Kayak PFD for a big man

[warhawk]

I just got another kayak today, a Jackson Coosa, which has a frame seat.


I need a good PFD, my wants are:


Fits me, I usually wear a 3XL shirt
Comfortable (with the Jackson seat)
Pockets and attach points for clippers, pliers, all the fishing goodies you want to have handy


Any suggestions?


Does anyone run a manual inflatable on a kayak?

[jimp]

I have a cabelas 2500 auto/manual inflate I use on my yak, very comfy for me (6', 205#), not sure it would fit you tho. Never had to test it yet. LOL

[warhawk]

Thanks ... If I go with an inflatable, it will definitely be a manual. Had a bad experience with a buddy's auto inflate PFD. I'm afraid that in a kayak it would be way too easy for me to find just enough water to fire the CO2 cartridge.

i also have a big boat and would probably use the PFD there too.

[bfish]

If you go inflatable, I suggest hydrostatic, as water pressure triggers the auto-inflate. Rather than the disolvable pill type, which can be accidentally set off with rain or splash water. Manual is better than nothing, but I never seen anyone go for swim that was expecting it. Automatic adds another layer of safety (and allows hands to continue to hold paddle/rods etc).

I prefer a kayak specific pfd, that allow better arm movement, but are also just plain better comfort. Astral, Stholquist, Extrasport, MTI, Kokatat and I am sure I am leaving out other brands. Best is always to try it on, while sitting down and then do some pretend fishing (i.e. casting motion).

[warhawk]

I'm going up to St Louis on a business trip tomorrow. They have both a Bass Pro and a Cabelas up there, hopefully I'll be able to try on a few vests while I'm up there.

[Alphahawk]

NRS Chinook.


Regards

[Fishing Doc]

Please let us big guys know what you find for a PFD! I use a Cabelas fishing PFD, it is a 2-3x. It rides up on me a little when I am fishing out of my yak

[warhawk]

l was able to try on an MTI Solaris in the XL/XXL size yesterday. It fit great and was even on sale! But it was NOT the fishing version so I passed. At least now I know that one will fit. I am still holding out to see the MTI Dio fspec, and the NRS Chinook in person and try them on.

[Fishing Doc]

Thanks fir the update! I am going to be around a big Bass Pro shop in a couple of weeks and I will see what fits me too

[deadaim]

Bass Pro Shops Tournament Mesh Fishing Life Jacket | Bass Pro Shops: The Best Hunting, Fishing, Camping & Outdoor Gear

I have used that one for years