What does one need to know about life jackets? Mustang
Inflatables will cost 3 times (or more) than a regular/traditional vest. Really depends on what your intended usage.
Inflatables can be auto or pull cord, again it really depends on when, where and how you will be fishing.
I have four different life jackets/vest for where I will be fishing and the level of safety I perceive the need to be while playing within the regs.
In the ocean/big lakes, I wear an auto inflator at all times when the weather is good. In cold/rough weather on ocean/big lakes I wear a floater parka/coat in orange high vis.
Small lake fishing in my tinny, I tend to just have a basic traditional vest close by, yes I should wear it at all times, but I don't.
In my kayak, I have a specific kayak vest. Worn at all times.
This works for me, everyone will have their own preference. This is not an area to skimp on quality or the right fit for the water.
All four are Mustang.