Help choosing PDF

I want to buy a good PDF for fishing from a Kayak. I have PDF's that are not confortable for paddling and fishing. I want something really good in terms of confort and safety. Please advise! 

I won't comment on brands or styles other then I have the Kokatat Bahia (fishing one). A few things to think about.

1. Fit. You need to try it on with all the layers that you may or may not wear. It need to fit snug. It's not going to work if it hangs off of you. I am a pretty big dude (6'3" 200lbs) and I was shocked that a med/large was the right size.
2. If you have a high back seat (or think you will) try and get a PFD that doesn't have flotation in the lower back. If it does the jacket will most likely ride up and you will end up not wearing it or unzipping it.
3. Don't go whack-o on pockets or other stuff on the front. All that extra stuff on the front of you will make getting back into your yak a PITA
4. Get a bright color and/or make sure it has reflective tape. Seems simple. But I see camo and olive green PFD's all the time. Fine if you are hunting not to great floating in the ocean.
5. More preference but I like a dedicated radio/VHF pocket and a loop to clip a knife to. You use those two things all the time and having them handy is nice.

OK that's all I got.

I won't comment on brands or styles other then I have the Kokatat Bahia (fishing one). A few things to think about.

1. Fit. You need to try it on with all the layers that you may or may not wear. It need to fit snug. It's not going to work if it hangs off of you. I am a pretty big dude (6'3" 200lbs) and I was shocked that a med/large was the right size.
2. If you have a high back seat (or think you will) try and get a PFD that doesn't have flotation in the lower back. If it does the jacket will most likely ride up and you will end up not wearing it or unzipping it.
3. Don't go whack-o on pockets or other stuff on the front. All that extra stuff on the front of you will make getting back into your yak a PITA
4. Get a bright color and/or make sure it has reflective tape. Seems simple. But I see camo and olive green PFD's all the time. Fine if you are hunting not to great floating in the ocean.
5. More preference but I like a dedicated radio/VHF pocket and a loop to clip a knife to. You use those two things all the time and having them handy is nice.

OK that's all I got.

+1 

PFD

PFD

  I never even noticed!

his tips were right no the nose... I do like a few pockets but do not overstuff them... one for a radio and knife, and one for waterproof camera because you have to post pics to post a report...

his tips were right no the nose... I do like a few pockets but do not overstuff them... one for a radio and knife, and one for waterproof camera because you have to post pics to post a report...

Amen brother. If you don't take pics it never happened!

Hey Santiago, how have you been my friend. Eric had said it all and I can't think
of anything else to add except wear clothing that you think your are going to
be wearing on the water. Layer up too and then try as many brand of PFD's as
you can. Always look for comfort being that you'll be on the water for hours.
Good luck to your choices. I hope to see you on the water soon.

Jedmo

I have the NRS Chinook that I really like.  More than enough pockets for your inner gear junkie, but I am with EWB; I carry a knife, radio, whistle and strobe on mine to keep it simple and easy to re-enter the kayak.  I am switching the pliers to attach to the kayak rather than the vest.  One less thing to tangle up!



I really like the mesh back, as it is much more comfortable on the highback seat.  Before I was always pushed forward by my old PFD and usually took it off while in freshwater.  I wear my new one all day and hardly know it is there.

There are several great choices out there.  Good luck!

Tank you for all your advise!!! I will go shopping soon. 

Jedmo.- Hi my friend it is nice to read you. Tank you for your advise. I'll looking to see you on the water.
Santiago.

I, like Eric, have the Kokatat Bahia Tour and like it.  In/attached to it are my VHF, knife, flare, needlenose, whistle, and CD for reflection.

I know the needle-nose sounds weird but their is a small little pocket so I make use of it.

I wear this model too and I like it a lot. A little pricey but It could save your life.

It only has to save your life ONCE and has more than paid for itself, no matter the cost!