This is a fun one for me because I have looked over the NRS Chinook Fishing PFD for years. Seriously…years. Every so often, I jump on their site and dream up different boat configurations. I also browse through accessories and usually end up buying a few new cam straps after confirming my bank account isn’t ready for a new dry suit or raft.
I’ve worn a cheap set of life jackets for years and when I looked at the Chinook, I always had one reservation – Is it too bulky? Especially for a portly fellow like myself. I’ve had the chance to use the PFD in Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Colombia and it has completely changed my mind about combining storage with a PFD specifically for fishing.
NRS Chinook Features
I’ll start with the features, a few of which I’ve yet to actually use. Overall, the design is simple, something I can really appreciate. You really should only lug around so many things in a PFD anyways. I like the minimalist pockets and easy access to everything without being enticed to stash all of my gear.
Pockets – The two main pockets are perfect for a small fly box or two. I’m using for very specific applications. If I’m chucking streamers, I toss in a baggie or small box loaded with bugs. Same goes for nymphs or dries. It’s a focused approach and I only hold the flies I’m most likely to use on the given day. It saves me the trouble of rummaging through a boat bag and I can change flies quickly. I’m liking one pocket for flies and one for two big spools of tippet.
The two smaller outer pockets hold my floatant, split shot and nippers. So far, that’s all I’ve done with them and it’s a perfect arrangement. The other tool holder is ideal for pliers or forceps. I haven’t been using it but will add a dedicated set of forceps in the future.
Knife Lash and Rod Holder – I don’t have a knife at the moment and am already pretty good at tossing my rods around or holding one under my armpit while working on my flies. I might put these to use one day but for now they are sitting idle. They don’t get in the way of anything which is nice.
Material Design – The PFD is rated at a Coast Guard type III level. I took a nice swim in mine and she works perfectly. The front has a heavy duty zipper and the side straps cinch down easily for a snug fit.
Utility and Comfort Level
I already covered the pockets and they are perfect. Adjusting the fit takes seconds and the vest is super lightweight. It also breathes nicely with the mesh back panel. My favorite thing is having the ability to jump out of the boat to fish. I like to stop frequently and work from my feet.
Under normal circumstances, this means fishing until I break off and returning to the boat to re-rig. Otherwise, I’m carrying random gear in shorts pockets with poor functionality. I love that I can jump out without touching the boat bag or returning to the boat until I’m done fishing the area. My phone and fly boxes are getting soaked in my shorts and no forethought is required.
Final Thoughts
On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it a million. It’s been doubling as a pillow in my campervan and they even make one specifically for women called the Shenook. It also causes zero conflict with my casting motion and the line does not snag on anything. I’ll be living in this thing through the Andes and Patagonia for the next year and it’s a killer piece of equipment.
If you decide to buy the best fishing life jacket around, click through here. I’ll collect a small commission to help towards the next tank of gas on my way down the Pan American highway.
