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...
My Books (Amazon):
(NEW) - Fishing the Edge: amzn.to/3TQtFvq
Fishing the Bucktail: amzn.to/2MQDysM
Fishing for Summer Flounder: amzn.to/2TcZnIP
Striper Pursuit: amzn.to/3ceIQYp
A Season on the Edge: amzn.to/3lHWye4
The above are Affiliate Links.

[@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!

[@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 😬

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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"

[@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.

[@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.

[@PeaceIsBetter]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@rogerbarrios8614]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@bigdogbob845]

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

[@BigDaddyFishingNJ]

John, this is a life saver, thank you!

[@bobclark4994]

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

[@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?

[@johnsamothrakis4621]

Thanks for sharing John , that is one lucky man

[@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.

[@RayA-rt6tp]

Thanks for sharing John. So glad he made it to fish another day. Lesson learned.

[@215lj8]

Same place right off the point thank God there was 1 Yager left I stayed calm but dang it was cold if I didn't grab my yak it was over union Beach was catching fish winds picked up water temp was 38 that day I was sitting on my vest

[@chrisuk1000]

plenty of lessons in there, good video. I've turned plenty of kayaks and been smashed up the reef before now, but always had the correct safety gear, stayed calm and got out of it. I even had flashbacks as the guy started edging over. Poor chap.

[@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.

[@pa1264]

I'm glad you're ok buddy thank you for the video to help bring awareness when I'm out on the water.

[@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🤘👍🌊💯🦆

[@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

[@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.

[@dewevemc1]

Excellent video thank you for sharing great work John

[@ReelAZMatt]

Sweet video John! Thank you!

[@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.

[@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

[@marianitobaltimore]

Gracias John por compartir este video en particular. Al Mar se lo respeta. Muy bien por la persona que decidio compartirlo con tus seguidores, de seguro aprendio la leccion, ya que reconociendo los herrores se aprende.

[@franklindmurphy]

Great lesson. Thanks for posting

[@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.

[@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.

[@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."

[@bobturner3388]

Very, very informative video! Thank you!

[@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

[@Mr.K.14823]

A wetsuit is a cheaper and more reliable option. I surfed for years - 200 will get you a top of the line suit. A skeg set will add stability, as will a set of stabilizer floats.

[@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.

[@shawnboisclair3696]

Thanks for sharing this. I am new to kayak fishing but not fishing, boating or diving and thiss was scary, luckily he survived. Dicey conditions for even a good sized boat, never mind a kayak No fish is worth your life, I am investing in a dry or semi-dry suit this spring for colder weather fishing that decision was made way before this video. At minimum a pfd is vital.

[@TexasSlamFishing]

Very important video, thank you John

[@ugsisr]

I have slipped in fast moving water that was barely up to my waist... Before I knew it I was being swept down river that was 52 degrees..My Wader Belt was tight yet I still took water into the top portion weighing me down.. Luckily I was able to grab onto a rock and right myself.. By this time I was over 100 meters down river... Since then I wear an inflatable PFD and Always use a Wading Staff... I won't lie.... This video was hard to watch, very lucky to be alive. John thank you very much for your content... I will be in South West Florida in a few weeks... Plan to fish as much as possible...

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@elkayakfish]

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

[@keithjohnson7677]

Thank you for this from the UK.

[@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

[@muddyh2o2init44]

I actually did the same drill in the pool with the kayak. Once I made all the adjustments and mastered it I went to the lake just to run the same drills. These videos are serious lessons of what you don’t want to find out when it’s too late!

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@nauticalmile6]

I now wear a leash around my wrist connecting to the kill switch on my small boat that uses a tiller motor for added safety in case anything where to happen and I somehow fall out while being underway. PFD’s are absolutely necessary in cold weather (and in some warm weather situations too). Also look into Stormr gear as well for some added bouancy. Thank you John and submitter for sharing this, it’s a hard lesson but glad this guy made it out ok. These types of informative videos may save someone’s life. I definitely learned a thing or two by watching this, scary stuff.

[@valepesca41]

Thank you for teaching people

[@russellrfox]

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

[@eves08109]

Exactly!

