Stay Safe on the Water: 10 Fly Fishing Safety Tips from Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds

Learn how to stay safe, prepared, and confident on the water with best practices trusted by veteran anglers here in Edmonds and throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re gearing up for a solo adventure or joining one of our club outings, safety should always be your top priority. Our club hosts dozens of trips each year across Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia, so we’ve seen just about every scenario.

We’ve compiled our 10 essential fly fishing safety tips to help ensure you enjoy your time, catch fish, and return home in one piece. Each of the following tips is designed to make your outing safer, more successful, and more fun...

1. Have (and wear) a personal flotation device.

2. Always use a snugly tightened waist belt when wearing waders.

3. Have an emergency whistle on you (and within reach).

4. Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle and in your watercraft (if possible).

5. Debarb all hooks.

6. Wear a hat and appropriate glasses for eye protection.

7. Keep a blanket and change of clothes in your vehicle.

8. Have a cell phone handy, and a spare set of keys. Keep them dry.

9. Let another club member know where you’re going.

10. Learn CPR.

Follow these and you’ll leave each fishery a bit better than you found it. Let’s dive in!

01.

Have (and wear) a personal flotation device.

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This tip comes first for the simple reason that it can save your life on any body of water: lakes, rivers, or the Puget Sound. Also known as PFDs or simply life jackets, club members typically use one of several personal flotation devices intended for calm inland waters:

Manual PFD: Inflates when you pull a lanyard that pierces the CO₂ cartridge.

Auto-inflating PFD: Inflates automatically when the sensor cartridge detects water or a change in pressure. This type is a club favorite for the simple reason that it’s tough to pull a lanyard if you’re panicked or unconscious.

Foam PFD: Recommended by one of our past guest speakers, Dave McCoy of Emerald Water Anglers (OFF meeting, November 2023)[1]. Foam models like the NRS Raku or Chinook don’t rely on CO₂ cartridges and will always float you without fail. Because they don’t depend on a sensor or cartridge, you never have to wonder if they’ll work when you need them most.

In this 12-minute excerpt from his November 2023 presentation to Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds, Dave McCoy of Emerald Water Anglers shares the essential safety gear he always keeps in his PFD — including why he recommends foam life jackets over inflatable ones, the importance of a rescue knife, and how a simple whistle can save your life. Practical advice from a seasoned local guide who’s spent decades on the water.

The U.S. Coast Guard recommends choosing a Type III PFD for inland fishing and reminds boaters that "most boating-related drownings happen on nice days," according to an article published on USCGBoating.org, May 2023)[2].

Always ensure your PFD fits snugly and is in good condition. Replace cartridges annually for inflatable models.

In addition to wearing a PFD, one club member suggests placing a non-slip mat on your boat’s floor to give you more secure footing and reduce the risk of slipping on wet surfaces. This was shared by a club member during a session of Friday Follies, Jan 3, 2025)[3]. It’s a simple add-on that can make a big difference in keeping you aboard and dry!

02.

Always use a snugly tightened waist belt when wearing waders.

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This is another practice that can save your life, especially when wading in unknown waters. Look for a sturdy belt that’s fully adjustable to size and includes a heavy-duty buckle.

Most newer models feature a quick-release mechanism that allows you to get out of those waders in a hurry. Some also include back support (like a traditional weightlifting belt) and utility straps for keeping tippet, a knife, or other accessories close at hand.

You’ll almost certainly get better quality if you buy a waist belt separately. (The ones included with a new pair of waders tend to be flimsy.) Look for a wading belt made from heavy braided nylon or non-stretch leather.

As Orvis notes in its fly-fishing safety guidance, “Wear a snug-fitting wader belt to prevent water from filling your waders if you fall in. A tight belt can help trap air and provide buoyancy, buying you precious time to recover” (from Orvis.com, "Wading Safety Tips," 2023)[4].

I've had my inflatable PFD deploy twice. I was glad I had it on! Always be careful when wading and use a good wading staff." - Curt Clausen, OFF Member

Wading Staffs: Your Extra Leg in the Water

Ever fished with a wading staff? If you haven’t, give one a try. If you have, you know how much difference it makes.

A wading staff gives you a third point of contact for balance and stability. This is especially beneficial when you’re navigating slick rocks, crossing deeper pools or uneven streambeds, or traversing varying depths on a lake bed or the Sound.

It’s not just about safety (though that’s a big part of it). Using a staff also reduces fatigue by helping you stay upright and balanced with less effort. Many of our club members say they fish longer and feel better at the end of the day when they’ve got a wading staff in hand.

What to look for in a good wading staff:

Material: Go for lightweight but strong — aluminum or carbon fiber are your best bets. Most weigh between 10 to 16 ounces

Length: Staffs usually extend to 50 to 55 inches. Pick one that feels right for your height and reach.

