Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - November/December 2021 - 29

The first step to being prepared is
selecting the right gear. When fishing
in cold temperatures, it is essential to
wear clothing that will keep you both
warm and comfortable during the
winter months.
Starting with your feet, a light
pair of nylon stockings with wool
blend socks over top will insulate
your toes without cramping space
in your wading boots, potentially
impeding circulation. Next,
wear a breathable polyester or
polypropylene base-layer as long
underwear, with lightweight but
thermally efficient fleece or even
wool on top.
Then, add a water repelling outer
layer such as waders and a wading
jacket to keep things dry. Cover
your head with a warm hat, and use
fingerless gloves to retain heat in
your extremities.
Try to stay out of the water as
much as possible. Use a net and pliers
to handle fish, so your hands and
gloves stay dry. If you absolutely must
get into the water, be sure your boots
have metal studs for extra grip, and use a wading staff-
not only for added stability but to test for unexpected low
spots that may drop out in front of you. Only cross in safe
A wading staff not only adds stability when navigating the water, but it also allows you to
test for dangerous spots before you take your next step.
locations, where the water is shallow and not too swift for
safe passage.
If boating, wear a life jacket. Life jackets are life savers
in accidental plunges into the water, when the body's first
response is to gasp for air in frigid shock. Not only will
a life jacket help you stay afloat while you gather your
wits, but it will make it easier to swim for safety while
providing insulating qualities.
Always be prepared with a spare set of dry clothes
and a readily accessible heat source. Whether something
as minor as slipping on snow near a stream bank or as
major as a capsized vessel or breaking through thin ice,
accidents can happen, and you need to be ready.
If you do get wet, change into dry clothes as quickly as
possible and get somewhere warm-be it a vehicle, home,
cabin, sleeping bag, or makeshift fire. You need to bring
your core temperature back to safe levels. Sip on hot tea or
broth to help speed up the process.
Most importantly, do not fish or boat alone, especially
in the cold winter months. Having someone with you
to render aid in the event of an emergency can be the
difference between life and death in certain circumstances.
While Bobby and I were helpless watching Billy get
Dressing appropriately for the conditions including wearing
multiple layers will help keep you dry and comfortable.
www.fishandboat.com
swept downstream, I know he was grateful for our decisive
action and assistance immediately after his mishap. This
scary situation could have ended far worse, and it further
demonstrated the importance of always using caution and
being prepared when fishing in wintry conditions. Take
heed, and be careful.
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater * November/December 2021
29

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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - November/December 2021

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