[@blizzington4528]

I have the same kayak and have fished the barneget bay for 6-7 hours at a time and always learned before I ever went out on it is always face the nose of the kayak towards the waves this guy obviously cared more about a picture that’s his own safety

[@arsfishing]

Yea I did. And I always try to keep the yak towards the waves. I lost focus.

[@blizzington4528]

@@arsfishing I have a tamarack too man they aren’t the best but they aren’t the worst either. Only thing that sucks for us is we don’t have pedals or trolling motors so for us to turn with a fish on is hard to deal with. I know the struggle man just glad you’re good

[@arsfishing]

​@@blizzington4528 My biggest problem was that I was foolishly lugging around a 10 ft surf road while trolling a 7 ft rod which is appropriate. I should have just been fine with one road. I spend half the time moving rods around and untangling and adjusting stuff

[@paulineadams8996]

Great vid. lesson learned.

[@angeloiacovella7129]

So on the note of your legs floating up. I was fly fishing the Salmon River for Steelhead a few years back and well, conditions weren't good - the river was honking near 1800, well into danger territory. I drove 450 miles - I was fishing and there was nothing changing my mind. I lost footing (custom made wading boots with 3 different types of spikes, different lengths, different materials - and lots of them) while trying to net my brother's Steelhead and started heading downstream fast in raging water. I could have righted myself there in shallow water and saved myself from going downstream, but I couldn't. I couldn't because the waterproof Fishpond fanny pack I had on my lumbar (and they're not small fanny packs) prevented me from righting myself. On top of that, the air trapped in the stockingfoot waders also made it impossible to curl my legs down to grab purchase of the riverbed to stop myself. Someone downstream saw me - climbed out onto a fallen tree and grabbed me before I ended up in lake Ontario or worse yet pinned under deadfall sweepers in the river. Lots of mistakes and one of them being tying an overhand knot in the fanny pack webbing strap because the buckle kept slipping (I tend to overload my pack with heavy gear) and underwater swelled so I couldn't unknot it. I had it on so tight and with many layers of clothing and jacket due to being mid November and very cold (snowing that day actually). Now I wear a waterproof sling that I don't have to tie the straps on and is easier to get off and use as a PFD and because it's so high on my torso - wont interfere with me being able to lower my legs below the waterline and grab purchase again. On top of that - I bought high end waders that are "athletic" fit - meaning the legs aren't baggy and tapered in fact (Orvis Pro) so there's less air and the second benefit of that part is they are less drag in the water so when you're wading in fast current in the river there's less pressure against your legs making it easier and less risky to wade.

[@fishwhistler758]

the good thing in the salmon river is someone will snag you before you drift too far hahahaha 😆

[@goodman4773]

We lose a guy every year or two off the rocks at the inlet in Delaware. Always with waders on even though I can't understand why you need waders on the rocks. They sink so fast no one can help them. Great post John.

[@dannymarsilii7740]

I've used waders at Cape Henlopen (bayside obviously). But I don't go deep. Maybe thigh high at the most and then I scoot parallel. Cover more ground jigging for flounder. But I've seen those Joes at the IR inlet and always thought they were nuts.

[@davelindsey6890]

Water has neutral buoyancy though. It is a myth that waders full of water will cause you to sink.

[@goodman4773]

@@davelindsey6890 Tell the guys who have died in waders at the Indian River inlet.

[@davelindsey6890]

@@goodman4773 I am telling you. Yes, people have died wearing waders. It doesn't mean that they died because they were wearing waders, and the laws of physics don't change because you don't understand them.

[@goodman4773]

@@davelindsey6890 These guys fall into fast moving water. I'm not going to get into a pissing match since you seem to know more about my education than I do.

[@cespaia]

Nice vid , good lesson!👍🏼

[@actionsportsfishingoc6365]

Thank you I have always wondered about this. Lots of scary warning stories

[@vincentengongoro2705]

As soon as that guy went over i could hear his panicked breathing.. made my heart race.. glad he's ok. I tripped, fell, and went under in my waders for a second two seasons ago when I was fly fishing the Lackawaxan in Pa.. not fun at all..at least I was able to stand back up quickly. I don't want to imagine the oh shit moment that guy felt when he went over off the yak

[@arsfishing]

It wasn't great. To be totally honest my first thought was "NO MY PHONE" because I literally just bought that one after losing another one surf fishing a week or two prior. But quickly my survival mode kicked in and my thinking became very simple. First was to get something to float on so I could catch my breath and not drown. Next was find land.

