PFDs

[Double Haul]

I'm new at kayak fishing, but was wondering what the concensus was on PFDs. I use an old sterns with net shoulders and pockets now, but understand now that some use inflatables that have pockets.

I also suspect some use inflatables with a separate tackle belt that can hold lots of support equipment. (extra leader, flies, hooks, swivels, hook remover, knife, pliers, light, whistle, etc)

Any opinions???

[naked goby]

If something happens to me while kayaking that causes me to be in the water, the last thing I want to worry about is inflating a lifejacket. IMHO I think those inflatables should not be used for kayaking. I fight with my parents about this all the time, they use them, but they also are in quiter water then I am typically in and are never out at night and rarely around boats.

I just think they are a bad idea when it comes to kayaking.

[rick c.]

Go to the SoSpenders site and they have a video of one inflating. They are very bulky when inflated and if using a SINK( or even a SOT), it would be hard to get back in and if you do, you can either paddle around the bulk or deflate and have no protection from then on. Get a decent comfortable PFD and you won't regret spending the money.

[Chad]

Go with the LOTUS Jacket that has the back out for kayak seats. The key to a good PFD is that it is comfortable. If it is comfortable and functional for fishing then you are more likely to wear it. If it is uncomfortable then you won't. I bought a nice suspender style inflatable for a while and it rubbed my neck very bad and just wasn't comfortable and likely others mentioned, once inflated you either have to work arounf it, deflate it and replace the CO2 cartridge or inflate it manually the next time. The other issue is that they are not legal by themselves, you must still carry a type III with you unless they have changed that recently.
Chad

[The Angry Angler]

I had a Stearns PFD that I rarely wore because it was so uncomfortable. While fishing waters like the upper James, I would put it on to run rapids and then immediately take it off. When I got my T140 last year and started doing some saltwater fishing, I tried to to the right thing and wear it at all times but it would ride up my back and start rubbing my neck and earlobes raw and that made me...angry. I considered the inflatable style but had the same concerns as others on this thread. Then I discovered the mesh back PFD. They're perfect for kayaks. Very comfortable with no ride up. I got a Lotus Designs Quietwater on sale at rei.com for $45 a couple of months ago. MTI makes one and LL Bean has one as well.

[wpvboat]

I had a carbon copy experience as Mr. Angler had except mine was $60 at WRO. Well worth it, I don't even know it is there anymore. Now its just part of my gear.

Tom

[Cory ruthless Routh]

The lotus Mild water is the best, it even comes in an angler model now.

[Chad]

Here is the link.

http://www.patagonia.com/za/PDC?OPTION=PRODUCT&merchant_rn=7385&sku=82770&ws=false

Chad