My Lifejacket Saved Me Today. 2024
OperationEagle reply :
Boaters...and especially kayakers: Please wear your lifejackets at all times. I always do and today I am especially glad that I did.
I was anchored up on the side opposite to the side the wind was blowing. With that you know where this is going...a wind gust and wave hit me hard enough that my anchored side pulled the kayak under enough that it flipped.
Within seconds I was in the 50 degree water on the side of the anchor. Because the anchor was attached to the kayak, I couldnt flip the boat over. What's worse, the longer it remained flipped, the more water the kayak was taking on...making flipping it back over increasingly difficult.
I tried to maintain composure but the longer I tried to work around my boat I could feel my body start to shiver. I was able to call over to another boat for assistance. I was very lucky as it was the only other boat on the water.
By the time we reached shore, my lips were blue and I could not speak in complete sentences. Reading about hypothermia, I now understand what was happening...what really surprises me is how fast these symptoms came on.
Needless to say, I am forever thankful to those boaters that helped a stranger in need. I am also thankful for my lifejacket which I will never take off no matter how uncomfortable or restrictive it may feel.
If this post helps just one boater in the future I would be elated. Please wear your lifejacket.
Tight and safe lines.
flyfisher reply :
Glad to hear all that happened was a lessoned learned.
Swampstud reply :
Glad to hear your safe. God was with ya today id say!
Mike L reply :
Whew!
Sure glad you're ok!
Hit your knees tonight my friend.
Mike
WRB reply :
Most boaters have PFD's and don't wear them unless fishing a tournament that mandates using them.
Kayaks, I hope everyone wears their PFD's.
You are a lucky man and hope you have the names and phone number of the boater who help you.... Diner sounds like a good payback! Did you loose any valuable tackle?
Tom
Smokinal reply :
I'm going out tomorrow by myself, which is rare, and I will have my new PFD on at all times. Previous posts made me pick one up and posts like this keep me wearing it. Thanks for sharing your story and I'm glad to hear you are ok.
A-Jay reply :
Glad you're OK ~
As the warm water season ends and the waters we fish get colder hyperthermia becomes more of a factor. Many boaters / anglers do not know or realize how fast an immersed human becomes incapacitated.
50 degree water equals 15 minutes before incapacity and/or unconsciousness with life jacket on.
50 degree water equals 9 minutes before incapacity and/or unconsciousness without a life jacket.
Please go to and read the info in the link below.
A-Jay
Catch and Grease reply :
Glad your not another news story... I don't wear my PFD nearly enough, especially when I'm alone
jbw252 reply :
Glad to hear your incident had a good ending. Thanks for sharing that, so we can all learn from it.
OperationEagle reply :
Tom, yes I lost my rod and reel. To be honest, it has been easy to mentally let those things go as things could have been so much worse.
A-jay thanks for that table...an eye opener for sure.
Here is one last discovery. I am sore, achy, and exhausted. It seems the body expends a ton of energy to protect itself when placed under sudden duress.
Thanks for all the well wishes....I am so glad I am ok. I just wanted to share my situation to prevent a tragedy from happening to others.
This board has been so helpful in teaching me how to be a better fisherman. As I or we become obsessed with catching "the big one", its easy to overlook the simple or seemingly inconvenient aids that could keep us alive.
gramps50 reply :
Glad this turned out well for you!
Thanks for posting this life lesson that could save someone else from a tragedy.
BassnChris reply :
Glad your ok.
I wear mine at all times.......my pic was before I bought it.
geo g reply :
Great lesson for all of us. I wear mine when I fish alone in the boat. Glad you are OK.
Alonerankin2 reply :
Wow! Geez, you might see a doctor my friend..
Idk.. But I think I would, Stay safe & thanks for sharing a very important life lesson...
God speed...
EvanT123 reply :
Man that's a crazy story. I'm glad your ok and thanks for telling it.
Makes me realize money spent on this and that, is not as important as spending money on a pfd that I would wear 24/7 on the water.
Bluebasser86 reply :
A buddy of mine went into low 40 degree water for less than a minute when I was a kid. By the time I got him on the bank, it had been less than 5 minutes and he couldn't even bend his knees and could barely talk. It's nothing to mess with and I'm glad your situation turned out for the better, it could have been a lot worse.
kikstand454 reply :
Glad you're OK!
I wear my pfd at all times in my kayak. Even in 80° Saltwater less than a foot deep.
Oregon Native reply :
Glad your ok
Delaware Valley Tackle reply :
On 10/6/2014 at 6:48 AM, A-Jay said:
Glad you're OK ~
As the warm water season ends and the waters we fish get colder hyperthermia becomes more of a factor. Many boaters / anglers do not know or realize how fast an immersed human becomes incapacitated.
