Explorer's Guide Maritime Training

Archive for October, 2011

Fall is here and winter is not far away. At the Central Wisconsin Fall Outdoor Show in Wausau last weekend, the question can up about acceptable flotation gear for fall fishing. My first suggestion was the classic survival (immersion or “Gumby”) suit. In fact, we had a little contest (during Packer-Ram game halftime)  just to see who could put an immersion suit on the quickest. Needless to say, this captain did not make the top of the list. Check out our photos of the competition below. And thanks to all the good sports who participated.

But the question deserves a serious answer. First, the type three life jackets worn by most people are not the best choice from my point of view. They are designed for quick rescue. If you are alone and in cold water, a quick rescue is not a reality. After the first 10 minutes in the cold water, you will have trouble keeping your head out of the water. With the onset of hypothermia, drowning is close at hand.

The second alternative is self-inflating life jackets. They are designed to auto inflate should you fall overboard or be ejected from the boat. They are built to a high standard and designed to ensure your head is kept out of the water. Even with the onset of hypothermia, there is a chance your face will be kept out of the water. The only problem is, they offer no protection from hypothermia. The cost for these life jackets is around $125, depending on the manufacturer.

This brings up a third alternative. These are the new floating snowmobile suits which include bib and jacket. They provide both floatation and some thermal protection – almost as good as the classic “Gumby” immersion suit. The one drawback, again, is that these suits do not keep your head out of the water. I suggest wearing an inflatable life vest over, never under, the snowmobile jacket for added protection. Another drawback – the cost for both bibs and jacket can be up to $500.

The key to keeping safe while enjoying your fall and winter activities is to be prepared for the “just-in-case” situations. The cost for this protection may sound a little steep, but really, what is your life worth?

Take care and have a safe and enjoyable trip in our great outdoors.

Capt Gary

P.S. One final thought, “The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails.” – William A. Ward

TEACHING POINT: In the pictures below, what does the orange sign with the large exclamation point mean? Answer – it’s a daytime inland distress signal.

Capt. Gary of Explorer's Guide demonstrates putting on an immersion suit.

And the transformation from Capt. Gary to Capt. Gumby is complete.

Barry Klatt of MidWest Outdoors takes up the challenge.

Difficulty zipping up with gigantic hands.

Gumby #2 is a little bit faster.

Another MidWest Outdoors Rep tries his luck.

Maybe if I sit down first...

Gumby #3 - younger and faster.

Ladies didn't want to be outdone.

And the winner is...Ms. Gumby in 32 seconds.