Trout fishing is fun, no doubt about it. There are many ways to do it. Some people fish from a boat, but many others fish from the shoreline, and some wade. Wading can be dangerous, especially if you can't swim. Remember, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in the United States. You can protect yourself by wading safely. These tips from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission should help you be safer when you wade.

• Never fish alone. In an emergency having someone around who can help is always best.
  
  
• Wear a life jacket. They're not just for boats. Many styles have pockets where you can put your fishing stuff. A life jacket will also help keep you warm.
  
  
• Use a wading stick or staff. An old ski pole works well. A heavy stick will work, too. Some tackle stores even sell wading staffs. If you are wading with a staff, cross the current facing upstream. Lean on the staff as if it were a third leg.
  
  
• Wear felt soles. This keeps your feet from slipping off rocks. Don't worry if you can't find boots with felt soles in your size. Most tackle shops carry felt soles. You glue them right on the bottom of your hip boots.
  
• Shuffle your feet. When in water over the top of your feet, don't pick up your feet. Lift them up just a little and shuffle along the bottom. Take one step at a time. It isn't a race, so go slowly. You will spook fewer fish that way, too.
  
  
• Carry a whistle. You can use the whistle to call for help. You can also use the whistle to tell your fishing buddy where you are.
  
  
• Waders and hip boots will not "pull you down," as many people think. If you fall in, immediately bend your knees to trap air in your waders. Stay on your back with your feet downstream and your knees bent. Don't panic.
  
  
• Lastly, have some extra dry clothes. A dry sweatshirt and sweatpants sure feel good after you have taken a swim. Besides, if you have clothes to change in to, you can keep fishing!

Source: PA Fish & Boat Commission