Life Preservers/Jackets? I was looking on Amazon the other day, saw where some of the manual/automatic ones are coast guard approved or not. Does that make a difference if F&G wants to...

woodguru Loc: El Dorado Ca

I was looking on Amazon the other day, saw where some of the manual/automatic ones are coast guard approved or not. Does that make a difference if F&G wants to see preservers on the boat for everyone?

I also can't decide whether I want manual or automatic, the replacement cartridges sure seem pricey

OLDNDN Loc: Merced County, Calif.

woodguru wrote:

I was looking on Amazon the other day, saw where some of the manual/automatic ones are coast guard approved or not. Does that make a difference if F&G wants to see preservers on the boat for everyon

I also can't decide whether I want manual or automatic, the replacement cartridges sure seem pricey

As far as I know they have to be Coast Guard approved. If you can afford it I would go with the auto+Manuel ones. They would be a lifesaver (no pun intended) if you get knocked out of you boat and become unconscious. Just sayin.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Hello Woodguru: You can always choose the old-fashioned kapok bulky Jackets, but freedom of movement is important for fishermen. If you are careful and do not discharge the cartridges, you don't have to replace them!

It is important that you teach all your passengers that life jackets are important and not to discharge a cylinder unless they have gone overboard and it is absolutely necessary. It is really no different than discharging a hand gun.

It you need it and dont have it, you are likely never need it again. Just Sayin...RJS

BassOmatic Loc: Citrus Heights, CA

Woodguru, I’m speaking from experience as I’m on the water each weekend either via canoe or boat. I’ve picked up Bass Pro auto/manual pfd’s for both and love them. Not only are they made by Mustang, they WORK and a steal at $79. Couple of months ago I rolled the canoe and found just how well they perform. Instant I hit the water it inflated. I’m sold. $25-$30 for a recharge vs. sinking to the bottom is a no brainer. I suggest anyone on the water go this route. It’s not a matter of if but when, just saying.

DocB Loc: Bama

woodguru wrote:

I was looking on Amazon the other day, saw where some of the manual/automatic ones are coast guard approved or not. Does that make a difference if F&G wants to see preservers on the boat for everyone?

I also can't decide whether I want manual or automatic, the replacement cartridges sure seem pricey

Woodguru,
I would check regulations in your state, in some states, you have to actually be wearing the inflatable for it to serve as having a preserver in the boat, unlike a traditional type.... I keep traditional ones stowed (to meet legal requirements) and use inflatables for less than favorable conditions or for fishing close to a dam and for running...
Doc

Still above water Loc: San Francisco ca

woodguru wrote:

I was looking on Amazon the other day, saw where some of the manual/automatic ones are coast guard approved or not. Does that make a difference if F&G wants to see preservers on the boat for everyone?

I also can't decide whether I want manual or automatic, the replacement cartridges sure seem pricey

Also remember that the manual/ automatic life vests must worn to count as having an approved life jacket on board in California. They do not count as having a life jacket on board if they are in storage and not worn at the time of a possible inspection.I prefer the automatic style. Also if u decide to go with the automatic style, make a note of the date that u install the CO2 cartridge. My bass pro auto vest states that the cartridge should be replaced every five years. And yes in California the vest must be Coast Guard approved to count as a legal life vest.

OJdidit Loc: Oak Creek Wisconsin

Bass Pro/Cabela’s has a 2 pack of Coast Guard approved AM24 vests for $120. Those can be set to auto inflate, or manual. Seems like a good deal to me!

saw1 Loc: nor cal Windsor

OJdidit wrote:

Bass Pro/Cabela’s has a 2 pack of Coast Guard approved AM24 vests for $120. Those can be set to auto inflate, or manual. Seems like a good deal to me!

I totally agree with Rich and OJD.
I have all the required ones stowed and have an inflatable one that I can wear.
That way, I'm still legal even if I don't have mine on.👍

Clappy Loc: Michigan

I have an Auto+Man, I know the replacement cartridges aren’t cheap, but I don’t intend on replacing it. But if I do fall in, it’s a small price to pay to save my life. BTW, these are a lot more comfortable then the old style jackets

woodguru Loc: El Dorado Ca

Thanks guys...the auto/manual ones seem like the way to go, and with the money involved in boating it really isn't about money. I was thinking that there was something about them needing to be CG approved to be valid.

If I get thrown overboard my greatest risk will be from my wife running me over, I'll need to be able to swim fast out of the way since I won't be able to dive with an inflatable on.

rngaston702 Loc: Sacramento

I only use auto inflate. This works great in the event someone is knocked unconscious. Two of my buddies capsized on the Sacramento River in very rough waters. The auto inflate worked great. Look at Bass Pro Shops
They will be on sale soon. I paid 59 each for my 3 vests. Hope this helps.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Please read my post, Dangerous Situation! The cost of refill cartridges becomes mute when you are in the water and a 100 Horsepower engine is screaming at the top throttle and coming directly for you, and you are in the water. Just Sayin...RJS

Shellback_USNRET Loc: Southern California

This is a “once upon a time” or as we say a “no shitter” story. Just recently while fishing alone I went overboard when I was removing grass from my prop. Rectum Cranium Inserted Inversion was definitely with me at that moment. What was I thinking about! Thank goodness I had my life jacket on as I usually do. Auto inflation worked. Luckily I went in near shore because I couldn’t get my big bucket back aboard and the inflated jacket hindered my efforts also. So I swam ashore because nobody was around. Auto inflation Life Jacket is a priceless no-brainer. Taking it another step is a boarding ladder unless your in tip top condition.

Number one question. How did I get back aboard? Answer. Ulterra trolling motor with remote. The remote is water proof and I wear it when I’m on the water.

ranger632 Loc: Near Yosemite Park Ca.

BassOmatic wrote:

Woodguru, I’m speaking from experience as I’m on t... (show quote)

Have the same ones

BassOmatic Loc: Citrus Heights, CA

ranger632 wrote:

Have the same ones

You’re good to float 👍😂