DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE CURRENT!

Whenever wading in a tailwater, study the water level before you get in. Find an object on the bank to use as a reference point should the water level change. You should check it frequently to remain aware of the water level.

Always pay attention each time you take a step in the water. Ensure you have a solid footing before you begin to transfer your weight. Most wading areas have a bottom that is easy to maneuver in, but Always look out for structure and dropoffs, as some depths can be deceiving. If you are wading in stronger currents, remember to face either bank instead of up/downstream. This will give you a stronger balance point to work with as more water will flow around you instead of pushing against you.

Should you fall into the water and you are wearing waders, remember rule number 1: DON’T panic. Remaining as calm as possible is the key to almost any water survival situation. Try to get out of your waders by taking them off if possible. If not, it is a good idea to keep a knife on your wader belt to cut your waders open/off. This will help keep water from filling them and weighing you down.

If boating on a tailwater, ALWAYS wear a life jacket if the water is up or on its way up. It doesn’t matter who you are or how good you think you are in the water. Just remember to always respect it, because it doesn’t care about you at all. Be safe out there, and enjoy the fishing!

-Buzz’d