I just read the entire boating handbook online and there is no mention of it. I would definitely recommend contacting the fish and boat commision directly to confirm that. A proper fitted life jacket is obviously required. When shopping for a life jacket, try several on while sitting down and mimicking a rowing motion in order to ensure a proper and comforatble fit. It is also a very bad idea to kayak alone, try to get a friend or family member into the sport as well for two reasons, #1 Safety, #2 is companionship. No matter how good of a swimmer you think you are, once the kayak is upside down it's a whole new ballgame, trust me i have been there. Fishing from a kayak is awesome but if you are new to kayaking take it out for a few afternoons without your gear. Just get used to being in a kayak and familiar with how it moves before you start adding the extra activities. Main thing is to be safe so you can keep enjoying the sport. Good luck.
