First off, are you an excellent swimmer? This will help for convincing them that you'll be safe. Second, find a partner, the older and more experienced the better. Third, wear a life jacket. Forth, until they trust your skills, fish only lakes, harbors, and beaches w/ NO waves. Fifth, buy a Caddis Navigator II or it's equal. Reason being, it has 4 air bladders, sinking one is near impossible. Sixth, have your parents come with you a few times to see how safe it really is.

Here's a few others too. They are superstealth. Bait will even congregate under you sometimes. They are excellent for getting exercise. Last of all, my tube (a Nav II) is my favorite way to fish bass, and I work on a boat. They are an absolute blast.

If you can convince them, post the area where you live. I'm sure one of us can find you a partner. At least I know I probably can if you live somewhere between L.A. and San Diego.

Good Luck and let us know what happens,
Amish Ed