders are more designed for fly rods. The rods behind the oars I usually strap in with the attached Velcro strap. Scotty used to make a cool rod holder for pontoons, but I couldn’t find one for this boat. I had one on my first pontoon, a Classic Accessories Madison. Thanks for the feedback! I appreciate it. Good luck with it! 👍🏻🎣

[@ChipEstrada]

I just bought one, arrives monday (3 days) Thanks for the info!!!

[@RAGEFISHING]

Awesome! Just had mine out for the first bass trip of the year! Love it! 🎣

[@ChipEstrada]

@@RAGEFISHING cant wait for maiden voyage

[@kentmerrill8925]

Answered a lot of questions Thanks

[@RAGEFISHING]

Good to hear! Thanks for the feedback.

[@steveloudon7491]

Hi, Thanks for the video. Can you tell me the difference between the Colorado and the Colorado XT? Thanks again.

[@RAGEFISHING]

I believe the XT has a wheel that folds down for ease of transport from vehicle to the water. Plus the storage compartments are different. Looks like they have the standard Colorado back in stock, so I re-added that link. I don’t think it’s worth it for that wheel, just makes it heavier. Plus it appears the XT is missing a few of the pockets.

[@steveloudon7491]

@@RAGEFISHING Thanks for the quick reply. I agree.

[@RAGEFISHING]

@steveloudon7491 No problem, I’ve had my Colorado for 5 years now and still love it. I did a bass trip in March and added a few tips for using the Colorado if you want to check it out. Good luck! kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYHTl4duhsqah6ssi=jNNWqtRonF9ZNgMq

[@jesseascriven]

Thanks for posting!! Great video!

[@RAGEFISHING]

Thank you! They are a great boat for the money. 🎣

[@az_pit_viper4270]

I am ordering one this week and should have it by Saturday 😀😀

[@RAGEFISHING]

Nice! You’ll like it.

[@az_pit_viper4270]

@@RAGEFISHING Oh poop, delivery has been updated to Tuesday 😭😭😭

[@RAGEFISHING]

AZ_PIT_VIPER Ah man! It’s raining in Oregon all weekend, and supposed to be sunny next. So maybe the weather will be better Monday.

[@az_pit_viper4270]

@@RAGEFISHINGFingers crossed my friend. I wanted to use it this weekend but now it won't be till next weekend. Darn Amazon 😡😡

[@az_pit_viper4270]

@@RAGEFISHING by the way, do you have a Facebook page?

[@chappychap7447]

Is it ok to carry? I know the XT model has a wheel built in that you can fold out on the bottom. I know I can carry the weight of it, but is it awkward, or well balanced when you carry it to and from the put in?

[@RAGEFISHING]

It’s all in the way you carry it and how close you are to the water. I usually get within 30-40 yards of the water so I don’t have far to go. At the end of the video, I demonstrate how I carry it. I stand on the inside the foot rests, facing the rear of the boat and carry it by the oar lock supports. It’s around 62 pounds if I remember correctly. I usually take the boat down by itself and make a second trip with my oars, anchor and fishing equipment. Classic Accessories does sell the wheel as an addition, but it’s not necessary how I use it. It’s not awkward to carry if you grab it at the oar lock supports, that’s where it is balanced. I hope this helps!

[@No3Jacks]

Question. I just purchased one of these boats. Found out later that they are no longer in production and replacement parts are limited to what’s on hand😢. That’s not my question 😅. If you’re not going to use your boat for 3-5 days, should you let some of the air out of the pontoons?

[@RAGEFISHING]

That’s a good question, I never store it with completely full pontoons. I let a little air out once I’m done using it just to put it in the back of my truck and don’t completely fill it back up until the next fishing trip. Plus, you definitely don’t want to travel with full bladders due to possible changes in elevation causing an over pressure. My first Classic Accessories Pontoon was the Madison model. I had it for 8-9 years I believe and never had a problem with a leak or bladder failure.

[@No3Jacks]

⁠@@RAGEFISHINGthanks for that prompt response. Makes sense. My problem is I have to break it down to haul it to our lake, put it together to fish, then break it down to haul it home. Working on a pulley system to store it in the garage so I can get my truck back in there. That would require reassembling it again after returning home🤦🏻‍♂️. Anyway thanks for the input.

