The ONYX MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Vest is our best kayak fishing PFD. The shoulders and sides can be adjusted so they will not get in the way at all. The kayak fishing PFD is also dynamic as it is also excellent for white water and it allows the wearer to move comfortably on the water. You can use it in a kayak for fishing or angling and for paddle sports as well.
Our step-up pick is the NRS Soft PVC-Free Foam Ninja PFD and with 2 shoulder adjustments, the kayak fishing PFD proves to be very comfortable for a day on the lake or in the ocean for fishing. With a lash tab for pocket knives and the like, the kayak fishing PFD provides a custom fit which is great and steady for river kayaking.
The budget pick is the Stearns Adult Classic Series Blue/Red Vest and you can float around in the pool or fish with this life jacket which is also made for handicapped people. The kayak fishing PFD is very comfy while kayaking and provides ample support on the boat. It is safe for a handicapped person and also applicable for wade fishing.
A Little Background
A kayak fishing PFD or personal floatation device is a life vest that allows the person to easily float should the kayak capsize or overturn in the water. PFDs are a requirement for almost any lake, ocean or body of water.
Without the kayak fishing PFD, a person would easily drown on the water, especially if they do not know how to swim properly and the body of water is too vast and deep.
Typically, if you want a fishing PFD, you must find one that is not too restrictive so you can also make it easier for you to cast the line and reel in the fish. The PFD that is meant for fishing should also be the one that has many pockets for your fishing gear and the like. However, for general canoes and kayaks, you can just pick any PFD that is meant for kayaking and canoeing, specifically a type III PFD.
How We Picked
In choosing the best kayak fishing PFD, it is best to consider the following factors:
Inflation and deflation method: Inflating the kayak PFD should be just as easy as deflating it more or less. Kayak PFDs are usually manually inflated or deflated but it depends on the design of your kayak PFD as well.
Resistance to puncture and durability: Being puncture resistant is important for any kayak PFD because it will determine whether it is really suited for the challenge of going ahead into the water and rescuing lives by allowing the wearer to float for as long as it takes until help comes on its way.
Sizing and fitting: The fit of the PFD should be snug but not too tight so as not to discomfort the wearer. In the same way, it should not be too loose so that it will not easily slip out of the wearer. Having a properly fitted PFD is important and it should also be easy to put on and off. In addition, women with large bust sizes should be able to find a kayak fishing PFD that does not discomfort them.
Pockets and accessibility: the kayak fishing PFD should have enough pockets to put your items such as fishing gear, fish finders, bait and the like. A kayak fishing PFD with good accessibility may also have a bar for tying knives and also whistles and flashlights for emergencies.
US Coast Guard approved: the kayak fishing PFD should be approved by the USCG or U.S. Coast Guard so that it will be safe to use, especially if you are in the U.S. Usually, a kayak fishing PFD is rated under Type III under the standards of the coast guard.
Our Pick
ONYX MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Vest
Our best kayak fishing PFD is the ONYX MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Vest which has orange and aqua color choices. Great and well made for paddle enthusiasts, this kayak fishing PFD is a great vest for a sit on kayak and you get from x-small to xx-large choices on sizing.
Made with a comfortable flotation foam material, any boating trip will be a success with this kayak fishing PFD. In addition to that, you can tie items onto the black plastic square for added accessibility. Made of good materials such as bubble foam, the kayak fishing PFD can also be used on wake boarding.
The included front pocket can fit keys, licenses, small phones and the like and it can give you comfortable paddling due to the inner back’s structure. The kayak fishing PFD has the option to be tightened up all the way and can be easy to wear on a kayak because it is form fitting for added comfort.
In fact, nothing gets in the way while paddling and it is easy to get in the water with this super lightweight kayak fishing PFD. Made of SOLAS grade reflective material for easy visibility anytime and anywhere, the PFD also has quite a bit of mesh for breathability.
