Wade Safely

[swiftcurrent]

Had a nasty wading experience this week and went for a short swim. First time ever and I've been at it for over 20 yrs. Was not hurt and lost no gear, but could have been much worse. Won't bore everyone with the details. Bottom line is I should have used better judgement and greater concentration.

I'm sure there are better links but here are two that some of you may find helpful:

http://howtoflyfish.orvis.com/video-lessons/chapter-four-basics-of-stream-fishing/316-safe-wading-techniques

http://www.orvis.com/intro.aspx?subject=2846

 

[Dozer]

Glad it worked out the way it did... use caution people!

 

[sunny14]

$

 

[hamiltonangler94]

Ya u gotta be careful, especially where i wade...massive boulders everywhere

 

[swiftcurrent]

River was higher then normal and chalky. I was just in too big a hurry. Started across a bit lower then I should have and ended up in water that was a bit faster then I expected. It was just below my knees at this point. I was almost out, just 4-5 feet short of shore; as I lifted my upstream foot, the current kicked it into my downstream foot. Next thing I knew I was down. Landed on my ass, quickly turned over onto my knees and one hand (didn't want to drop my rod) and bounced my way to shore. I was using a wading staff but took that step before I set-up properly. I was completely soaked chest down. The wader belt kept the waders from over filling. No harm expect to my pride. Weather was warm, so the soaking was tolerable. The hardest part was realizing I had to cross again to get back. I managed that by picking a better spot and slowing down.

 

[buck]

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[instapump416]

Thanks for posting.

This is exactly what I needed.

 

[sunny14]

Thanks for Posting the How & Why "swiftcurrent". A Good Reminder for ALL Of Us!

 

[Ridx]

Good article and video. I was in a situation once I was lucky to get out of. My feet got swept out from under me in some fast current. I rolled quickly and planted my feet and hands into the ground but was unable to stand back up, Everytime I moved the gravel under me would give and I would slip deeper and deeper It was all I could do to remain still. Luckily my father and a friend were with me and were able to wade over and help me up. If no one was around I don't think I would be here today.

 

[Jacklake]

Glad everything turned out OK. I second the suggestion of a wading staff, even in shallow water as the rocks are often slippery. I have taken a few swims myself. I find that when I am in a hurry I neglect to ensure I always have two points on the ground at the same time. Too often I lift up the wading staff and one foot like I was on a dry street. Only lift one point at a time I remind myself - and go a bit slower.

 

[buck]

Glad everything turned out OK. I second the suggestion of a wading staff, even in shallow water as the rocks are often slippery. I have taken a few swims myself. I find that when I am in a hurry I neglect to ensure I always have two points on the ground at the same time. Too often I lift up the wading staff and one foot like I was on a dry street. Only lift one point at a time I remind myself - and do a bit slower.

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[swiftcurrent]

I second that.

 

[sunny14]

Yep! Good Advice for ALL! Thanks.

 

[Knuguy]

My brother does a lot of wading in fast cold streams. He wears an inflatable PFD as well as carrying a wading stick. Those inflatable PFDs are quite comfortable to wear.

 

[buck]

My brother does a lot of wading in fast cold streams. He wears an inflatable PFD as well as carrying a wading stick. Those inflatable PFDs are quite comfortable to wear.

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[BASSMASTER19]

what happens after you pull the cord on those? is there some kind of charge you have to replace?

its typically a air canister there like 12bucks from a paint ball store, ive gotta get a wading belt before it gets too cold cuz for now i wet wade but come winter im gonna need the belt

 

[Knuguy]

I understand that there are various types of infkatable PFDs out there but a common type uses carbon dioxide cartridges.

 

[Kit]

Yeah I took a spill in Sept in a small creek going under a small bridge. Almost out then tripped on a med size rock and got water inside my waders. Was not a fun time.

 

[FisherGirl]

Ok, now im freaked out! If anyone ever gives me sh!t again for taking my time while crossing I will drop my gear and punch them right in the face!!

 

[FisherGirl]

Glad it worked out the way it did... use caution people!

AHEM, remember that time you walked off and left me in the middle of the river by mself??? How can you say I was overreacting!? LOL