[@RAGEFISHING]

@No3Jacks you’re welcome! Did you see the video about the electric hoist for storage? That works pretty well too.

[@No3Jacks]

Bought one of these. Arrives tomorrow. I've yet to see a video, and I've watched dozens, of anyone getting on to one of these. I did see one where someone was exiting the craft. It did not go well. I have access to a beach entry as well as a dock. I have subscribed to your channel. Any advice regarding the launching and exiting would be appreciated. Thanks

[@RAGEFISHING]

Thanks for subscribing and I hope my videos are helpful. The best entry and exit is at a boat ramp with a gradual ramp. However I know that’s not always available. In places without that option, I put the boat facing me against the bank. I grab onto the oar lock supports and step onto the footrests to distribute my weight so I don’t tip the boat. Then, I put a knee on the seat which centers most of my weight to the middle. At that point, I just twist around and sit down on the seat using my feet on the footrests. Another suggestion is to put the footrests in upside down, so they give you more clearance from the water. I plan to do some bass fishing soon in a local pond, I’ll try to film this process so you can see what I’m talking about. Landing the boat can be a goat rope too, I just get as much forward momentum as I can to push up on the bank. Again, I use the footrests to crawl off the boat onto the bank. Using the oars can be helpful too, just don’t put too much leverage on them or they could snap.

[@trainroomgary]

🚂 Hi from Michigan - Well done demonstration - Can I get this boat in and out of a Ford F150 alone? & Put together already in the truck bed? 😎

[@RAGEFISHING]

Hi back from Oregon! 😁 I would think so, I have a 2012 tundra with a similar bed size. I deflate the pontoons a tad so it sits flat and keep my tailgate down. I have another video on my channel titled COLORADO PONTOON TRANSPORTATION. I go over my method of getting the boat to the water. Let me know if that helps! Here’s the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5fGiq13bbZ8eaM

[@MrRubenAlonzo]

Thank you for this review! I just bought mine tonight for $339 and just could not beat that deal, I also ordered the swivel seat mount. Cant wait to get out on the water! Does this come with a pump? If not will a bicycle pump with a gauge work or does it have special fittings?

[@ttttenney]

What size was the swivel seat mount you purchased?

[@RAGEFISHING]

That’s a great deal for that boat! That’s why I said check back occasionally because the prices change a lot. It doesn NOT come with a pump. I bought one of the 2 way pumps, I believe I put a link in the description field of the video. If not, I will. A bicycle pump will take a long time!

[@MrRubenAlonzo]

@@ttttenney www.amazon.com/Leader-Accessories-Marine-Boat-Swivel/dp/B00GZKBYMM/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Leader+Accessories+Marine+Boat+Seat+Swivel&qid=1597459861&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-3 this is the swivel seat mount I bought, in the reviews, like the 4th one down, they posted it was perfect for the Colorado pontoon boats.

[@MrRubenAlonzo]

@@RAGEFISHING Just saw the link, appreciate it!

[@RAGEFISHING]

Let me know how it works for you!

[@mattpastell3728]

Great info! Amazon just dropped the price to $400 and mine is on the way!

[@RAGEFISHING]

That’s a great deal. I’m in winter steelhead season right now and want to get it out on the river. You’ll like it!

[@andreal3535]

This might sound stupid, but would that material pop easily? Like lets say someone unfortunately got a hook in the raft, would it pop?

[@RAGEFISHING]

Not a dumb question at all. Yes, it would deflate, but I’ve been fishing Classic Accessories pontoons for 14-15 years and have never got a hook stuck in one and have never had a leak. The pontoon covers are heavy duty material which cover the actual bladder. I carry a repair kit in the pontoons for emergencies. My advice would be if you get a hook stuck in the pontoon causing air to leak, leave it in the hole and get off the water. Pulling it out would cause air loss much faster. But again, it’s never happened to me.

