Selecting the right fishing PFD. I need expert opinions!

[SpurHunter]

I am in the market for a good PFD. I think I want an inflatable so I will wear it more while fishing.
I must admit that I am guilty of rarely ever wearing one. I claim to have a good excuse for it though as my boat is very deep inside being a center console with high sides compared to you bass boat kamikaze pilots.

I am really thinking more about it though as I fish with my kids most times, and it worries me to think I might fall over one day and be incapacitated while they are there, and there's not a chance they could ever help get my big butt back in the boat in an emergency.

Of course they wear their pfd's according to the law and common sense, but I think they would also rather wear an inflatable while fishing as well. They are 11-12-14 yrs old

What should I know?
Are they comfortable? I am very hot-natured, and feel I will be itching to take it off all the time.
How much should I plan on spending on each?

I am needing some expert opinions here from you guys. emoScratch emoWorthy emoGeezer

 

[cargotrailer]

Just for information, most (if not all) inflatable PFD's are only approved for ages 16 and over. Atleast that was my experience when I was shopping for one for my son.

 

[SpurHunter]

Thats excatly the kind of info I need! Thanks for the input.

 

[foodsaver]

I have a mustang one and if you would like to go fishing sometime your welcome to wear it while we fish and see if you like it.

 

[MadBomber]

I have a Stearns automatic model that I bought at Wal-Mart for $100.  A comparable model at BPS was $150.  It's comfortable so I always wear it even in hot weather.  I would recommend the "Mae West" type rather than the "fanny pack" so your head would be held above water.  A recharge kit is less than $20. 

 

[Davo]

I have a couple of the Mustang automatics and really like them. However, sometimes in high humidity they will just inflate on their own and each recharge kit costs about $35. The other day my brother and I were fishing, no humidity or anything. His vest was laying on the seat when it just inflated.emoAngry They also make one that goes around your waist.

The only problem with them (other than the occassional misinflation) is that you are still required to keep the standard type pdf's in the boat. I have 3 regulars jammed way up in a compartment.

 

[SpurHunter]

That is great info, I never would have thought you had to keep the std in the boat also.

 

[Fuzzy]

I have standard PFD's but was understanding that if it was serviceable (full cylinder showing green) there was not a requirement for standard PFD's (providing they meet the Type I, II, III or V standards). I do keep two replacement cylinders just in case. Do not place them in your tool box in the truck, they are hard to get out when they go off! I have a Stearns and a Mustang and love them. Only complaint is when it's REAL hot, they make me sweat real bad..but I rather be sweating then drowning. Dale Hollow has signs that say something like "# of drowning victims 40, 0 wearing vests". Kind of tells it all.

Fuzz

 

[minner]

If you can, go with the Mustang Auto Hydrostatic Inflatable. These are more expensive but will not deploy due to humidity or rain. The wearer must be submerged under 4" to deploy. I have one and have worn it threw a rainstorm getting soaked to the bone and it never deployed. It's worth the pice of mind knowing you can store it in your boats storage compartment and be confident when you open the lid that there isn't an inflated PFD waiting for you like some types are guilty of. emoThumbsup

 

[fischnrod]

I got mine at Wal- mart and always wear it when im on the water. I too used to be guilty of not ever wearing one until i purchased the inflatable. I was raised on the lake and was a better than average swimmer, but, with age comes wisdom and my health isnt what it once was. I just dont think i could get out of the water as easy as i could when i was healthier. If an inflatable pfd is comfortable enough to make you wear it all the time your on the water, then it is the right selection. emoSun

http://flw.flwoutdoors.com/article.cfm?id=145732

 

[SpurHunter]

Point well taken, thanks for the advice.