Death Awaited in Cold Water Kayak Flip - Sickening to Watch

Scariest piece of fishing video I've posted in the 13 years I've had this channel. This accident occurred about a mile out where a bay meets the ocean in heavy winds and seas and water temperatures in the 40s. Death by drowning or hypothermia were the most likely outcomes in this setting. Kayak fishing is wonderful, but please be careful everyone. The unexpected can happen to even the most experienced.
Original video from the kayak angler: • CHASING STRIPED BASS N...
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[@nikrixxx6338]

I want to appreciate this guy for having the humility to admit he was wrong and allowing you to use him as an example

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

Nice comment.

[@theroundhousekingofthemidw1705]

💯

[@johnscott6481]

Which probably lent itself to not being insulting as possible.

[@rodneycaupp5962]

This gave me some anxious memories from a long lifetime of putting fun before safety.... Life passed before my eyes kind of stuff. My parents raised 7 kids without limits to Adventure. Stuff like Racing, and Military, and then the serious years of winging it in high places. 7 of us now watch it on TV and the internet, Scared...lol. Being rescued by tow after an open water tornado..., been there done that, shivering cold and wet. You know helpless after that.

[@readdeeply9278]

Really? Like what did he think was going to happen? This is why no one in life before him has ever fished in a kayak lol

[@bigdogbob845]

Out in open water in a kayak in those conditions ? This is the classic definition of having a Death Wish !

[@arsfishing]

This is me in the video. I want to thank whoever saw me on shore because there is a good chance I would not be here without him or her. Also the police/firefighters or whoever rescued me were great. I told the story to a guy at a local bait shop and he said "no one survives with waders". Will always stick with me. Part of me still doesn't view this as a near death experience, but it absolutely was. If those guys didn't come I likely would have passed from hypothermia before reaching the beach I thought I was drifting towards. I sent it to John to just share my experience and I was thrilled to learn he was going to make a safety video out of it. There were a laundry list of things that I should have done differently, starting with listening to the guy in the parking lot tell me I was crazy. Besides the obvious of wearing a PFD and not being a tough guy, I should have not been so selfish and risk my life when I have a kid at home. I've been doing a lot more shore fishing now haha. Oh and it was in the evening not morning.

[@Matt_732]

Bro. Count your blessings, I hope this helps someone out.

[@pastapaul150]

You live and learn that's for sure. That was close. I changed my ways once I had kids, you have to.

[@lnomolas3427]

Glad you made it, man. That was a close run thing. You should consider yourself very lucky. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@brownwater2488]

Don't get discouraged. Next time have a game plan before going out on your kayak. Meet up with other kayaker to see if anyone would like to go with you. But weather is important so keep that in mind

[@michaeloshea3090]

Glad your ok! Fished this bay for over 50 years, remember no fish is more important than your life. I'm not preaching, I've done many things surfcasting that I would say what the hell am I still doing here! Be safe and tight lines!

[@claudiaweber7011]

This is one of the best educational videos ever. I literally could not count all the things he did incorrectly. The things that had me on the edge of my seat, was that he did not have the tip of his kayak consistently (If ever) facing into the waves, and was in a kayak meant for calm lakes. So pleased that he survived this mess, it’s a freaking miracle. 🙏🎣💦

[@arsfishing]

I tried to keep the tip of my kayak facing the waves and did most of the time. However once I hooked up with the fish I completely lost focus.

[@H43339]

Sorry but as soon as I saw the weather and water conditions my first thought was, WHY !! Why would you even go out in this weather.

[@rodneycaupp5962]

I think the fish fighting, and a "tacking wind" held him lateral long enough for a wave to take him down....The Navy called it Locked in Irons when you keeping dropping into the trough..., any second it can swallow a 400 foot long ship, or give it a belly up roll... I was upside down on the ladder from the engine room. What you gonna do now ? I know the wind, all the way to 235mph. 24' of Bow Keel broken... Flooding, sinking. 1o days.

[@huepowered]

25mph with 40mph gusts, 48 degree water temps, no pfd, no vhf. he's lucky to be alive because he was in the running for the darwin award

[@whiskeykilmer1866]

He was wearing a life vest.

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

He told me he was not.

[@babalu1987]

​@@whiskeykilmer1866uh...he had a jacket on, no pfd

[@bobbyglobeatz1800]

take off the waders hop on the flipped over kayak and paddle to shore

[@jonmenges2256]

I wouldn't have been out in that slop in my 20' walk-around and my man is out there in a WalMart kayak 😬

[@brianm4709]

During your narration you said "he's not stupid" but virtually everything in that video says otherwise. That said, I'm glad he survived.

[@arsfishing]

I was very stupid. It was more of a cocky it won't happen to me kind of thing. Simply just made a selfish decision to go out that day, on top of the list of things I didn't think I would ever need.

[@FishingwithFro]

The only stupid thing he really did was taking an under sized kayak out and not knowing it's limitations. In a normal fishing kayak, this guy probably would have been just fine, although I never understand why kayak fisherman would ever wear waders ocean fishing or even lake fishing

[@kennethmeeker6369]

You said it much nicer than I would have 👍

[@brunocauin]

@@arsfishing we all have those moments. Glad you made it out ok. That was a nice fish though!

[@lureman100]

@@arsfishing Glad you were able to be rescued, hats off to you for showing us this incident yes you made lots of mistakes which we all do, thankfully your here to tell the tale.