50 degree water equals 15 minutes before incapacity and/or unconsciousness with life jacket on.
50 degree water equals 9 minutes before incapacity and/or unconsciousness without a life jacket.
Please go to and read the info in the link below.
A-Jay
http://www.useakayak.org/references/hypothermia_table.html
A-Jay, You're obviously experienced in these things. In addition to a PFD how is it best to dress to stay warm as possible should get dunked?
A-Jay reply :
On 10/6/2014 at 11:14 PM, Delaware Valley Tackle said:A-Jay, You're obviously experienced in these things. In addition to a PFD how is it best to dress to stay warm as possible should get dunked?
That's a very good question Mike especially for those anglers who fish from "paddle" type water craft.
As per the chart previously added, a Drysuit with polypro layers or wetsuit plus drytop, neoprene booties, hat & gloves is a standard outfit in order to be properly protected once the water temps dip into the 50's. For many weekend / recreational anglers this seems like over kill. Unfortunately, like many of life's hard lessons, it's hard to understand just how quick & deadly cold water immersion is.
While fishing, 50 degree water may not "feel too cold" on our hands. Once one has the unfortunate experience of floating around in it for a while, the whole thing become very real.
Whether in a professional or recreational activity, being in a small boat in cold water is Always a life threating event. The question is if one choses to take the steps necessary to protect themselves.
A PFD is a must. But it's not enough for these circumstances. I fish from a canoe. After 01 Oct here the water cools fast, I wear a one piece neoprene dry suit. If I go in, I'm at least giving myself a solid opportunity to survive. The cost of the correct gear is about the same a one quality rod & reel.
Clearly one can fish for a long time without cold water protection, but unlike a warm water dunking, you may not get a second opportunity to get it right.
The OP here was EXTREMELY LUCKY, if there had been no one else on the lake that day, it very well could have been his last.
Think about that.
A-Jay
Felix77 reply :
Thanks for sharing your story. Glad you are ok!
J Francho reply :
A drysuit, or semi drysuit is more important than a PFD. I won't downplay a PFD...EVER, but in the case of extremes, a PFD often is just the difference of having a body to bury or not. I see guys out in small craft with jeans and sweatshirts...cotton kills. folks! Another mistake I see is waders. I hope you have a firmly cinched wading belt on, if you go this route, because otherwise, you're not getting out of the water once those are filled up. Also, this is where a sit on top kayak is preferable to a sit in. You may think you're more protected in a sit in, but water re-entry to a sit in is nearly impossible, even with help, and without a drysuit you're in trouble, fast. I have done one cold water rescue, and it gets ugly fast.
Felixone reply :
Thank you for sharing. I am so glad to know it turned out ok for you. It is a good reminder to me for why I wear mine all the time. I generally fish alone out of a kayak. I am terrified of something going wrong while I am out, even though most of the water I fish out of is shallow enough for me to stand. Fortunately for me, even though my PFD is a cheap one it is actually quite comfortable. I actually like the snug fit, and keep it cinched up as tight as it will go. Keeping it really snug helps with it riding up so it never really gives me any trouble, and even though the padding is low on the back it actually helps give me support. It kind of works like a lumbar support.
For those on the fence, there was a quote from a EMT/S on here a while back in a similar thread. They stated that they have never removed a PFD from a drowning victim. Although just one persons experience, this is a powerful statement. Accidents can happen at any time. Stay safe everyone!
Felixone reply :
On 10/7/2014 at 12:51 AM, J Francho said:I see guys out in small craft with jeans and sweatshirts...cotton kills. folks!
I am just poking a bit of fun, but I find it kind of funny that your profile pic shows you in a small boat with jeans and a sweatshirt (also no PFD).
A-Jay reply :
For those not familiar with it - this is what Planning To Stay Alive looks like.
A-Jay
senile1 reply :
That's a good point about the neoprene dry suits. I have thought about this but have never acted on the thought. All it takes is one fall into cool water, when unprepared, to end one's life. I don't like those odds.
J Francho reply :
On 10/7/2014 at 12:57 AM, Felixone said:I am just poking a bit of fun, but I find it kind of funny that your profile pic shows you in a small boat with jeans and a sweatshirt (also no PFD).
I think it's funny that you'd compare the risk levels between kayaking in cold water/air temperatures to standing on the deck of a 22' bass boat that is clearly moored in a protected harbor. What you can't tell from the pic is that it was taken in mid July. I don't care if you want to call me a hypocrite, but when it comes to advice, being a moderator means I have to be very careful what I recommend. Even though I'm just a average guy that fishes, some take our advice as gospel.
