u/nyarlathotep2

For the past several years I have been trolling out of a paddle kayak, (95% of the time using an electric trolling motor).  I have been using a basic Onyx Kayak Fishing vest from Amazon, and it's worked fine in terms of comfort for electric trolling and the occasional paddling.

I've recently been trying out a pedal kayak, and the same PFD isn't working out as well.  The reclined/recumbent pedaling position puts lot of pressure against the chair back and the jacket's rear foam flotation piece is pretty uncomfortable on my back, plus the jacket itself tends to slide upwards as I pedal which is also annoying.  

Does anybody have the same issue while pedaling, and what PFD solution are you using?  I am considering a manual and/or automatic inflatable type coupled with a light fishing vest to hold wallet/keys/license.

I don't know if this is entirely appropriate to ask in the fishing community, so please correct and shame me if i am wrong in asking, but in short my fishing opportunities this spring and summer are limited but I'd like to harvest some delicious Kokanee.

Any reports from:

American Lake (I had good luck there early last year, some decent 15-16 inchers on occasion, year before occasionally even bigger, but it seemed to slow down for me so I switched to Summit Lake.

Summit Lake (last couple years was very good for me, not big but lots of limits, this year went once, opening day, was a near bust)

Alder Lake (I didn't go last year, but it's been pretty variable for me historically)

Ward (pulled some decent by Western Washington standards Kokanee, a couple years back, but my sole trip last year was a couple 9-10 inchers)

Merwin is a bit far for me given the gas prices but would also be interested in reports, might consider a camping trip. Last three trips I'd got my 10 but two of those times took a while, not that I'm complaining.

I've only caught trout in Pierce County Clear Lake. Been there three times now. Maybe Thurston County Clear Lake?

Any help would be appreciated.