11 Best Life Vests For Fishing: A Buyers Guide
Not all life vests and life jackets are good for fishing. This article is about the best life vests for fishing. Life vests or life jackets made specifically for fishing are designed for comfort while you fish, have built-in functionality, and still provide flotation and safety.
You will see that the life vests and jackets I recommend here are different from typical boating life jackets.
As a guide who guides from a motor boat with a 200HP motor and a drift boat and from the banks of the river, my clients and I use and wear different types of life vests for each type of fishing.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Value | Set a realistic budget as prices vary but serve the same safety purpose. |
| Fit | Ensure a snug fit around shoulders and chest for functionality. |
| Comfort and Mobility | Seek ample mobility for swimming and casting while fishing. |
| Quality of Construction | Look for durable seams, stitching, and water-resistant materials like nylon or polyester. |
| Features and Versatility | Prefer adjustable straps, quick-use buckles, and cargo pockets for gear storage. |
| Flotation | Verify it can hold you up in water; Coast Guard-approved vests are preferable. |
| Material (Inflatable vs. Foam) | Inflatable for warm days; foam for readiness and cool days. |
| Best Life Vests for Different Fishing Types | Models recommended for river, shore, boat, and kayak fishing. |
| Maintenance | Hang wet jackets in a dry, airy place to prevent mold or mildew. |
| Discussion and Advice | Invites readers to share experiences and advice on life fishing vests. |
Quick Picks: Top 4 Life Vests for Fishing
- Simms Selway Life Vest
- Best for River and Fly Fishing
- Heavy-duty nylon shell resistant to rips and tears
- Three cargo pockets for gear storage
- Coast Guard-approved as a Type III PFD
- NRS Men’s Chinook OS Fishing Life Vest
- Comfortable fit with multiple adjustable straps
- 16.5 pounds of flotation with lots of attachment points for gear
- Two zippered cargo pockets for tackle storage
- Bass Pro Shops Tournament Fishing Mesh Life Vest
- Ideal for hot summer days with a breathable mesh design
- Multiple pockets, including zippered cargo and fold-down pockets
- Quick-release buckles for easy wear and removal
- NRS Men’s Raku Fishing Life Vest
- Best General Purpose Life Jacket
- Paddle-specific foam design for greater movement while casting
- Big cargo pockets for tackle storage and 16.5 pounds of flotation
These vests are chosen based on their design, comfort, storage capacity, and suitability for different fishing environments, ensuring safety and functionality while out on the water.
How to Choose the Proper and Best Life Jacket
There are a lot of great life jackets available, so choose the best one for your purposes. Here are the important things to consider when you want to buy a fishing life jacket.
Value
Your available budget is always an important consideration. You could spend a little or a lot on fishing life jackets that ultimately do the same thing. Setting a realistic budget range will help you disregard fishing live vests that are too expensive or possibly too inexpensive.
Fit
A fishing life jacket has to fit well for it to work. You have to be able to put it on quickly and secure it to your body for it to work as intended. Fishing life vests that are too small won’t fit around your shoulders or chest. Ones that are too big will fit too loosely and possibly slip off your body.
Comfort and Mobility
You need a life jacket that gives you plenty of mobility in the arms and shoulder area so that you can swim while wearing it. You also should be able to cast comfortably while fishing without the life jacket interfering with your movement.
Quality of Construction
Construction quality is very important to help ensure life jackets work as intended during an emergency. They should have durable seams and stitching that hold up when exposed to water for extended periods.
Old-fashioned life vests had cork placed between two layers of canvas and sewn in place. A modern fishing vest is made from man-made material, like nylon or polyester, that resists water. It might contain a rubber bladder that inflates or has foam flotation material sewn in place.
Features and Versatility
You’ll need plenty of room for your neck, shoulders, and upper body which you can get with adjustable shoulder straps that enable a single vest to adjust to many different people. Adjustable straps at the waist and chest also help to make it easy to slip into and out of a life jacket as needed.
The straps should be easy and fast to use and durable enough to withstand potentially long hours of use. Cargo pockets are great for gear storage and can hold a whistle or waterproof flashlight that you might need while in the water. Reflective trim helps to make wearers more visible.