For the record, A-Jay's post above shows a good option. I personally DO NOT prefer neoprene. There are other options in material, in various price ranges. I used to use a Palm semi dry (neoprene neck, arm, and feet instead of rubber). Currently I'm looking at suits by Kokatat.
Felixone reply :
J Francho - Like I said, I was just poking fun. I really didn't mean to get you upset. My apologies.
Snakehead Whisperer reply :
Glad that this story has a happy ending. Thank you for sharing it so that others may learn. I am all too familiar with the dangers of going overboard. Much of the advice given in this thread is top notch.
I would suggest carrying a knife that you can access quickly. You never know when it might come in handy (cut your anchor rope, etc.) It's also a good idea to have a change of clothes in a dry bag accessible anytime when the combined water and air temp is below 120F.
A-Jay reply :
On 10/7/2014 at 2:37 AM, J Francho said:I think it's funny that you'd compare the risk levels between kayaking in cold water/air temperatures to standing on the deck of a 22' bass boat that is clearly moored in a protected harbor. What you can't tell from the pic is that it was taken in mid July. I don't care if you want to call me a hypocrite, but when it comes to advice, being a moderator means I have to be very careful what I recommend. Even though I'm just a average guy that fishes, some take our advice as gospel.
For the record, A-Jay's post above shows a good option. I personally DO NOT prefer neoprene. There are other options in material, in various price ranges. I used to use a Palm semi dry (neoprene neck, arm, and feet instead of rubber). Currently I'm looking at suits by Kokatat.
The US Coast Guard switched to these a few years ago - Great Product.
A-Jay
J Francho reply :
They just did a demo this weekend at my local paddle shop, and I was impressed.
Chris S reply :
Not to change the subject but along with a life vest in bad condition's/cold water, it surprises me how many folks don't have a ladder accessible when fishing in the cold water. I have a Lowe FM and if I don't have a ladder my fat arse aint getting back in! I know that you high dollar bass boat fellas have them built in but us low dollar guys don't. I spent $10 at Ace Hardware and made my own and it hooks around the back cleat.
And for the record my avatar was taken in the parking lot 
Brian6428 reply :
On 10/7/2014 at 3:55 AM, Chris Schauer said:Not to change the subject but along with a life vest in bad condition's/cold water, it surprises me how many folks don't have a ladder accessible when fishing in the cold water. I have a Lowe FM and if I don't have a ladder my fat arse aint getting back in! I know that you high dollar bass boat fellas have them built in but us low dollar guys don't. I spent $10 at Ace Hardware and made my own and it hooks around the back cleat.
And for the record my avatar was taken in the parking lot
You know what I think is crazy? Those nice Nitros that DO have ladders, but are impossible to pull down! They often have a Z8 sitting out at BPS and one time I was looking at it, and in the warm, dry store I couldn't get that ladder down for the life of me. I can't imagine the difficulty of pulling them down when in cold water.
Also, while we're on the topic of clothing, what are some good things to keep in the boat to wear after a dunk in the water? Would I want to take off the wet clothes and change into something dry? If so, what is the best and easiest to store on a boat?
J Francho reply :
Under Armour top and bottoms, and a packable rainsuit will take up the least space. A microfiber towel is a good idea too.
warpath58 reply :
Wool. It retains heat even when it gets wet.
I worked for the Y.M.C.A. when I was in high school and we took the kids on a canoe trip on the Spring river in AK one year, the water was higher than normal that summer. I had a young boy about 8 and very small for his age in my canoe we were both wearing our lifejackets. Even though I never wore one on that river before, I was a lifeguard and water safety instructor and a very strong swimmer. We came around a bend and had 3 choice to take where the river split, I chose the fast side the kid got scared and stopped paddling and before I knew it we had lodge against a tree that was growing out of the bank, the canoe rolled under the tree taking me with it. The next thing I know my life jacket is hung on the tree with me in it and a very strong current pushing me down, I can't get loose from the tree or get out of the jacket. So there I am stuck underwater running out of air, you know how they say your life will flash before your eyes when you are dying ? its true I remember seeing everything I had done. Somehow the kid had managed to get on the tree when the canoe rolled, I looked up and saw him standing there with tears running down his face. Finally he reached down and grabbed the collar of the jacket and pulled me up all 6'7'' 220 lbs. of me how he did it I'll never know I'm just glad he did. I am forever grateful that Eric was there. But even with that I always wear my lifejacket and my sure its connected to the kill switch.
I'm glad both or stories had happy endings.
OperationEagle reply :
Yes, another easy yet overlooked item to have is a set of dry clothes for these "just in case" moments.
