Mustang PFD

[MSD]

I have a Mustang Inflatable PFD, which is a type 2 PFD, and I learned from the game warden that it must be worn in order to be considered a PFD. It is the exact same one that is worn by them, but he said that unless you have a foam type in addition to the inflatable, then it must be worn. He was super nice...no ticket or warning...just a heads up. Thought I might share because in the boating guide it doesn't mention that. Also, there is no mention anywhere on the label. Only mention on the label is that it must be worn to be considered a type 5 on an uninspected commercial vessel. I put it on while running, but then sometimes take it off when I get to my spot. Think I need to change that habit. Honestly, I think I need to wear it all the time. That's the reason I bought it in the first place....comfort and safety. I'm glad he passed the info on to me because I am gonna wear it full time when I'm on the water.

[JS345]

Thanks for the info, I've been trying to verify this since I got mine.

[MSD]

I think KDFW should at least put it in the Fishing & Boating Guide. I contacted the Dept and still didn't get a straight answer, but yesterday I did.

[Fishin_4_Fun]

It all depends on what Type it is rated. Some of the inflatables must be worn, but some do not, depending on the type classification on the life jacket. I always keep an extra conventional type life jacket in the boat. It doesn't make any sense, and seems like a stupid regulation to me.

[MSD]

It all depends on what Type it is rated. Some of the inflatables must be worn, but some do not, depending on the type classification on the life jacket. I always keep an extra conventional type life jacket in the boat. It doesn't make any sense, and seems like a stupid regulation to me.

I have the one with the hydrostatic inflator and the label clearly states that it is type 2. But, he told me that all inflatables must be worn to count if you don't have foam vest aboard. I normally fish alone most times, but this time I had my girlfriend along. So, he said technically I was one PFD short. He was super nice about it

[Carter1]

MSD, if he told you ALL inflatables must be worn to count then he told you wrong. I went to fish and wildlife headquarters last year when we were discussing this issue here. I got it straight from the man in charge of law enforcement who got it from their legal department. The ONLY ones that need to be worn to count as a lifejacket have a tag stating so. Of course, as you were rightly told, is that if you have a regular lifejacket sitting out as well then you don't have to wear it all the time.

[Hlleonard]

I also have the mustang inflatable which is a type II
this is what the KDFW website says about inflatables



Coast Guard approved: A label with
an approval number will be on the
PFD. Check the label on inflatable
types of PFDs. Some older models
meet Coast Guard approval only
when worn.

It looks to me like these inflatables are legal the same as any other type II vest unless it says different on the label.

[Shellkat]

I think the call on worn or not is will it float (not deployed) if the boat goes down