My balance isn't what it used to be, so I use my butt seat in the front to lean against on bumpy days.

I love this conversation! You’re absolutely 100% correct! I don’t use one often but I do want to share a different perspective that really helped me. I’ve noticed that mentally I am more patient with the seat during EXTREMELY TOUGH practices. I’ve pulled out my seat in practice at times so my mind and body would go into “grind” mode. Basically I refuse to over think this situation and will not move, ride, or over complicate my practice. I’m just gonna sit and stay on the trolling motor until the fish tell me what to do. It actually has nothing to do with my efficiency or physical ability but it’s a mental “relax” trigger. Then during the event once I know how to catch them, I take it out. I just noticed when the clock is ticking and the fish aren’t cooperating I would get nervous feet and start doing WAY too much. I hope this isn’t hacking your comments section. I respect everything you said.

@johnlantz7278

3 жыл бұрын

Although Brian you are very fit ,I also feel the same when just fishing helps me slow down if I have to fineness those fish deep I,ll us both to my advantage to maneuver around say docks ,a follower of your channel I also enjoy the tackle tips you offer .great advice for old guys like me.

@mr.skeptical3071

3 жыл бұрын

BLat!!

@jamescaspersamanthalintner4767

3 жыл бұрын

We need Brian Latimer and Johnny and Randy to collab

@slimetime4668

3 жыл бұрын

Yup Jacob wheeler has a video saying the same thing

@yueher2524

3 жыл бұрын

BLat in the house!

Agree with everything you said. At 68, with balance problems and some physical problems, using the butt seat is the only way I can fish.

@rblood8076

3 жыл бұрын

Me too.

@brianbochow

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I totally agree with you I am at the closer end to 60yrs of age and over 300lbs weight. My bow mount tiller steer Motor lends to it use a lot easier if I sit down on my casting seat...

@bassdojo3925

3 жыл бұрын

I use the butt seat when I know the weather is going to be rough!

@jimkingsland1645

3 жыл бұрын

I should add that I try to just use it as a stabilizer and perhaps a brief rest.

@alanaho4915

3 жыл бұрын

At 68, weak from chemo, and wave boat swells (the worst) I use it for balance and when I get tired.

Fish the moment and tactical bassin are the only two channels I can actually sit through and watch

@jtotherog

3 жыл бұрын

Amen

@davidball3461

Жыл бұрын

Be glad Randy’s videos are short and all TB is, is a damned commercial for tackle warehouse which they make a fortune on us fishermen hocking expensive shit we simply don’t need. How do you think They get all that tackle?

My butt seat at it's highest position is exactly the right hight for me to lean on without actually sitting down. My reason for using it is I just simply don't want to stand for 8+ hours. I'm on my feet 10-12 hrs a day 6 days a week for my job. It's nice to have something to lean on occasionally.

@humdrum5509

3 жыл бұрын

No one would have known or cared that you used one if you would have just not said anything. Randy's trying to help people who don't realize they are hurting their performance by using one, especially new tournament anglers. He's not just trying to pick a fight with people who use them.

@Justin.Hawkins

3 жыл бұрын

Well according to randy you’re lazy.

@Justin.Hawkins

3 жыл бұрын

@@jessecooper9795 yep

@davidball3461

Жыл бұрын

@@humdrum5509 speak for yourself. I don’t think I agree with Randy but about 1/2 of the time. In this case I don’t think he is doing anything but trying to brag on his weight lifting and jujitsu bs.

Respect to you, all good points. But I only fish for fun (probably in minority) so a chair seat is simply more comfortable. It's also more stable in small John boats in windy conditions (12-14ft)

I stand most of the time, but the proliferation of wakeboard boats in our area makes me glad I have it there when needed

@eddie7son

3 жыл бұрын

Man do i know that feeling too Tom, Hell It isn't fishing it more like Surf Fishing LOL.....

Good topic. My wife and I are both disabled and need a chair style seat for our boat. Without it we would have to walk away from our boat, for we can not stand for long. My butt seat went away 20 years ago due to rough water. We use a handicap walker just to enter and exit the boat from a dock. Man it is rough getting old. Love your channel and awsome subjects.

I've gone from no seats(tournament years) to a butt seat (age 60) to regular seats(80). Much better with no seats but unable to do it now. Agree with you 100%.