I left the lake soaking in my front seat with the heater blowing on me and my wet clothes. Better than nothing but getting the wet soaked clothes off and replaced w dry certainly would have been helpful.
I am taking the advice to heart and are looking at wetsuits. The drysuits seem all to be >$500 whereas the drysuits are <$200. If the purpose to maintain core temp as long as possible, it seems the wetsuits will do the job?
The drysuits might be less restrictive but a wetsuit without arms could be a good tradeoff? Open to suggestions.
Lot of good discussion on this topic. Something I hope people are internalizing. Today now with more time to reflect, I realize how blessed I am that I had faithfully worn my PFD and others were there to assist.
J Francho reply :
Here is a good article: http://www.examiner.com/article/reminder-be-safe-the-water-is-still-pretty-chilly
Dwight Hottle reply :
On 10/7/2014 at 3:55 AM, Chris Schauer said:Not to change the subject but along with a life vest in bad condition's/cold water, it surprises me how many folks don't have a ladder accessible when fishing in the cold water. I have a Lowe FM and if I don't have a ladder my fat arse aint getting back in! I know that you high dollar bass boat fellas have them built in but us low dollar guys don't. I spent $10 at Ace Hardware and made my own and it hooks around the back cleat.
And for the record my avatar was taken in the parking lot
You can always use the motor trim switch to help get you back in the boat. Step on the lower unit & trim up. Just a thought for guys who don't have a ladder.
Mr_Scrogg reply :
Did you learn to NEVER anchor like that again. I always pointed into or with when I anchored. Never cross wind and especially never with the wind pushing me over the anchor/line.
OperationEagle reply :
On 10/8/2014 at 5:20 AM, Mr_Scrogg said:Did you learn to NEVER anchor like that again. I always pointed into or with when I anchored. Never cross wind and especially never with the wind pushing me over the anchor/line.
I anchored on the side of the wind at first but moved my boat into position which placed me directly cross wind against the anchor line. I will never let that happen again.
Mr_Scrogg reply :
You might invest in a quick release anchor system/trolley.
Quick Release Anchor System
Bluegiller reply :
I like having an anchor on the bow and stern. When I first started I had the anchor over the side, but felt it was really unsafe in the wind and waves.
http://www.scotty.com/fishing-gear-equipment/fishing-supplies/anchor-lock.htm
faygo1979 reply :
I have been thinking about this a lot as it gets colder. The problem is the cost of suits is crazy. dry suits for a big guy cost as much as my kayak.
I have also looked at wet suites like the grizzly farmer john and think that may be an option for some.
J Francho reply :
Quote
The problem is the cost of suits is crazy.
Life ain't cheap. A wet suit doesn't sound like a terrible idea. Thoughts on that? A-jay?
A-Jay reply :
On 10/8/2014 at 10:43 PM, J Francho said:Life ain't cheap. A wet suit doesn't sound like a terrible idea. Thoughts on that? A-jay?
One needs to know the difference between a wet vs dry suit.
Wetsuits, usually made of neoprene, trap a little water between suit and skin. Your body heats up this water and keeps you warm. Drysuits feature gaskets at your wrist, neck and ankles to keep water out. A drysuit is your best bet in colder conditions.
While several factors will influence your choice, water temperature is the most important. If you’re braving water in the 50s, wear a wetsuit that’s 2 to 3 millimeters. For water colder than 50 degrees, a drysuit will keep you safer and more comfortable. Remember that many water sports -- such as kayaking and canoeing -- don’t involve getting in the water. However, kayaks and canoes can flip. Prepare for immersion and dress accordingly.
A-Jay
SHaugh reply :
I worked as a diver in Lake Michigan for years. Hours spent in 50 degree water with just a 1/4" wetsuit bib type pants. That will keep you alive I guarantee it... at least for a few hours...
A-Jay reply :
On 10/8/2014 at 11:09 PM, SHaugh said:I worked as a diver in Lake Michigan for years. Hours spent in 50 degree water with just a 1/4" wetsuit bib type pants. That will keep you alive I guarantee it... at least for a few hours...
Bibs could be better than jeans & a hoodie. -
But to put this in a different perspective ~ Would you use a parachute that appropriately slowed your decent for most of the fall ?
A-Jay
SHaugh reply :
I think most people have to balance risk with factors like cost and comfort. Just like PFDs there are adequate and best. Bib pants are pretty comfortable and reasonably adequate. And you can get them for like $60. Most people would have a hard time investing in a $300 dry suit. If you are one of those people you can get a reasonably good amount of protection from a wet suit assuming you are not testing the extremes of conditions.