You will have a happy paddling and fishing experience with the help of this kayak fishing PFD. You can also clip things to this vest for ease of use. It gives you great visibility and is quite adjustable for sailing as well. With a 200-denier nylon ripstop material, it is lightweight enough.
When you are out of the water, this kayak fishing PFD still aims to keep you cool as a comfortable vest. It is also good for skiing and is not very noticeable while paddling so you feel like you aren’t wearing at all. Overall, if you can’t swim that much and if you want a kayak fishing PFD that is designed for your sport or fishing then this nylon oxford PFD will do the trick.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
Some minor cons but not deal breakers to say about the ONYX MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Vest include the fact that the square attachment point on the PFD may not be very well-designed.
Step-up Pick
NRS Soft PVC-Free Foam Ninja PFD
Our step-up pick is the NRS Soft PVC-Free Foam Ninja PFD which is great for kayak fishing overall. It has a lot of adjustments on it and it keep you a float in the water. Made with an athletic design, the 500-denier cordura shell makes this type III PFD a superb fishing PFD to consider which is also for kayak polo activities.
With a wide range of adjustment on the straps, paddling is such as breeze and the kayak fishing PFD is also very ideal for fly fishing and is U.S. coast guard approved. It is great for rowing with its comfortable soft and stretchy fabric for all of your paddling activities and even for swimming.
With quick release buckles, the kayak fishing PFD does not get in the way of casting and those with short torsos will enjoy the design of this PFD which enhances breathability. With over 4 colors to choose from, you will not have a difficult time paddling with this kayak fishing PFD that stays put all the time.
Made with a v-shaped design, it is better than most other conventional life vests and it has a pouch like a hoodie. The design flotation is up to 16.5 lbs and the side entry is secured. The kayak fishing PFD is very adjustable and its PVC-free foam is quite soft on the flotation panels.
Being true to size, the kayak fishing PFD is very good for big lake sailing and it is available in small to x-large sizes. It keeps your head above water and has been shaped for comfort. The pad is about 3 inches thick and yet it gives you a great range of motion for paddling.
Perfect for rafting and paddling, the PFD is aimed at short torso paddlers and is also good for snorkeling. Bringing you full coverage, the kayak fishing PFD can also work for women with large bust sizes and can also be great t use in choppy water such as rivers.
Budget Pick
Stearns Adult Classic Series Blue/Red Vest
Our budget pick would be the Stearns Adult Classic Series Blue/Red Vest and the particular kayak fishing PFD won’t interfere with your casting, luring or reeling in and can provide accurate buoyancy while you are on the water.
Paddling in a kayak has never been easy with this kayak fishing PFD and it also allows you to attach knives and other fishing gear into the vest. As a unisex PFD with vented channels for added breathability, the kayak fishing PFD is very comfortable to wear and is also USCG approved.
The back pad about 1.5 inches and the straps are long enough to be adjusted. Overall, the kayak fishing PFD is great at offering good buoyancy and is great for boaters and kayakers. You can also put your phone or fishing gear on the pockets.
With 3 adjustable chest belts, the kayak fishing PFD supports up to 240 lbs and it is not noticeable at all so it is comfortable and unrestrictive. It can be extended to a bigger size and it works well on the water and even over rough water.
Good for a taller person and for water sports, the webbed straps at 1 inch each. The kayak fishing PFD can be worn over summer clothing and it can fit properly for most sizes. Made with a durable nylon shell, the kayak fishing PFD can work well in the ocean.
Also great for body boarding, the kayak fishing PFD can be used season after season and even for tubing (using fishing float tubes to fish) to keep you afloat as well as for wading. It is okay for large children and it can function as a floatation device for swimming.
With its nylon strapping, you can also install a d-ring onto this kayak fishing PFD. The PE foam inside makes it comfortable and can help you float to the shore with ease. As a type III rated by the coast guard, the kayak fishing PFD can be safe to use in the gulf and for nay fishing trip this summer.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD for Men
ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Jacket
For those looking for a kayak fishing PFD for men, go for the ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Jacket. With a high back design that is specifically made for a sit on top kayak, this kayak fishing PFD can act as a life vest while fishing or when sitting in a kayak.
