Staying on your feet …

If you’ve not already got yourself a set of hiking type crampons, you are probably missing out on an essential piece of equipment that will not only make your fishing a great deal safer but will also greatly enhance your enjoyment and confidence whilst moving around on the banks when conditions are wet and muddy.

They typically consist of some shallow spiked metal plates, connected by metal chain links, rubber strapping and attach over your existing ankle boots or Wellingtons with a Velcro strap.

Available from many of the outdoor / sports retailers as well as via the big online seller beginning with ‘A’ – just make sure you look at the sizing guidelines carefully and perhaps read a few of the customer feedback reviews.

Also, don’t get this type confused with serious mountaineering ice climbing crampons, which won’t be suitable.

 

 

Best advice is always keep them in your tackle bag (they aren’t heavy) – attach over your footwear when you’re near to the river or conditions dictate. When you’ve finished your session, remove them and put them in a plastic carrier bag, take them home and give them a good rinse in a bucket of water. Then hang them up to dry before your next session – not only will this prevent the rubber strapping from potentially perishing but will also help with the prevention of transferring non-native invasive plants / eggs to other waters.

 

Although the wearing of hiking crampons greatly reduces the likelihood of slipping over or falling into the water, it is still recommended that you also have a dog stake-out spiral spike and rope with you too. Again, the spiral stakes are easily obtained and most hardware / DIY stores sell rope – around 15ft of rope should do and add some double-overhand knots every couple of feet –  the ‘natural type’ fibre ropes also afford better grip in your hands.

One final piece of advice; is try not to tread on your own foot or accidently stand on unhooking mats, etc. with your spikes … you may discover that your wellies are no longer waterproof !

 

Stay safe out there !