Portability: Look for a foldable or collapsible design with a dependable locking system (twist-lock or bungee-cord style).

Tip: Rubber or carbide tips offer good grip on rock and gravel. Bonus points if they’re interchangeable.

Grip and Strap: A comfy foam or cork grip and a solid wrist strap will keep the staff with you if the current grabs it.

Extras: Some models come with built-in retractor cords, magnetic holsters, or quick-deploy features so your staff is always within reach.

Wade with Caution!

Many of our favorite fishing spots require wading into rivers or lakes, and that’s where a lot of accidents can happen. Moving water is powerful, so treat it with respect. Wade only as deep as you feel comfortable and take small, shuffling steps to feel for obstacles. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and angle your body slightly upstream when moving.

River rocks can be slick as ice. Felt-soled boots or metal cleats will grip far better than rubber. One misstep can lead to a soaked day or worse, so move deliberately and never rush.

The National Park Service recommends never wading in water higher than your waist and using a staff or sturdy stick to check depth and current (NPS.gov, 2022)[5].

03.

Have an emergency whistle on you (and within reach).

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The goal here is to make yourself heard in a critical moment. When selecting a whistle for fishing and outdoor use, go for volume (measured in decibels) and all-weather construction. Some whistles can be heard up to two miles away and even underwater.

Make sure you keep it handy – either at the end of a cord attached to your vest or on a retractable zinger. (We don’t like stuff around our necks.) And be sure to save that whistle for actual emergencies. “Fish on!” is awesome… but not a reason to use something intended to signal for help.

According to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, a whistle clipped to your PFD is a key signaling device, especially in fast water (Fishandboat.com, 2021)[6].

04.

Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle and in your watercraft (if possible).

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Many things can cause injury or discomfort when you’re on the water. This makes first aid kits essential. Always keep one in your vehicle. Even better, have one in your watercraft. Ideally, keep one in both. Some fishers stash a full kit in their vehicle and a pared-down version with them on the water.

Quick List: Essential Safety Gear

First aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, tape, tweezers
Whistle (3 blasts = distress)
Headlamp or flashlight
Emergency blanket or fire starter
Spare dry clothes in a dry bag
Multi-tool or knife

These items don’t catch fish… but they help you fish with peace of mind. The American Red Cross recommends checking your first aid kit at least once a year to replace expired supplies (www.redcross.org, 2024)[7].

Traveling Remote? Consider Evacuation Insurance

Fly fishing can lead us into some wild, out-of-the-way places. While that’s often part of the appeal, it also comes with real risks. If you’re injured or fall ill far from home, getting to proper medical care can be complicated and expensive.

OFF member Ray Spencer found this out after breaking his hip while fishing in British Columbia. Without evacuation insurance, he faced nearly $12,000 in out-of-pocket transport costs and waited several days before being transferred to a hospital back home.

“My accident was on a Monday, and I didn’t get to the Evergreen/Kirkland hospital until very late on Thursday. A long time to lie in bed, in pain, with a broken hip,” Ray said.

Had he carried evacuation coverage at the time, Ray said he would have paid less than $1,000 — and even that would have been reimbursed.

Most U.S. health insurance plans do not cover international care, and many foreign hospitals require payment up front. Even if you’re reimbursed later, you’re still responsible for the bill in the moment.

Frequently travel outside U.S. territory? It may benefit you to check into purchasing a separate policy for out-of-country medical expenses.

One important detail that often gets overlooked when comparing policies is that some plans only fly you to the nearest medical facility, not to your preferred hospital back home. That can mean recovering far from your doctors, your support system, and the care you trust.

Make sure any plan you choose includes the option to return home for treatment, not just the nearest facility. It should also manage all logistics, including securing you a bed, and arrange transport.

When you're planning a trip into the backcountry — especially abroad — it’s worth considering both travel medical insurance and an emergency evacuation plan from providers like Global Rescue or AirMed. These services can cover the cost of getting you home and handle the logistics when you’re least able to.

For a helpful overview of travel insurance options, read Rick Steves’ guide, "Do I Need Travel Insurance?".

05.

Debarb all hooks.

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Hooks hurt. But tearing a barbed hook out of a finger, leg, or the back of your head hurts a whole lot more. It’s best to avoid getting hooked in the first place.

To minimize the risk of injury if a hook does snag you, crush small barbs flat by inserting the hook into a tying vise with the bend perpendicular to the vise. For larger hooks, use flat needle-nose pliers to crimp the barb.

Casting Tip: Always check your surroundings before casting. If you're fishing with others, a quick call-out like "Casting behind!" goes a long way to prevent mishaps.

During a session of Friday Follies, Apr 5, 2024 [7], one club member also advised to always secure your rod in a holder when you’re not actively fishing. This prevents stray hooks from snagging you or anyone else by surprise.