With a nearly wide range of motion, the kayak fishing PFD can be taken to your favorite fishing spot so that you can be able to fish with great ease. The PFD also resists tears so it is puncture resistant without limiting movement at all.
The kayak fishing PFD is also easy to refill with the co2 cylinder and it has a buoyancy rating of 22.5 pounds for its PFD type. Great for outdoor use, it can be manually inflated with the movement of the t-cord and you will love the vest for use for a bass boat.
It is U.S. coast guard approved and it automatically inflates upon immersion in the water (but you can turn this off if you feel annoyed). When you jump in the water, the kayak fishing PFD makes you feel safe and it is very much okay to use it for water-sports.
The kayak fishing PFD falls under type III and type V and it can support up to a 52-inch chest size. It is quite lightweight and is made of durable ripstop nylon material so it does not get punctured easily and is not soggy at all when wet. The kayak fishing PFD gives you minimal bulk and keeps you comfortable.
With a Velcro strap to adjust it, the kayak fishing PFD comes with a CO2 automatic flotation system and is quite dependable while kayaking due to the slender design. Accommodating up to 300 lbs of weight limit, the inflatable life jacket, vest or PFD is perfect for your fishing kayak.
Unlike other kayak fishing PFDs out there, you can switch this into manual operation to avoid unintentional inflations. Made with reflective piping, the kayak fishing PFD will adjust to your body’s shape and size accordingly and it is great for fishing.
The kayak fishing PFD has been made with soft neoprene neckline so it is good for wearing all day without noticing it at all. It is also good for sailing and gives you greater visibility as well as all day wearing comfort for fishing.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD for Women
Stohlquist Women’s Flo Life Jacket PFD
The Stohlquist Women’s Flo Life Jacket PFD is our ideal kayak fishing PFD for women. If you go fishing and handle quite a bit of padding then this is the female kayak fishing PFD to go with because of the indents for your breasts. The lightweight PE foam also adds plenty of freedom.
Specifically made for women, the kayak fishing PFD measures 4 x 18 inches and it offers enough and sufficient ventilation. If you are a female angler and want to look for a PFD for female bodies then this is the one to bet on. It also has drainage holes for emergencies and the nylon material of this kayak fishing PFD is quite durable to say.
Made with orange and purple color choices, the mesh shoulders are comfortable and offer the wearer enough range of movement. With 3 sizes to choose from to make it easy for you to pick the right size, the kayak fishing PFD doesn’t squeeze you at all so it is made for the female body.
Applicable for sit on top kayaks, the kayak fishing PFD can save your life due to being made of 400 x 200 denier ripstop shell that is super durable, puncture resistant and lightweight / unrestrictive at all. With large bellow pockets for keeping your fishing gear, the kayak fishing PFD is U.S. coast guard approved.
While you are in the middle of the rapids, you can feel safe with this kayak fishing PFD. Offering vibrant colors offer visibility in bad weather, the kayak fishing PFD is made of 210-denier oxford liner. Applicable for a two person boat, there are supportive inner cups made for women on this kayak fishing PFD and the pockets are handy for your fishing gear.
The cross-chest cinch harness gives the person a lot of wear-ability and keeps them ultra cool. With an accurate size for women, the foam on front is 2 inches. The kayak fishing PFD has a neoprene padded waistband and it could match your kayak’s color.
Definitely made for women, the kayak fishing PFD has enough pockets for fishing and for those who paddle a sit on top kayak. It is not bulky at all and can be easily maintained using hand wash soap and water. As a life vest for large breasted women, the design gives you zero ride-up overall.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD for Kids
Mustang Infant Survival PFD Lil-Mate Vest
The Mustang Infant Survival PFD Lil-Mate Vest is our ideal kayak fishing PFD for kids. Great for boating and also for flood readiness, the kayak fishing PFD is also typically used for casual kayaking to give you a secure feeling.
