For anyone who spends any time wading in and across rivers and streams in search of fish, wading tips are never a bad idea. Tips always help, if for no other reason than a quick refresher. What we're all trying to avoid is taking that wet and wild ride down a river, because of a stupid wading mistake. I've had this happen, and few things ruin a fishing trip like soaking yourself to the bone. Springtime is upon us and in many parts of the country this means that rivers and streams are running much higher than they normally would. And when the water is running higher and faster than normal, this is the time mistakes are made.
The first tip to remember is if the water looks too high and fast to cross, don't try it. Listen to your instincts. If you feel crossing the river will be a stretch, just sit it out. Better safe than sorry. I'm sure you've heard that piece of advice before. Another great tip in high and fast water (if you feel you must cross) is to use a wading pole. You can buy a wading pole and carry it with you while fishing or you can do what I do and find a nice stick along the bank when I need a wading pole. As long as the stick is sturdy and comes up to your chest, you'll be in good shape. Having a pole to put weight on in high and fast water can literally save you from falling.
Another great wading tip is to always keep your feet in contact with the bottom. This may sound obvious, but it's none the less true. You always want to make a conscious effort to keep your feet in contact with the bottom, especially in high, fast water. The best way to accomplish this is to "slide", rather than step. By sliding your feet, they are always in contact with the bottom. The big problems arise when flowing water gets under your feet. His is obviously when waders get swept off of their feet, and when waders get swept off of their feet, that's when they get wet.
The final wading tip that I have for this article is to keep your eyes on where you want to go, rather than the water. You should be taking your time enough to be able to feel the bottom with your feet, rather than having to look. Keeping your eyes on the place you want to end up eliminates the distortion that a flowing river can cause to persons' eyes. These tips should help you avoid taking that wet and wild ride alluded to earlier. The most important tip it to trust your instincts when it comes to wading across high fast water. If it doesn't feel right, don't try it.