What brand/type/series PFD do you depend on?

OHbassaholic · December 12, 2005, 10:32:46 AM

I'd like to see what Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) our members like to use.

Myself, I have an SOSpenders model that I can wear the entire time I'm on the water. They are comfortable enough that I never feel the need to take it off. One of these days I will upgrade to the model that automatically inflates instead of having to pull the cord. I just need to get them into my store so I can use my employee discount.

I just need to find a man-size one.

Fishaholic · December 12, 2005, 10:35:55 AM

I own a Stearns, but I'd rather have one of those new ones like OHbassaholic has...gotta be more comfortable. I really only need it if I'm unconscious...I swim like a fish...or would that be Fishaholic?

Warpath · December 12, 2005, 10:50:58 AM

I also have the SOSpenders PFD and highly recommend anyone else buying them as well. I never take mine off when I'm in the boat. I have a short automatic version that I think is too small for me. I think Santa Wife bought me a new long version this year of which I will be extremely grateful for.

I have a newer Stearns as well, but I will give it to my father for his boat and just carry the two auto SOSpenders for my boat. I once heard a story from my banker that his friend was killed in a boating accident because he was knocked unconscious. Right then and there, my wife said that we would spring for the auto SOSpenders since I fish alone a lot.It's a great investment.

Eric

CouchTater · December 12, 2005, 11:27:51 AM

I use a Stearns PDF as does the person fishing with me...

Tater

CJ Basser8 · December 12, 2005, 03:02:25 PM

I have used a Stearns auto inflatable, and a SOSpenders auto....and i like the SOSpenders a whole lot better. It fits me better, and has a spare CO2 cartrage that came with it. The Stearns inflate too easily IMO....i have had them inflate for almost no reason while in my boat, but my SOS didn't inflate.

Pferox · December 12, 2005, 05:41:52 PM

AT home, we use the plain old sterns vests, they are reliable and not that inhibitive, haven't upgraded to SOS ones yet.

At work we are upgrading to the offshore style of PFD, because of the risk of being thrown off and needing some impact protection, and the anitsubmarine strap.
I think the scariest part of working on the airboat is gettin thrown off in 4 or 6 inches of water, because a PFD won't turn you over if your unconscious

Mike Noble · December 12, 2005, 06:56:07 PM

I have several Stearns in various sizes for myself and partners. I probably do need to get new ones.

silversalmon · December 13, 2005, 05:22:25 AM

Have to throw this in for my brain tells me too, I do not have a boat but do enjoy a nice green PFD

Permenant Fund Dividend

DAWG · December 13, 2005, 06:39:40 AM

I have nothing but Stearns vest type in my boat .I hope to update to the inflateable one's soon.

CJ Basser8 · December 13, 2005, 02:57:11 PM

How long do the CO2 cartrages last in the automatic type vests? At the end of each year i ussually buy 3 to put in my vests, and a couple for extras.

Warpath · December 13, 2005, 03:16:27 PM

CJ,

I think the company appreciates people like you and I very much. I do the same thing. I believe you only need to check for corrosion every once in awhile and replace it if any is found. I just replace my every year at the beginning of the year. Do you know that you're supposed to check the vest out by jumping in the water. Sounds like the company wants us to buy more cartridges.

Eric

AB · December 13, 2005, 06:55:03 PM

I run a 100mph vest that I purchased from Bullet....Not only does it have leg straps to keep the thing on me, it matches my boat!

bass1cpr · December 13, 2005, 08:48:34 PM

I have several a couple of Stearns (extras) A couple of Bass Pro Brand for the Jon boat. In the Tracker I have a mesh and foam for hot weather and a 100 mph Bass Pro Brand that I take for fishing from faster boats.
My old Racing Life Jacket was a LifeLine.
SOS's are on the wish list. Only thing that bothers me about the SOS's is their is no impact protection.

mibassguy · December 13, 2005, 09:46:08 PM

i have Several that I use - have a bunch Stearn's Type 1 but for tournaments I wear a SOSpenders automatic and so do all the other member's of the team.

paxpress · December 14, 2005, 09:26:20 AM

I have both SOS and vest styles. I use the SOS's everywhere except in tournaments in Virginia. Tournament rules state (in Va. Federation) if you start a tournament with SOS style then you must keep that on all day. When it is extremely hot out, I don't like wearing them while fishing.