It is also great for swimming and is adjustable on size. The tie down spot makes it easy to use and to secure. What’s more, this kayak fishing PFD is also coast guard approved so it is quite sturdy and well made for safety and survival.
As a type II flotation device, the chest and waist straps all function well in calm water and the kayak fishing PFD can carry infants up to 30 lbs or even bigger kids. With a head pillow for support, this PFD is of good quality and it can keep your kids safe all the time.
The chest sizes from 18 to 20 inches (infant), 21 to 24 inches (child) and 24 to 29 inches (youth). The kayak fishing PFD is also applicable for water sports and it fits perfectly for your kids, when you want to take them with you for fishing.
With an adjustable crotch strap, the grab strap on the head pillow makes it safe and work for any child for boating. The PFD will keep your child or grandchild happy and safe while they go on a fishing trip with you. It is quite secure and comfortable fit and can also be used for sailing as well as paddle sports.
Great for use on the water, it is also applicable for children from 30 to 50 lbs and youth from 50 to 90 lbs. With added comfort, the kayak fishing PFD is lightweight at less than 1 lb and it has in-water support with a vibrant green color for better visibility in the water.
For your kid’s security, the kayak fishing PFD comes with a lot of straps. It also comes with a unique turtle graphic on the vest. Made of nylon material, the kayak fishing PFD is backed by a 1 year limited warranty for every purchase made.
The dependability of this kayak fishing PFD can cut down drowning sufficiently so it is great for those who like sports and outdoor adventures and if you are going to be around water. It is quite comfortable yet helps you stay cool in very hot weather.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD made with Foam Material
Astral Buoyancy Airescape V-Eight Life Jacket
The Astral Buoyancy Airescape V-Eight Life Jacket is a great kayak fishing PFD made form foam material. You can also put in other gadgets on the pockets of this kayak fishing PFD such as your fishing gear and the like.
With choices of blue and red colors (easily visible and reflected for safety), the kayak fishing PFD come with 2 size choices that fit most people (universal and oversized). This particular PFD is also good for kayaking and is not too heavy at all.
Feeling comfortable day while you are on the boat, kayak or canoe, the kayak fishing PFD is made for both men and women. If you go camping or head out on a lake then this is a great preventive measure if ever your kayak capsized.
Perfect for either recreation or fishing, the kayak fishing PFD does not restrict your movement and it is uses AirEscape technology to make it a truly breathable PFD overall. It eliminates perspiration and it has more storage pockets for fishing.
Available in small, medium, large and x-large, ranging from 31 to 51 inches of chest size accommodation, the kayak fishing PFD features high back padding. It is great for kayak touring and it has one waist strap and 2 side straps on its set of adjustable straps
The PFD also features a quick access knife tab to make it easy for you to survive in sticky situations in the water. With enough zipper pockets, there is plenty of strap room to adjust for your needs of sizing and fitting.
With high seat backs, the kayak PFD is perfect for kayak fishing, specifically for sit on top kayaks. Great for a touring kayak, the PFD is also great for sailing and it has padded front panels for comfort and a good feeling of snugness.
Made with pre-shaped foam that contours to your shape, the kayak fishing PFD gives you 4 colors to choose from. The design buoyancy is at 16.2 lbs and it has Velcro on the ends of the shoulder straps for easy adjustments.
Great fit for men and women, the paddleboard riding gets you floating without even kicking. Moreover, the PFD is well constructed and it has a front and back construction that allows you to keep things such as it can carry a knife on the lash tab along with the large front pocket design.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD made with Neoprene Material
O’Brien Traditional Neo Life Men’s Vest
The O’Brien Traditional Neo Life Men’s Vest is a great kayak fishing PFD that is made of neoprene material for warmth and insulation, especially for cold weather fishing or winter fishing purposes. The kayak fishing PFD keeps you cool as a personal flotation device.
