Getting to a productive angling position, especially when in a flowing water scenario, is an integral element to having a successful day on the water. And a safe one. This is particularly poignant when wading in situations far removed from the clear, rushing freestone rivers of the mountains and foothills where battling the current and maintaining traction on slippery cobble bottoms are the angler’s primary concerns.
Docile spring creeks like the North Raven River can sometime result in treacherous wading.
Whether it be an Alberta spring creek like the North Raven or Dogpound, boreal grayling river like the Freeman or the unstable bentonite banks of the North Saskatchewan or Red Deer, mud is your enemy. Before entering the water, or even approaching the edge, muddy river anglers should do a thorough analysis of the situation. A mud bottom, silt beds or active land slips are tell-tale signs that trouble could lie ahead. Always test the compactness and consistency of the stream bed and bank before putting your entire weight on it. Never blindly walk into the water before making a thorough recognisance.
When in the water be aware of what’s happening under foot. Any sensation that your feet are slowly sinking in the ooze, especially with the natural rocking motion created from the act of casting, should be corrected immediately. Same with constantly keeping your feet active. A good rule of thumb is to look for areas of the bottom to place your feet where river rock is showing through the silt - giving it added structure. Carrying a wading stick also provides another element of leverage when trapped in a muddy river bottom and a long and the arduous struggle to set you wader boots free. Getting stuck up a muddy river can often become a far more serious situation than anything you encounter on a rushing, rocky river. Because unless you are vigilant you may not know it’s happening until too late.