I agree with Randy, I would much rather fish without a butt seat. I had stopped using them years ago. Now, at almost 62 and with balance issues, I'm more comfortable using a butt seat. I recently purchased a Millennium "palma horse" seat. You can sit on it, lean against it or straddle it. So far I'm really liking it!

Someone must have advised you that posting controversial topics will grow your channel! 🤣 Agree that vision and casting is better standing, but I have an aluminum bass boat and some minor back issues. The ability to lean on something in rough water and get a little relief for my back occasionally is good for me. Good topic. Thanks, as always.

@smokyoakbbqco2385

3 жыл бұрын

Spot on

@pauleyplay

Жыл бұрын

Well Said Same Here !!!

I believe that most people use a butt seat like I do. We don't sit on it, but lean against it to help maintain stability. I see most of the pros going without a butt seat, but I will continue to use mine and risk not being one of the cool kids.

@MrDogone1234

3 ай бұрын

I'm definitely with you on that note Sir! Safe fishing!! Good luck!

Love your perspective!! Thanks Randy!!!

Personally I think conserving some of your body is smart instead of having to be tough. Hey look at me I’m tough. Who cares everyone do what you want and what works for you.

I am 36 years old. I can definitely tell a difference with my back in a tournament day fishing with and without a seat. I use it to lean against when my back gets tired. Now, that being said, I hate it lol. It gets in the way. It’s almost thrown me out of the boat several times. But the benefits of having it outweigh the downsides. It keeps me more comfortable and allows me to keep my focus longer. I do not sit in it all day, though. I will lean on it when I need to relieve my lower back. Your points about conditioning would definitely help me, though! Always appreciate your content, Randy!

I would never sit down in a chair while fishing but the pedestals are amazing for getting yourself to slow down. Just this weekend i went 3 hours without a fish while pitching and flipping and then i decided to slow down and really take my time on each cast. Turns out the bass wanted to eat the jig sitting on the bottom after 3-5 seconds. The fish were watching the bait come down and didnt want anything moving. If i never leaned back and “relaxed” a little i would of stayed grinding and flipping as much grass as possible. Also as far as casting goes with a pedestal all you have to do is lean forward and your standing and making a normal cast. I also fish the great lakes quite often so i always have it for rough water but i dont think it hurts you unless you get into the mindset of fishing lazy.

Randy. I was just about to revolutionize the kayak bass fishing world with a butt seat --_--

@kayakfishingforpredators9107

3 жыл бұрын

Us European kayak-anglers prefer a hammock instead

I'm 59, 1st time Bass fishing as a Co-Angler, and it's tough. I have not used one, when asked, because it gets in my way & I'm trying to be more active, since I no longer ride horses daily. I'm really trying to be "Younger Next Year" thanks for the encouraging words & Thank you for sharing... 🍺🎣🍺🎣🍺🎣

I agree somewhat. Fish from a Tracker 170 on a recreational lake and then say don’t use a seat for balance during strong waves, then I’ll listen.

Use mine to lean against and due to inconsiderate boaters I’ve used to keep from taking a swim in the lake. I do agree it would free up room and give you more options. I try and stand and fish as much as my back let’s me as it’s definitely better visibility and better cast positions. I also did lots of martial arts do balancing is ok but sometimes ninja waves makes it nice to have a fallback grab point. Good topic for things for us to consider.

Any kind of support to your back is a great thing over long term. Some are lucky to not develop issues with back but most will over time no matter of your physical ability. Just to use to lean back on to take some pressure off your body. I agree on the negatives but all depends on how you use them though. I love your tips though and look forward to seeing other videos . Thanks

I think using one gives you better control of the trolling motor.

@deckmonkey1459

3 жыл бұрын

I find it's worse to make adjustments sitting down because my pedal isn't recessed. I usually only adjust the speed and make minor course adjustments so I'm not constantly standing on the pedal anyway.

Spot On! Totally agree! At 62, I've never fished better. 5 yrs ago I put the butt seat in the back and have never looked back. It totally fixed all my joint issues like- shoulders, neck, spinal alignment, knee and hip pain. It helps my balance and agility and have a lot of room to move around freely especially when I need to take a step or two back on the hookset. It distributes your energy and helps me to focus and fish much more efficiently. After a few trips out you will realize how much better it is with that thing gone! When you are fishing rough water is the Only time I'll consider using one. It also used to force me to stand too far forward causing me to slip into the "trolling motor pedal sump"- almost falling overboard. I also did away with that pedal sump- moved my pedal to the side. Now I can stand further forwaed and my rods don't hit the trolling motor head. The forward pole seat is a "manufacturing of consent" issue. We've been hypnotized into using them. It will also make you fish and think in a lazy fashion, IMO

I completely agree! I also find they are in my way more than anything else.