[@NudePostingConspiracyTheories]

Oh! My chest tightened. God bless him for having the humility to go: “Oops, I’m an idiot!”. You learn a lot more from peoples’ admitting their goose -ness, than their successes, lol. That’s INSANE that someone saw him from that far shore. I gave watched a lot of videos of ‘Death -By -Selfie’. . Usually they’re doing a teenage right - of - passage dare initiation thing. Ahh, the lure pf an audience, and accolades. Im no better but in different ways. Thanks mate

[@williamcarr1678]

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

[@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.

[@mbnz0174]

Kayak fishermen in the UK wear drysuits (and a PFD, of course). They dress for water rather than air temperature. Seems like overkill until you watch this video. Well done to the gentleman and to you for sharing.

[@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.

[@curtisg.8671]

Wow. Could have been one of those bad calls I hear on the vhf radio. Great way to get exposure on kayak safety John.

[@drewjames1104]

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

[@catchandrelease6196]

thank you for posting (ARS and John). This posting can safe someone's life. There are too many people that do not believe unless they see it for themselves.

[@stevek8401]

Excellent video, and perfect to emphasize some basic safety issues for open water kayaking. One point, however, that still may be open for more discussion is the use of waders. We have all heard since we were kids that if you fall in with waders, you will sink and drown as the waders fill up with water. A number of years back, one of the fishing journalists tested this theory, and ran a series of controlled experiments ( similar to what you did in the pool ) to see what effect waders actually have. He found that the old theories were just " old wive's tales " , and didn't hold up to what actually happens. He found that the water is neutral , and certainly didn't make one sink . I think he concluded there was no difference whether you had waders on or off. Once the waders fill up with water, its no different than having no waders. Now what gets more complicated is trying to swim with waders on . The waders are usually bulky and add more net weight, so it would seem it would be much more difficult to swim any distance with them on. I would imagine it would also be much more difficult to get back in the kayak with waders filled with water, as you try to lift yourself out of the water, and the water weight is no longer neutral. I think your pool test showed that you didn't sink like a stone, and that the belted waders actually provided some bouyancy because of air being trapped inside. Of course, air trapped in the boot area caused you to float feet up which would definitely impact your ability to swim effectively. If you didn't know how to swim, I don't know if having the air flotation might actually keep you from drowning until help came along. Very interesting subject.

[@arsfishing]

You are actually correct. My belt was loose so my boots filled instantly. But you are correct, it didn't necessarily make me less buoyant; but what it did do was make kicking my legs to keep my head above water much more difficult. And swimming to the kayak to hold on to was very difficult. And once I had hold of the kayak I was using it as a kickboard and kicking towards land. However I was making almost no progress.

[@nvojc8617]

Thanks for this reminder- going to share it with my boys and hunting / fishing partners.

[@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.

[@matthewkaski2607]

I just now tested PFD. I admit, I wear it every time I kayak fish. It is the fanny pack style one, but didn't know what it actually looked like inflated. Realized a few days ago the cylinder wasn't screwed in even. Thanks for the video, as it's a good reminder to watch our backs and be smarter out there. I also noted the date on mine that it was tested.

[@buffdoc46]

Had my first flip in my Hobie Pro Angler 14 this summer, was leaning over to revive a big Rockfish. I forgot to empty out some water from a rain storm the day before. Even though it wasn't a lot of water, I'm 6ft. 230 lifter and all my gear, was enough to complete the flip. Yes I never ever go out in those kind of wind and weather conditions, or areas too far out when weather can turn on a dime. I can only imagine what it's like to flip in cold water. Glad you are safe.

[@cfv704]

Good lord. As an avid kayak angler this was HARD to watch mate. Made me anxious through and through

[@grantd.5438]

Great tip for Kayaks, but also plenty of small boats (16ft / less), myself included at 14’ fishing during early spring. Anglers in these vessels should consider dry suits when fishing winter months. Not only will it help with survival and layering, it is mighty comfortable. Worth every bit of the investment. Just my 2C. Super good video to share Skinner!

[@bcp5296d]

If you can afford one sure. Any tips on where to get one for under $350?