[@militarized_monk755]

Kayaking alone in the bay in 40MPH winds - check wearing waders - check No life jacket - check cinder block tied to leg - luckily forgot it that day

[@bron0726]

lol

[@arsfishing]

Doesn't post fish pics to social media - check

[@arsfishing]

still decides to spend 10 minutes flipping thru phone to send pic to wife who will pretend to to be happy but feell unwanted and less important - check

[@arsfishing]

@@bron0726 its me and i was laughing rly good

[@arsfishing]

Laughed at verizon store employee for trying to "rip me off" with insurance after the other side of that point took a BRAND NEW phone from me 10 days prior - check

[@johnmcinnes6644]

I've never understood waders in a kayak. I can't imagine any better preparation for a disaster! If you only want to avoid spray, wear ordinary rain gear. If you're concerned about immersion an ordinary light weight wetsuit will get you through a routine flip. I'm a wind surfer and I've been on the water my entire life so believe me I know all about this. As always, a prudent mariner will be well aware of wind, tide and weather conditions. Always be aware that you are operating in a hostile environment and take elaborate precautions. Thanks for the video - they should include a copy with every kayak purchase LOL. So glad to see he was able to live and learn!

[@sdriza]

waders, no pfd, cheap kayak, not paying attention to waves, no attempt at self rescue, no way to call for a rescue had no business being out there

[@Ashw1115]

Some lakes and reservoirs won’t let you kayak or float tube fish without waterproof waders. Probably didn’t have waterproof bag or clothes so just used waders.

[@PeaceIsBetter]

I'm two minutes in and I"m thinking "what the hell is he doing out there in that?"

[@carolsipala1639]

The man in the pool is floating with waders on. But most cases the waders fill with water and make you sink.

[@houseofsolomon2440]

​​@@carolsipala1639I fell thru the ice once wearing neoprene chest waders. No life jacket, but the waders provided good temporary floatation until I could pull myself up onto the ice (yes, I had ice spikes with me & they probably saved my life). I remember the waders filled up slowly with water, which is a weird feeling

[@Rastamahatma]

​@houseofsolomon2440 neoprene are snug so they will fill slowly. Waders like this fill up instantly and become giant weights.

[@Kellatrina]

Same

[@Kellatrina]

I keep watching thinking dude go in!

[@GBLahLah]

I’m a surfer and I’m always watching people in the water, it’s easy to see where things are about to go wrong. I’m always watching out for folks but there’s very little water awareness with many. Good on you for putting knowledge out there. No one is an absolute fool, they only know what they know, is all.

[@rubberducky9925]

He knew everything he was doing wrong before he went out. He's a total Fool. Even had a child at home. All over a fish. Your right not a fool...a complete idiot.shiukf he allowed to fish🤘👍🌊💯🦆

[@scubapro54]

I have 18 years in the Coast Guard. In all my time, I have only heard of 1 person who went overboard without a life jacket that didn't get seen by someone who survived. His boat was at cruising speed and he hit a wierd wave that tossed him over. He wasn't wearing his kill switch so the first time anyone knew he was in trouble was when his boat grounded at high speed on a semi-crouded RI beach. He had to tread water for 16 hours before he was found. The only thing that saved him was that he told his wife where and when he would be fishing. Wear a life jacket and have a float plan. I'm sick of looking for people I know I won't find until their corpses bloat 3-4 days later.

[@BeetleBuns]

and wear the bright orange ones, looking for bloated corpses that blend in is nearly as annoying

[@silver-en7kl]

Unless a great white shark cleans up, then u won’t have to look for your bloated corpses. You might find some clothes. I think there are many people that go missing in our oceans that will never be found.

[@starofdavid9919]

@@BeetleBuns Yes, see and be seen.

[@DocMacKay819]

Get a new job, plenty of others wanting that rescue swimmer slot!

[@georgeallen7667]

Just close your eyes if bloated things bother you

[@anthonyvidmar3916]

Seeing this video gave me chills, l lose two friends in 2011 doing the same thing and not realising they were in a kill zone. There bodies were recovered the next morning about 20km further down the beach. They were unexperienced in the use of kayaks but very keen fishermen and not once thought about water temperature.

[@pkg2922]

I also flipped my kayak in Raritan Bay, since that day never left the shore without a dry suit and life jacket. The dry suit , while not cheap, is less expensive than many reels and anyone with a fishfinder on their kayak spent way more on electronics than a dry suit costs. Take the time to practice reentry. It is amazing how easily it can be done after enough practice. 3 seconds for reentry (after righting the kayak) is possible to achieve. Thank you for having the guts to share the video.

[@andrewpunnoose]

I started out kayak fishing by taking a sea kayaking class and I'm glad I did. It's something everyone kayak fishing could benefit from. Maybe you could do a crossover video with a sea kayaker to share some knowledge, John. Some of the things I've learned from sea kayakers: - Cold water shock (that gasp you reflexively take in cold water) is a bigger killer than hypothermia. That cold water gasp response peaks at 50F. You can mitigate by practicing (cold showers) and with warmer layers (kayaking jacket, wetsuit). See the resource at the bottom for more info. The quote I included has stuck with me for years now. - Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Expect that you're going to go in. - Practice a self rescue (where you intentionally capsize, do a wet exit, right your kayak, and re-enter) once a season at least. I'm guilty of not doing this, but seems like good advice. This is especially relevant for sit-inside kayaks like mine, which take some "finesse" to re-enter. - Having a compass for backup navigation can come in handy if fog rolls in or you get carried out of sight of land by a current - Always wear a PFD (last because it's the obvious one) Thanks for sharing, John, and kudos to ARS Outdoors for being willing to share an embarrassing mistake. More on cold water gasp response here: www.coldwatersafety.org/the-danger Seems like an unpleasant way to go: "Cold water drowning can happen immediately, but it can also take a fairly long time - a gruesome, drawn-out process in which small amounts of water are inhaled, over and over again, until your lungs become so waterlogged that you suffocate. Inhaling about five ounces (150 ml) of water is enough to cause drowning."

