Fishing from a kayak is an outdoor activity that almost anyone can enjoy and participate in. Only a few skills are required such as maintaining your balance when casting. It’s also wise to know a few strokes and safety precautions when out fishing from a kayak, but other than that it’s really easy. A large number of anglers like fishing from kayaks as an alternative to owning a boat with an outboard because it’s more economical and environmentally friendly. These anglers know the effects that powerful outboards have on the shorelines and want to make wise environmental choices. For them it starts with the Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and that’s why they find the Mustang Survival OASIS Paddling PFD irresistible.

The Mustang Survival OASIS Padding PFD model MV5800  (http://www.mustangsurvival.com/) is made with PVC-free Gaia™ foam; in addition to having wide neoprene shoulder straps, large armholes and plenty of reflective tape on both the front and back side to keep anglers of any ability comfortable and safe on the water out fishing.

Features included in the Mustang Survival OASIS Paddling PFD – MV5800:
• GAIA™ foam that offers a flexible fit and is PVC-free.
• Wide, comfortable neoprene shoulder straps.
• Two secure zippered pockets.
• Attachment point on chest for light, beacon, or any fishing tools.
• Seven adjustment belts for a secure and comfortable fit when paddling or fishing.
• USCG Type III approved
• Available in three split sizes and comes in one color pattern Green/Black.
 XS/S  – Chest sizes: 30” – 38”
 M/LG –Chest sizes 38” – 46”
 XL/XXL – Chest sizes 46” – 54”

Besides wearing environmental friendly PFD’s kayak anglers who are fishing in certain reservoirs or streams have to follow certain environmentally friendly laws. For example on Arkansas streams no glass containers are allowed in canoes, kayaks, or other vessels easily susceptible to swamping, tipping or rolling, except for substances prescribed by a licensed physician; all food and beverages in canoes or kayaks must be contained in a sealable or lockable cooler or container that prevents the contents from spilling in the water; canoes or kayaks must have an attached closable mesh trash container and all trash must be safely and lawfully disposed of; all beverages not securely contained in a cooler or litter bag must be held in a floating holder or other device designed to prevent it from sinking beneath the water’s surface. Another thing anglers should think about is personal waste products. Although never really discussed, anglers should dispose of all waste products in an appropriate manner since rarely is there a restroom available.
 
In addition to these environmentally friendly laws all anglers kayak or canoe fishing on Arkansas streams are required to have at least one type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device for each person on board. The PFD must be United States Coast Guard approved, in good and serviceable condition, and of proper size. (Note: The Mustang Survival OASIS Paddling Vest is a type III U.S. Coast Guard approved flotation aid.) Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket which must be securely fastened while on board. It should go without saying, but the only way for a PFD to keep you from drowning is wearing it. The fact is that 9 out of 10 drowning occur in inland waters and most within a few feet of safety.

Fishing from a canoe and kayak not only is beneficial for the environment, but for your health. Every stroke of your paddle is a cardiovascular workout that takes you away from the stress of everyday life and closer to your own personal serenity.