With a mesh back for added breathability, the kayak fishing PFD has been designed with a higher back for the ultimate in comfort for your kayak trip. In addition to that, the PFD also conforms to your body and it also comes with an emergency whistle for the most challenging moments out in the sea or lake.
It is a lifesaver in the event of an accident on the boat, kayak or canoe, where a life jacket or vest would be quite handy. Great for use on the boat, it is also applicable for warm weather. The kayak fishing PFD has a neoprene outer and is also perfect for swimming.
With a low front cut, it is made with a light weight construction and foam back support for added breathability which fits very comfortably. There is no excessive heat buildup in this fishing PFD so it is a great fit for all anglers and kayakers.
As a type III vest, it has great buoyancy and a comfortable fit overall. You will feel more secure on the boat with this kayak fishing PFD. Working fine for snorkeling, it is not bulky at all and it has a zip closure. The material on this PFD makes it easier to move in it.
Good for jet skiing, the kayak fishing PFD is also a water sport vest with 2 belts for security. The kayak fishing PFD can help you move through sea water and it has strips for handling equipment. You can use this for surfing and for hours of kayaking.
What’s more, the vest does not restrict your movement at all and it is applicable for paddle boarding with a sense of security. Being USCG approved, the kayak fishing PFD is quite comfortable and is also stylish and lightweight.
This neoprene vest is great for men and is also a sufficient water sports jacket. Quite comfortable to wear, the kayak fishing PFD dries quickly and it is fairly snug with a high back flotation design. The kayak fishing PFD is also great for teenagers and children and it is currently available from x-small and x-large sizes.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD made with Nylon Material
Stohlquist Fisherman 500D Personal Floatation Device
The Stohlquist Fisherman 500D Personal Floatation Device is applicable for those who want a nylon made kayak fishing PFD. Made with a 500D cordura shell, it has ventilation sides as well as padded shoulders made of neoprene material for added insulation as well.
It has been made from a 200D oxford liner which makes it breathable. The whole thing measures 7 x 15 inches and is made with tough nylon material. Made for the fisherman or angler, this personal floatation device is made with an EVA inner platform for added comfort.
As a soft kayak fishing PFD that is protective, it has is a whistle and can be taken on those hardcore canoe trips. The freedom of your arms is guaranteed with the kayak fishing PFD to keep you fishing and paddling at the same time.
Moreover, the arm holes are so big that they make the kayak fishing PFD super convenient for fishing in any type of water. With no chafing at all due to the quality of the materials that have made this kayak fishing PFD, there is a warm place to put your hands. The adjustability of this kayak fishing PFD is great at eliminating guesswork on sizing.
The open sides allow a lot of breathability and a high back flotation makes it applicable for long hours of use. It is ultra light and keeps its coolness on a hot summer’s day. The adjusting straps are easy to use and it gives you enough movement for paddling.
There is also a hand warmer for cold weather fishing and the whole kayak fishing PFD adjusts to your body’s shape. You can attach a d-ring to this vest. With a floating front panel, the construction is really made for fishing. Also applicable for dinghy sailing, the kayak fishing PFD can hold a rescue knife on the lash tab.
Best Kayak Fishing PFD made with Polyester
MTI Adventurewear Journey PFD Life Jacket
The MTI Adventurewear Journey PFD Life Jacket is a great polyester made kayak fishing PFD. Great for use with stand up paddle boards, the kayak fishing PFD is also approved for water skiing and for your dragon boat racing activities.
The kayak fishing PFD is a credible life jacket for water sports and it is best for kayaking and fishing at the same time with a lot of adjustment room around the chest. The kayak fishing PFD fits like a glove and you will like it for kayaking whether in very hot weather or in windy days.
With an inner mesh lining for support, the arms have no rubbing or chafing at all. Being coast guard approved, the kayak fishing PFD is quite buoyant and is also applicable for fishing or floating on the water.
