Wading streams and rivers

I mention this for a few reasons; one because I sincerely care for the safety of my fellow fishermen, I know that may sound corny.. well so be it…And the other reason I felt I should remind my friends is just this, every year brings more sad stories of anglers who underestimated the risks and ended up with their waders and lungs full of water. In small, narrow streams, you will probably want to fish from the bank to conceal yourself, but larger streams and rivers can be fished more easily and effectively by wading. When you wade, your profile is lower, your back cast is less obstructed, and you can get closer to midstream lies. However, wading can also be tricky and dangerous. To wade effectively and safely, please keep these suggestions in mind: – Don't step off the bank without first checking the depth. If possible, cross at a riffle. – As a rule, wade upstream. Trout face into the current, and won't be spooked by silt you stir up downstream of them. Also, if you trip while wading upstream, the current may actually help hold you up. (Naturally, the reverse is true if wading downstream.) – Wear felt-soled waders or stream cleats for traction. Rubber soles are too slippery for wading over wet, algae-covered rocks. A wading staff is another great help for keeping your balance. – Chest waders should be worn with a snug safety belt. The belt keeps water from immediately flooding your waders and dragging you under when you fall down. It won't keep that water out forever, but will give you the extra time you need to get upright again. – Step softly to avoid banging rocks together. Before putting your full weight on a rock, make sure it is stable so it doesn't click against other rocks or make you lose your balance. – Walk with short steps to keep a better feel of the uneven bottom, and keep your knees bent. – To move to another spot, return to the bank rather than wading the whole way in the stream bed and disturbing the fish or stepping on nests. Stream fisherman know that a sudden movement, a heavy footstep, a boat shadow or rod glinting in sunlight will send fish scurrying for cover--and scared fish don't bite. Here's some insight on how to make a stealthy approach. Keep a low profile. The lower you are, the less likely the fish can see you. To fish a narrow stream, you may even crawl to the bank and cast from a kneeling position. Wear drab clothing that blends in with the surroundings. A bright colored shirt or cap can put the trout down in a hurry. Trout in turbulent water are easier to approach than those in slack water. The rough water surface conceals you from eyes below the surface, while still water works like a wide-angle lens. Use obstacles or shadows to conceal your approach. Be aware of your own shadow, and keep it off the water if the sun is behind you. Walk softly. Fish have a "lateral line" sense that's very sensitive to vibrations caused by wriggling minnows or falling rocks. Don't wade to fish a spot you can reach without wading. Despite your best efforts, it's likely that the fish will still be aware of your arrival. But all is not lost--if you keep still for 5-10 minutes before making a cast, they may forget about you or get used to you and start to feed again.