Has anyone tried this one: http://www.amazon.com/Fishpond-Slippery-Rock-Wading-Staff/dp/B000KM0NGO/ref=sr_1_9/182-0705598-3820712?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1233175674&sr=1-9
It looks pretty nice and solid.
I also have bad knees and after falling last winter on the ice and suffering a severe ankle sprain and a fractured fibula I figured it was time for a wading staff. I have been careful when wading, usually take my time and always wear studded wading boots but there have been a few falls and a couple of scary moments.
I bought this wading staff, liked the idea of being able to clip the retractor to my wading belt, figured I could get to a good spot and cast away without worrying about the staff.
http://www.waterworks-lamson.com/staff.html
Probably the younger guys are wondering what all the fuss is about, but once you get into the mid to late 50’s things can get a little wobbly. I’m hoping that with all the precautions I can keep fishing for another 20 years.
Don’t know if anyone else has mentioned it but a poplar sappling makes a great staff. Just cut one down to your likeing and let it dry. They dry real light and are strong and last. You can always apply tape, a thong and even attach it to your vest or belt with a lanyard. I’ve used one for many years as a shooting/walking stick.