The Kayak’s Journal – West Michigan Kayaking Club
Wild rivers, rugged trails, real adventure
A 35-year-old man from Wyandotte died Tuesday, August 4, 2026, after the vessel he was riding overturned during a family river float on the Manistee River.
David Belisle was participating in the outing with family members in Dickson Township, Manistee County, when the craft flipped. According to the Manistee County Sheriff’s Office, Belisle was found unresponsive in the river shortly afterward.
Multiple people on scene immediately began life-saving efforts while waiting for emergency medical personnel to arrive. Despite those attempts, Belisle was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary information released by the sheriff’s office indicates that Belisle was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.
In a statement, the Manistee County Sheriff’s Office reminded residents and visitors of the importance of wearing a properly fitted life jacket whenever participating in recreational activities on or near the water. Officials noted that water emergencies can occur suddenly and with little or no warning, leaving individuals with limited time to react.
Why Life Jackets Matter
Rivers like the Manistee can appear calm one moment and turn dangerous the next. Cold water, unexpected currents, submerged debris, and the sudden shock of entering the water can quickly overwhelm even strong swimmers. A life jacket keeps a person’s head above water, buys critical time for rescue, and dramatically improves the chance of survival when seconds count.
A life jacket only works if it is worn. Having one in the boat, tied to a tube, or stored in a dry bag offers no protection once someone is in the water. Statistics consistently show that the majority of drowning victims in recreational boating and floating incidents were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.
At West Michigan Kayaking Club, safety is non-negotiable. All participants are required to wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times while on the water—no exceptions. This rule applies to every paddle, every river, and every skill level. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways we protect ourselves and each other.
The Manistee River remains a beautiful and rewarding place to paddle. We honor those lost on the water by committing to safe practices every time we launch.
Our thoughts are with David Belisle’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Learn more about West Michigan Kayaking Club:
Website: https://www.westmichigankayakingclub.online/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/749998724166493/
See you on the river.
Wild rivers, rugged trails, real adventure
— West Michigan Kayaking Club
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