[@andreal3535]

@@RAGEFISHING thank you so much! I've been debating about getting this pontoon or a really nice fishing kayak, but I've been loving the reviews for this pontoon

[@RAGEFISHING]

@andreal3535 you’re welcome. I have a kayak as well: the benefit of a kayak is no worries about popped pontoons, but you do have to be careful regarding stability. Depending on the model, they can be tipped over, whereas a pontoon is very stable. Kayaks can move from location to location faster, pontoons have a little more drag, so they’re slower. Kayaks can be awkward to cast from, you have to twist your body a bit to cast at times, whereas the pontoon allows you to cast directly in front of you as well as land fish without twisting your torso. Lots to consider, both have their strong points. Good luck!

[@richarddorsch7275]

This model is the only one that comes with storage bags up front. The xt , xts and Wilderness (From Cosco) model don’t. Do you find that the extra up front storage is worth it compared to the other models that don’t?

[@RAGEFISHING]

I use all the pockets on the pontoon, the more storage the better. I guess it depends on what options come on the other models. Are they features that would balance out the extra pockets?

[@richarddorsch8685]

Just wondering if those 2 front gear pouches are worth having since the models xt and xts and the Cosco model Wilderness don't have them. They would seem to me as a extra benefit for added storage but would I appreciate your opinion. I thinking of purchasing one of these.. Thank you. Rich D

[@RAGEFISHING]

I’m with you, the more storage the better. In the left front pocket I keep the inflation tool and a classic accessories repair kit. The other one holds fishing gear. This pontoon definitely has a lot of built in storage options.

[@MrRubenAlonzo]

Sir what type of life preserver (I guess they are called PFD's now) would you recommend for the Colorado? Something that wont interfere with the rowing motion.

[@RAGEFISHING]

I recently bought a mustang horseshoe shaped inflatable, I believe it’s the MIT. It’s small profile. However, most the time I just use the cabelas waist belt inflatable. The inflatables don’t have the bulk as foam life jackets. If you want a foam one, check out the full motion by cabelas. I use one when drift boating sometimes. Full range of motion.

[@MrRubenAlonzo]

@@RAGEFISHING Much appreciate the advice, thank you.

[@brianwiser9194]

How do you get it from the car to the water? Do they sell a wheel attachment?

[@RAGEFISHING]

I carry it as shown at the very end of the video. Classic accessories does sell a wheel attachment that folds up. I believe the more expensive models come with it, but I’ve never used one. I make 2 trips; the first with just the boat, then with the anchor, oars and fishing rods.

[@jeffrathjen6018]

I noticed u have foot supports turned up. I just put mine together and haven't used it yet. The manual shows them turned down.

[@RAGEFISHING]

It does, but they are almost touching the water. I generally wear low top shoes and don’t want to get them wet. If you wear waders, rubber boots or water sandals and aren’t worrying about getting your feet wet, you can have them down as shown.

[@franklawsonjr4490]

What’s the website to buy one of these I’ve clicked on every link and it takes me somewhere else.

[@RAGEFISHING]

amzn.to/2WdptwK

[@RAGEFISHING]

Try that, I’m not at home now, I’ll check my link when I get back.

[@No3Jacks]

Finally got the Colorado on the water and didn't get soaked doing it.

[@RAGEFISHING]

Nice! I took mine out last Tuesday for some spring bass. It’s such a cool water craft for small ponds. 🎣

[@No3Jacks]

@@RAGEFISHING Will be doing my "fishing" on a 110 acre lake. Depth is 85'. Lots of pan fish, bass and even a few Walleye. The first freshwater fish I catch will be my first since Moby Dick was a minnow.

[@RAGEFISHING]

@No3Jacks 🤣 well good luck! Sounds like a fun place to fish.

[@jasonperry4898]

Good review..thx

[@pablomontoya9254]

Is this idea for bay fishing

[@RAGEFISHING]

I guess it depends on the turbulence of the waves. I’m guessing no, it’s for easy going rivers, lakes and ponds.

[@fishgod20]

Any issues with rust??

[@RAGEFISHING]

The frames are painted steel, so they will rust it the paint is comprised. I haven’t had any issues with rust though. I probably wouldn’t use it in saltwater.

[@fishgod20]

I had my frame replaced because of rust

[@RAGEFISHING]

That’s good! C.A. customer service was good to me. My seat had a small hole in it from shipping, they sent me a new one without any hassle.

