Mustang PFD questions

jonboy · October 29, 2014, 03:15:30 AM

I will be likely be doing some winter fishing this year alone. I have been thinking it might be a good idea to invest in one of these being that I will be all bundled up. I have been looking at them and noticed a large difference in price between models. Can someone give me some clarity on what the difference is. My fear is not being able to make it back to the boat with lots of clothes on if I were to fall out.

stumpy05 · October 29, 2014, 06:21:32 AM

I think most of it is the technology in it. Some have co2 guages some dont. Some are rechargeable some aint.

Its always a fear I have is falling out and me no ladder I have figured out other ways of getting back in. But one of these might be a good idea.

Mike Cork · October 29, 2014, 08:28:08 AM

Stumpy hit it on the head. Some are manual inflate some are auto inflate. Brand has a lot to do with it too. Mustang is the most expensive, SOSpenders are a much cheaper version that is just as good IMO.

Polaris425 · October 29, 2014, 08:32:13 AM

I say spend a little more & get the auto Inflate. Mine are older manual inflate and I want to upgrade when I can. IF you were to fall out, and IF you hit your head on the way out, a manual inflate wouldn't help you much.

Mike Cork · October 29, 2014, 08:41:49 AM

Definitely. If you're going to buy one it doesn't make sense to get a manual. Something else to check, your states regulations. In Louisisna this type of life vest only counts towards your boats requirement if worn. A lot of guys got in trouble for having them in the boat but not on. Here, if your not going to wear it, you have to have a standard vest in the boat as well.

Polaris425 · October 29, 2014, 10:02:44 AM

Quote from: Mike Cork on October 29, 2014, 08:41:49 AM
Definitely. If you're going to buy one it doesn't make sense to get a manual. Something else to check, your states regulations. In Louisisna this type of life vest only counts towards your boats requirement if worn. A lot of guys got in trouble for having them in the boat but not on. Here, if your not going to wear it, you have to have a standard vest in the boat as well.

Mike makes a great point. Alabama has the same rule. For it to count you have to be wearing it. If you're not wearing it, you have to have one regular vest for each person in the boat as well.

Smallie_Stalker · October 29, 2014, 05:00:31 PM

I am not sure about the Mustangs but some brands like Stearns have different buoyancy ratings - the lower the number the cheaper the price.

Buoyancy dictates how much weight a given vest will float when inflated. For every 100 pounds you weigh you need 5 lbs of buoyancy to float it. Of course bulky cold weather clothing adds to your weight as well so take that into account and get one with the highest amount of buoyancy you can. The old adage about better to be safe than sorry couldn't find a better application than here.

Also, definitely get an auto-inflate model. I had a buddy go over the side and hit his head on the way. Knocked him out cold and his auto-inflate vest (SOSpenders model) rolled him face up and saved his life.

Just as an FYI, Mustang also makes a coast guard approved flotation jacket that is also supposed to help protect against cold and hypothermia. Never saw one though, just read about them.

Polaris425 · October 29, 2014, 05:40:18 PM

^^ I have one at home. I'll take a picture when I get home tonight.

jonboy · October 29, 2014, 09:28:42 PM

I notice in the mustang brand that they have an auto and a hydrostatic. The hydro was the most expensive. What is the difference between those two? Mike, I certainly don't care about name brands and will be checking in on the sos units. Thanks for the tip. I had already decided against the manual(I thought that was what that meant) for the reason yall stated. If I have a bunch of big gaudy clothes on, I don't want to have to find a rip cord.

Polaris425 · October 29, 2014, 09:47:53 PM

It's bulky. Don't know if I'd want to fish in it. But it would be great for running. I've yet to actually wear it on the boat.

jonboy · October 29, 2014, 10:23:17 PM

Thanks Polaris for the pics, I saw those on Beat the big box boys web site. Without being able to see one in person, I would have a hard time putting up that kind of money for one. They are reeeeaaaaly proud of them. By the way, Im also in the market fir some quality "Warm" fishing gloves if any of you have any recommendations. Even though I wont be out in temps like you guys up north have to deal with, I hate cold weather and 40 feels like -20 to me

Polaris425 · October 30, 2014, 08:58:55 AM

I went thru the same thing last year. Researched a bunch of pairs of gloves. Couldn't afford any of the really nice ones they actually make for fishing. Lol. Ended up w/ a pair of those they sell at academy & gander mt.

TFOUR · October 30, 2014, 03:14:53 PM

Check out stormr gear for the gloves, also if you are seriously considering the auto inflate and can wait a couple of months, the new ones should be out in march saw them at ICAST they were sick!!!! Well worth the wait.

caddyjoe77 · November 09, 2014, 07:10:19 PM

As for the fishing gloves I wear neoprene ones that are not snug. I try to wear them while I am on the way to the lake to where my hands start to sweat. That way my hands are warm and IMO they tend to stay warmer in the cold that way.

I would like some with felt in them or just a better pair. Anyone know any that are form fitting enough to where they are not too bulky and can operate a baitcaster? The only problem with neoprene is the boat rides and if it is windy. Suggestions are welcome..