PFD preferences

[mojopod]

What's up gang!? I have finally purchased my Outback and could not be more excited to get out on the water, but have a question about PFDs. Which PFDs are best/preferred for fishing out of an Outback? Anyone have any good recommendations? Looking forward to meeting the Southern Maryland kayak fishing community!

-Doug

[Seasalt]

I really like NRS Chinook...

lots of pockets and places to hang things. Also, the design of the back allows you seat comfortably.

[silasvirus82]

Any of the kayak fishing marketed PDFs are obviously a good choice, but be aware all those extra pockets and things hanging off the front make it much more difficult for re-entry. If you're new to kayaking I would consider something slim fitting. Personally I have a fairly slim fit PDF, but I do keep a knife hanging off the front so that sort of defeats the purpose.

[Romo]

Congrats on the outback purchase! I'm on my second NRS Chinook and really like it. My only complaint is on the new one I just got they removed one of the small pockets.

[J.A. Veil]

I currently use the NRS Chinook, but have owned other brands previously. I strongly recommend that you try the PFD on before buying it. I once ordered a recommended brand online and hated it the moment I put it on. It went back to the vendor, but I paid shipping both ways.

[summersoff]

I bought the NRS Chinook last season because of all the recommendation for it. I had been using a variety of basic no-frills pfds prior to that. When the Chinook arrived I kind of laughed at all the pockets and wizbangs, thinking I would never use them. Well, after a year of solid use, all the pockets are filled and wizbangs are heavily used. Great pfd, but like they said, try it on.

[mojopod]

PFD preferences

Thanks very much, gents. Appreciate the advice!

[manlystanley]

Like other have said, make sure it has pockets. A couple of other things:

-- Make the color Bright yellow or orange. I personally think the biggest danger is boats and skadoos.

-- Secondly, don't skimp on your PFD. Make it real comfortable so that you are never tempted to take it off while out fishing. My brother was a great swimmer--and he drowned because he was too confidant. Be real careful.

Best Regards,
Stan

[Yak67]

+1 on don't skimp on Price +1 on Comfort. Fit like a glove and don't want to take it off. I have both types, the fish PFD with high -back for your seat and two nice pockets and hangers/ rings. I also have the slim, "Auto-Inflate" type. Very comfortable you don't know it's on. First time in a kayak and fishing. I would recommend the Kayak fishing PFD, it's on and you don't have to worry about anything and you have pockets, that first year

Yak67
2017 Hobie PA-12 Camo
2016 Hobie Outback LE#217

[Salty Dog]

I have the NRS Cvest. I think at the time the Chinook did not come in Orange and the Cvest did. They are very similar.

[mojopod]

NRS Chinook it is, inbound from the fine folks at Amazon. Thanks for all of the great advice, I'm an experienced kayak surfer, but new to the fishing scene. Took my maiden voyage yesterday and scored a 17" striper and a nice perch...gotta be the most fun you can have with your pants on. Very much looking forward to meeting up with the SOMD regulars!


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