Nyfisherman,

Sounds like you had a close encounter of the close to death type. You were very lucky to be able to get out of that situation alive. Yes, I carry a wading staff. I also always wear an inflatable PFD if I am on any water other than the smallest of streams. I have my cell phone and wallet in a Zip Lock freezer bag. But, also, I never venture out into water that is above my knees unless it is slow moving water. There is so much force to water that if you loose your footing the water can take you down river, under sweepers or log jams or jam you between rocks under the water, or, any thing that you can think of that is bad. I love to fish but I love life as well and I will not put myself into any situation that could turn dangerous when it comes to water. I have seen too many people drown; I don't want to be one of them. No fish is worth placing your life at risk.

Larry ---sagefisher---