Thread: Float coats and jackets

Give me your thoughts on the many brands of float coats out there. Good, bad, like and dislikes. Which ones are best for cold weather fishing? Does anybody use them?

Being a "Towboater" and X-Safety-man for one of the largest Marine Transporters in the US, I have both used & researched these jackets. While offering good flotation you will not find any of them to be as warm as say, your standard Gore-Tex clothing unless you invest in a "Survival Suit" style PFD. If you choose to go that route, get ready for sticker shock!

Sterns has many different styles to pick from, are mid-priced, and hold up well. You can find some cheaper knockoff's but the quality may diminish.

I had a Stearns but lost it in Jonathan bay a couple years ago. It was stiff and a little aggrivating to fish out of, Whiskers is right, my Colunbia coat is warmer and more pliable. I now fish with a Mustang self inflating PFD, it goes on when I get in the boat and doesn't come off until I get out. It stays in the boat so I don't forget it or have to worry about it blowing out of the boat............again.

This is my choice to get soon.Be sure and watch the videos. i.d.i gear : arctic armor ice fishing apparel

Originally Posted by ifish

This is my choice to get soon.Be sure and watch the videos. i.d.i gear : arctic armor ice fishing apparel

I don't think that's a PFD Buddy.

Originally Posted by Wiskers

I don't think that's a PFD Buddy.

I have one for ice fishing, they are warm and light, and are suppose to float. I never tested one but seen a video once.

Originally Posted by wilbur

I have one for ice fishing, they are warm and light, and are suppose to float. I never tested one but seen a video once.

We'd love you to test it out and let us know how it does

I have a ice striker suit and love it... well made and has zippers for venting. I was going to go with the artic armour but after reading reviews of there customer service and not having any venting ice striker won with me.

Originally Posted by KDAVID1

We'd love you to test it out and let us know how it does

Just wait till spring and come to camp. You can test it there were we all can see how it works.

www.go2marine.com/category/12147/float-coats-flotation-jacket-life-jackets-pfds.html