Better Safe Than Sorry

Why a personal flotation device is essential for kayak anglers

- Gary Robinson

A CONTROVERSIAL IDEA IN THE WORLD of kayak fishing in the USA is a debate that, so far, doesn’t seem to have too much support here – the great PFD divide.

There has been growing debate as to whether or not the personal flotation device, or life jacket, is a necessary item of kit. There are those who won’t ever go afloat without wearing one, while others seem to hate wearing them for a number of reasons.

Some say they are strong swimmers, they aren’t venturing out far, a PFD is too bulky and inhibits paddling and casting. To most reading this, I would hope that there is no incident that is worth going afloat for without a PFD.

With more people kayak fishing in the States, inevitably, there have been tragedies. Always wear your PFD.