[@shuheimatsuo1642]

This video brought back memories of my first kayak flip, which also occurred in RB. Luckily it was fluke season with water temp in the 60s and I was wearing shorts and PFD. What saved me from separating from my kayak, which was drifting away fast in the current, was, like you mentioned, the leash on my paddle. I managed to get hold of the kayak and flip it back up, climb back on board and paddle back to shore with lots of lessons learned and lost bucktails. I'm glad the guy was rescued. Thanks for posting this important lesson

[@arsfishing]

This was me, and I had no leash. I lost the paddle. I didn't want to flip the kayak because I didn't want to risk losing it.

[@tonybass5662]

As a fly fisherman I was taught to ALWAYS belt your waders, especially in current, as without a belt they would fill with water and fatally weigh you down. As a sea kayaker on the Chesapeake Bay, we were taught to NEVER go out on cold water without a dry suit. If you didn't own a suit, you didn't go. With the explosion of kayak fishing I am astonished at the lack of safety information out there. I live on a very popular bass fishing lake and just a few weeks ago on New Years Day there was a kayak fishing tournament with 40 or so participants on a lake with a surface temp of 43*f and not a dry suit or any cold water gear in sight.

[@sdriza]

yeah, I'm with you - been fishing my entire life, flipped a ton of cheap kayaks, always have a PFD, either neoprene or a drysuit, pay attention to weather, pay attention to waves, beacon to initiate rescue in worst case. that's just bare minimum to enjoy the sport in such conditions - don't understand the video, and shocked by many comments here everyone I grew up with was the same, where did these people NOT learn so much basic stuff?

[@AdventureOtaku]

This is a great video, bringing awareness to a problem. Thanks for doing it. I am not a fisherman (kayak or otherwise) I am a paddling instructor and I specialize in teaching people who are planning trips in cold water. Think Alaska and Maine. I did a video pleading with Kayak fisherman to take a paddle lesson. As you said, he made SO many mistakes, and I applaud him for bringing the video to you so people could see the danger. Great job, and thanks for posting it.

[@KensGarage1]

I am very happy for ARS Outdoors to have been rescued. It certainly was his lucky day. He has very humbly posted here and certainly realizes his mistakes. Others hopefully will learn from this.

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

I appreciate your kind comment. It was huge of him to allow publication of that clip, which could very well save lives.

[@tomlamp7503]

I kayak fish all the time. This is no joke. Know your limits and know the weather

[@europeanian4205]

And know your gear. That's a kayak for ponds. Lol

[@arsfishing]

@@europeanian4205 It is lol. But it did me well many times. I just simply should not have gone out in those conditions.

[@kinggkongg9694]

This is how fish catch humans

[@justinszuch6184]

Darwin award winner right there. The person that seen him flip was probably watching him the whole time knowing he was going to flip.Glad he is ok

[@arsfishing]

You are probably correct.

[@JetSetDiva]

Not a winner. A runner-up. ;)

[@Richard-vh3uf]

@@JetSetDiva Would of won but for Divine intervention. FAFO.

[@huskal468]

Nature even stepped in like "dude ima let this one slide"

[@ryngrd1]

Alright batter. You're up next to bat.

[@will_Iam61]

The first thing I noticed when I started watching this was,"this guy is letting himself get broadside to those waves', all it would take is one slightly higher than the rest to turn him over. I fish out of a canoe and use outrigggers or have them onboard for just this kind of thing, when the weather turns a little rough. I always wear my pfd, just in case. This guy was incredibly lucky that day.

[@darb4091]

He probably would have been ok, if he was paying attention, but he was 100% focused on getting the perfect youtube shot and lost all situational awareness.

[@lnomolas3427]

Great video, John. Lot of lessons to be learned. I'm a retired Navy pilot, I flew maritime patrol aircraft and spent most of my adult life flying over water, including many long flights in Alaska / north Pacific where the water temperature was often below 32F. I have flown open water SAR missions, it is very hard to spot kayaks among the waves and whitecaps. We took safety very seriously. I always wear a PFD, I carry a VHF radio and don't rely on my cell phone. I dress for the water temp, not the air temp. And I would like to think I know my limitations and don't exceed them. You should consider leashing yourself to the kayak - it you flip, even if in a light breeze, the kayak will soon be out of reach.

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

Everything you said. Thanks for the comment. My approach is to prepare to always be able to survive the worst-case scenario.

[@arsfishing]

Thank you for your service. My brother is currently a test pilot in the Navy. My father flew a C-130 in 'Nam. Meanwhile I selfishly risked my life to catch a fish. A lot of lessons learned here.

[@joerob3449]

@@arsfishingglad your still alive and hopefully have sold the kayak and purchased a boat. question why do you use fish grips on fish that don’t bite? No telling how many trophy fish die with those things in their mouths. Hopefully this made enough of an impact that it will stick with you on future endeavors. What’s funny is you had your phone protected by a case and a dry bag but not yourself lol that’s just the way you young cats think haha good luck to you

[@jrw8080]

@@arsfishing let me guess you're a cop or becoming one?

