They were not wearing vests. My son was wearing his, and while I wasn't wearing mine, it was at my side.

Cedar,

I have tried a number of these special brine recipes, and have not seen any difference between the different methods, except for adding "bluing" which made the bait VERY BRIGHT. I still caught as many fish when fished next to plain salt brine. I like to keep thing simple, as I tend to carry enough crap up there every time I go.

I'll give you folks a report after Labor Day.