Sooner or later, a fisherman realizes that the fish are not hovering near a conveniently accessible bank. They are out in the stream by a food-filled ripple, or resting in the shade under an overhanging tree. In order to reach them, the angler must find a better approach. When a boat is unavailable or impractical, wading is the way to go. However, safety precautions must be observed.
Even Shallow Water Can Be Deadly
In August of 2008, a fisherman drowned while wading in the Scioto River at Columbus, Ohio. Rescuers found him in water that was only 5 to 7 feet deep. A fast current is a powerful force, even in relatively shallow water. Wading in still water can also be dangerous. The bottom can drop off suddenly to much greater depths, underwater obstacles can cause a wader to stumble, and soft mud can suck down a struggling fisherman.
The Wading Staff
Angler and author John Bailey writes, “The wading staff is a vital third leg if you’re thinking of wading in water that’s quick or deep or unknown to you.” (John Bailey’s Fly Fishing, Creative Outdoors, 2004) The staff is used both to steady the wader and to probe the surface ahead to determine depth and locate obstacles. Retractable staffs allow the angler to cast unimpeded after reaching a stable place from which to fish.
Flotation Devices
Although they can feel hot and bulky, flotation vests are a must when wading in surf or treacherous water. Inflatable vests are available, and while they are more expensive than the traditional jacket models, they are less cumbersome to wear.
Waders for Cold Water
Fishermen can wade in warm water wearing shorts and sandals or wading shoes, but cold weather and cold water make waders a necessity. Water-filled waders will not pull the wearer under. The angler’s body is just as buoyant when submerged in waders as without. However, waders will make it more difficult to swim, especially if they are water-filled. Belting the waders keeps them from flooding immediately if the angler should slip under the surface.
Practice Recovering
A person who plans to use waders should be familiar with the experience of flooded waders. It is a good idea to try this out in a calm, shallow, well-known body of water, with a partner to assist. This will lessen the likelihood of panic if the fisherman does happen to fall while wading.
Water Snakes and Other Critters
A fisherman wading or floating out onto a lake or stream is entering the natural habitat of many types of creatures. Insects such as dragonflies, water striders, and mosquitoes are abundant on the water. Anglers are likely to encounter ducks, geese, heron, and scaup. Frogs and turtles lurk beneath the water’s surface, along the bank, and on logs that protrude from the water’s surface. Non-poisonous snakes such as the Northern Water Snake, and the Queen Snake, along with the occasional poisonous species such as the Water Moccasin, swim in the shallows as they hunt for small frogs and fish. Snakes view humans as large predators, and they will move away from humans when they can. It is wise, however, to be familiar with the species of wildlife that live in the area, to move slowly, and to be alert to sound and movement.
Wading is Serious Fishing
Wading brings the angler into the fish’s environment. There is great exhilaration in standing in the middle of a moving stream or still pool, feeling the movement of the water and the texture of the bottom, and casting that most excellent imitation of nature, the fishing lure, to waiting fish. As with any sport, great rewards come with preparation, effort, and skill. Learning to wade safely and skillfully can result in countless hours of incredible fishing experiences.