[@jesswalczak9946]

@@joerob3449 this comment right here about the phone being more valuable than one's life. Well said!

[@sheldondillon]

I have found that it's not "if" you tip in a kayak but "when". I've never been out and didn't go into the water.

[@christophermorath6866]

I am glad the angler was rescued. Hard learned lesson for sure. Hopefully he uses better decision making in the future. As much fun as a day on the water can be, we all need to respect it. Thank you for sharing, it will save lives.

[@centralscrutinizer76]

Thank goodness the guy was rescued, it just goes to show you how fast you can go from having the time of your life to fighting for your life.

[@PeterRanieriII]

Scary stuff. For me a drysuit under 60F water is now my rule. Worth every penny imo as they solve many of the clothing issues. Going with other people helps a lot in an emergency situation like this. There was an angel on shore that day 🙏 glad he’s ok

[@Ja2808R]

They where probably watching expecting a flip and a story to tell. Binoculars in one hand and emergency pre-dialed in the other waiting to call.

[@PeterRanieriII]

@@Ja2808R your probably right

[@williamfris3835]

Personally while I have done my share of dumb things in life. High wind and cold weather would have scrubbed my outing before I left the beach. He was really lucky that day.

[@pizzarat3275]

I also have a drysuit and I have a kayak that can handle rough conditions but there's no way I'd be out alone in this type of weather.

[@this_is_my_stop]

Around 6 years ago I was out rafting with my sister and cousins for my bachelorette party. That part of the Delaware river is no issue for a raft, but it can be very hazardous for kyaks. We were having a great time and there was virtually no one else on the river that day- Until we happened upon 2 guys drowning in their overturned kyaks. They had flipped and were completely submerged. One was screaming and was holding onto his submerged kyak and his friend's. The other guy couldn't call for help, he was under the water, partially stuck inside his kyak. My sister and I had worked as waterfront rescue lifeguards, so we pulled the guys onto our raft and tied their swamped kyaks to the side of the raft with cording and party necklaces. One guy said they thought for sure they were going to die, then a "bunch of girls in bikinis showed up with a raft and beer". Nice guys. One of my cousins went on a few dates with one of them.

[@georgefitzhugh6455]

No PFD, Bad weather, disregard of one’s life just to go fishing, and thinking one is invincible 😮 Glad he’s ok

[@mocruz1200]

100%. it is incredibly irresponsible to be out there in those conditions

[@travelguy1564]

He didn't think he was invincible - he just didn't think about many, many concerns - lack of experience, for sure!

[@benh5774]

@@travelguy1564 - lack of common sense, but the call of the water is enticing

[@claycollins8973]

When he yelled, "let's go!" I pictured Southpark when they're crabfishing

[@roym160]

Thank you for sharing this John. I’m typically more concerned about getting run over by a boat, but this is a good reminder to watch the conditions. When I used a cheap and unstable pelican kayak, I was terrified of double digit winds. I now use a much more stable Hobie, but this is a stark reminder it’s still a small bit of plastic, and nearly invisible.

[@mialily206]

Yes double digit winds are no fun. I agree about boaters. Yikes sometimes. A stable kayak is key I have a Sportsman. Of course pfd, radio..I carry a throw rope bag as well

[@tradewisetv2801]

I survived flipping my kayak in 36 degree water, submerged for an hour and six minutes wearing jeans, a long sleeved shirt, and socks. Apparently most people drown within five minutes at that temperature because of a gasping reflex when hitting the cold water. If you make it past that, you have about 15 minutes at that temperature. This was Northern Michigan in March, and the south side of a large lake had its ice broken up overnight by high winds. I was a mile from shore in any direction on a lake full of summer cabins. I know what it's like to die in this situation, because in the end I lost consciousness, and everything goes away. You lose your vision, your hearing, your ability to think, and you cannot feel yourself bobbing in the water. Somehow, you're still aware, but it's not black, it's not white, it's just nothingness. Honestly, it's not a bad way to die. The first twenty minutes were gruesome, but after that, it's not so bad. I had my cell phone in a ziplock bag in my dry compartment. I managed to get a 911 call out and it ended mid way when a rogue wave washed over my head. With high waves, it took rescuers 45 minutes to even spot me. The story is over an hour long, so you get the abbreviated version. You may wonder what I was doing out there in the first place, but it wasn't part of the plan. A turn in weather and events led to the decision that almost cost me my life. My core temp was 85 degrees and the rescuers told me they were expecting a recovery, not a rescue. Haven't kayaked since. Glad this guy had a happy ending.

[@rogerbarrios8614]

Great reminder for all of us. Thanks. And glad that guy is ok.

[@caribbeanbound8357]

I'm glad the guy made it. I have never understood the whole selfie thing. It's too bad people are so driven by getting pics to post on social media so they can get validation from what others think.

[@MrReelsa]

He is lucky to be alive and tell the tales. The forecast and water temp would keep most people at home including me. His big mistake is lifting the fish up high for the selfie. That change the center of mass and was flip on the next wave. I have not gone out in the spring and fall yet on my kayak, but dry suit would be top of my list for next purchase. Thanks for posting to remind us we are not master of the universe.

[@arsfishing]

Exactly. It all happened in like slow motion. I lifted up the fish at the precise time the wave peaked. I felt myself tipping but it was too late.