You are spot on. I can’t fish worth a damn using a seat or butt seat. Great video topic.

I agree I’m 57 and I am appreciating physical fitness and find if I can stay off the seat it improves my overall balance on and off the water

You're a great teacher.

I just use it as a place to sit my beer while fishing. I have a hard time getting the perfect beer to bass ratio when I have to bend down to grab my beverage. That's why I use my butt seat

Do you get the impression he is just trying to swing people from the rafters!!! I love this guy

@rickfowler7313

3 жыл бұрын

I think this topic is raise debate. Both sides are right. I use my butt seat to lean on while I can. At 63, one day I’ll have to sit, when I do I’ll get another regular seat.

Since I got my new boat this year I haven’t used the seat that it came with but my dad needs it.

So kind to include the physical limitations! WHAT A GOOD DUDE!

@davidball3461

Жыл бұрын

That’s what I call a virtue signal

Spot on!

I keep one in the boat mainly as a leaning post. I very rarely ever sit on the thing, but I will lean on it from time to time

Fish what makes you comfortable and what makes you feel more safe out on the water. If you like to use a seat use it, if not don't use it. Don't let a person's video make you do something you don't feel safe doing. I understand his perspective but as a disabled Vet I'm content using my seat but I don't fish tournaments or anything either. So I'm not under any pressure. It would be nice if I could go without using a seat but I'm not comfortable with that idea yet.. so enjoy and be safe!!

I agree with everything you said. I'd much rather not use my butt seat. My front deck is more open, and I don't have to maneuver around it. However, my seat is high enough that I don't actually "sit" on it. I lean against it. The main purpose for it tho ism't to relax or take weight off my feet. I have an aliminum boat that gets tossed around by the constant barrage of boat wake on the weekends. My seat is more of a "safety device" to help me stay in my boat during the summer. Even when it's up I don't really use it unless I get waked by another boater coming by too close.

I had a back injury years ago, I switch from standing up and using my seat

I bought one last year thinking I had to have one and it was collecting dust in the garage within a few trips. I found that I was unable to get a solid hook set while sitting or even leaning on the seat! I noticed that a good set really comes from a solid full body motion!! Or as the legend once told happy g... it’s all in the hips!!! Lol

I used to keep one up front, was too off balance standing like capt morgan all day, got a new fortrex ( still was using omc tm) amd recessed the foot pedal. Since then i keep one in the back post just for rough water conditions.

Mine looks really cool on my back deck. I will however, admit I also have a micro skiff with a casting platform attached to my front deck. Pretty cool to stand on and fish or I use at night to sit on. I think you are speaking from more of a tournament aspect and I agree but I speak for myself am a fun fisher and sometimes it’s nice to sit down and slow down till you get bit and miss it. Then stand from there.🙂

David fritz deep cranking sit in a seat once in the 90s that’s the only time I remember seeing anyone sitting

Lake of the ocean or Lake of the Ozarks is the same as one of the great lakes it’s got four or 5 foot rollers would throw you out of the boat without a butt seat

Good video, I use a seat. As you prefaced, for those of us that have to use the seat like me with multiple sclerosis, I can stand, not very good, the legs don't work well anymore, the seat gives me stability so I can fish, otherwise I'll probably be swimming

When I fish with my buddy who has a small bass tracker, you bet I'm going to use a butt seat for some rougher winds and for wakes. Im also going to sit down when I want to tie a lure or remove hooks from a fish. Now when I'm making casts, reeling, setting a hook that's differently unless the weather is hot as hell and I need to rest.

Would you say the limitations/issues of fishing from a seated position on a Bass boat transfer to kayak fishing? Great video!

I'm 68 and my balance isn't what it used to be. That being said, I find my butt seat to be a pain in in ass! The butt seat is definitely not made to sit on. I'm constantly raising and lowering it, and it frequently is in the way. I'm taking mine out and trying what Randy suggests. I'll keep a fold-down seat available on the boat, should I need to sit and see how that works.

