Not being a strong swimmer, I shopped around for a PFD when I bought
my pontoon boat a couple months ago. I ended up with a device called
SOSpenders. It's C02 inflatable but quite trim so it doesn't bulk up
under my vest, chest pack or parka. Outdoor Emporium's got the Sport
model for about $60 while Kauffman's wants about $80.
Kent Lufkin
>I wish they would stop in at Pass Lake a little more often. Some folks there
>get a little put off when you let them know that they are breaking the
>rules!
>
>I found a really great life preserver for fishing. It's a military surplus
>life preserver that is issued to aircrews for use when wearing a parachute.
>It is just a harness with two pouches on the sides below the armpits. The
>pouches have canisters that will inflate the tubes when the cords are
>pulled. When you pull the cords, two big orange tubes inflate under your
>arms. There are velcro tabs on the ends that you stick together and then you
>have an instant float tube! So you can fish on the way back in! Best of all
>it is comfortable to wear and doesn't get in the way at all. You can usually
>find them at the larger military surplus stores or maybe that big mail order
>surplus place (U.S. Cavalry? or something like that). I found mine at a
>going out of business sale in OK.
>Ask for a LPU-2/P. If anyone finds a source for them please let me know, I'd
>like to get another one.
>
>Ray
>
>
> > checking licenses and compliance. We got a rather stern warning for not
> > having life jackets with us on the pontoon boats. According to the
> > officer, a wearable life jackets (cushions don't count) IS a requirement
> > on pontoon boats but not in float tubes. Tho I usually carry a life
> > jacket on a river, I rarely do on the lakes and in spite of having been
> > checked numerous times over the years, never been told that a wearable
> > life jacket is required with a pontoon boat. Anyone care to comment on
> > the legal requirements (v. common sense arguements)?
> >
> > BTW..the fishing was great (olive buggers) all afternoon until the wind
> > and rain blew us off. My friend's 8 yr old (who was wearing a life
> > jacket at all times) outfished both of us -- first, biggests & most!!)
> > He was quite pleased with himself!!!
> >
