Auto PFD's.

[CrappiePappy]

The one thing that was not talked about her is the Mustang type I have will turn you right side up. I too don't swim well and have very stiff joints, Paid few bucks for mine at BPS. Thanks Don, CP for the wearing info, as I live in N.C. I need to check here as I fish both states. I know I need to replace the arming disc as its dated. But for peace of mind I went with the Mustang.

Yeah, mine is the Mustang Universal MD3031 Type V ... and will turn you face up (35lbs buoyancy). It clearly states that it "must be worn to be approved" in several places on the instructions manual tags.

... cp

[polarcrafter]

Does anyone know of a manufacturer that makes auto/manual inflatables in tall sizes, the ones I have tried all seem to be one size fits all and ride too high in my stomach/ chest area to be comfortable especially with winter time clothing on????

[NIMROD]

Just be aware that you have to have them on at all times (in some states), in order for them to be considered as PFD's in the eyes of the law. If you're not wearing them when seen/checked by the CO, and you don't have another PFD within easy access ... you can be ticketed for not having a PFD for each person on board your boat.
Auto inflating PFD's only count when being worn, according to my Mustang Auto PFD.

The Illinois Handbook of Boating Laws lists the auto inflating PFD as a Type III ... but, my Auto PFD lists itself as a Type V. ... so you might check with your F&W people as to the discrepancy.

... cp

Same in Arkansas.

[Gobob]

I'm still watching for good sale you'd think this time of the year that someone would have a clearance sale

[cajun fryer]

Thanks to all the great people on CDC
I learned something again. Did not know that the inflatable did not count if you did not have it on.
I wear mine if I am fishing alone Try to remember to put it on when running the big motor. Don't always wear it when its nice out.
I had better put another vest in the boat.
I have been reading some other post that are negative about how they don't get fishing info ect ect ect
This is a great place to learn a lot if you just listen

[J_ROW]

I'm still watching for good sale you'd think this time of the year that someone would have a clearance sale

You need to check for age limits on the auto pfd's. I think you have to be 16 years old to be able to use one.

[brushnjigs]

You need the Mustangs with HIT, these will be fine to wear in the rain. I have stored mine in the storage box on the way home several times with no problems. If you buy the cheaper ones, get several re-arming kits because you WILL use them. Also if they are wet, dont throw the cheaper ones in the storage box, allow to air dry in the open, or they will inflate. Buying the vest is best to go with the best you can get to avoid spending the money later.

[chaunc]

When i store mine i just hang it on the steering wheel column.

[CrappiePappy]

Probably not a real good idea to store them in your boat's storage boxes, especially if your boat is stored outside & subject to high humidity, heavy fog, or getting rained on. Friend of mine did just that ... put his inflatable PFD in a locked storage bin in his boat, only to have it inflate & burst the top of that storage bin, requiring him to get a replacement lid.

... cp

[Gobob]

Ok Cabelas has the 3500 auto PFD's $50 off until the 19th if you got their flyer in the mail , I got 2 on the way Boo Yahh