Danger Lurks at the Water’s Edge

By: Katelyn Parker

As the weather warms and the waters thaw, people flock to the outdoors to enjoy the spring and summer activities that have been put on hold since last fall. Anglers are slipping into their waders and casting their line in the open water, hoping to start the season off with sunny days and a bountiful catch. Although the scene may appear perfect, there are certain dangers that cannot be forgotten or ignored when enjoying the outdoors at the water’s edge.

Bears

Bears are coming out of hibernation, and they are moving from their high elevation dens to lower elevation water sources in the search of sustenance. Boars are the first to emerge, taking afternoon naps in willow groves along rivers and streams. Fisherman hiking the backcountry to gain access to pools off the beaten path run the risk of running into a bear hiding in the brush. Be sure to take certain precautions to avoid unwanted run-ins.

·      Always carry bear spray and make sure it is easily accessible.

·      Make plenty of noise. Bears often attack because they have been startled.

·      Don’t carry food or other substances that may attract a hungry bear.

·      If you meet a bear with a fish on the line, give the line some slack or cut it loose. Bears are attracted to the sound of a splashing fish.

Ticks

Ticks are the thickest during the springs greener season. While traversing through grass and thick brush in search of the perfect fishing hole, the risk of attracting some unwanted hitchhikers is likely. The most common tick in Wyoming is the Rocky Mountain wood tick. Unlike the ticks in other states that can be the size of a pinhead, Wyoming ticks are larger in size and are easy to spot. After your outdoor adventures, be sure to check your person for unwanted passengers. Although Lyme disease is not a common risk, there are some diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado Tick Fever, and Tularemia that can occur. If you start to feel ill after experiencing a tick bite, seek out medical help.

Snakes

My dad always says, “our ticks are big, and our snakes are honest”. The snake you have to be wary of in Wyoming is the Prairie rattlesnake, but they are honest and give you a warning that they are near and ready to strike. Rattlesnakes are present on and around the shoreline of certain waters and it is always a good idea to stay aware to avoid their bite. Rattlesnakes will often coil and rattle when they sense danger but, in some instances, a sudden unfortunate boot placement can put you in harm’s way without warning. Tread carefully and always be acutely aware of your surroundings.