Thursday, April 26, 2012

Painfully Obvious Tip #4

Wading a river can be tricky business. Some rivers are known for having greased boulders waiting to spill anglers into their depths; the Housatonic is one these rivers.

When I'm gearing up stream side, I always glance over at the staff folded snug in its sheath. I never bring it out on small streams but always bring it on anything wider than an easy cast. A few weeks ago the low water tempted me into thinking that the Housy's boulders would be less slick and the wading easier. I left the staff in the car.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

Only by the grace of God and some small miracle a wobbly moment left one arm wet to the elbow and the waders, thankfully, not topped.

Which brings us to Painfully Obvious Tip™ #4:
If you have a wading staff, bring the friggin thing. You might not need it. But when you do, it's better if it's on your hip instead of the car or the garage.
 Stay safe out there. 

9 comments:

  1. How can you go wrong with advice like that? I've always considered a wading staff much preferable to a dip in the river.

    Mark

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    Replies
    1. At least when you're bass fishing the water is warmer. Trout water is COLD!

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  2. that cold dip in the water is even worse when you are far from the car and early in the trip. Good Tip Steve.

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    Replies
    1. Yes. I recall a dipping on the Ausable one spring that required a two mile walk out. Fortunately, it warmed up a bit to allow me to finish the day on the water.

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  3. I'm not reading in order. I've lost track of who's wobbly.

    Take your staff old man!

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    Replies
    1. I usually have my staff with me.

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    2. I'm pleased to hear you worked out the kink.

      Crap, it's almost May.

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  4. Last time I did that I got a bruised shin and my entire left arm was soaking wet.

    ReplyDelete