Ask the G&F: Float tubes and life jackets
Water safety
by Wyoming Game & Fish Department
April 16, 2007
ASK THE G&F:
Q. "Do I need to have a life jacket if I'm fishing from a float tube or a one-man pontoon boat?"
A. Float tubes are considered water sport toys in the boating regulations and as such a life jacket is not required. However, if your float tube has a motor, it becomes a motorized watercraft and the law requires you have a life jacket on board. For the pontoon boat, life jacket is required since it is classified as a "watercraft" rather than a "water sport toy." It falls under that designation since it is propelled by oars or paddles rather than the fins used with float tubes. Also, you should be aware that all craft propelled by means other than human effort must be registered. So, if your float tube or any other craft has an electric motor, it must be registered and numbered.
Related Links:
Wyoming Game & Fish Department, http://gf.state.wy.us
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