I use one always because I don’t won’t to go into the lake.

Thanks Randy for the insight on butt seats. (I made a few comments throughout to others input)

Im trying to get back into fishing, my last day on the lake was in 2011, spinal injury. The next boat i get i will be seated fishing, my legs are constantly weak and unstable while standing. So im going to attempt to get back on the water. Do any of you guys know which bass boat manufacture has the softest ride and the best seating? I will be taking it easy on rough water because of my spinal condition.

I am handicapped now I have to use a seat now.. If I do not use my seat my legs will buckle and I will fall into the lake, I had to RE LEARN to pitch and flip from the seating position it has not been easy.. I look real pretty with a person holding my boat as I slide on my ass to get on and off my boat on the dock it is also weird to run the T motor as you don't have the same leverage sitting.. BUT we never give up. I'd rather be on the water then sitting home staring at the walls ..

In my small aluminum boat a butt seat was a god send because the front deck was not that large and the foot control trolling pedal required me to lean or I would get thrown out every time I kicked it on. In a bigger bass boat with a large deck and recess for the trolling motor pedal, I would probably not use it except when rough conditions made it necessary.

Good topic. I use mine to hug in rough water. I guess the best tip that you gave, was get into shape. Lol. I do notice that mine takes up too much room and I’m constantly walking around it to make a cast. So this might be something that I will try in the near future. I guess you could say I have used it as a crutch for a while. But, nothing wrong with trying something new with The advice of someone with years and years of experience under their belt. I’m trying not to be close minded on this. But I am going to pack mine in a cabinet. Lol. Just in case.....😀

This is an interesting topic. I think it depends on the anglers. Butt seats have a purpose, leaning on it after long days on water I dont see a problem with it. I dont think the butt seat is an issue with not catching fish. Nor do i think not having it will help catch more its all about mental focus.

Found your channel by chance. Looked you up on instagram. Saw some of your posts. Glad i found you. Joined.

And a fishing trip with you... sign me up!!! What a great opportunity!!

I remember watching you on Beaver about a dozen years ago, it was championship day, you were throwing a jerk bait in Prairie creek. I remember you stretching out on the deck of your boat that afternoon a couple times. Is there an exercise that will prepare your back and shoulders for 4 days of jerkbait fishing? I'm always dealing with that pain after fishing a few days in a row.

Randy, I've been a co-angler for 20+ years. I can't begin to tell you how many boaters think it's nuts I never want the seat on back deck. It's in my way, it kills my back, and your casting accuracy drops at least 25%. You couldn't have said it any better!!!

I have an old tri hull boat,and the balance isn't so good.I also occasionally fish a Lake that doesn't allow the use of big motors.Ive traditionally used a trolling motor all the time while fishing there...I forgot the name of those seats that an angler simply leans against while fishing..🤔 Are those still popular?

With the bulging disk I have, it’s a must

Funny story (wasn’t at the time) why I quit using a butt seat. Late 80’s I was fishing a very cold and rainy fall tournament on Truman Lake. Set the hook on a fish, my hands were numb from the cold rain and I dropped the rod. Rod landed on the deck and I quickly bent down to pick it up. When bending over my butt hit the seat knocking me head first into the lake. My rain suit quickly filled with water but luckily when I figured which way was up I discovered I could stand on the bottom. I was able to get the fish throwing it and rod into the boat. Went to back and climbed up the motor. Fortunately I had insulated coveralls in storage. Stripped down wore nothing but coveralls rest of the day. I do keep butt seat in rod locker for those real rough/windy days.

At this point its doing you no good to ignore Tactical Bassin! Johnny and your channel is great but seriously. Dont ignore your competition ! That being said thanks for your deep dives!

@davidball3461

Жыл бұрын

He doesn’t have to acknowledge shit! He already has. He called TB exactly what it is. A damned commercial for tackle warehouse

Great advice as usual, and stand up most all the time unless the surf boats go by on TableRock with those 5-6’ waves….. so I lean on my Skeeter front butt seat only, was wondering what you or anyone thinks of the newer Millennium Marine PRO-M 300 Palma Horse Boat Seat? Whether it might be more stable in rough water. I do have intermittent balance issues with a previous fractured heel Thanks for great info always, love your channel!