[@MichaelPatete-i4d]

I lost on of my ores , could I order , would like transport wheel

[@RAGEFISHING]

I would contact Classic Accessories. I’m not sure.

[@jayers79]

How would this work in salt water?

[@RAGEFISHING]

I’m not sure, might want to check on Classic Accessories website. I would worry the frame would start deteriorating with salt water. It’s steel.

[@balor7]

How small does this break down to? I have a late model Ford escape.

[@RAGEFISHING]

It can break down as small as you need, it’s just a matter of the level of assembly convenience you want when you get to your fishing location. I put it in the bed of my Tundra fully assembled. For your vehicle, I would say remove the pontoons and partially deflate. The footrests come off easy, so they would come off next. If the remaining frame won’t fit in the back of your escape, you can disassemble the frame as needed to fit. The entire pontoon comes in a box 48”x24”x15” according to Amazon. It’s surprising a 9’ boat can come in a box that small. I hope this answer helps!

[@balor7]

@@RAGEFISHING it helps a lot. Thank you!

[@iDunked]

Great video! I found this video trying to find out how easy it would be to transport? I don’t have a pickup truck but I do have a minivan lol would that fit in it with all seat folded down?

[@RAGEFISHING]

I don’t think it will, but would work is to un-strap the pontoons from the frame, 4 for each side, easy to do. I take them off during long term storage. Put the frame in your van, slightly deflate the pontoons and put them on top, or fold them up. With a good 2 way hand pump they inflate quick. Another benefit of doing it this way is you can walk the individual pieces to the water side to put back together. I can carry the whole boat around for short distances. I think it weighs around 70 pounds. I transport mine in the bed of a Tundra truck, it works fine with the tailgate down. Hopefully this answers your question! Thanks for the feedback. 👍🏻🎣

[@det282]

Great video. That answered a lot of questions for me. Any specific reason you don't want to use a trolling motor?

[@RAGEFISHING]

I only use it in small ponds and rivers. Not to mention, you have to register it with the marine board if you add an engine, even a tiny trolling motor. They charge per foot, so not sure the cost, but I pay over $100 every 2 years for my 16’ drift boat to use a trolling motor.

[@abnertv1914]

if you have a motor you need to have permit/license/registration. am i correct?

[@RAGEFISHING]

Abner Ocampo depends on the state, I live in Oregon which would require you to license/register the boat. You wouldn’t need a boaters license for a small trolling motor for yourself however.

[@az_pit_viper4270]

@@abnertv1914 depending on where you live. Here in Arizona it is only $20 to register a motorized boat up to twelve feet long.

[@Snailmailtrucker]

I was looking at these Pontoon Boats on Amazon and decided to check out some KZbin reviews...I was skeptical about the super low price of $295.00...Your link says that same price... Is that one priced at $295.00 today, the same one that you got ? Liked/Subscribed

[@RAGEFISHING]

Holy cow! That’s a deal, yes I just checked! Prices fluctuate so I’d move quick. I’ve seen them as low as $299 before, but it didn’t last long. I wonder if they just have a pile of them and need to correct inventory. 🤔

[@Snailmailtrucker]

@@RAGEFISHING Thanks for that Super Fast reply ... I guess I'll have to take that Free Amazon Prime 30 day trial and get the fast Free shipping.... for that price there is No Way that I can go wrong . Thanks again for your Video and info

[@Snailmailtrucker]

So I just ordered one of these Pontoon Boats for 295.42 and I didn't even have to sign up for Amazon Prime to get the Free Shipping... Too Cool

[@RAGEFISHING]

@@Snailmailtrucker that’s a great deal! You’ll like the boat too. 🎣

[@TheBaldGamer69]

I literally cannot get this thing to stay afloat with a battery and trolling motor I'm so bummed..

[@RAGEFISHING]

As in it sinks? I’ve never used a motor, I even took the trolling motor bracket off. I use it in ponds and small lakes, I wish I could offer some advice, but I have good luck with mine. It seems they make batteries and motors for these pontoons. I typical rv battery would definitely be too heavy.