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Kayaker's death prompts warnings about staying visible on the water

Zack Gibson at Roy's Bait and Tackle said it is important for operators of such small boats to take precautions.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Police have still not released the name of the kayaker whose body was found early Monday morning off Harbor Island, but investigators said because of the condition of the kayak, it is possible that whoever might have hit him may not have realized it.

There are rules kayak fisherman and anyone in a kayak have to follow in order to make sure they are seen by others out on the water.

Police said the unidentified man's kayak was found badly damaged a quarter mile from where his body was discovered by two fishermen. It is still unclear where the kayaker was when he was hit, but authorities said there are several steps to follow when you go out in small boats.

U.S. Coast Guard regulations require a life vest, an electric torn or lantern if out at night, and a whistle or horn to signal other boaters.

Zack Gibson at Roy's Bait and Tackle said it is important for operators of such small boats to take precautions.

"Your heart goes out to those, the familys and close people that are affected by it, and looking to the future you hope that people can learn something from it and it's something they can take warning, and dress appropriately with the bright clothing and get the accessories and stuff that they need to be visible out there on the water," Gibson said.

Newer kayaks are available with traditional and non-traditional running lights and horns. There are accessories available for boats that are not equipped with those features.

Aransas Pass police are still investigating the incident.

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