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How to Wade Pennsylvania Streams

by Greg DiMedio

Wading large and fast water in Pennsylvania can be tricky and dangerous. As spring approaches, so do higher water levels and difficult wading situations. Here are some general wading tips.

Be honest about your swimming abilities. If you are a poor swimmer or can't swim, then approach wading with caution. If you must wade into any kind of water that is fast and deep, use a flotation vest.

Check water levels before you go. Get to know safe water level stages for your favorite stream. Use gauges like the one found at USGS website for Pennsylvania. Typically, the easiest way to know what is reasonable water level or flow rate is to find out from a local angler or guide who knows when too much water is too much water.

Know your equipment (and stream bottom). Often, rocks beneath the water are slick, and some streams are known for there slickness. Algae, silt, and other elements contribute to hazardous footing for Pennsylvania anglers. Often, felt soles will provide more traction than rubber bottoms. Sometimes wading shoes with metal cleats are necessary for super slick stream bottoms like the one at the properly named Slippery Rock Stream in Western PA.

A wading staff can be a much needed ally in heavy and wide waters like the Youghigeny River. Collapsible staffs are easy to carry because they are light and attach to wading belts. The shock-cord snaps the staff quickly into place. They are typically made of aircraft aluminum and very strong.

Think sideways. When you are wading in strong current, face one of the banks and keep the amount of water hitting you to a minimum. Rushing water against one side of a leg is better than the front of two.

Cross at a slight diagonal. Cross at a slight diagonal. If you want to get across a fast moving stream, try starting upstream a bit and then wading across on a slant pattern, moving downstream at a slight angle. Fighting a current is not easy, so "going with the flow" a bit makes the trip across the stream an easier one.

Take small steps. As you move over the stream bottom, keep the bottoms of your shoe low to the ground and move in small strides.

Don't lose your cool. In the event you do take a dip, stay calm. Contrary to some beliefs, waders do not cause drowning. Often waders filled with water won't add that much weight when underwater. Swimming with waders is a little odd, but not impossible. If you do lose your footing in shallow water, simply get up again. If the water is deep and fast, then go with the flow and ride the current out. Remember to protect your head.

In unfamiliar Pennsylvania waters, it's always good to have a game plan. If the route across or into a stream is not apparent, then take time to find a sensible path.