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 Once you have chosen a set of waders with the
proper fit and obtained the other necessary equipment for wading, you still require an
understanding of safe wading practices. Most people don't seem to consider safety when
approaching waters they are going to wade. However, if you wade safely you are less likely
to spook fish. If you are overly aggressive you may actually scare more fish than you
catch because you wade through areas that should be fished. Not all fish are on the other
side of the stream. Moreover, there are certain wading situations in which you can
actually be taking your life into your own hands when one little slip can prove fatal.
Unfortunately, too many people wade in dangerous locations without considering the
possible consequences. I have one important axiom concerning wading: Be a chicken. Chickens seldom drown. If you are unsure of the safety of a particular situation, don't take any chances. Your life is more important than catching a fish. While there is no substitute for experience, caution can make up somewhat for a lack of it. I was fishing the early spring steelhead run one year when a friend of mine decided he was going to wade across the river to make his way upstream to a pod of fish that we passed while drifting. As he began to eagerly cross the river, he lost his footing and nearly went under in the torrid spring current. I'll never forget that day as that one moment of watching him struggle to regain his balance seemed liked an eternity. To wade safely, you should always take some time to observe and evaluate the water. Don't put your waders on and charge the water. Take a few moments to look around for any possible hazards. Also, learn the limits of your physical capabilities. Learn which waters you can handle, and which ones you cannot. Always take your time and be sure of every foothold. Never hurry. Consider buying a set of strap on lugs for increased traction. A wading stick is particularly useful especially in shallow water. When approaching obstacles, always wade around them. Remember you don't want to create waves that could warn a fish of your presence. Here’s a method of wading that I use every time I enter the water. To wade properly, one foot should slide along the bottom of the river, the toe searching and feeling obstacles. This searching step should not be too long, for too long a step can lead to a loss of control. While one foot is sliding forward, the other should be firmly planted with most of your weight concentrated on the ball of this anchor foot. Once the searching foot has a firm hold, you should shift weight to that foot and slide the anchored foot up to it. The anchor foot should then find a firm foothold next to the searching foot. The next step should be executed in the same manner as the first, and the same foot should search on every step. Using a methodical approach such as this will serve to decrease the likelihood of a slip and fall. Wading is an integral part of fly-fishing. The feeling of standing in a moving stream or river adds to the overall experience and enjoyment. With the use of proper equipment and wading technique one can expect to enjoy this wonderful sport for many years. |
Terry Kiernan's
Outfitters & Guide Service |