Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Association

SAFETY
Condensed Version

We believe in safety first. Always have a float plan (USCG float plan, or FWC float plan) filed with someone who knows where you are going and when you plan on returning. Make sure you have checked the weather, tides, and water conditions for the area you are planning your outing.

At all times ensure you are in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard and State rules and regulations for the area that you will be kayaking.

Florida Required Safety Equipment

In Florida, non-motorized vessels less than 16 feet in length are not required to be registered or titled. If the non-motorized vessel is 16 feet or more in length, it is required to be titled.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

One approved Type I, II, or III for each person on board or being towed on waterskis etc.
Must be USCG approved. Must be in serviceable condition. Must be properly stored.

Visual Distress Signal

Required on the high sea and coastal waters only, Must carry visual distress signals for nighttime use.

NOTE: Coastal waters means the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and all bays, sounds, harbors, rivers, inlets, etc. where any entrance is over two (2) miles wide to the first point where the distance between shorelines narrows to 2 miles.

If you are going to be out on the water at night or in low-light conditions you are required to have a light that is bright enough so that others can see you (2 miles). Many of us use a hands free style light or head lamp. If you do a lot of night fishing, may want to invest in the suction cup style navigation lights that use a single "D" cell battery and are waterproof. I would recomend that you place a leash on them.

Sound Producing Device (bell, horn, whistle etc.)

Every vessel less than 12 meters (39.4 ft) in length must carry an efficient sound producing device. The sound producing device need not meet any particular specifications, as long as the vessel can produce signals required by the navigational rules.