No matter where you paddle, the “VISICarbon Pro” safety flag and light sets the standard for quality, construction, and overall utility in that product area. Recent changes have centered mainly around mounting systems and track compatibility, but a new improvement to the light diffuser cone makes the VISICarbon Pro even better at making you more visible in low light kayak fishing conditions.
For those who aren’t familiar: the VISICarbon Pro, made by YakAttack, is a combination safety flag and light that will allow you to meet or exceed USCG low-light visibility regulations and enhance your chances of being seen by boaters. It’s 48” long, but the slim four-piece carbon fiber mast breaks down to allow the 11” collapsed setup to fit into its own combination safety flag and storage bag. There are so many mounting options available that you’ll be hard-pressed not to find a way to fit it on your kayak. Other flags and flag mounting options are available, including the 12” x 18” U.S flag you see on my kayak.
Photo courtesy Bill “Heywood” Howard
The light portion of the VISICarbon Pro consists of a light body that holds three AA batteries, the waterproof Tek-Tite® hi-intensity LED head, and the screw-on light diffuser that also serves as the on-off switch. The body is wrapped in a highly reflective 2” wide SOLAS stripe and two 1” reflective orange stripes. [“SOLAS” stands for “Safety Of Life At Sea”, and refers to the international treaty that sets standards for all aspects of maritime safety.]
The diffuser used to be made of clear plastic, and the LEDs shone upward onto a twisted translucent plastic strip that diffused the light 360°. In the updated version, YakAttack owner Luther Cifers says they’ve taken out the plastic strip and made the whole cone translucent. “Now the entire portion of the cone above the LEDs acts as the diffuser.” The interior of the cone is ribbed, which further helps spread the light.
What’s the result? Very low light photos are tough, but even with my limited skills the difference is obvious. The new diffuser on the left appears much brighter, even close up (where the variance wouldn’t usually be as apparent). Move off a couple hundred yards, and the improvement in visibility is striking.
All the VISICarbon Pros shipping from YakAttack after February 1 are coming through with the new diffuser design. The VISICarbon Pro retails for $84.95 for the Scotty base/1.75” rod holder mount version, and a few dollars more for some of the more advanced mounting options. You can purchase the VISICarbon Pro directly from YakAttack, or at quality kayak equipment dealers in your area. Current owners who want to upgrade can contact their local retailer, or visit the YakAttack website http://www.yakattack.us.