Flotation
A personal flotation device must have the ability to hold you up in the water. If a fishing PFD can’t help you keep your head above the water, it is too small for your needs.
Your natural buoyancy enables the water to lessen your weight, so a 200-pound person would need a life vest that can hold up to about 15 pounds. Coast Guard-approved fishing life vests are ideal for fly fishing, wading, and fishing from a boat.
Inflatable vs. Foam
An inflatable life jacket is great for fly fishing or kayak fishing because it is very light and won’t get in the way of casting or paddling. An inflatable life vest that inflates quickly with the help of a CO2 cartridge can work great and won’t cause you to overheat on warm days.
A life jacket that contains foam for its flotation has the added advantage of always being ready without requiring inflation, but it can be bulky, uncomfortable, and restrict movement when casting.
A foam jacket can be too warm to wear all day on hot days, but it can help keep you warm on cooler days. Many of my clients who fish rivers choose self inflating PFDs.
Comparison Chart Of All Life Vests For Fishing
| Life Vest Name | Best For | Material | Flotation (lbs) | Cargo Pockets | Special Features | Coast Guard Approval |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SIMMS Selway Life Vest | River and Fly Fishing | Heavy-duty Nylon | 15.5 (min)* | 3 | Fleece-lined pockets | Type III |
| NRS Men’s Chinook OS Fishing Life Vest | General Fishing | 400-Denier ripstop nylon | 16.5 | 1 Large, 3 Small | Multiple adjustable straps | Yes |
| Bass Pro Shops Tournament Fishing Mesh Life Vest | Hot Summer Days | Mesh and Neoprene | Not Specified | Multiple | Breathable design, Quick-release buckles | Not Specified |
| NRS Men’s Raku Fishing Life Vest | General Fishing | Not Specified | 16.5 | 2 big, 2 small | Paddle-specific foam design | Not Specified |
| NRS Men’s Chinook Fishing Life Vest | Wading Rivers, Fly Fishing | Not Specified | 16.5 | 2 | High-back design, Two cargo pockets | Not Specified |
| NRS Men’s Otto Matik Inflatable PFD | Inflatable PFD | Not Specified | 22.5 | 1 | Automatic inflation | US Coast Guard-approved |
| Onyx Universal Kayak Fishing Life Vest | Kayak Fishing | Not Specified | Not Specified | Multiple | Largemouth pocket, Drop-down pocket | Not Specified |
| NRS Women’s Shenook Fishing Life Vest | Women’s Life Vest | Not Specified | 16.5 | 2 | Designed for women, Handwarmer pockets | Not Specified |
| Ruffwear Float Coat | Flotation for Dogs | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Adjustable rings, Grab handle | Not Specified |
Note: The materials and USCG approval were verified from the manufacturers’ or reputable retailers’ websites. Prices and details may vary or change. See manufacturer for full details.
5 Best Life Vests Made for River Fishing and Shore Fishing
1. Simms Selway Life Vest – Best for River Fishing and Fly Fishing
The Selway life vest is made from a heavy-duty nylon shell that resists rips and tears and has three cargo pockets for fly fishing gear and general storage space. Two of the pockets are fleece-lined to warm your hands.
It is lightweight and features contoured and articulated foam and large arm holes that don’t interfere with casing or wading. The life vest is Coast Guard-approved as a Type III PFD.
2. NRS Men’s Chinook OS Fishing Life Vest
The NRS Chinook fishing life jacket is Coast Guard-approved and has multiple adjustable straps to give you a snug fit.
It has 16.5 pounds of flotation, lots of attachment points for your fishing gear, and two zippered cargo pockets for your tackle.
The NRS Chinook is one of the most comfortable life jackets for wading rivers and fly fishing.
3. Bass Pro Shops Tournament Fishing Mesh Life Jacket
The Tournament Fishing Life jacket is ideal for hot summer days with a breathable mesh for the upper back and shoulders and a neoprene collar. A couple of handwarmer pockets help you warm your hands while fishing in cooler weather for maximum comfort under most fishing conditions.
The life vest has multiple pockets, including two zippered cargo pockets with two fold-down pockets on the outside of each.
