Mark,
Yes, I AM a pretty strong swimmer, but age does have it's effect. I have waded with a Folstaff for many years & wouldn't step in the water without it. I'm 73 now & it's also a good idea to scout the water first & fish with a partner, ESPECIALLY when wading. Case in point...Years ago, I was wading an un-named stream in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley with dear friend & fellow FAOLer Tim Grubbs. You guessed it, I slipped on a loose gravel dropoff & fell in. I couldn't get myself out of the strong current when Tim grabbed my collar & pulled me out. That was my closest call and, had it not been for Tim, I may not be responding now.

Good thread, Mark. As Clint Eastwood said, "Every man's got to know his limitations".

Mike