I was going to try out a pair of new swimming shoes instead of my old hip waders. The traction on these new shoes looked perfect for the smooth granite stones that lined the riverbed. The rest of the fishermen had already hit the water, each were competing to see who would land the first fish of the trip. I dropped downstream about fifty yards and proceeded to wade across the river. The water level was low, so wading shouldn’t have been a problem. I must have had my mind on something else because at the halfway point of my crossing, I slipped. All right, it was more than a slip. I fell face down flat into the river. I did manage to catch myself with both hands as I landed however. That was the only thing that kept my head above water. I must have looked like an old bull buffalo trying to get a much-needed drink of water. There I was, splashing and thrashing, trying to get back up on my feet. The noise attracted the attention of my companions, who began roaring with delight at the sight. I was both embarrassed and disgusted at my clumsiness. When I was standing upright again, I noticed that my brand new Eagle Claw fly pole had snapped off the bottom inch of the rod where the reel is secured to the handle. Now what was I going to fish with?” In Hunting and Fishing Bloopers, I relate the humorous side of life in the outdoors as can happen to anyone. Maybe by reading about these episodes, you will be able to avoid some of your own bloopers, if nothing else is accomplished. Both of us can have a good laugh at my expense. I hope you enjoy each and every one of them as I did. Remember to laugh at yourself along the way.