As you say infinitely better than jeans and a hoodie. And If I was Kayaking in very cold water I would not go cheap.... because you will end up in the water... Kayaking should be considered swimming imo...
J Francho reply :
Nonsense. I've never ended up in the water unintentionally in ten years of kayaking.
faygo1979 reply :
now 300 for a drysuit for my xxxl ass would be fine by me. All the suite i see are 600+ and not really many for a big guy.
RB 77 reply :
Glad to hear you made it! On the big boat, in my kayak, and my float tube I always have my PDF on. A true lifesaver in a time of need. With todays inflatables there is no excuse. Please wear your PFDs guys. I kayak with my friend and he "brings" his, but doesnt wear it. I keep telling him until I'm blue in the face, but you can only lead a horse to water so many times...
A-Jay reply :
On 10/9/2014 at 12:07 AM, J Francho said:Nonsense. I've never ended up in the water unintentionally in ten years of kayaking.
It's most excellent that you've remained dry but Come on J -
I know you know better than that.
Not preparing properly for the conditions an angler ventures out into~ I see that as nonsense.
A-Jay
SHaugh reply :
My pricing might be a little off...been a while. A 7mm suit like this will keep you alive for hours in anything but the most extreme of conditions... XXXL...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wetsuit-7MM-4XL-Tommy-D-Sports-Dive-Surf-Scuba-Gear-51/361063501039?_trksid=p2054897.c100204.m3164&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140407115239%26meid%3D7aa89334c9d54b97985f5729a82f8583%26pid%3D100204%26prg%3D20140407115239%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D20%26sd%3D111098988213
A-Jay reply :
On 10/9/2014 at 12:51 AM, SHaugh said:My pricing might be a little off...been a while. A 7mm suit like this will keep you alive for hours in anything but the most extreme of conditions... XXXL...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wetsuit-7MM-4XL-Tommy-D-Sports-Dive-Surf-Scuba-Gear-51/361063501039?_trksid=p2054897.c100204.m3164&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140407115239%26meid%3D7aa89334c9d54b97985f5729a82f8583%26pid%3D100204%26prg%3D20140407115239%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D20%26sd%3D111098988213
If you've never worn any cold water gear like this (wet or dry suits) I'd really like to encourage you to try a few on in advance of making any purchase. By and large they are NOT the most comfortable things to wear but most acclimate to them in time.
Ensuring a comfortable, quality fit will no doubt result in a happier experience in the long run. Otherwise it may end being a $$ experiment that inevitably sits at home never getting used.
A-Jay
J Francho reply :
Quote
By and large they are NOT the most comfortable things to wear but most acclimate to them in time.
That's pretty much the reason I avoid neoprene. It's just not comfortable to me. Plus, I like to be able to adjust insulation gear separately from water proof gear. That comes with some overhead in costs, though.
SHaugh reply :
Yes, comfort is a huge factor to consider. Make sure you get the right size. Anyone who hasn't worn one should understand that it's like being inside a tight plastic bag when you are out of water. If it's 70 degrees and the water is 49 you are going to be hot.. .and sweaty.. especially if you are paddling or exercising... the arms are the worst part for me... that's why I always liked the farmer john style when I was working in and out of the water.
It's one of those decisions where you need to balance a degree of safety with comfort, cost and usefulness IMO.
RB 77 reply :
In reagrds to comfort on the PFDs anyway, once you start wearing the inflatable style for a short length of time you hardly even notice its there.
SHaugh reply :
Another idea to consider is once you have one, go and test it out. Go to a swimming area in the winter and jump in. If you never been in 50 degree water, I suggest you do so. It's probably unlike anything you've ever experienced. Knowing what to expect goes a long way toward survival.
Even in a wetsuit that initial shock of cold water running down your back before the suit warms up is quite exciting...
J Francho reply :
Do many neoprene suits have a "relief valve"? LOL, that's a must have for me.
SHaugh reply :
Another good point.... a farmer john can be worn rolled down making that function almost spotless.... 
BrownBear reply :
Good to hear your ok!
OperationEagle reply :
I have the NRS Chinook lifevest and it is comfortable with lots of pockets making it very useful beyond a PFD....definitely makes it less of a chore to wear it.
On the way is a sleeveless wetsuit, the NRS Ultra John that hopefully will fit and be used this weekend. A good balance of comfort, utility, and safety. Thanks again for all of the great suggestions and well wishes...a topic well worth spending time on.
Stay safe everyone.
BassBiologist reply :
Glad to hear that you're safe! Hypothermia isn't something to mess around with, it seems like at least one boater dies around my area from it. Wearing your life jacket is definite must this time of year.
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