Fly Fishing PFD

[Chuckwalla]

What brand/type of PFD do you guys use while on the river? I tried all that I have and none are too comfortable.

[NickelCigar]

Forget you have it on until a ranger asks if you have one.

[Windknot]

John,

The SOS comes as both SOSpenders and a belt-mounted version.

Both available w/manual or auto operation.

[Chuckwalla]

That belt version may be the ticket. I don't think a PFD would keep your head up if your wader filled with water. I always wear a wader belt, so that may buy me some time, if I did fall. Anyone have a firsthand experience.

[NickelCigar]

Here's the belt.http://www.boatus-store.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=20002&langId=-1&catalogId=20002&productId=111484&catalogId=20002&classNum=12387&subdeptNum=106&storeNum=8

[NickelCigar]

Better Linkhttp://www.sospenders.com/index.html

[Jojadog]

"I don't think a PFD would keep your head up if your wader filled with water. I always wear a wader belt, so that may buy me some time, if I did fall. Anyone have a firsthand experience."

Here is an interesting article on the wader with water scenario.
http://www.sexyloops.com/articles/killerwader.shtml
I think it should be important to note that his tests were done in still water. I think should you be capsized in fast water your waders could definately add to an already dangerous situation. Rivers are dangerous, be careful out there.

Pete

[justasnag]

Bass Pro has the Stearns belt model for $39.00 on sale now.

[deltaflyer]

I fell in at Island Ford, was washed through the "toilet bowl" and down almost to the little island. I had on my breathables with a wading belt (which slowed but didn't prevent my waders from filling with water) and did not sink. Once yours waders fill up they don't pull you down, they will however significantly restrict your ability to swim well but I managed to just lay back and go for the ride... I think my SOSpenders would have easily kept me afloat, heads up during the spill but of course I wasn't wearing them. During flight training we trained/swam in full flight gear with boots, helmets, survival vest etc. and panic is what'll get you in trouble first and fastest. Cold water makes it worse. If you spill get on your back with your feet in front of you to protect your melon from rocks etc. Once clear of fast moving water, tread/backstroke yourself to shallow water and be prepared to crawl out. Those full waders weigh nothing in the water but lots on land. I had to take mine off sitting on the edge of the river because I couldn't stand up. Hypothermia comes on fast when your wet so head for the car and dry clothes as fast as you can. I have a whistle on my vest to get help if I need it. Also remember that your rod and reel can be replaced if you need to let 'um go. Luckily, I managed to paddle to shore with mine. It was about 7 AM, 50 degrees outside and I was by myself. I am a strong swimmer, 5 yr. lifeguard, plus awesome water survival training in the USN, and this scared the S*** out of me. Now, I often wear my SOSpenders when I fish alone or where I'm not familiar with the water.

the next day I bought a sissy stick (wading staff) too...

and that's what happened to me...

[huntfish]

Tom,
Good Post! The water in your waders will not pull you under, it is the panic that gets most people in problem and the cold water. I always have a change of dry WARM clothes with me when I fish. If I'm floating, then I carry extra in a dry bag or seal them with my foodsaver. I've taken a 1 mile ride down the Russian River (AK) and the SOS suspenders will definintely keep your head above water.

A couple of years ago, I watched a guy flip his tube in Jan on the hootch while pulling out to get warm just below HWY20. It was about 45 degrees outside. He did not have a clue on what to do. I started a fire for him and got him out of his clothes, and gave him my backup clothes. After an hour or so, he was ready to walk out and not fish again that day. Gave him a ride back to his truck. He definintely would have sucumbered to hypothermia.

Folks, if you fish during the winter, be prepared!

[Sal Fontinalis]

From my days as a more active paddler, I have always loved my Lotus Designs vest. Designed for river kayakers, it offers a wide range of movement that is great for fly casting and swimming out of rapids. Mine doesn't have a head pillow and I'm weary of using it with waders, but if I'm in my 'yak or a boat it is easily my first choice.

[Chuckwalla]

I picked up a SOSpenders PFD. Cabela's had them for $14.99 :D Now, to get to the 'hooch before it rains again. :mad:

[streamKAT]

I can heartily second the reccomendation for these PFDs, particularly if you are a bit adventurous in your wading/paddling/tubing ... I have had one for 6 or 7 years and it is still in great shape despite pretty constant use & abuse.

No pockets for tackle to speak of ... ya have to get a small chest pack or use a lanyard.... if you have reason to be wearing a lanyard and a PFD at the same time it is prudent to have an accessible cutting implement like EMT scissors or a small knife.

I seem to remember a company called MTI that made a whitewater grade fishing PFD/vest... gonna do a web search now ...

[streamKAT]

http://www.mtiadventurewear.com/Products/PFDs//Multi/1Angler.htm