Scott Seidman wrote:

Tremendously happy that you took this in the spirit with which it was
intended.

Fully agree on the staff, BTW. I use a folding one, just so I always
have it and might not trip over it. I also try to use it exclusively
for
wading myself out of trouble, but the temptation is always there to
wade
myself into trouble. Also, a staff is really no substitute for an
attentive wading buddy.

The whistle, though, I really push. You can yell as loudly as a
whistle
can, FOR AWHILE, assuming you're not injured. For a three buck
investment and a tiny space in my vest, I'll keep carrying the whistle.

I guess we'll just have to agree to disagree here. I'm of the opinion
that the less extraneous stuff I carry, the more fun I'll have. As
soon as I feel the need to carry a whistle, I'll realize I need a
pistol capable of stopping a bear or a crazed fisherman. I'll also
realize I need a satelite phone and an ELT (emergency locator
transmitter). The experience is richer for me without all that modern
"safety" stuff.

This is just the way it works for me, not a position I advocate for
others.


What's your son doing these days, BTW??

Working as a geologist, skiing, and fishing whenever he can. He also
ties flies. No negative repercussions from the accident.

Thanks for asking,

Chas
http://home.comcast.net/~chas.wade/w...ome.html-.html