[@rodneycaupp5962]

This scared me so bad I hesitated to watch it. I am old and want a light weight, one man boat but "this video" is the vision the Old Sailor struggles with. When younger, sometimes I never saw danger till I was in it. Those moments will guide wiser men if we pay heed to the nagging concerns. One notable BIG flash-flood had us paddling through cornfields in Southwestern Ohio, with a shortcut through the woods "out of the channel". Slim Pickins, in an open top canoe with a friend... LOL

[@sergeykhaitov678]

one of the most important videos in mind mind about kayaking... i fish that exact area very frequently. it always amazes me once i try to point out to brave (stupid) guys without dry suite (in cold water) /life vest/VHF radio/phone not on leash/paddle not on leash... - most of them just smile and say they will be ok... somebody dies every year. John thank you for this very important reminder to all of us!

[@arsfishing]

Yep I was one of those stupid guys.

[@sergeykhaitov678]

i am sincerely glad you made it out ok from terrible situation and thank you for your courage to share this. it will help many to appreciate importance of safety.

[@andrewwaggoner1831]

@@arsfishingseriously glad you are ok,and thanks fur sharing your story

[@jasonlins9033]

Just for people's knowledge: once out of the waders it's possible to fill them with air and use them as a floatation device. Fill them either by pushing the top underwater and working air into the legs (picture the movement you do when shaking open a new garbage bag). Or you can hold the opening of the waders under water, duck your head in, expell your air into the waders, and work it into the legs. Of course this isn't easy but it's something to know.

[@davidfinet2079]

Good thought and might work but it is hard to get waders off in the water when they are all wet inside and out. I think the idea of a dry suit for kayakers in cold water is the best idea.

[@H43339]

​@@davidfinet2079 why would you wear waders in the first place, they are for WADING !! Not boating, you may as well have tied a brick to each foot. Everything about this fishing trip is stupid.

[@pastapaul150]

I capsized 25 yrs ago in port jeff harbor in February, 29 degree water. Getting on top of the small boat I was in, and the wind blowing to shore is the only reason I survived. Hypothermia shakes like convulsions.

[@bobclark4994]

Thanx for posting this video. I hope all kayakers get to see it.

[@travisalexphoto]

Okay, you say this guy's not stupid, but I'm going to be quite honest with you, I own the slight upgrade of that kayak, it's the lifetime tamarack 10 ft kayak, the angler version and there is no way this guy couldn't have realized it's not built for this. I can tell you first hand, that that kayak is absolutely not built for any salt water expiration whatsoever outside of basic shallow marshes, and maybe close to shore inlet coves. I've taken it out on the salt on a calm day before, and even then with the slight small wakes I got from other boats, I did not feel stable enough to do it again. I immediately went out and upgraded to a 12 ft pedal kayak a few months later, and still use the lifetime kayak for freshwater pond fishing and river kayaking. This is an exceptionally stupid move, and I'm just glad the guy didn't die from it. Very lucky, and very scary to watch. Thanks for sharing.

[@severalothers]

This no doubt is a very scary and dangerous situation. The first trip out in the spring of 2022 I also rolled my kayak. The water was very cold and it's shocking how quick my body stiffened up. Luckily as mentioned in the video I also had somebody see me and came to my rescue.

[@russellrfox]

I wouldn't even be out in a boat in those conditions.

[@eves08109]

Exactly!

[@joedennehy386]

John you know better than anyone. "There are old fishermen, and bold fishermen, but there are no old, bold fishermen"

[@arsfishing]

I like this haha

[@ChefEiott]

I kayak fish there often in the early spring . I’ve never flipped , but I always take extra precautions by wearing a dry suit / thermal layers . & I never leave shore without my marine radio either .

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

That's the way to do it.

[@karencarlson6997]

Glad this ended well. It is critical to practice flipping your kayak and successfully getting back in. Not only will this give you confidence in tough situations, it will teach you to make sure your equipment is always tied onto your boat. A fully charged VHF on your PFD is also essential.

[@johnsamothrakis4621]

Thanks for sharing John , that is one lucky man

[@bainsk8]

Thank you for this John, I’m just starting out. You’ve given me food for thought and the paddle leash along with PFD and VHF radio are top of my list.

[@deluxsundial]

Wow, thanks for sharing this, a good reminder and eye opener. Whether summer or winter on my kayak fishing, I always plan and anticipate a tip over (make sure extra gear is secured, wear pfd of course and dry suit if cold etc). Every year I take my son (15 yr old now) and we intentionally flip our kayaks and practice re-entry just to keep our skill up in case it happens.

[@MusMasi]

I use to do that as a kid, but this is in a kayak that you sit in with a spray skirt so you can roll back up without leaving the kayak, but i also practiced pulling the skirt off and getting out, fliping it and getting back in, I doubt I could do that now as I am too heavy and not as nimble, but I would not go out in the type of kayak he was in those conditions in the cold no way, I use to in my sit in kayak but the weather was warm and it was to surf on the waves, but not in the surf zone of course, I would use a board for that.

[@MusMasi]

and I have always preferred sit in kayaks to the sit on top type that are the more popular type, I just like the center of balance more, but For fishing and sailing I would prefer any of my outrigger canoe's anyway, more stable, the kayak though is easier to carry by myself and is more nimble just for going out for a fun paddle.