[@grantd.5438]

@@bcp5296d used market. Just ensure the quality of the suit is still there (no rotting seals, holes, etc). I got mine new for $650 and saved up for the investment. Also ~ there are plenty of shore spots for early and late season angling that still require safety considerations, but might not mean dry suit....just another thought. Nobody should be out in cold water without the right gear.

[@grantd.5438]

@@bcp5296d I also saw a combination of wetsuit / dry-top that can be used too and is a bit more economical!

[@Hondeer]

I surf and windsurf in the PNW... I'm shocked when I see most people not wearing some sort of wet suit when it gets cold. Heck, was on a river the other day, finder said 43ºF. Yikes!!! Turned around and went in. I also river fish, waders are your #1 enemy if you fall. Can't image having both of this at once, in that kind of chop/wind.

[@jjm4643]

very educational. What do most cold weather kayakers wear instead of the waders? Any suggestions?

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

I wear a wetsuit for cold-water trips. It will keep you buoyant and warm.

[@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.

[@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).

[@zwicker3697]

I have a co2 PFD. Any way to test them? How do I know it will inflate in an emergency?

[@Cornpop-N-DaBoyz]

I spearfish out of a similar sit on kayak. Hop in and out w ease but I have no idea how it would be with waders on. I have a strap for my paddle to keep it in place like the leash idea though. I'll rig something w paracord. Thanks sharing hopefully saves someone making similar mistakes

[@chriskosakowski6809]

Great educational Video

[@michaelpotts3685]

You nailed it. I've had two of these lifetime kayaks, and in comparison to an Old Town or something similar the stability just isn't there. For those conditions that's a dangerous kayak to be on.

[@hubby-tubadventures01]

Exciting sport and the prize is the lure that keeps us at it. I recall doing my first self rescue's at a lake whilst wearing hiking style waterproof trousers. I could not get back into the yak. I now use "Winchman" dry suits on most of my trips in the UK. Summertime see's me in the occasional casual clothing with a wet shorty underneath. Never without a PFD. Leash it or lose it is a lesson well learned. All fishing kit is attached to my yak at various points including the paddle. I am also leashed to my yak. I have been unfortunate to get caught in a squall in a shipping lane but also fortunate enough to have assistance from rescue services. Lessons well learnt and safety is no longer and afterthought. Glad you are still with us 🙂 I have a vid of me losing the yak at a beach landing in 1 foot of water. All my own fault, and easily avoidable. Silly is as silly does.

[@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.

[@jamesps7515]

My home waters, didn’t even hear of this. Thanks for sharing John, raritan bay’s currents can be very extreme at times with the really deep channels and 10ft tide changes. Being out there alone this time of year is NEVER a good idea, people die in the bay every year.

[@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.

[@markmuna5862]

Is there an outrigger attachment for kayaks? Will prevent tip overs

[@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.

[@tommyzb]

that tiny change in the center of gravity dump him

[@FrankLadd]

Good on that fella for sharing his experience. I find that anglers rarely practice kayak self rescue skills and it is even more rare for them to practice in cold water. When I taught a group of anglers, none of them had ever seen a paddle float which is a required item for any solo paddler. After the class they all went to REI and picked them up. 4 out of 6 could not get back in the boat without the paddle float. One broke his very expensive seat while trying. Practice is good!

[@arsfishing]

In hindsight my move first would have been to immediately shed the waders and flip the yak. I thought about it but in my head they were keeping me warm.

[@FrankLadd]

@@arsfishing I surf kayak in snug fitting neoprene waders witha splash top over that and a life vest on top. I take many spills and swims and stay warm and often pretty dry or atleast not completely soaked.

[@duffmeister3373]

I almost died practicing a re- entry on a kayak in my own pool ! It flipped over and struck me across the bridge of my nose and nearly knocked me out. Luckily the ladder was in reach. No joke I had to go to the eye doctor and dentist. These things are extremely dangerous please be safe . Thanks for posting this John.

[@JohnSkinnerFishing]

Uggh. Frustrating that you were doing all the right things and a freak accident got you.

[@duffmeister6480]

@@JohnSkinnerFishing I wasn’t wearing my pfd, I figured what could possibly go wrong in my backyard ! It was a 14’ Wilderness Ocean Kayak, I never got back in it, sold it. I now have an Outback, it’s more stable, yet I’m still find it scary an hardly use it.

[@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.