I pump the pontoons on my skeeter up until they are pretty firm. Heck, I've never taken the time to compare to my nose or my forehead, but they are firm. I like the dual action pump as it allows me to inflate each pontoon in about 45 seconds at a steady pace of full length strokes. I guess the best advice is to put as much air in as you feel is enough to get it to float like you want to. If it pops before you get there....well, I'd say back off a few pumps, but it might be too late. I think the chances of actually popping one of the bladders is fairly slim without just going nuts on it. Another idea about the cargo net riding in the water.. you may be able to adjust the seat position on the frame. I can on my skeeter and found it best in the furthest front position.

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These are the idle thoughts that posses a man's mind when he's not able to fish.