I'm in the market for a PFD and looking at a few Stohlquist models and would like some input from those who have or used them.

I want a PFD that has pockets for ditch kit items, so I'm looking at:
The Drifter though I don't see the reason for the hand warmer pockets.
The Trekker .
Or would the Fisherman be better?

Nowhere very close to go look at these first hand, likely order online, so your experience and advice on fit, comfort and pocket size would be appreciated.

Thanks, LittoralZone.

i got mine a few years ago at the red rock wilderness store outside Ely. at that time there was a HUGE selection for men and women. mine has two mesh pockets, not the best for storing smaller items, but the pfd is very comfy. zips up rather than buckle.

not familiar with the models you listed but in looking at them i'd probably prefer the Trekker over the other two. seems like once the pockets are filled on the fisherman and drifter that the bulge might get in the way of the paddle stroke? being a woman, i don't need anything else sticking out in front :).

I have an older drifter with a single pocket. Single pocket...what the heck were they thinking??

My kit fits just fine in that single pocket and does not interfere with paddling.

I've really liked it.

I had the Fisherman. Very nice but the zippers on the pockets were not as heavy duty as the main zipper. One broke on me. I use NRS now.

It's so hard to buy a PFD without trying on the different options. Heck, it was hard enough for me when trying to buy one at Canoecopia with six different vendors and people to help with the fitting.

My only advice is, don't worry about brand. They'll all do what they're supposed to do. Buy the one that fits best.

I wear the Drifter and like it. Very comfortable and light, I forget I have it on. Pockets aren't huge, but good for me to store a small ditch kit. Pockets also keep items close to the body and doesn't restrict paddling motion. I agree that the hand warmer pockets aren't much use, they are too tight to even make a first in.

I could not find what I wanted so I modified my jacket by adding a small fanny pack to the back. The fanny pack is sowed on high on the back just below the collar. My ditch kit and fishing license and Spot messenger are in there.

I use the trekker, like the zip pockets, I bought mine on ebay for about half the price.

Wife and I both have Fisherman models - both are very pleased with them.

I prefer the NRS Chinook to the Stohlquist for a fishing PFD. The pocket shapes and dimensions are more adaptable. The main thing is that the zippers are better.

NRS Chinook

Just bought a Fisherman for this season!
Will post a review after our May trip. So far I think the best part is going to be how the pockets open up and stay rigid to provide a small working space while youre in the boat.

You check out the Keeper yet?
I find it very comfortable and holds all my ditch gear.

I have this Stohlquist that's never been used. Will part with it for, oh, ..$40. That's cheap for a Stohlquist!

quote HowardSprague: "I have this Stohlquist that's never been used. Will part with it for, oh, ..$40. That's cheap for a Stohlquist!


"

Wow! I wish that you had 6 of them, then I might buy ALL of them!

quote HowardSprague: "I have this Stohlquist that's never been used. Will part with it for, oh, ..$40. That's cheap for a Stohlquist!


"

HowardSprague, that's funny, thanks I needed a laugh.

And thanks to all. I just might have to make a day of it in the Pittsburgh or State College area at an REI or paddle sports shops and check them all out.

Three years ago I purchased the Fisherman and have enjoyed the usual enhancements. Last year I took an extensive trip and had a pocket/heavy duty zipper placed in the back of the vest, outside, for holding my ditch supplies just in case I had to bail in foreign lands. Now my ditch accessories are with me all of the time. The seamstress also included a velcro tab to insure the zipper didn't come un-zipped. Pretty slick and cost about $30.

I used Howard's Stohlquist on a trip to the Middle east. I was wearing it when I was abducted by an extremist group.

Prisoner-glad I escaped.

Another Fisherman user here, it's the best PFD I've ever worn. I'm able to keep all of my fishing gear except the rod/reel and net in my pockets. It keeps the ridiculous amount of lures I used to bring to a realistic amount. I've fished hard for a week with the confines of that PFD and never came close to a problem.

I borrowed Ragged's Fisherman a couple years ago for a week long trip. I found it rather bulky. Just got an NRS Chinook at the Expo at 20% off. Looking forward to breaking it in.

quote Frenchy19: "Just got an NRS Chinook... "

Same one I bought at Canoecopia this year after trying on about six different brands. Like you, I'm looking forward to breaking it in.

quote Jackfish: "

quote Frenchy19: "Just got an NRS Chinook... "

Same one I bought at Canoecopia this year after trying on about six different brands. Like you, I'm looking forward to breaking it in."

Just booked a solo for June 13 to give it a serious whirl!