06.

Wear a hat and appropriate glasses for eye protection.

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When it comes to safety on the water, a good pair of glasses and a reliable hat aren’t just comfort items — they’re essential protection. Fly casting sends hooks — and in many cases, heavy, weighted flies — whipping through the air at high speed. A miscast or unexpected gust of wind can easily redirect that fly straight toward your face, head, or neck.

Many injuries occur not from barbed hooks alone, but from the sheer impact force of a weighted fly. Split shot, cone heads, and beadhead patterns carry enough mass to cause serious damage — especially to unprotected eyes.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eye injuries from fishing are one of the most common causes of sports-related eye trauma (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2019)[9]. The good news? Nearly all of them are preventable with proper eye protection and by safeguarding yourself while casting by following these best practices...

Wear impact-resistant glasses at all times.

Go for shatterproof lenses (polycarbonate or Trivex) with wraparound or full-coverage frames. Polarized sunglasses help cut glare, but safety comes first. Don’t fish without them — even if it’s cloudy or dusk.

Pair your glasses with a sturdy hat.

A baseball-style cap with a firm bill helps shield your face and eyes from low-flying hooks and weighted flies. A wide-brim hat can offer additional coverage to the ears and back of the neck.

Wear a hooded jacket in windy conditions.

Hoods are a simple but effective way to protect the back of your head and neck from errant casts. Many experienced anglers instinctively pull their hood up when casting tight loops in gusty weather or fishing with heavy rigs.

Consider fishing gloves for added protection.

Lightweight, quick-dry fishing gloves offer more than just sun protection — they can help deflect errant hooks and protect your hands from line burn while stripping streamers or managing running fish. Many are UPF-rated and designed with reinforced fingers for exactly this reason.

Cast consciously — especially when others are nearby.

Always scan your surroundings and call out "Heads up!" or "Casting behind!" when fishing in groups. Give yourself extra space when casting in wind or when using streamers, weighted nymphs, or multi-fly rigs.

Some fly fishers even opt for fishing-specific safety glasses, which combine ANSI-rated impact resistance with UV protection — similar to those used in shooting sports.

While sun safety is still important, your primary concern here is impact safety. Weighted flies can injure the eye socket, cheek, or scalp before you even realize your cast has gone off course. A hat and glasses combo — with the added buffer of a hood when needed — gives you layered protection and peace of mind.

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07.

Keep a blanket and change of clothes in your vehicle.

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Nobody ever plans to take a dunk in a 39-degree lake. Even in a Washington lowland lake warmed to 50 degrees, hypothermia can set in if you don’t get dry within about an hour. For this reason, the BoatUS Foundation reminds anglers to ‘dress for the water temperature and always have dry gear stored in a sealed dry bag’ (BoatUS.org, 2023)[10].

But while dry bags are nice, not everybody owns one. This is especially true of those who lean more toward walk-and-wade fly fishing along rivers, banks, and beaches. This is why we keep a full set of dry clothes in our vehicles.

If you feel symptoms associated with hypothermia, or are simply chilled, the immediate goal is to cover your head, hands, and feet. One seasoned member also advises covering your neck and wrists in cold weather to help trap extra body heat.

We also recommend packing a warm blanket, or at least a compact mylar thermal blanket in your first aid kit.

08.

Have a cell phone handy, and a spare set of keys. Keep them dry.

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Your cell phone can be a critical safety tool, whether you need to check radar, call for help, or just stay in touch. But it only helps if it’s close, dry, and ready to use.

Many members use a simple Ziplock bag to protect their phone and other valuables on the water. While that works in a pinch, try to avoid storing everything together. If that one bag gets lost or damaged, you risk losing your phone, keys, ID, and credit cards all at once.

Instead, keep your phone in its own waterproof pouch. Look for one with a clear screen and lanyard or clip so you can use it without removing it from the pouch. A waterproof case with touchscreen access lets you check radar, track your route, or send a text without having to pull your phone out at all.

Bonus Tip: Shop around. Many waterproof pouches also offer flotation or are compatible with floating lanyards.

Also consider bringing a small portable battery pack. Most are under $20 and provide at least two full charges. This is especially helpful if you’re using your phone to run weather apps or navigation.

Keep your keys in a separate zippered pocket or waterproof pouch that stays on your person, not in your pack. Do the same with credit cards and ID.

For your fishing license, use a waterproof Velcro pouch on your vest or a slim waterproof cardholder. Keep it tucked away but easily accessible – you don’t want to go rifling through gear if a game warden checks in.

Weather Apps and Alerts

Use a weather app with radar and lightning alerts before and during your outing. Thunder? Time to head in. Graphite rods can attract lightning.

A Final Word on Keys: Always Bring a Spare Set (and Know Where It Is)

When you're headed out for a day on the water – especially in remote locations – always have a backup plan for your keys. Losing them can turn a great outing into a long, frustrating day.

