NEW YORK STATE PFD REQUIREMENTS
- Any pleasure vessel, including self-propelled watercraft such as canoes, kayaks and rowboats, operating on New York State waters, must have on board one US Coast Guard approved PFD per person.
- Vessels 16 feet or longer must also carry a type IV throwable PFD.
- Boaters under age 12 must wear a securely fastened PFD at all times.
- From November 1st – May 1st, all boaters must wear a securely fastened PFD at all times.
- These rules also apply to anyone being towed behind a vessel (water skis, tubes, sails, etc.).
For safety and comfort, use our checklist to pack the necessary equipment for your paddle.
BOAT GEAR
- Canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, rowboat, or other vessel, suitable for water conditions and number of people
- Coast Guard Approved wearable life vest or Personal Flotation Device (PFD). See NYS PFD requirements above.
- Helmet, if anticipating rapids, fast currents or extensive hazards
- Whistle, horn or sound signaling device that can be heard half a mile or more, which is required by law in NYS.
- White light for navigation and emergencies
- Paddles, including a spare
- Bailer or pump
- Small repair kit
- Bow and stern lines, also called painters
- Waterproof storage bags or containers, often called dry bags
- Cable and lock to secure boat, with enough line to tie both bow and stern in a storm or if the boat requires towing
COMMUNICATIONS AND SAFETY
- Float plan with emergency contact information. Have one with you and leave one with a friend or family member.
- Identification such as a driver’s license
- Cell phone and portable charger. Keep in a waterproof case, dry bag or Ziploc plastic bag. Secure to your boat or life jacket.
- Portable VHF marine band radio and/or GPS locator
- Binoculars, for spotting wildlife (especially eagles and heron), as well as buoy numbers and bridge names
PERSONAL GEAR
- Water bottle. Never drink untreated river water.
- Snacks, secured in dry bag
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Water shoes or old sneakers. Never paddle in flip flops.
- Cold and warm weather clothing. One set in a dry bag, a second in your vehicle.
- Rain gear
- Waterproof bag, toilet paper and sanitary wipes or gel, if no restroom is available. Carry out with you, if no garbage cans are available.
- Insect repellent
- Knife
- First aid kit
- Credit or debit card
FOR LONGER PADDLES
- Tent
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Portable cell phone charger and cord.
- Roll of quarters for any coin-operated shower, laundry or parking meters.
- Extra water
- Meals and snacks
- Portable stove and fuel
- Waterproof matches and/or lighter
- Water jug
- Cooking gear and utensils
- Trash bags. Take all garbage with you, if no garbage cans are available.
NEED EQUIPMENT?
Check out our list of outfitters and rentals for boat rentals and other gear or search our online map to find outfitters, accommodations, guides, bait and fishing supplies, as well as local organizations and recreation trails.
