what do i need . i bought my tube and fins. to be legal do i need a horn or whistle and also a life jacket. are these required thanks

I use a PFD, the summer one is a fanny pack type and in the winter, I use a full size PFD. As far as legal, I'm not sure. I have a whistle too, but, I don't think it's required.

I was wondering the same thing.... about the requirements for tube fishing. The Texas Outdoor Annual was not clear on the requirements for tube fishing. It doesnt classify as a boat, however you're not exactly bank fishing either! Does anyone know whether or not you are required to wear a PDF, or carry any other safety/equipment adjuncts?

I usually wear a pfd in cold water or on a bigger body of water. I've fished in state parks with rangers everywhere, even visited with them, and I've never had one say anything if I was not wearing one. On a lot of tubes, there is a message imprinted about a Coast Guard requirement for a pfd, but I don't know whether or not that applies to fresh water--I suspect it does not. A whistle is not required.

hey fishbrain/ do u have a recommendation for brand of fins

I have some big, ol' Browning tube fins, like this. They're a little pricey, but I've used them for probably 15 years, and they're still going strong. I really like the Force fins I've seen, too--seem to really propel you efficiently. They are VERY pricey, though.