Carry a spare set and stash it in a secure place, like a small magnetic key box hidden somewhere on your vehicle. These are inexpensive, easy to find, and can be a lifesaver if your primary set ends up at the bottom of a lake or river.

Another good option? Give your spare key to a fishing buddy. If you're traveling or fishing together, it’s a simple way to make sure at least one of you can get back into the rig if something goes wrong.

Some anglers also use waterproof key pouches that clip to their belt or vest—just make sure it’s zipped, sealed, and stays on your person. And if you're carrying a key fob, make sure the container is truly waterproof (not just water-resistant), since moisture can quickly fry the electronics.

No one plans to lose their keys, but the best safety habits are the ones that keep small problems from becoming big ones.

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09.

Let another club member know where you’re going.

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Each of us is responsible for our own welfare. But one of the primary benefits of membership in a fly fishing club is the support you receive. Letting another club member know where you’re going creates a safety net around your trip should something go awry.

Emergencies aren’t the only reason to check in before heading out. Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds currently has more than 150 members. Many are willing to share valuable knowledge and insight.

Fishing Buddy Reminder

Fishing with a friend is safer and more fun. Agree on a check-in time. If you do head out solo, send someone your location and estimated return time.

Don’t Go in Blind: Local Shops Know Their Water

Club president Greg Sisson and his brother John set out to float the North Thompson River in late August. Before launching, they made a quick stop at a fly shop in Kamloops — a decision that proved critical.

“We checked in with the local fly shop to ask about river conditions and what stretches we might float,” Greg said. “That turned out to be invaluable. First, we knew the water levels were safe. Second, we had a clear idea of which section to run and how long it would take. And most important, they pointed out some real hazards we needed to avoid.”

One of those hazards was a large bridge crossing the river — the kind of feature that might look benign until you’re too close. The shop advised them to stay hard left when passing through, warning that the central channel was dangerous due to submerged snags and heavy, swirling current.

“We followed their advice and passed through with no problem,” Greg said. “But looking back, we saw just how rough the center channel really was — all kinds of obstructions and powerful flow that would’ve been a serious challenge to navigate.”

Because of that local knowledge, what could have been a risky situation became a smooth, uneventful float. It’s a reminder that even experienced anglers can benefit from local insight — and that taking a few minutes to check in could make all the difference.

10.

Learn CPR.

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In an emergency, every minute counts. CPR training gives you the tools and knowledge to save someone’s life while instilling the ability to stay calm.

Rescue breaths and chest compressions continue to pump blood through the brain and vital organs during cardiac arrest. This not only prevents damage to the brain (which can happen in as little as three minutes), it can double or even triple the chance of survival.

Many local fire departments offer free CPR training. South County Fire hosts regular virtual ACT First Aid & CPR classes through Zoom. You can sign up for an upcoming session here. Additional training is available through the American Red Cross and other local organizations.

Stay Alert Outdoors

From slippery rocks to curious wildlife, keeping your head on a swivel helps you avoid unwelcome surprises that can lead to a need for emergency medical care. Wear boots in snake-prone areas, make noise in bear country, and watch the ground before you kneel.

Final Cast

Fly fishing has a way of humbling even the most seasoned angler — whether it’s a missed strike, a bad knot, or slipping on that one rock that looked dry. But a little preparation goes a long way. By following these safety tips, you’re setting yourself up for a great day on the water and a safe return home.

Remember: the fish will always be there, but only if you are too. Tight lines, stay dry, and may your back casts be tangle-free!

Endnotes

Dave McCoy, Guest Presentation to Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds, November 2023 (video excerpt)
U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division, "Wearing Your Life Jacket," May 2023, https://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/life-jacket-wear.php
Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds, Friday Follies Facebook Post, Jan 5, 2025, https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DPQSAWUpz/.
Orvis, "Wading Safety Tips," 2023, https://howtoflyfish.orvis.com/how-to-articles/trout-fishing-articles/926-wading-safety
National Park Service, "Reel It In: Fishing Safety," 2022, https://www.nps.gov/articles/fishing-safety.htm
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, "Wear It Pennsylvania," 2021, https://www.fishandboat.com/Boat/Boating/SafetyEducation/Pages/WearItPennsylvania.aspx
American Red Cross, "Is Your First Aid Kit Expired?" 2024, https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/resources/articles/do-first-aid-kits-expire
Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds, Friday Follies Facebook Post, Apr 6, 2024, https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15dASEXe91/.
American Academy of Ophthalmology, “Fishing is a Leading Cause of Eye Injuries,” 2019, https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/fishing-is-leading-cause-of-eye-injuries
BoatUS Foundation, "Cold Water Boating and Hypothermia," 2023, https://www.boatus.org/cold-water-boating/