Re-entry and PFD importance

[kramer_]

Found myself in a situation recently where I flipped (unexpectedly) my kayak. When I got my kayak it was winter time and thought I'll just get a dry suit and wait for summer to practice re-entry, and watch some YouTube videos.

Long story short, I was able to flip the yak right side up but it wasn't easy. My yak is 34 inches wide and weighs 58 pounds not including the seat or propel drive. I was in about 8 foot of water. My PFD allowed my to catch my breath since I didn't have to tread water which kept me calm. My nrs pilot knife allowed me to cut my waders to release water but I think I could have just released the top straps and removed my waders. A cooler made re-entry from the back very easy!!! Also, my phone was in a waterproof container (ziplock bag inside my PFD pocket).

So if you haven't done so, take a friend and practice re-entry/self rescue and think about what can potentially happen on the water . I think this is especially important for those that have huge kayaks.

[john from md]

This is exactly why I preach to people with yaks to buy a rescue ladder. It assists you 1, in rolling the yak upright and 2, to reenter the vessel. Another thing I carry when going out in the bay is a foam paddle float. The paddle float gives you assisted leverage when boosting yourself into the yak. I found it to be very helpful when their are two-three foot seas running. I recommend foam as it is ready when you need it, not like the inflatable that requires you to blow it up when you are in distress.

http://kayakselfrescueladder.com/Home_Page.html
https://northwater.com/products/paddle-float ( these are cheaper from Amazon)