[@Jdjdjdjdjdjdj750]

Went through something similar in 2020. Flipped a Hobie kayak in October chasing a blitz. Wearing a PFD and VHF radio but still a rough time. What was not caught on video here was probably one of the worst 30 minutes of this guys life. Thinking about life’s regrets, family, kids etc. Try to have some heart in the comments section. @arsfishing glad you are OK!!! Thank you for sharing

[@intangible0062]

You said hes not a moron but you also said he was wearing waders on a kayak. These 2 things do not match.

[@sdriza]

and no pfd

[@tremaynesimoneaux1814]

No pdf, out in bad conditions, no reentry plan, no vhf, bad quality kayak, etc etc etc. Having done some btb kayak fishing, this was so hard to watch. Thanks for sharing the vid you are extremely fortunate to be alive.

[@cr7neymar908]

i feel like it would be smart to wear a wetsuit if you're kayak fishing in cold water. also probably not smart to kayak fish with those winds and no life jacket on

[@cwatson42785]

And you know that bystander who was watching him from shore was probably saying to himself "what's this dope doing out there in these conditions? He's totally going into the water".... Thank God for him

[@GoodMorning-zh6le]

THIS IS WHY YOU CHECK SURF REPORTS! I had a kayak flip in RI last year, but it was because the weather flipped quickly and I was heading in as soon as it started to feel sketchy. Surf was too high at that point and I flipped in a breachway, luckily I was able to recover safely.

[@jesusmaryandjoseph6]

Happened to me once in a semi frozen lake when I was 11...swam back to shore...it's crazy I still remember how long it took to get back...partially due to my sopping clothes but it also seems harder to swim in such cold water

[@johndonovan7334]

He did everything wrong. From going out in that weather, there is a reason no one else was out fishing. The cheap kayak, wearing waders and being distracted. A miracle he was rescued.

[@HuplesCat]

Thanks for sharing and the number one rule is the camera person never dies! Scary

[@TheBasstead1]

Why are you wearing waders on a kayak?

[@Dumboi]

Out there I have no idea but some people do where I live just because there’s a lot of places to get off

[@SaltySeaQueen-nn8wm]

Crazy practice..they'll fill with water & take you under in less than a minute..🤦

[@cryptidsntunes]

​@@SaltySeaQueen-nn8wm That is not true. The water inside your waders weighs the same as the water outside your waders, so it does not "sink" you. Which doesn't mean they're not dangerous. 1) As seen in the end of the video, especially if you're not wearing a pfd, the air trapped in the legs puts them higher than your chest and initially makes it difficult to get them down in a position where you can use them to kick yourself back up onto the kayak 2) If you can get them down and they do fill with water, you'll be able to kick your upper body onto the kayak... but NOW you have to haul all that water OUT of the water (where it now weighs more than the air) to get into the boat. Good luck with that! It's always good to understand the physics of your situation

[@bmead144]

Oh no! His phone took a swim!

[@1965JB]

I’m glad he’s alive, but the stupidity of his decision to go out there that day is incredible.

[@crazyralph6386]

@5:42 is that a bottle of Vodka falling out???

[@tannerthalman4261]

Figi water looks like

[@xColter]

It's Fiji water....

[@gatorhkman]

Solid solid reminders and it is always good to see posted...and the OP being man enough to post up and share so all learn. 1. PFD! ALWAYS...no exceptions 2. Big water = team/partner vs solo 3. Hopefully he gave someone a float plan/launch point..always have someone know where you launched and general plan. 4. Water temps like that always always have something in a dry bag that you can layer up with and be dry....and if inshore fishing...have a REAL fire making kit and mylar blanket.

[@drewjames1104]

I’ve seen this before but watching it again. Unbelievable, and lucky to have survived! He was in ultimate danger.

[@marcrobinson5498]

John I saved a big man this spring that went over in the same 48 degree temps on a reservoir. He was wearing boots and rain gear. It's a trolling motor only reservoir. He was about 280lbs and probably 6'4" tall. I didn't see him go over but I heard him screaming for help. I was about a 1/4 mile away. It was only him and I there. He went under twice before I could get to him. When I got to him, I had him hold on to the side of my boat and I drug him to shore holding his head outta water with one hand and driving the boat with the opposite foot. His PFD was of proper size but do to the extra clothes it was not keeping him a float at all. When we got to shore all total he was in the water about 7 minutes. He was completely cramped and couldn't stand. Between both of us struggling, I was able to get him out of the water. Long and short he made it, but he was honestly done to about his last minute on earth when I grabbed his raincoat hood. I have been in evolved with a lot over the years, and you really learn what kind of man you are when this are bad and there's nobody there to help. People in general with today's modern conveniences take entirely too much for granted. I see kayaks all the time in places they have no business. This video you posted is a prime example of all the signs present and it won't happen to me mentality kicking in. You don't get this chance for survival twice. This is definitely a good clip to show at any beginner kayak class. I'm glad you shared this and hopefully more people see this. It very well might save a life or two

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

That's some story. Thanks for sharing. Awesome job saving him!

[@georgewilliamssr5230]

I've been kayaking/ extreme white water and ocean. For 33 years. I've been critical of folks like this person. Who DONT have good self rescue skill. Who DONT prep for the conditions. Who DONT have the appropriate equipment. Who DONT. Wear the necessary survival gear in the event it goes sideways. It's very frustrating and a discredit to people in the sport. Who do take the time to learn how to boat. I'm happy this guy survived. Hope he learned from his mistakes.

