Weekend Washout

I explored some new trout waters in upstate New York this weekend. The creeks, though, were muddy and bloated from torrential rains the night before. I was still psyched to be on the water, but not in the water, which is what happened. While inspecting a pool I slipped on a rain-slicked muddy bank and slid right into the creek. I couldn't find my footing in the deep pool, but managed to throw my rod onto the bank and grab onto some vegatation and pull myself out. I wrenched my back and got water in my waters, but otherwise no harm done--other than a quick scare. It prompted my Dad to suggest that when fishing alone, it might not be a bad idea to wear some flotation.