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I am trying to find me a comfortable, but effective life vest to buy. I am entertaining the idea of the automatic kind and the manual kind that you pull a cord to inflate, but am kind of Leary of them. I have looked at the vest typw that dont have anything around the shoulders and neck but have floatation around the body. I want the kind that is comfortable to fish in but know beyond any doubt they will work when needed.
I have the one that looks like a fanny pack and you hardly know it is there. I wasn't sure if the law would approve it, but I pulled up to the ramp and one got out of the truck but when I stood up and took it off he got back in and drove off.
I would be cautious with the side pack type pdf. They work, but you have to crawl in it if the need arises. If you are a good swimmer and don't panic easy, then you may be ok with one. If you get the breath knocked out of you or knocked stupid, then you could be in serious trouble.
We use the Mustsangs. We also have SoSpenders. Both are fairly comfortable, but the Mustang will keep your face out of the water (in case you get knocked stupid). In real hot weather, they both suck.
Yea I'm not a big fan of the fanny pack kind. I value my life more than what I trust that kind, but I appreciate your response. I'm leaning towards theBass Pro brand like the Mustang, mainly because of price.
That's what I have. Keep them indoors though because they will inflate left in the boat on hot, humid days. Recharge kits aren't cheap.
I have one of the over the neck inflatable as well but I like the around the waist for comfort. I carry regular jackets as well for anyone fishing with me if they want. I am a good swimmer though.
You also have to take into account the "law" of your state, as it pertains to inflatable PFDs. Here in KY, an inflatable only counts as a PFD ... IF you are wearing it. Take it off and you'd better have a regular "life jacket" PFD within reach/sight !!
Yep same way in MS
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Same here in Oklahoma. I have a mustang style, very comfortable!!
I have an old Mustang one. It is at least 8 years old but the bulb still shows it as green so I have been assuming it is still good. Does everyone agree?
Also, can someone explain better about what type is required on a lake like KY Lake? Are you saying that if I am fishing by myself and have a Mustang type, do I also need one of those standard zip up type life jackets? I had someone tell me that was the case but I am not sure.
Only if you take the Mustang off......they only count if your wearing it.
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What CP says is true - BUT - I bought an automatic inflatable and the first time I used it I put it on as I was launching the boat for a test (I had raised the motor a bit). I did not realize I had it on until I had gotten back home after an hour on the water, retrieving the boat and driving home.Quote:
Originally Posted by CrappiePappy
So I put mine on when I get in the boat and leave it on all day. Not uncomfortable at all. My regular flotation vest came off as soon as the gas engine stopped and stayed off till it started back up.
I like mine so much I got a non-automatic for when I use my canoe or float-tube where I may intentionally take a soaking.
Which one do you have?Quote:
Originally Posted by Clint
My automatic is an Onyx and my manual is a Cabela's store brand.Quote:
Originally Posted by tncrappiebass
I checked prices and they did not vary much so I got my auto at a local shop (I shop local when I can).
My Cabela's I got when my brother passed.
I have backup cartridges for both of them stored INDOORS. The emphasis is because so store their vests and replacement cartridges on board and find them inflated or the pill dissolved. In the autos there is a pill that dissolves when you fall in and it gets wet that sets off the CO2 cylinder to inflate the vest.
Cartridges need to be replaced every five years. May not work if outdated.
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Thanks for the replies guys. I just ordered me an Onyx Automatic/Manual life vest with an extra cartridge. I researched them and saw mostly 4-5 star reviews. The price is about $85 plus tax. I plan on doing more fall and winter fishing this year and have came to the conclusion that I really need to wear a life vest all the time, so hopefully this will fit the bill. Will probably try out in our pool when I get it just to set my mind at ease.
I wanted an inflatable but after talking to a very knowledgeable guy who kayak fishes he said these won't perform correctly with cold water temps. Everywhere around here are out of everything even kayaks are harder to come by. I ended up buying a Extrasport Evolve, while it's not specifically for kayaking it's very comfortable. In PA adults don't need to wear any pfd until Nov 1st- April 30th.