Stream fishing with bad back

[remsleeper]

Does anybody have suggestions on how to fish streams with a bad back? I like to stand and wade, and also wondering how well felt-bottomed shoes prevent slipping? I was also thinking of trying a float tube w/ open front, but not sure if it's relatively comfortable? Thanks guys.

[MagikSmallie]

You should try wearing a back brace. Felt bottomed waders are 1000% more slip resistance than rubber soled boots no doubt about it, HOWEVER, only in water do they have grip...you try to walk on grass or the bank in them and you'll bust your a$$!! Float tubes are Great! I own two. HOWEVER, I have found that float tubes are best in still water like ponds, small lakes, slow moving, deep sections of streams. I would not reccomend them in swift moving water or shallow water, and by shallow I mean anything less than chest deep. Hope this helps.

[first2fish]

I have used a float tube and used it in a creek once but it was a while back and i think it would help as far as your back as long as the current isnt too strong. Swim fins are used to move you around and best i remember thats what will wear you out and maybe affect your back. There is another type float tube that keeps you out of water that paddles are used to move you around--that might be the way for you to go. Hope this info helps with your decision some. Later jc

[Tim_T]

If you do much traveling and fishing I would not go with felt bottom boots. Many states are passing regulations against them because of the spread of dydimo. You can get cleated wading boots that work very well, might also want to get a wading staff if you wade a lot of stiff current.

[coombro]

I have a pair of felt sole waders and absolutely love them. No boot is full proof on rocks, but the felt waders do give good grip. My pair is about 15 yrs. old and eventually the felt will come loose or need replacing. Not a big deal just maintenance.

[Olgrey]

Some states are banning the use of felt sole shoes because they apparently help spread didymo from place to place. I am not sure what KY's position is on these shoes, but I do not plan to use them. Just saying. Apparently I did not read closely enough because Tim posted also. Sorry about that.

[DJD]

Does anybody have suggestions on how to fish streams with a bad back? I like to stand and wade, and also wondering how well felt-bottomed shoes prevent slipping? I was also thinking of trying a float tube w/ open front, but not sure if it's relatively comfortable? Thanks guys.

Same problem here. I have a back injury from the Army and if I slip just right/wrong while wading I'm screwed for a week. When I go I have to be very careful so if I have a choice in creeks I'll use my Kayak.
I usually just wear old shoes when I wade...maybe thats the problem??

[remsleeper]

Thanks for the replies. I forgot about wading staffs. I always fish in ky, but don't go that much. I'll give the float tube a shot, and try to find some good water.