NRS Chinook PFD Review: Stay Safe & Comfortable While Kayak Fishing
Wesley Littlefield 06.02.25
The biggest mistake any boater, especially kayak anglers, can make is neglecting to wear a personal flotation device (PFD). However, many are uncomfortable and make fishing more difficult. Several years ago, I began searching for the perfect kayak fishing PFD. My first stop was the US Coast Guard-approved NRS Chinook because I’d heard so many great things about it, but were they true or marketing lore? As you continue reading, we’ll dissect fact from fiction in my NRS Chinook PFD Review.
Intended Use (Rating: 8/10)
I watched several reviews from prominent kayak fishing YouTubers before purchasing the NRS Chinook because I wanted to ensure it was worth my hard-earned money. Those kayak anglers are larger in stature than I am, and they still found the NRS Chinook to be everything it promises to be.
I purchased the NRS Chinook several years ago when I decided to get serious about kayak fishing. In the past, I’d used cheap lifejackets that were uncomfortable, but kept me above water.
I’ve loved using the Chinook over the last several years because it is made by a trusted brand, is comfortable and durable, and has many features beneficial to kayak anglers.
The NRS Chinook is a Level 70 that is equivalent to the old system’s Type III PFDs. These are the most common PFDs worn by recreational boaters, but they do not have self-turning ability.
Fit and Comfort (Rating: 8/10)
It doesn’t matter what time of year I’m fishing, the NRS Chinook is comfortable. Features like the Orbit Fit System also ensure a comfortable fit, and the mesh lower back prevents you from feeling hunched while sitting. I’ve used many PFDs that force you into an uncomfortable posture because of the foam placement, and the NRS Chinook isn’t one. During the winter, I can quickly adjust the shoulder and side straps to fit over my sweatshirt and jacket, ensuring a comfortable fit year-round.
I’ve also used this PFD to go swimming. Whether wet or dry, it doesn’t chafe me or ride up too much while floating in the water (getting the correct size and proper fit helps with that problem).
Mobility and Bulk (Rating: 7/10)
I found that it can be a bit bulky while fishing. The butt of my rod occasionally gets caught on the front of the jacket (pockets) while setting the hook or fighting a fish, but I can’t say that it’s cost me fish. However, it doesn’t interfere with my paddling or casting, thanks to the well-thought-out shoulder straps
Breathability and Materials (Rating: 7/10)
During the summer, the open sides, lower mesh back, and high foam back reduce my sweating (I tend to sweat a lot). However, the recycled ripstop nylon shell front traps a little more heat than I’d like on hot days.
Storage and Attachment Points (Rating: 8/10)
The placement of the clamshell pockets is thoughtful, as are features like the tool holder pocket and multiple attachment points for a knife, light, or anything else you might need while on the water.
I’m not a massive fan of cramming my lifejacket pockets full of stuff, but if you don’t mind, you’ll find these pockets plenty roomy. I tend to keep my phone, pocket knife, and pliers handy, with plenty of room to spare.
Safety and Visibility (Rating: 8/10)
I have never felt unsafe wearing this lifejacket, as it keeps me above water while floating, even in some current (definitely not whitewater rapids, though). However, since I own the Charcoal color, it’s difficult to see while floating and in my kayak, even with the reflective straps. Luckily, NRS offers Flare, Forest, and Navy colors.
I would recommend Flare for those most concerned about visibility, as it’s bright and easy to see in any condition. The other three colors tend to blend into the environment, making it more difficult for boaters to see you.
Durability and Construction (Rating: 9/10)
The NRS Chinook has lasted several years of paddling, fishing, and getting tossed in the back of my truck. It hardly shows much wear and tear, which is surprising given how tough I am on my gear. This is due to the fact that NRS uses high-quality materials and parts like a YKK zipper, ripstop nylon shell, and a recycled nylon inner that protects the Ethafoam shims.
I can confidently say this PFD will last you for years because it’s held up to the abuse I’ve put it through.
Value for Money (Rating: 8/10)
NRS is one of the leading paddlesports companies. High-quality PFDs, inflatable rafts, inflatable SUPs, dry bags, and apparel for watersports are NRS’s primary focus. While most people think of whitewater when considering NRS, the excellent fishing PFDs and other gear are often mistakenly overlooked.
The biggest downside is the high cost. NRS does not make cheap PFDs because they use high-quality components. While this isn’t ideal, it is an excellent case of “you get what you pay for.” In my opinion, it’s still worth the price of $160 and within range of other high-end kayak fishing PFDs like the Astral V-Eight Fisher.
Overall Rating: 7.9/10
While I haven’t had to use it in an emergency situation, thankfully, I’m confident that it will perform if the situation ever arises, as it’s kept me afloat many times while swimming with the family. In the meantime, I’m comfortable and safe while kayak fishing. If you’re looking for a high-quality fishing PFD, look no further than the NRS Chinook; you won’t be disappointed.
