Safety: What a "Little Slip" Can Do

Craig Horlacher’s experience with surviving a fall on Colorado’s Little Snake River reminded us of another accident where the victim wasn’t so lucky. Widely respected author Datus Proper (What The Trout Said) died after slipping in Hyalite Creek outside of Bozeman, Montana in 2003. Both accidents show that even a minor fall can have serious consequences — especially if you are fishing alone or far from help.
In Horlacher’s case, he spent a month in the hospital after breaking his leg and spending four nights in the river. “The hypothermia caused his internal organs to start shutting down, and led to several complications. He’s now out of the hospital and feeling well. Of course, he plans to fish again, but says he’ll take a friend with him next time.” Christina Dickinson reports for 9News.com.