Ive been wading for years....the Rogue, N. Umpqua (the slickest of all) Chetco, Smith, Clackamas........Etc. Never have fallen. Had a disaster in the Rogue about 25 years
back while I was on a float trip with innertubes......... Some of the newbies had a problem slidin over a big ol sweeper, and some nearly drowned, and all but me lost their tubes. Everybody survived with minor injuries and scared.... Thing is, I learned something about overconfidence, and I been way careful ever since. Last year I had my hip replaced and that slowed me down a little more. I never go without a staff, walking or wading. I recommend never wading without a staff, a waist belt, and maybe a PFD of some kind....Never take it for granted.................................Dan