@davidball3461

Жыл бұрын

Any Palma horse seat is great because you can straddle it or just lean on it

For me...... shallow water fishing like at Okeechobee means standing up. But open water ledge fishing like on TN River lakes means at least having the butt seat there as an option when it gets windy. Regarding leg strength, you are right on! I work on that throughout the year. If a person works on fitness, fishing all day on your feet for a week is no problem. Sure, I am drained by day's end but am right back at it again the next morning and fully capable of another full day on the feet.

Good topic and on target. I will add that my back feels better after I quit using butt seat.

Did not use a butt seat when I had the bass boat except in really rough conditions but now I switched over to a multi species boat for bigger waters and found the roll and waves the boat acts differently so I use a butt seat as a lean to - have the padded back to use as a leaning and to just stabilize myself up in the bow. Just me coming up to 60 years old now…

They need to do away with carpet and put seadek in bass boats. It gets fatiguing to stand on that unpadded carpet all day.

@mr.skeptical3071

3 жыл бұрын

Interesting

@georgeadcock2347

3 жыл бұрын

That's a great point.

If I have my butt seat on and have 6-8 rods on the deck I get frustrated pretty quickly lol. Sometimes it makes me feel like kicking rods over because I barely have enough room. But I definitely do fish faster without the butt seat in. If I do fish a long day I like to have it though. Just to lean against and take some pressure off my feet and seems to help my back some too

Good points. But I've used a seat for 30 years I've also pulled the seat out when I need too. I usually fish at night with allot of slow moving baits with the trolling motor on 1. I sit and am able even at night to throw up under trees using black lights. I think you can learn to make cast like I have from a seat if you want to. When fish are busting though the seat comes out...lol

I've used my butt seat a few times on my Bullet, sometimes I'd bend down to pick something up and the butt seat would suddenly swivel almost throwing me over the side. On a Bullet it takes away from the space needed for 8 rods up front too. I only use mine on family trips when I just chilling and not fishing.

I agree 100%

On topic of butt seat. I’m considering resetting my trolling motor pedal and was wondering if it would be better or worse without the butt seat

I put in 12 to 16 hours on the water when I can. I use it when my legs start getting tired. do you think it would be better to cut back on the hours then use the butt seat?

Tournament anglers have also transitioned away from hand control trolling motors that they steered with their foot perched on top of the Big Foot like they were doing crane style karate. That was all the rage in the 1980s. I thought it was stupid so I stuck with the foot control.

Randy, one more thought against using a butt seat, they just get in the way also

Lol with the number of wake boats on the lakes I fish I couldn't stay on the deck without one . But there is a difference between sitting on it or using it as a leaning post . also boat size has a lot to considered that you didn't mention. But you did say a new boat every year send me the seat lol

A lot of us with old knee and ankle injuries or balance issues have no choice... But it beats not fishing.

I fall under the physical aspect. Both my knees have arthritis and they hurt me everyday. I use mine to lean against and balance myself because of my knee issues.

I wish I could stand and fish for the whole day. I’ve had two knee surgeries I make my living with my back and legs. By the time I get on the lake I can’t stand that long I get irritated after standing for long periods of time fishing and it causes me to fish to aggressively and in many situations less effective.

Boy, if there's ANYONE that knows how to title a KZread video.... Randy you win first prize every time!

For years my primary fisheries were shallow tidal waters. So no butt seat. I have now started fishing deep, clearwater lakes with lots of rock piles. Now I will use the sat to force me to slow down. Fishing deep without the seat I just feel like I try to go too fast. I think the biggest pro of not using the seat is to maintain or increase your conditioning.

This is a strong opinion with little or no scientific proof. I can certainly understand your position on this subject . You can maintain good posture and rest when you are trolling from spot to spot. One scientific fact is, constant standing increases venous resistance and poor cardiac perfusion, which can be a big problem. I work out almost daily and can tell you that my legs are fresher when I use a seat or a butt seat. Trolling motors today are strong and if you don’t have at least a purchase by which to stabilize yourself when you get a big wave, or when the rabbit switch is accidentally engaged, you can find yourself overboard. I know some fisherman that can not climb back into a boat. With the increasing numbers of fisherman with cardiac disease, I even suggest sitting in a low seat, so your knees are above your waste. This gets us closer to the “cardiac position”, where venous return is improved along with muscle perfusion. There will be a chair designed with this is mind one day. I think we must try to avoid dogma on anecdotal type opinions. There are styles that fit each fisherman differently. At the end of the day, how are you able to keep your line in the water the longest and preserve energy, when it comes down to catching that kicker fish.