A pair of 1-inch belts use quick-release buckles that make it easy to put on and take off the life vest.
4. NRS Men’s Chinook Fishing Life Vest
The NRS Chinook fishing life vest has 16.5 pounds of flotation, two adjustment straps over the shoulders, and a high back that makes it very plush and comfortable to wear. Two cargo pockets with zippers hold lots of tackle.
It also has two smaller pockets and another pocket for holding tools like pliers, scissors, and forceps. Reflective accents make it more visible.
5. NRS Men’s Otto Matik Inflatable PFD – Best Inflatable PFD
The Otto Matic is the best fishing life jacket that inflates on its own to give you 22.5 pounds of flotation and is US Coast Guard-approved. The life vest uses a CO2 cartridge to inflate automatically when immersed in water and has a mouth-inflation valve for backup.
The life vest has an adjustable waist belt and a zippered pocket with an internal tether that holds keys, an emergency whistle, or other items.
Best Life Jackets and Vests for Boat Fishing, Kayaks, Women and Dogs
1. NRS Men’s Raku Fishing Life Vest – Best General Purpose Life Jacket
The Raku fishing life vest by NRS is made with a paddle-specific foam design with five panels that enable greater movement while paddling or casting. It also has a loop that doubles as a rod holder.
Two big cargo pockets can hold Plano StowAway tackle boxes, while two smaller pockets hold other accessories. Another pocket gives you fast access to plies, forceps, and other fishing tools.
The life jacket holds 16.5 pounds of flotation and six points of adjustment for a perfect fit for all body shapes.
2. Onyx Universal Kayak Fishing Life Vest – Best Kayak Fishing Life Vest
The Universal Kayak-Fishing life vest holds a lot of tackle in multiple pockets that are easy to access while wearing it. The life jacket is the best fishing PFD for those who enjoy kayak fishing and features a largemouth pocket and a drop-down pocket with a 2-inch elastic band that secures tackle.
Other zippered pockets make it easier to carry your tackle with you instead of hauling a tackle box.
A mesh lower back and neoprene shoulder pads make the life vest very comfortable to wear while paddling a kayak or a canoe.
3. NRS Women’s Shenook Fishing Life Vest – Best Women’s Life Vest
The Shenook is specially designed for women and features a special cut and styling that is intended for women kayakers and canoers who enjoy fishing.
It’s very similar to the NRS Chinook life jacket and includes two large zippered cargo pockets and handwarmer pockets.
It provides women with 16.5 pounds of flotation, and PlushFit foam panels are articulated for better comfort and mobility while paddling.
4. Ruffwear Float Coat – Best Flotation for Dogs
Man’s best friend is a great companion on boats, canoes, and even fishing kayaks. The Float Coat secures your pet around its neck and across its body with adjustable rings and a grab handle sewn into the topside.
Foam flotation panels are strategically placed to enable dogs to swim naturally, and the PVC-free dog life vest fits comfortably and does not cause irritation.
Tips For Maintaining Life Jackets
Maintaining a life jacket is fairly simple. If one gets wet, you should hang it up in a dry and airy place with plenty of light so it can drip dry without developing mold or mildew.
Other Great PFD Options
- Great Value for a Universal Vest – Stohlquist Fit
- Best Life Jacket for Youth – Astral Otter 2.0
- Most Functional Fishing Vest – Stohlquist Fisherman
- Best Inflatable Belt – NRS Zephyr
About Life Jackets and Life Vests Made for Fishing
The life vest has been around since the 1850s when coastal rescue crews first wore them to help with rowing out to shipwrecks and rescue passengers and crew members.
If you do a lot of fishing from a boat, you’ll need personal flotation devices for every passenger or run the risk of being fined.
If you enjoy kayak fishing or fishing from a canoe, you also should have a life jacket on hand to protect against drowning. A life vest and a life jacket are the same thing, but many people use either or both terms to describe them.
No matter what you might call it, here’s a closer look at how to choose the best life vests for fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a life jacket and a life vest?
- Life jackets and life vests are terms often used interchangeably. However, traditionally, life jackets have more buoyancy and are designed to turn an unconscious person face-up in the water, while life vests are lighter, less bulky, and designed for activities where the wearer is expected to remain conscious.
