LAST EDITED ON May-17-01 AT 09:36 AM (PST)

In lakes I believe it varies from lake to lake but in the ocean you must have one on board (at least that's what the harbor patrol has told me). I have been checked by the Santa Barbara Harbor Patrol twice for a lifevest and I have seen them kick some guys out of the water who were in an inflatable raft who didn't have any life vests aboard.

According to DFG regulations you also need a net that is at least 18" in diameter. I've never been checked on this but I do know a couple guys who have been.

I have also been checked for a flashlight after dark.

As for the life vest I got this cheap ski vest at K-mart for like $15 or $20. As long as it's coast guard approved it's okay.

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You can't catch tomorrow what you kill today - please practice catch and release.