PFD question

[ConroeCajun]

I have always used a regular jacket type PFD. I find myself fishing alone more and was thinking about the newer inflatable PFDs. They have the "hydrostatic", auto and manal inflating types.Does anyone have an opinion of the different types available such as pro and cons of each type?

Thanks

Conroecajun

[fishmaster911]

I have a auto/manual inflating
one! I like it so for, I can set it to be manual or auto. The only thing I'm worried about is if I get caught in some rain will it set off while raining! I haven't had it long enough it find out! It's way more comfortable that a regular PFD! I reason I didn't get the manual is what would happen if u hit something and get tossed from the boat. Wil I be able to pull the cord or if i'm knocked out I won't be able to pull it! So I spent a lil more and got the auto/manual!

[longsidelandry]

I got the auto/manual also and I love it! I just put the auto in right before I leave my house to take the boat out and when I get back I swap it back to manual. My reason for doing this is because last year I went to get something out of my hatch I keep it in and the vest had blown up!!! The only thing I can see is that the humidity got to it and made it pop out. If you get the auto, make sure you get some of the extra inserts and keep them somewhere dry.

[ConroeCajun]

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the input!

Conroecajun

[Ray]

The auto feature shouldn't pop unless it is submerged. That is what the West Marine
guy said. It is a hydrostatic feature that senses a certain pressure from being under
water that sets it off.
If you fish in the winter, get yourself a Mustang jacket. I have one. It is very warm
and blocks wind good. Plus it is a PFD. I don't know what they cost cause my work
paid for mine about 10 years ago.
Integrity™ Flotation Bomber Jacket :: MJ6224
It is the green jacket in the picture:

[coachlaw]

I don't own one because they're too pricey for my budget, but I've done some research. The hydrostatic ones do not use the dissolving tablets. They cost more than the tablet ones too. The ones that use the tablets can inflate due to humidity and precipitation. If I had $325 to blow, I'd get a hydrostatic one for sure. For now, it's the orange $5.99 vest for me.

[Finfeatherfur]

I own a Stearns "Float Coat" and love it. I also have good and bad ideas on the inflatable PFD. Both the "auto" and hydrostatic models have inflated in compartments of boat, specifically fishing boats. The small "foil" tabs on the CO2 cartridge deterioate w/ moisture and bust premature to "entering" water. It's not that big of a deal unless you need it in an emergency and can not get it out of the compartment.

Friends that use them love them, and I know the LDWF no longer allow their guys to leave them in boats. They must be stored in their vehicle for that reason above.

[Jordan]

Originally Posted by coachlaw

I don't own one because they're too pricey for my budget, but I've done some research. The hydrostatic ones do not use the dissolving tablets. They cost more than the tablet ones too. The ones that use the tablets can inflate due to humidity and precipitation. If I had $325 to blow, I'd get a hydrostatic one for sure. For now, it's the orange $5.99 vest for me.

thats what i use... my moobs keep me afloat !!

[fishmaster911]

Originally Posted by Jordan

thats what i use... my moobs keep me afloat !!

Lmao!!! Mooby

[longsidelandry]

Originally Posted by fishmaster911

Lmao!!! Mooby

[Jordan]

thats me honey !!!

[longsidelandry]

Hey Jordan, I found your shirt at Pete's the other day!!

[Jordan]

SOLD !!!!!!!!!!

[Ray]

I have a couple of the manually inflatable's. One for me and one for my wife.
We use them on our other boat, not the fishing boat.
I got them on sale for around $66 each.