- What should you consider when buying a fishing life jacket?
- Factors to consider include fit, comfort and mobility, quality of construction, features and versatility, flotation, and the type (inflatable vs. foam) based on the fishing activity you’ll be engaging in, such as kayak fishing, fly fishing, or boat fishing.
- How should a life jacket fit?
- A life jacket should fit snugly without being too tight. It should not ride up on your body, and you should be able to move freely, especially in the shoulder and arm areas.
- What is the difference between an inflatable life jacket and a foam life jacket?
- Inflatable life jackets are lightweight and inflate either manually or automatically when immersed in water, making them ideal for activities like fly fishing or kayak fishing. Foam life jackets have inherent buoyancy and do not require inflation, providing immediate flotation upon entering the water.
- What is the buoyancy requirement for a life jacket?
- The buoyancy required in a life jacket depends on the wearer’s weight and the type of water conditions where it will be used. For example, a 200-pound person would need a life vest that can hold up to about 15 pounds. Coast Guard-approved life vests are recommended for various fishing activities.
- How do you maintain a life jacket?
- Maintenance includes drying the life jacket thoroughly if it gets wet to prevent mold or mildew, checking for wear and tear, and replacing it as necessary to ensure it provides the required buoyancy and protection.
- What are some recommended life vests for fishing?
- Some recommendations include the Selway Life Vest for river fishing and fly fishing, NRS Men’s Chinook OS Fishing Life Vest for wading rivers and fly fishing, and Bass Pro Shops Tournament Fishing Mesh Life Jacket for hot summer days.
- What is the importance of a life jacket while fishing?
- Life jackets are crucial for safety, especially when fishing from a boat, kayak, or canoe, to protect against drowning in case of an accident.
- What are some features to look for in a fishing life jacket?
- Features like multiple pockets for gear storage, adjustable straps for a snug fit, and reflective trim for visibility are beneficial in a fishing life jacket.
- Can you use a regular life jacket for fishing or do you need a specific fishing life jacket?
- While a regular life jacket can provide flotation, fishing life jackets are designed with features like tackle pockets and tool holders to enhance the fishing experience.
- How do I clean and maintain my fishing life vest?
- Cleaning and maintaining your fishing life vest involves washing it with mild soap and fresh water to remove salt, dirt, and other residues. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before storing. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents as they can damage the material. It’s also advisable to check for any signs of wear, tear, or damage before and after each use to ensure it’s still in good condition.
- How often should I inspect my life vest?
- It’s recommended to inspect your life vest before and after each use for any signs of damage such as tears, frays, broken buckles, or compromised flotation material. Additionally, a thorough inspection should be conducted at least once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- When should I replace my fishing life vest?
- Replace your fishing life vest if it shows signs of wear, tear, or damage that could compromise its effectiveness. This includes torn fabric, damaged fasteners, or if it’s no longer able to provide the necessary buoyancy. It’s also advisable to replace your life vest every few years or as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure it meets the latest safety standards.
- What are some additional features to look for in a fishing life vest?
- Additional features to look for in a fishing life vest include ample pocket space for storing gear, a comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement, adjustable straps for a snug fit, reflective material for visibility, and attachment points for tools and accessories. Some fishing life vests also come with built-in rod holders, hydration reservoirs, or even integrated lights for added convenience and safety on the water.
Best Life Vest For Fishing Discussion
If you have a question about the best life fishing vests for fishing or want to share your advice on the best life fishing jackets you have used, let us know in the comment section below.
Tight Lines
Graham
Sources
- Oregon Government: Discusses the importance of life jackets and shares U.S. Coast Guard statistics on boating-related drownings1.
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Highlights the necessity of having a life jacket or PFD on board on recreational boats2.
- Texas Parks & Wildlife Department: Provides U.S. Coast Guard statistics on drownings and life jacket regulations when boating3.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): Outlines requirements for PFDs to be worn by employees, emphasizing USCG approval4.
- State of Michigan: Explains local laws regarding life jackets, including the types required for different vessels and age groups5.
