I have been lucky enough to get my hands on a Kokatat Bahia Tour PFD :

I have been using it for the last few months and it has been a welcome addition to my kit.

Although it is classed as a fishing PFD for sit on tops or kayaks with high back rests, it has proven itself to me as a good all rounder . I’m happy to use it either fishing or  paddling  alike.

Kokatat needs no introduction in the paddling world.

Since they are known for excellent designs and quality products I was very excited about getting one and had high expectations of it.

I have to say it did not disappoint.

First impressions were good.   A nice light piece of kit, something that in tailoring terms draped nicely.  It is extremely comfortable to wear for extended periods.  Good for multi-day trips  or just those endless day’s of fishing.

On closer inspection it ticks all the boxes for practicality with 2 ample sized storage pockets as well as additional pockets for GPS/VHF and forceps/pliers ( very handy for the pike guys ). There is also a license window and 2 handy lash tabs for a knife or strobe.

The thought behind  the cut and design is evident when you initially try it on . It is easily adjusted and seems to hug your frame snugly while still leaving you feeling very comfortable. It allows for great arm movement which when worn along with the split mesh back makes it feel very unrestricted. I opted for the mango colour with its high visibility although there are other colours for those who want a more sedate appearance. There are well placed reflective strips both front and back.

But how does it feel while out on the water?

I have been using the Bahia Tour for the last couple of months mainly while paddling as fishing is quiet this time of year. My first impressions were not wrong. The extra arm room allows for an extremely comfortable paddle add that to the fact that it is lightweight you could almost at times forget you are wearing it. The wire mesh back adds an additional level of comfort which is most welcome when on the water for any length of time. The pockets are indeed sufficient with room for all the essentials and those extra items. I have to say that overall it  is an excellent vest,  a good all rounder perfect for those who like both paddling and fishing. The Bahia Tour PFD  does justice to the Kokatat reputation for quality and durability and they have every right to have confidence in this product.

I was initially concerned about the thickness of the foam higher in the back and how this would feel in the water. No problems on that front though. After a few swims it did not feel any different to any other buoyancy aid that i have used. In fact, i was impressed with the overall buoyancy.

So if you are in the market for a good all round PFD   then I highly recommend this product as you are unlikely to be disappointed.

Although they aren’t sold in Northern Ireland, they do however come in through the Irish agent,  I-Canoe,  in Dublin.

Colm from I-Canoe is an absolute gentleman to deal with and is the official Ireland stockist for Kokatat with no problems posting to the north if needed.