By Geoff Lacey:
(See Geoff's weekly report here.)

When it comes to wading in streams and falling in, there are at least three different categories to this largely unrecognised art form.

First there's the legsup, where the angler falls backward, landing on one's bottom first, then the back, with legs extended to the sky. A basic movement, very popular with first timers to wading.

Then there's the bellyflopper, which really speaks for itself. The angler goes over headfirst and lands with a big splash. Rather artistic when done properly.

Lastly there's the sideslip, a more complicated display, where the angler slips and falls sideways, either to the left or right, it doesn't matter. The action can be lightening fast and it often comes as a shock to the participant. Not for the faint-hearted, to be avoided if possible.

As a fishing guide of some experience, I feel that I can safely claim to have performed all of the above manoeuvres many times, sometimes in the same fishing season.

Hence I believe that I am something of an authority when it comes to falling in. Actually over the last three fishing seasons, I estimate that I fell in at least twice a week during the busy season, from New Year's to Easter.

But then, that's what fishing guides are for, aren't they: perfecting angling techniques for the benefits of clients, including wading streams. And I'm the expert on that aren't I?

(11 October 2001)


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