I feel off mine after hitting a stump I went backwards and messed up.my back fell twice and no longer use it. It hurt pretty bad damn thing turned and over I went on the deck

LOL I wish but I have 2 knees that are due for replacement so a butt seat is manditory unless I am flipping.

Im no pro. I just bought a boat with a butt seat, and the only advantage I can see with the seat is better foot control for the trolling motor.

I have lazy hook sets when leaning against a butt seat. If I'm fishing the back of a boat, at least I'll stand when I feel a bite to set the hook. The butt seat has created a bad habit in me. Out it goes. I can always put it back in after all I'm 74.

I see you’re wearing a USA powerlifting shirt. Do you compete in powerlifting? I used to compete before I had kids. I still train the power lifts. I’ve noticed that I can fish longer than guys that don’t strength train. Thanks for the great videos. I think you cover topics that most guys never consider… but they all add up to more fish.

The butt seat broke and I went backwards into the water like a Navy frog man. Good thing I had a vest on!!!!

I've had four neck surgeries and one back surgery. After going ten minutes with a guy on PCP I ended up undoing everything the doctor fixed. Even with my seat, a day on the water is quite painful. BTW, I tried standing, but after about two hours, I'm done. I do stand from time to time, and I always stand to bomb long cast or pitch or flip into a tight spot.

@papaduck2443

3 жыл бұрын

Im in the same situation brother. Mine was a crash in a cruiser. After 2 spine surgeries every fight I got into with a suspect left me in agony. I dont want to feel like that after a day of fishing so the seat is staying. Thanks for your service. Stay safe and tight lines my friend. God bless!

@N5KDA

3 жыл бұрын

@@papaduck2443 Thank you for yous! My brother and I hit the lake Friday. It was very windy and we were out about seven hours. I'm still trying to get over that.

@papaduck2443

3 жыл бұрын

@@N5KDA Once you are injured badly even a day on the water takes days to recover from but every tug on your line and those memories you made on that day of fishing makes the recovery worth it. Fishing with my sons or my brother is so special that the pain is worth it. As you can see by the time I also suffer from insomnia. But it gives me time to catch up on my fishing videos. Lol!!! Our job is often a thankless one but I am proud of it and I wouldnt change a thing. I will pray for you brother.

Yea what table rock said , if I ain't sitting most likely I am swimming ! Lol

At table rock and lake of the ozarks, if u dont you'll fall overboard randy!

@mikedaley2882

3 жыл бұрын

I commented too soon. U said that. Sorry I'm dumb.

Butt seat works great while watching Livescope

I fish some rough and fast moving water in a boat that isn’t even 18 feet. That butt seat has kept my butt from being tossed out of the boat more times than I care to remember. I don’t always use it if I don’t need it, but It’s a necessity for me.

What about the flipping seat that looks nothing like a fold down seat bill dance does just fine in a fold down I'm not a doctor but does driving a car for a long distance have the same effect

Well being in aluminum tracker that bounces a lot you will need a seat at point, my knees are horrible from the military life

Would be interested in seeing some more video's on maintaining your physical health!

Shit when wake board boat comes flying by only thing that keeps me from falling out. I leave mine. When I need it….it’s not in my way

After my statement of needing a seat I came to the realization I should just look at other bass boats to find the best seat for me.

My dad always told me the “butt seat was for when the wife had to go”

What about a Palma seat? I have 2 replaced knees and I ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO HAVE SOMETHING. I fish from a 16 foot tracker which has a fairly narrow bow deck. I don’t see a problem straddling a Palma seat with my legs wide and my feet shoulder Width apart. I’m about to get one to replace my butt seat. I absolutely can’t fish in a regular swiveling fold down boat seat. Just trying to find the best thing for me because I’m going to fish regardless. I simply don’t have the strength or balance to fish on my feet anymore. I fished with nothing for years and I fish at just as high of level using a butt seat.

I generally keep a butt seat in my boat and seldom use it. I sometimes use the sit down seat just before ice up when the water is 40 or colder. I feel safer and slows me down. I always wear my life vest than too.

At 71 I use the seat .. I like to stand most of the time.. But need to sit down from time to time. I still want to have a good time on the water.. But I understand where you're coming from..I am hoping I can fish for many more years.. The Frye Guy..