How to Wade Safely While Fly-Fishing

Unless you are fly fishing from a boat or from the bank, you're going to be out wading. In addition to buying boots and waders that are comfortable and fit well, there are a few things you can keep in mind that may keep you from joining the fish underwater.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Waders
• Wading Boots
• Wading Staffs

1. Start wading in shallow water, instead of starting farther out. This allows you to monitor the water level when you start out and to track at how quickly it drops off.

2. Take baby steps. The fish will wait, and slipping into the water will spook them anyway.

3. Walk diagonally through currents in the water. It makes walking easier because it creates less resistance than facing the current head on and will help keep you on your feet.

4. Walk between rocks, not on top of them. This assures less tricky and probably less slippery footing because rocks underwater have a way of sliming up.

5. Don't try to stand up if you fall in fast water, it may be more treacherous to try and gain footing. Instead, allow yourself to float downstream on your back with your feet out in front of you to where the water is slower and you can get your feet under you.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel adventurous, dress in your full complement of fishing clothes (including waders), take your rod in hand and jump in the shallow end of a pool. Next, cause your wading belt to leak, thereby filling your waders. Now, practice removing your waders without dropping your rod. Supervision should be mandatory here.
• Consider using a wading belt and wading staff for safety. The belt, which prevents water from flooding the waders, is essential.

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