What precaution should anglers and hunters take when fishing or hunting on cold water?

Wearing several layers under personal flotation devices (PFDs) is a crucial safety measure for anglers and hunters in cold water. Layering helps to trap heat and insulate the body, providing better protection against the cold, which can be particularly treacherous in aquatic environments. The combination of layers can help manage moisture and maintain warmth even if individuals get wet.

Cold water can lead to hypothermia much faster than cold air, and even a short exposure can be dangerous. By ensuring they have adequate insulation, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with sudden capsizing or immersion in cold water.

Options like wearing wet suits, while beneficial for temperature management, typically offer less flexibility and are not always practical for activities like fishing or hunting, where movement is needed. Staying close to shore does not necessarily provide adequate protection from the cold water's effects, as it does not address the need for body warmth in the event of an accident. Lastly, only fishing during the daytime limits fishing opportunities and may not always correlate with safety from cold exposure. Therefore, layering under PFDs stands out as the most effective precaution among the options presented.