Personal Floatation Devices for Drift Boat

[brichards44]

Are you required to have PFD's on the river when in a drift boat? If so do you also need a throwable PFD? I'm pretty sure you do, but I see a lot of boats without them.

[HuntandFish]

yes they are required and you will get cited if stopped by a sheriff or gamie. One approved floatation device per person on board.

[Angus]

Yup, I got checked on the Nooch 1 morning by a couple wardens in a driftboat, didn't ask about fish or licenses, just asked to see PFD's.

[allen]

Yes, I too have been checked on the Nort Fork Lewis a few times.  They usually ask me to show a PFD for everyone on board, but have never asked for a throwable device.

I've recently started using the inflatable type (Type II).  It's my understanding they have to be worn, whereas the standard life jacket (Type III) does not, just has to be accessable.

I don't know what the rules are for children.  But, I do know you have to have PFD's & you will be checked.

Allen

[Hunterman]

Children 13 and younger needs to WEAR a PFD at all times while in an open boat 20 foot and less..PFD's do no good if they are not worn..

Off Topic,,,While out on my boat, PFD's are worn ALL the time while out on the water..When I take mine off then the passenger can take thiers off,,if they want..The PFD is then put on the dash of the boat for quick and easy reach if needed..

Hunterman(Tony)

[CountryslickR]

I usually only wear my pfd while going thru big water or if I take my boat out hunting and am rowing in the dark..it is a good idea to keep them easily accessible, but while fishing in easy water like the Yakima, it is usually on the back of my seat...and yes each person in the boat will need to have one...boat operator will get the ticket if not..