Take Your Pick: Personal Flotation Devices for Fishermen

It’s always wise to wear a PFD when fishing, but it is even more critical during the early spring when water temperatures have not caught up with the warming air. Here are five great PFD choices designed specifically with fishermen in mind.

Designed to accommodate high-backed kayak seats, the NRS Chinook PFD fits comfortably on the kayak angler. An integrated retractable lanyard holds pliers or line clippers while a rod-holder strap acts as a third hand when unhooking and releasing fish.

Best For: Kayak Fishing

Fishermen who wade into the surf or fast-moving rivers will enjoy the peace of mind provided by the Stearns 33 Gram Manual Fishing Vest. This PFD provides all the comfort and tackle storage of a normal fishing vest, but should you get in trouble, pulling the emergency cord will inflate the vest and keep your head above water until you can return to shore.

Best For: Wade Fishing

This PFD is comfortable, flexible and lightweight, and easily fits over anything from a T-shirt to foul-weather gear. Pulling the cord will inflate the PFD and keep you afloat until help arrives, while reflective strips and bright coloring alert other boaters to your position.

Best For: Boat Fishing

Keep kids safe yet comfortable while on the water with the First Watch Skipper children’s life vest. Flexible foam allows full range of motion so your little fishing buddy won’t be held back while trying to hook the big one.

Best For: Children

Fishermen can enjoy free range of motion while staying safe with the Onyx A/M Deluxe Inflatable Life Jacket. Its light weight and soft neoprene neck liner keep fishermen comfortable all day long. The jacket inflates automatically when submerged in water, keeping the angler upright until help arrives.

Best For: All Day Fishing