Cold Weather Boaters – PDF Laws
Here is the law:
Anyone underway in a boat less than 21 feet in length anytime between November 1 and May 1 must wear a securely fastened life jacket. This includes canoes, kayaks, rowboats and motorboats Commercial vessels are exempt.
NYS Nav. Law Section 40.1(e).
HUH??? Why?
So you would have a better chance of survival in the frigid waters. When the water is that cold you will loss your ability to physically function within a short period of time.