Ref: Need Advice for FLOATATION DEVICE for LONG-HANDLED WATER SCOOP:

[NamVetLesTreasureSeeker]

Hey Guys/Gals, I need some advice on a FLOATATION DEVICE for a LONG-HANDLED WATER SCOOP. What devices are everyone using? I was using an old dogleash that I had found on a beach a couple of yrs. ago, but it keeps getting tangled knots in it. I need to try something else! HH, Many THANKS for your responses. HH,

 

[gsitexas]

I have been using water pipe insulation, about two feet of it, taped around the upper part of the handle.

 

[Elton Noway]

I'm currently using one of those pool noodles. Walmart calls them an "Aqua Noodle". KMart has a similar device (same principle). It's also sometimes called a "Fun Noodle" and is usually found in the toy department near the pool supplies. It comes in many different colors and the bright colors makes it easy to see if your shovel gets away from you. The one you want has a 1" hole that runs the length of the noodle down thru the center. (Makes it real easy to slip down over the shovel handle) although you may have to wet it depending on the diameter of your shovel handle or if it has a bent configuration.

http://www.americanbackyards.com/products/description/4606.cfm

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.gsp?product_id=2620688

I've also used pipe insulation (Home Depot) but it is split lengthwise which requires you to tape or secure it with zip ties. I also found the black color of the insulation made it more difficult to see.

With either the noodle or the pipe insulation you will need adjust how much length you apply thru trial and error. If you add too much foam you'll find it becomes too buoyant and you have to fight to keep it down while digging.

Elton

 

[Trapper]

I use a small inner tube from a car. I tie my long-handled scoop to the inner tube with a piece of rope about 8' long. I have a swivel attached at the tube to avoid twisting of the rope. Another rope attached to the tube is tied to my belt. In the center of the tube is a screen. The screen has brackets to hold my scoop when I'm not using it.

I like this set up, as it's a hands-free operation. The tube follows me wherever I go in the water.