PFD for High Back Seat

Any recommendations? A few have a million pockets and it just seems like overkill. I am getting tired of my current one riding up all freakin' day.

What do you have?

I've got my eye on the Kokatat Bahia Tour.  Those that have it seem to like it.  I just need to save the scratch.

I hear you on the pockets.  I'm not much of a pocket guy either.  It would seem cumbersome reentering the yak.

Michael

For the bux, the Extrasport Osprey is pretty good, flotation pads up fairly high to miss binding on the seat too much. They do have quite a few pockets on the front - I only use a few of them- they also offer radio/cell phone anchor points. When on sale, a good value.

I've got my eye on the Kokatat Bahia Tour.

Super love mine.  The new fishing version with license holder and plier pocket is useful without a zillion useless pockets.

For the bux, the Extrasport Osprey is pretty good, flotation pads up fairly high to miss binding on the seat too much. They do have quite a few pockets on the front - I only use a few of them- they also offer radio/cell phone anchor points. When on sale, a good value.

I would have to disagree with purchasing this  PFD. It has no bottom strap and rides up on me like crazy. Also, the pockets and layout make self rescue more difficult. I originally bought the Osprey as a PFD for surf fishing back before I even owned a kayak, and for that purpose it is great, but I have to say that for paddling I hate this vest. 

It's funny to read this post today because I just bought a brand new PFD this past Saturday at the ISE show to replace my Osprey:
Kokotat Bahia Tour! 

For the bux, the Extrasport Osprey is pretty good, flotation pads up fairly high to miss binding on the seat too much. They do have quite a few pockets on the front - I only use a few of them- they also offer radio/cell phone anchor points. When on sale, a good value.

I would have to disagree with purchasing this  PFD. It has no bottom strap and rides up on me like crazy. Also, the pockets and layout make self rescue more difficult. I originally bought the Osprey as a PFD for surf fishing back before I even owned a kayak, and for that purpose it is great, but I have to say that for paddling I hate this vest. 

It's funny to read this post today because I just bought a brand new PFD this past Saturday at the ISE show to replace my Osprey:
Kokotat Bahia Tour! 

Wow, bummer. I've used mine over a wetsuit and over waders and have not had the ride-up trouble you describe. How much did you get your KBT for?

Looks like a re-make of the Lotus Mildwater which I was very happy with until it was re called good price
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=42121&deptid=1952

 I got the NSR Chinook.  Very nice!  That Kokatat Bahia looks like a really good one.  I just started outfitting mine, and will post it up on my gearing up for fishing thread.

I also liked the Extra Sport Sturgeon and Fisherman PFD's, but a little more money.

I love the adjustment straps, you can adjust it for over the wesuits or just over a T and shorts.  Many pockets, but I will simply have to tame myself and avoid filling them all up.  I love gear......

Matt

For the bux, the Extrasport Osprey is pretty good, flotation pads up fairly high to miss binding on the seat too much. They do have quite a few pockets on the front - I only use a few of them- they also offer radio/cell phone anchor points. When on sale, a good value.

I would have to disagree with purchasing this  PFD. It has no bottom strap and rides up on me like crazy. Also, the pockets and layout make self rescue more difficult. I originally bought the Osprey as a PFD for surf fishing back before I even owned a kayak, and for that purpose it is great, but I have to say that for paddling I hate this vest. 

It's funny to read this post today because I just bought a brand new PFD this past Saturday at the ISE show to replace my Osprey:
Kokotat Bahia Tour! 

Wow, bummer. I've used mine over a wetsuit and over waders and have not had the ride-up trouble you describe. How much did you get your KBT for?

I got it from Aquan for $97 on sale after tax at the ISE show. I think their normal price is $109 before tax. Mooch works at Aquan, so maybe if you contact him they have a discount for NCKA members?

Sounds like the biggest complaint is the PFD riding up.
This is more often caused by improper fit, I would suggest that you have someone check the fit and adjustment of what you have before shelling out bucks for a new one. You might be surprised at what a difference a few adjustments could make.
Also remember that when the Mfgr's ship new PFD's they tighten all the straps and make them as small as possable for shipping, there for many people buy PFD's that are larger than they need. After the first few uses the straps loosen up and the PFD's begin to ride up.
When trying on a new PFD always loosen all the straps before putting it on than properly adj. to your body and check by having someone pull up on the PFD to make sure it doesn't ride up.
Hope this helps,
Eric

Yakhopper....yep that is what I am gonna do (the next time out) before I buy a new one. I am thinking all layers on and off may be a factor. But I look forward to the reviews in case it isn't a fit issue.

E

I've got my eye on the Kokatat Bahia Tour.

Super love mine.  The new fishing version with license holder and plier pocket is useful without a zillion useless pockets.

Hey Sean, is this new fishing version already on the market?  Is there somewhere where we can catch a glimpse?  I googled it but found nothing.  Is this part of their new fishing line that comes out late winter or early spring?

I tried on what I guess is just the regular Bahia Tour at the ISE and reallly like it.

Michael

I think their normal price is $109 before tax. Mooch works at Aquan, so maybe if you contact him they have a discount for NCKA members?

Yup - our price is $109.00 and NCKA members get 10% off and a hug from the mooch  If any of you picked up the 20% coupon, use it before it expires (Feb something - it should say at the bottom).

Hey Sean, is this new fishing version already on the market?  Is there somewhere where we can catch a glimpse? 

Kit????