Tournament Equipment

Originally put this question in the GS6 thread.  Realized I probably should have put it in here.  Anyway I would like to know what the mandatory safety equipment (And non safety) is for the tournaments.  I am getting  my gear together (purchased) and would like to be ready for GS6 but tax season is upon us and don't think I will be able to get the frills just what I will need to get started.   I already have the kayak, fishing gear and wetsuit.  What about fishfinder, GPS or is compass alright to begin with, radio??  Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!!!!!

Ideally you would have all your safety equipment together before going out on the ocean regardless if its a tournament or not. I state that for the Albion Open you must have a radio, pfd, compass.You should be wearing a wetsuit or a paddlesuit/ dry suit. You should be dressed for immersion in water that can render you helpless in minutes if not properly dressed. You should have a whistle or horn. I always recommend fishing with a buddy so as to have help if needed. Lastly never, never go out beyond your capabilities. When you do, you endanger not only yourself but others who might have to save you. 2 years ago I warned a couple form Las Vegas not to go out past the cove. They did. They capsized. Sean and Mark were there to help them get back aboard and on the way back in. Never underestimate the ocean. Ever.

PS............... read Arts thread directly above this one at the top of this page.

Thanks for the info. 

Originally put this question in the GS6 thread.  Realized I probably should have put it in here.  Anyway I would like to know what the mandatory safety equipment (And non safety) is for the tournaments.  I am getting  my gear together (purchased) and would like to be ready for GS6 but tax season is upon us and don't think I will be able to get the frills just what I will need to get started.   I already have the kayak, fishing gear and wetsuit.  What about fishfinder, GPS or is compass alright to begin with, radio??  Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!!!!!

The tournament requires a working VHF for each team.  Other than that you need to follow Coast Guard rules / must have a PFD.  It is implied that you are expected to dress for immersion, as Craig said - protect yourself from cold water that could easily kill you in less than an hour - wetsuit or drysuit is the standard.  As for compass vs GPS, I've always felt strongly that the compass is much more valuable - having both is best.  Beyond the gear items, just having time on the ocean is probably the most important factor.  Hope to meet you at Shelter Cove.   

I would add knowing how to use the compass would help greatly.  Simple things like knowing how to shoot an azimuth/back azimuth can be huge!

Make sure you are in paddle shape and are able to re-enter your kayak from the water.  Also, I would reccommend having a paddle leash.

Make sure you are in paddle shape and are able to re-enter your kayak from the water.  Also, I would reccommend having a paddle leash.

And maybe a spare paddle as well 

Biggest safety requirement for pretty much any tournament:  Partner up with someone! 

I have an extra VHF if someone needs to borrow.

Some non-safety items that you need are a hawg trough, fish measuring board, and a digital camera unless you plan on keeping all of your catch.

What about a flag?

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What about a flag?

We started requiring flags at NWKA events, especially around busy harbors/launches.  In addition to making you more visible, it's been a real hit with the coast guard and local boats too.

-Allen

What about a flag?

We started requiring flags at NWKA events, especially around busy harbors/launches.  In addition to making you more visible, it's been a real hit with the coast guard and local boats too.

-Allen

That sounds like a very good idea and something I will consider implementing.  Thanks for bringing it up.

I have an extra VHF if someone needs to borrow.

Mine just died after some serious abuse...

You interested in selling your extra?

If not, and if I don't get a new one before GS6, maybe I can borrow it on tourney day?

 

Sincerely,

Jim

ps...I got my lucky bad ass WhoDat Nation flag (mounted on a YakAttack VisiPole) that I will be flying proudly on tourney day.   

Allen - I saw an old nwka post about flags for sale to members.  How about making them available for us?
I use a $10 bicycle flag.
http://www.sportchalet.com/product/301773_5827600.do?keyword=bicycle+flag&sortby=ourPicks

What about a flag?

We started requiring flags at NWKA events, especially around busy harbors/launches.  In addition to making you more visible, it's been a real hit with the coast guard and local boats too.

-Allen