[@mastercly4031]

My boyfriend and I were fishing off of Cape May when a rogue wave threw two kayakers off their kayaks.... he went to rescue them with his wilderness systems kayak. He likes speed, and they are one of the fastest kayaks in his mind. He travels with very light fishing gear, only what he needs. Both paddlers are very experienced, but nothing they could do with a rogue wave crashing on them. They lost most of their gear but were happy we were there to assist. When in doubt, back out.... safety has always been his motto. Safety first.... fun next ! I'm glad this didn't turn out the other way around. Tight lines and a stay safe out there.

[@davidtebera4488]

Having kayaked in the middle of the winter in the North East your choice in protection is essential. My go to was 5mm neoprene socks with 5 mm neoprene booties on top. A 7 mm farmer john. and a kokatat dry top. This gave me excellent warmth in and out of the water. And yes, I tested this setup and other setups near shore.

[@CountCraigula]

Pure genius on display here.

[@dmerth]

Just survived a similar incident in Lake Powell in Page, Arizona last Tuesday. Rented several kayaks for my family. My rented single Vibe brand kayak flipped in heavy winds and 1 to 2 foot swells in 48 degree water after the kayak submerged from taking on water and failing to be maneuverable. The rental company never told us what the purpose of the scupper plugs were in an on-the-top kayak and I believe they were plugged so when waves hit and filled the top and it could not drain and the bigger problems started. Somehow water got inside the "sealed" kayak itself and I flipped out. I was in the water for 30 minutes and hypothermic as my wife watched in horror but couldn't help. The walls along this portion of the lake are about 200 foot shear cliffs with nowhere to land a kayak. A random experienced kayaker appeared and helped stabilize my kayak with another random kayaker. I managed to get inside my kayak but it was almost completely submerged so I remained wet. Finally the rental company sent a boat out we were all rescued. I could go on and on, but I recall thinking to myself as I began to feel somewhat warm and confused that I need to just let go of my kayak because I didn't want to flip my wife or the other kayakers out of their boat. I had a PFD on but, if you can't get in a dry kayak and if rescue wasn't there in the next 5 minutes, I would have been dead. The dread I felt as I was unable to help my wife or my 20 year old children who where also struggling to fight the wind and waves back to the marina (1 1/2 miles) along the high walls will never leave my mind.

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

Very scary story. Glad you made it out OK. Thanks for sharing.

[@kellyspann9845]

I have a very good sea kayak and have been in very rough water like this but I invested in a pontoon that swings out and locks whenever I feel uncomfortable. It's hard to fish around it sometimes but I'm glad I have it. Best investment I made. I'm so glad this guy was ok and someone was watching him.

[@stevepin8042]

Really good demonstration on what not to do with waders. By the look of the wavelets on the water, you can see that the waves are building fast. Waders drowned a good friend of mine's father when he was just a young boy in a cold water boating incident. The ocean is completely indifferent to who and what you are. Consider a neoprene suite, it can be warm but it insulates and floats. Great video from someone who we can learn from who loves fishing like the rest of us.

[@elkayakfish]

saftey is so important, good video to demonstrate this. Good work

[@amandadownard7968]

One thing I love about the kayak fishing community is they really push for wearing a pfd. Some groups won't even let you post photos if you're not wearing one which I support.

[@PartiallyNumb]

Glad he made it out ok. I swapped over to a peddle drive for fishing. Having 2 means of control plus a rudder is a game changer.

[@LAGANGSTAe33]

Absolutely my worst nightmare

[@13r4nd0]

That was an interesting test, and I'm glad the guy made it out alive. He had a beautiful striper catch, too. I'll have to share this with my Kayaking friends... I like boats.

[@ianryan7826]

Bravo buddy. Swallow that pride and let others learn from this awful experience.

[@OutdoorswithFloridaSmokin]

You can't make excuses for someone being careless and an idiot. Smh.

[@wannabeangler]

He wasn't even in the correct kayak for fishing. Many factors came into play besides the obvious. No PFD #1, kayak was a surf play kayak not designed for that which he was doing, not enough experience to be fishing in those conditions, and so many more! I've been kayaking for close to 20 years in the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean so I have a bit of experience to be critical. Those conditions with that kayak along with his lack of experience was a recipe for disaster. I remember going to the Concrete Ships on the Eastern Shore with a buddy of mine. We were about to launch when a famous friend of mine, Kayak Kevin, came up and said it was too rough for him to go solo. I told him he could join us, but he had already made plans with his girl. Never go kayaking until you have ample amounts of experience. Even the vets of ocean kayaking know not to go solo when conditions are rough and we all have ocean going kayaks.

[@slimpickins9124]

Yes, this guy is very lucky the outcome of this event went the way it did. Nice of you & ARS Outdoors to post this real life "training" video. If you have any doubts about conditions don't go, no fish is worth it.

[@dlmsarge8329]

I rolled my Hobie PA12 in cold, windy conditions a few years ago (mid May in Ontario Canada) . The PA12 is a wide, stable kayak and many folks my think it's not possible or likely but it can happen. I've made some important changes to the way I kayak fish since then but this video brought back some power memories. I think I'll buy a one piece dry suit or a Mustang survival suit for spring fishing this year. Glad this guy ok, thanks for posting!!

[@TexasBarnRats]

Those Lifetime kayaks are pretty darn stable. Had he not lifted up that fish so high, he would've probably been just fine. Lifting that heavy fish upward nearly 2 feet drastically raised the vertical center of gravity (VCG) of the vessel and allowed the wind & waves to overcome the upright stability and subsequently roll him.