With 4 side adjustments, the kayak fishing PFD is also perfect for the white water paddler with a front mesh pocket to keep your fishing things. With a reflective trim for high visibility, the kayak fishing PFD comes with a comfortable core temperature for those cold fishing moments.
Great for warm weather, the kayak fishing PFD has an ergonomic design and can work well on a paddleboard as well. It has an interior storage sleeve and it is indeed very comfortable with its mesh back design. The fishing PFD allows you to paddle any kayak easily due to the air flow system.
Completely durable yet stylish, it is a USCG approved personal flotation device. It weighs less than 1 lb and it has a hanger loop for your hat to make it applicable for fishing in high winds. It has a waist and a couple of sides that are highly adjustable due the zip closure.
There is also a front zipper for ease of entry and exit. The contoured design of this PFD comes with the foam material panels. It is amde with a 300-denier polyester shell and is great for kayaking and canoeing with a USGC rating of type III (15-lb buoyancy).
The Competition
Other kayak PFDs did not suffice because they did not have enough safety features to make them really reliable in terms of protecting the wearer from drowning. It is important that a kayak PFD will be just right for the person who will wear it.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a PFD?
A: A PDF or Personal Floatation Device is like a lifejacket but it is more used for fishing and floating in the water consciously. A PFD is a special device that is a requirement for most states and fishing grounds so as to keep the wearer floating at all times.
A PFD is often used for boating, recreation and fishing. In comparison to a lifejacket, a PFD may be smaller and less frustrating to wear, but is only used for recreational purposes. A PFD can be easily inflated using carbon dioxide cartridges or through manual inflation.
Q: How is a PFD different from a lifejacket?
A: While lifejackets are for emergency purposes when a person is unconscious, a PFD is meant for a person who is fully conscious and is used for recreational activities for buoyancy and still requires the person to have at least some skill of floating or swimming. The PFD is designed to have floatation materials at the back, making them less restrictive, in comparison to lifejackets. PFDs are mainly worn by anglers and fishermen whereas lifejackets are, well, for saving lives.
Q: Are there different types of PFDs and where should they be used for?
A: Depending on your type of fishing or recreational activity, a PFD may come in Type I, Type II, Type III among others. Type I is for open ocean and remote areas while Type II is for calm water or near the shore. Type III is for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and the like while Type V is for special conditions such as whitewater, law enforcement and others.
Q: What is an inflatable PFD and how does it inflate?
A: An inflatable PFD is ideal for those 40 kg and above and can be powered up using a CO2 cartridge, cylinder or can be blown using either manual or automatic inflation. Automatic inflatable PFDs will inflate once they come into contact with water, which makes them more convenient but sometimes a hassle depending on your preference.
Q: What is a closed cell PFD?
A: A closed cell PFD is a PFD device that are slightly bulkier but have better protection in comparison to inflatable PFDs. They vary in design, weight and other factors and can be for adults to children depending on the design that you pick. A closed cell PFD is also impact resistant so they are great for turbulent water.
Q: Can a PFD be adjusted?
A: Yes, most PFDs can be easily adjusted because they include some straps that can be loosened or tightened at will. There are straps on the shoulders as well as for the width so you can adjust according to your size and comfort. You may also wear some paddling clothes underneath the PFD for the best fit possible.
Q: Who can wear a PFD?
A: Only those who are 16 years or older and weigh greater than 36 kg are advisable to wear a PFD, since it is meant to be an advanced floatation device for recreational purposes and for a person who has the capability to float or swim enough. A PFD is also a requirement for most deck boats and should also be worn while on the deck of an open boat.
Q: Can PFDs be used on all boats and vessels?
A: Unfortunately, some water crafts cannot be approved for use with PFD in some states. Towed water sports, sail boards and personal water crafts are just some of those instances that you are not allowed to use a PFD. This, however, depends on the state or locality and their rules and regulations.
