ATV floatation devices
Contributors to this thread:Wisconsin
From: Chris S
04-Feb-18
Just looking to see if anyone has made there own version of floatations for their ATVs. I’ve looked all over the place but very few pics online and zero plans of how to make acceptable floats. I know Dane County has a list of rules and it has a couple pics but shocked at how little info there is in total. Also what do guys use for floatation foam? I was debating on simple plywood boxes on front and rear rack with pieces of styrofoam insulation board cut to size and stacked up inside but would rather not lose the rack space. No interest in spending $500 + on Nebelous system or Jwheelz. Any pics or help with some kinds of plans would be greatly appreciated. Stay warm Thanks -Chris
From: Drop Tine
04-Feb-18
D&S Bait in Madison used to sell floats for like $299.00. I had a set when I lived down there and ice fished the Madison chain. I’m sure Gean can give you ideas also of what guys use. Or go to some of the launches and see what guys are using when they are coming off the ice.
From: ground hunter
04-Feb-18
I believe Dane Co Sheriff office, offers plans etc,,, ask them
From: xtroutx
04-Feb-18
I have friends that have made boxes to fit on racks of atv. They used 2part 2lb marine foam to fill. Much better flotation than styrofoam board. Check under marine flotation foam. I also know a guy that used floating boat dock blocks.
From: Mike F
04-Feb-18
Mike F's Link
Here is a link to the Dane County Sheriff's Office with pictures. I am surprised that more places aren't requiring this Good Luck!
From: Hoot
04-Feb-18
My buddy who fishes the Madison chains made boxes filled marine foam just as xtroutx mentioned. He has rod holders on the front and rear boxes, a holder for his auger on top of the one in the back and bucket holders on the sides, not to mention a Lowrance GPS and pulling his Clam with all his other equipment in that. He looks like he just drove out of the showroom of Cabela's. LOL
From: Chris S
04-Feb-18
Thanks for quick responses. Just need some pics to get started. I got the basics from Dane county just need some visuals before I get cracking. Maybe just an excuse to procrastinate! Truth be told I am not required to have them in south east WI just like the extra piece of mind and insurance.
From: ground hunter
04-Feb-18
I have no idea of the costs, but when I was on the job and went on winter patrol, with ATV, for overtime, our ATV had a red bag, with yellow handle, on the front,,,, in case I went thru, I would pull the handle, it would hold up the ATV, and allow one to crawl out onto it like a rescue, bed, but I can not remember what they are called
From: Mike F
04-Feb-18
Chris - There are pictures on the Dane county site, just go down the page.
From: DoorKnob
05-Feb-18
Looks like you will be a very wet/cold floater.