NRS Chinook for me, not an inflatable though. Mine is bright orange and I keep a beacon in one of the pockets and a small first aid kit in one of the other pockets, along with my cell phone. Fishing in a kayak these days, I NEVER take it off. Sometimes, if it gets real hot, I'll unzip it for awhile but leave the waist buckle fastened.

Everyone stay safe and tight lines.

No way I am trusting an inflatable life jacket. Anything mechanical or electrical CAN fail right when you need it. Not talking out my butt here either, as I has an Electrical Engineering degree and ran my own automation company for years. I always had a manual work around.

That said, wish I had worn my PFD last week. Dang thing blew off the boat and I have to by another one today. It's so dang hot out I take it off when stopped. I figure I have less of a chance of falling off and drowning than having heat stroke. Helps to get wet but only when the wind blows which it hasn't been.

Great Post! I recently got a self-inflatable vest too. I chose the Cabela's guidewear 4000. It had the most flotation (40lbs.) for my size 6'3' 260lbs. It is comfortable to wear all day. I was out on Lavon last month when the teenager drowned. Unfortunately accidents happen regularly but that one really got me since I out there and saw the wardens search party. Be safe out there. God bless.