Q: Aside from a kayak or a canoe, where else can I use a PFD?
A: A PFD can also be used in jet skiing, wind surfing, water skiing, a dinghy and much more. However, always check the rules and regulations of your local fishing area or state to make sure that your PFD is approved for your water activity.
Q: Can women also wear a PFD?
A: Yes, there are specifically designed PFDs that are made for women. The PFDs that are for women have a smaller frame, smaller arm holes and are contoured to fit the shape of a woman’s body. This enables women to feel snug and safe when they go fishing, kayaking or canoeing in their PFD which is tailored to their needs and individual preferences.
Q: Can kids wear a PFD?
A: In some states, a PFD is allowed to be worn by children at least 12 to 13 years old or below should wear a life jacket or at least a PFD to keep them safe. The PFD will be great in keeping your kids safe and sound and can also help them prevent hypothermia in case they end up being stuck in the water for too long.
Q: Will I still need a PFD if I know how to swim well?
A: Yes, a PFD is still very much need for those who already know how to swim, especially if you are boating out in the deep sea because it will help you not get too tired easily when swimming or saving lives in the water. PFDs and lifejackets both do their job to keep you floating while you do other things.
Q: How much pounds of floatation should a PFD have?
A: It depends on the PFD type because Type II PFDs only require 15.5 lbs while 22 lbs is required for Type I PFDs, which make them quite restrictive if you want to wear them for a kayak. Therefore, a type II is much more advisable for a kayak PFD or a canoe PFD.
Q: What should be stored in a PFD for a long trip in your kayak?
A: A kayak PFD that will embark on a long journey ahead should have emergency supplies such as a whistle (or any other signaling device) and a knife (for emergency purposes). Make sure your PFD has enough pockets to store such emergency items so that you can get out of a sticky situation while you are wearing your PFD and waiting for rescue.
Q: Why should my PFD have reflective designs?
A: A reflective designed PFD is very helpful in case you get lost at sea and you have nearly zero visibility and need help from others. It is important that you get a PFD that is highly reflective so that when the catastrophe comes, you will be prepared. Adding to the reflective designs such as yellow and orange, the PFD should also have a ready flashlight or whistle as well as other supplies that can help you survive through the water without fail.
Q: Cay you use a PFD for surf kayaking?
A: Yes, PFDs can be used for kayaking and canoeing of various purposes, such as for fishing or for surfing. Whether you have a lifejacket or a PFD, it is important that you wear a floatation device in case you are going out in the sea because it will help you to stay floating all the time in case you lose your balance or lose your boat or kayak (or even your canoe if ever).
Q: What makes a kayak PFD different from a regular PFD?
A: A PFD that is generally aimed for fishing or boating on a kayak, canoe or similar boat, will require a PFD that has wider arms so that you can paddle freely without getting the PFD in the way of your boat paddling, kayaking or canoeing. Look for a Type III PFD and it will be just right for use in a kayak.
The structure of a PFD is usually one that has a backing that is made from thin nylon. This makes the wearer of the PFD more comfortable for paddling for hours without restricting the movement of the paddling action.
Q: If going to a river, will a PFD save my life?
A: Only if you also wear a helmet other than the PFD. It is important that the paddler wears the proper PFD to make sure that he or she is safe in the kayak, especially for rivers.
Q: Should I pick a PFD that has manual inflation or one that has automatic inflation?
A: Consider a manually inflated PFD if you don’t want to inflate the PFD by mistake while on the boat. However, choose an automatically inflated PFD if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of manually pumping it.
Q: What is the typical sizing for a PFD?
A: A PFD can range from extra small to XXL depending on the manufacturer. Typically, the smallest supported weight is from 45 kg and the largest is up to 110 kg or more.
Wrapping It Up
Overall, the ONYX MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Vest is our best kayak fishing PFD due to the SOLAS grade material, 200-denier material and pockets to fit in your fishing supplies.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.