As a father, Assistant Scoutmaster, avid angler and responsible boater, I  always emphasize the use of a PFD when on the water.  While teaching fishing merit badge to the scouts of Troop 6 in New Prospect, South Carolina, the list of required items for fishing begins with the use of a PFD when on the water. 

I have heard many a person complain of the reduced movement or lack of comfort while wearing a PFD. My family, all of my fishing buddies & I all use Personal Flotation Devices that are designed with the angler in mind.  Most all of the PFD's designed for the angler are Class II or III rated by the Coast Guard and are very comfortable.  With the recent advancements made in the inflatable PFD's, it is difficult to even tell that you are wearing one when fishing!   A prime example of this is the increased popularity of these PFD's on the BASS Elite & FLW Tournament Trails.  PFD's are required to be on, and secured, anytime the outboard is running or these anglers are automatically disqualified.  These lighter weight designs allow the maximum comfort & safety for these anglers while they earn a living on the water.

My wife is always reminding me to use sunscreen when on the water because of skin cancer, but she never has to remind me to wear a PFD.  It can take years before cancer will show up, but only minutes to lose your life by drowning.  The bottom line is this, what good is landing that lunker bass or slab walleye if you aren't around afterwards to show it off!

"Keep the PFD On...To Keep the Good Times Going!"