Crossing a pretty deep muddy bottom river??

[briar]

Any tips on getting across muddy bottom fairly deep rivers or creeks? Its about 30 feet wide, soft mud bottom and looks to be 3-5 feet deep. Do I need a boat of some sort? Very nervous about getting stuck in the bottom, not looking to drown.

[hunter_mike]

I have thought about this a bunch over the past couple years and plan to do some testing this summer when the water warms up.

Two methods i want to test:

1. Two tractor tire inner tubes, pfd, chest waders and a canoe paddle.

2. Haul in a canoe/kayak using a deer cart.

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[MOBIGBUCKS]

A few weeks back, i took a boat into a remote area and attempted to get out of the boat on the bank...I nearly lost a boot in the quick mud and that was on the bank. I finally dug my boot out and found a downed tree to tie off too instead. I can't imagine trying to walk across in waders before light.

My advice is to make a practice crossing so you know what you are dealing with ahead of time. However, rivers change all of the time and are very unpredictable

[BassBoysLLP]

I've historically used my belly boat in that situation, crossing at the riffle vs. pool or run. Water is a touch shallower and the bottom is firmer.

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[JROD157]

I regularly use creeks with the characteristics you stated. As much as I think I know them, its the times in the dark where I find something I didn't know. Life flashed before my eyes when I found a hole last year and my water filled up with 40 degree water. I developed a "this isn't worth it attitude" but quickly remembered the value and improvised.
I would consider using a raft or tube to walk with. It helps with footing stability and for carrying my bow. Nice to sit on going down stream as well. If the creek is varying in water depth a tag line is imperative. Access through creeks is a huge advantage I will always use, just need to be smart about it, particularly in the dark.

[matt1336]

Get a boat. There are too many variables to consider when your hunting. You're going to have gear, it's gonna be dark, your going to be anxious and/or in a hurry. Something will go wrong eventually. Cutting corners is just going to cost you. Imo

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