PFD's

I am new to kayak angling. I bought a kayak and am starting to gather my equipment. I was hoping to get some insight on what PFD to go with and or what ones to stay away from. I live in northern Sonoma county and will mostly be fishing the Sonoma and Mendo coast's.

I appreciate any advice.

The best advice and can give you, is go try on a bunch of them and pick the one that fits, and is themost comfortable to You. I personally like the NRS Chinook. Hope that helps some.
Jeff

I used to own an Extrasport Osprey and it's comfortable to wear:

http://www.austinkayak.com/products/6667/Extrasport-Osprey-Life-Jacket-PFD-Clearance.html

When you try them out, take along your:
Radio
Handheld GPS (if your ff doesn't have one)
Large knife (emergency rope cutting) and sheath
Small folding bait knife
Cell phone
Wallet
Sunglasses and case
Tape measure
Whistle
    Or at least be thinking about where you're going to put/attach those things.
And wear a couple of sweaters to simulate putting the vest on over your rash guard, wetsuit, hydroskin, and splash jacket.
   

I've had good luck with the ospreys...

 I've even tried to upgrade myself out of it and still find I like the functions of the ospreys the best...

probably as I grew up with it all my kayakfishing life...

I don't know how Sonny found that Hunting one... which is kool,  but the fishing is a bit different and comes in different colors,

Camo might not be the best idea on the water... 

and be prepared to have your topic moved... no worries, and it's an Honor that Mooch may bestow upon you soon....

Welcome to the Madness...   

Also don't overlook style when shopping. A PFD you like will be easier to wear all the time.

I've seen too many paddlers get a bargain basement PFD or a used one from a swap meet, and then never wear it because it is old or faded or whatever.

I'm an extrasport guy, but there are many other manufacturers out there that are just as good.

Welcome To The Madness!

Be sure match your PFD style to your seat style (meshed back ones are usually cooler and also have a higher back/ float bulk). If you get a high back seat because they are far superior in comfort and support, if you dont get a PFD that has the high back, you will be sitting farther forward then you should be.(and that makes it feel wierd)

use the search feature for more info / advice

Welcome aboard, Troller1234.   

I like my Stohlquist Angler PFD.

I've got a used Extrasport Sturgeon pfd for sale & I live in Santa Rosa. $45. Shoot me a pm with your phone number if you're interested.

Welcome aboard, Troller1234.   

I like my Stohlquist Angler PFD.

I also rock the Stohlguist Angler and think it is a great yak pfd. Good for high back seats. Bigtime pocket rooms with a hard shell. However mine is "I want to be seen from a helicopter yellow".

Welcome aboard, Troller1234.   

I like my Stohlquist Angler PFD.

Yep!!!

I use a Kokatat Bahia Tour. It has plenty of pockets and is comfortable for me.

Welcome aboard, Troller1234.   

I like my Stohlquist Angler PFD.

Yep!!!

+1

Welcome aboard, Troller1234.   

I like my Stohlquist Angler PFD.

Yep!!!

+1

Ditto.

 

 

Sincerely,

Jim