How did I miss this Reg.

First of all this is my interpretation of this subject matter/regulations. So do not take this as being 100% correct. Do your own research! I Have.

1. ALL law enforcement officers do not necessarily know all laws to the letter. (Had a Tenn Game Warden tell me KY fishing license were good anywhere on Dale Hollow at the Knoxville boat show this year. I think he is mistaken)

2. I will speak of Class 1 Boats (16-26')

3. Inflatable vest are Class II (On Recreational Vessels.) They are Class IV (Throwable)on commercial vessels

4.No where in the KFW/KY boating laws (that I have been able to find) states that you have to be WEARING a Class II flotation device on a Class1 Recreational Vessel (ie Bass Boat) for it to be legal. Does say something about readily accessable?

5 Does state no one under 16 can have one or use on PWC and be legal

6. Coast Guard has a regulation for COMMERCIAL VESSELS that in order for a Class II be legal, It Must Be Worn on A COMMERCIAL VESSEL. If not worn it is then considered a Type IV
7. I have 2 Mustang HIT inflatables that Staes number 6 on the label. This is where the confusion comes from I think. I think I am correct on this interpretation. But, just in case I meet up with an officer not well versed in the regs, I carry a non iflatable in the boat also.

I would be very interested if someone can find this "requirement of being worn" in any regulation State or Coast Guard.

I just re read the KFW 2012-1023 Fishing and Boating guide. It does make mention on inflatables to "CHECK LABEL as SOME OLDER model inflatables state that they do not meet Coast Guard approval unless worn. Both of mine are recent vintage and have this "Must be Worn On Commercial vessels" to be considered Type II OK for Recreational Vessels.

I plan to go to KDFWR office and speak directly to the CO in charge and get in writing (if possible) exactly what the law is.

It is my understanding that the inflatable one cannot be thrown to a person in the water like a regular one. I have a Mustang HIT and I bought it with the understanding that I would wear it the entire time on my boat. I also have the kill switch lanyard attached to it at ALL times. When I am done running the big motor, I shut it down and pull the lanyard out of the switch.

I fish a lot by myself, so I think it is safer to have it on, in case I trip and get knocked out. I do not understand how having a non-inflatable vest laying on the seat will make a bit of difference when you are by yourself. Besides, I have a throw cushion for that crap anyway.

[QUOTE=Carter1;482862]I plan to go to KDFWR office and speak directly to the CO in charge and get in writing (if possible) exactly what the law is.[/QUOTE]

Good idea Carter, and if its something different than the part of the regulation that I posted above, please let us know what it is. The label on my Inflatable PFD clearly states that it is TYPE III and there is no caveate about ONLY WHEN WORN. I have never had a problem because I was not wearing it and I have been checked by COs in Kentucky (several times), Michigan and Tennessee.

Grumpy

I will try to go tomorrow Grumpy. And I will let you know what I find out.