What Is a Fishing Life Jacket?
A fishing life jacket, also referred to as a life jacket, is an essential life-saving device primarily utilized when engaging in fishing to keep the body afloat in the event of an accidental immersion.
Fishing is an activity enjoyed in various locations such as boats, piers, and shores. However, the risks associated with it, such as unstable footing in certain areas or the possibility of falling from a boat due to wind, are significant.
Therefore, wearing a fishing life jacket significantly increases the chances of survival.
Uses of Fishing Life Jacket
Fishing life jackets find utility not only in fishing but are also worn in bodies of water like rivers and seas for accident prevention. While fundamentally life-saving tools, some models come equipped with pockets and various holders, allowing storage of fishing gear. Fishing and water-related leisure activities deem these life jackets indispensable.
Principle of Fishing Life Jacket
Fishing life jackets gain buoyancy through materials like foam or gas filling. This buoyancy prevents sinking, enabling the wearer to float. For gas-powered life jackets, regular inspections of chambers and cylinders are necessary.
Types of Fishing Life Jacket
There are two main types of fishing life jackets: the solid type, containing buoyant materials, and the inflatable type, gaining buoyancy through the release of gas.
1. Solid-Type
Solid-type fishing life jackets utilize materials like foam as buoyant elements. They are easy to maintain, and offer high buoyancy, ensuring reliability. However, they may be bulky, heavy, hot, and restrict movement.
2. Inflatable-Type
Inflatable fishing life jackets gain buoyancy by filling chambers with gas. They are compact and offer ease of movement, but maintenance and regular checks are required to ensure safety. Inflatable life jackets come in automatic and manual inflation types.
How to Choose a Fishing Life Jacket
1. Vest Type
Vest-type fishing life jackets are available in a wide price range. They require no operation to stay afloat, making them suitable for children. While some may be bulky due to foam buoyancy, there are also comfortable and easy-to-move options. Consideration is needed if prioritizing ease of movement.
2. Waist Belt Type
Waist belt-type life jackets are popular for boat fishing, easy to wear around the waist, suitable for beginners, and feature a discreet design. However, they may require balancing as they inflate around the waist. Unlike vest types, they do not lift the upper body, making them suitable for those who can swim.
3. Shoulder Type
Shoulder-type life jackets are inflatable, compact, and provide ease of movement. They ensure a stable floating posture in the water, offering high safety. However, potential interference with movements around the shoulders and neck should be noted. Recommended for those seeking a high-safety life jacket with stability.
4. Cherry Blossom Mark (Safety Certification)
The cherry blossom mark signifies that the life jacket has been certified for safety by the government, and its use is mandatory for passengers on small vessels. There are various models such as “Type A,” “Type D,” and “Type F,” with Type A covering all navigation areas for added peace of mind.
Other Information on Fishing Life Jackets
Points to Note When Using a Fishing Life Jacket
When wearing a fishing life jacket, ensure that zippers and fasteners are securely closed to prevent them from coming off during a fall into the water. Securing the crotch belt tightly enhances the fit.
Properly wearing a fishing life jacket is essential for accident prevention.