[@fishtacoguy]

Wow, what an eye-opener and shocker. I live in Wisconsin and put up my kayak in mid-November. We've had a warm late fall/early winter, temps in the 40s to 50 degrees (F). I've been tempted to take the kayak back down and head out, but water temps are in the low 40s to high 30s, depending on where you go. It's not worth dying for, so I've been researching dry suits and am planning on purchasing one before spring. This point was exemplified by a kayaker who went missing further up north on a larger body of water, and has still not been recovered (to my knowledge).

[@apprentice_pleb]

What makes me laugh is how someone can get excited over a fish and even more excited that they want to take a photo of it as if they have found a gold nugget.🤣

[@Josh-rz2bp]

Great video and thanks for spreading awareness. Unfortunately, this happens often and doesn’t get discussed. The area where I’m from has lost several kayak fishermen this exact same way. It’s human nature to feel invulnerable but always be sure to be aware of the weather conditions and be prepared. Shout out to the kayaker who made it out alive.

[@highwayjim6672]

I was kayaking in Hampton Roads harbor in November under a bridge and my poles behind me hung up on the bridge overhead. I wiggled my body trying to shake free and I went over. I could not get back into the kayak. I lost everything except my paddle was tied. Fortunately I was wearing a full wetsuit. I hung on to the kayak and tried to kick my way to shore and got nowhere. After 30 or 40 minutes a big boat from Norfolk, VA fire department came up and pulled me out. Someone had reported it. I was not cold at all because of the wetsuit but in time exhaustion would have gotten me. Since then, I have gotten a paddle float to assist getting back in the kayak and I have practiced the maneuver. Thanks for the video.

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

Scary story. Glad you made it out.

[@brandons_budget_adventures]

Yea I used to kayak all winter long in the Hamptons ny, but with a 7mm wetsuit and only in freshwater on calm days. I practiced getting in and outta the boat all the time. Wetsuits never fail if thick enough they save you

[@jessiec1194]

I did a deliberate flip on my pdl kayak, after a gentleman my age drowned at the boat launch nearby. Non swimmer, in his 60’s, no pfd, slipped and gone in less than 10 minutes. Going over deliberately I had a good hold of the painter, I went over with clothing on to get the feel, I never was able to get up and in the kayak with my clothes dragging on me and my oversized pfd floating up around my upper body. It was never a big deal for me in the summer and 50 yards to shore, but with all the “things” going on, the phone’s sinking, the fish, the gear, just the surprise of it I’m very glad he was ok.

[@kappakeepo4499]

i lost my breathe when i first saw this video...I live in NJ and been out by myself in kayak in the inlet but never again

[@jeffthomasward1993Tw]

Been in similar conditions but not in a basic kayak like that learned my lesson I have a good kayak with outriggers

[@rushfan1970]

Thank you so much for the brilliant tip at the end to put a paddle on a leash!! 💯💖

[@simpinainteasyRHEC]

Not sure how I found my way here other than I love fishing, but I also know my limits, I'd never risk this. Had you ask me 10 yrs ago, I'd have been this guy. Thank God this man's alive.

[@jung71ryu]

This happened to me before - my new rules - never go out there alone. Have a buddy who can look after each other. Be safe out there all.

[@PaulD70]

As a whitewater kayaker who boats class IV and knows how to dress for the water temperature and how to roll, what this guy was doing scares the hell out of me. A PFD is essential. Having a self rescue plan that you’ve practiced is essential. And having another equally capable person along with you is important when you’re near the edge of your abilities. Also, for the fisherfolk that want to kayak in these conditions, look into whitewater dry suits and insulation by companies like NRS, Kokatat, Immersion Research or Palm. They are made to keep you largely warm and dry and not to impede swimming when it inevitably occurs.

[@campbellzachc]

if you can find a way to pull your knees in to your chest and push your feet down, you would then be able to balance above them. Like a float. Case in point, a wakeboard floats, but if articulate it properly while you're sitting in the water, you can kick the board directly under you and balance on it, keeping your head above water.

[@williamcarr1678]

Great video. Proved a couple things I've been wondering myself!!!👍

[@keithjohnson7677]

Thank you for this from the UK.

[@zc4905]

Waders, 48 degree water, sitting sideways against the waves, with high speed wind gusts, paying more attention to his phone and social media than the ocean around him, not trying to flip the kayak back over, ignoring all the signs screaming “don’t go out today”… this guy is EXTREMELY lucky to be alive. If someone hadn’t noticed him from shore, he’d be sitting in a watery grave.

[@AirNorthOne]

The fact he didnt saw that he already dropped something at 3:31 Also I don't think this kayak is meant for this type of water, its a pleasure craft. There are kayak that are specifically designed for fishing and that are wayyyy more stable.

[@Napalmfuture]

as a deckhand i feel this every single day, eventually the cold kills nerves. pressure washing mud in thirty degrees for 7 hours is cold!

[@mariourbina7284]

Doesn't cease to amaze me how many kayakers don't wear PFDs, particularly the one in pedal yaks. He also has a short kayak which isn't helpful but you can definitely see that he wasn't paying attention to how his leg placement was. Him pushing his left knee out rotated that body enough to throw him out The issue isn't much with in water movement as much as when you're trying to get out as if they're full with water it's a lot harder to move /right the yak. Next to dams with no belt they can act like bags and drag you down . I usually practice twice a year.. one day in the winter and in the summer once a month when I'm done fishing.

[@jacknife10000]

Being on the ocean in THAT kayak is mind boggling. There is no way I would even attempt that