Winter Water Safety

Winter is a season of recovery and preparation.
-Paul Theroux 

(Authors note: this article is written with the casual paddler/angler in mind. Class I/Class II waters. If you are planning on whitewater paddling in the winter, here is a great google search for tips)

At the risk of ruining my own solitude, I am going to tell you this: Winter is a great time to be on the Ozarks Rivers and Streams. 
Just because the mercury drops doesn't have to mean you can't get out on the water. Late Fall, Winter, and early spring offer some superb opportunities to float, fish, and enjoy the abundant wildlife the Ozarks has to offer. And no crowds. 
With proper planning, a winter float down an Ozarks waterway can be one of the most memorable experiences of the year.

Plan ahead, and phone a friend.
Cold floats are best done on familiar waters. Know your route and the areas to avoid or portage. Don't take chances in water that may dump you. The key to warmth is dryness. And discretion is the better part of valor. 
It's also wise to float with a friend, or several of them. And always let someone else know where you are floating. Giving a wife, boy/girlfriend or a buddy your put in and take out points can reduce the time to locate you in the event of an emergency. 

Dress for success.
As I said, the key to warmth is dryness. Dress in layers starting with a thin, moisture wicking base and build from there. Avoid cotton at all costs. Cotton holds water and drys slowly. 
I wear a layer of Capilene from Patagonia as my base. Over that I wear a pair of Simms Fleece Bib wader pants. 
Simms G4 waders are my top layer. I float so I can fish, and having a good set of waders will make your day much more enjoyable. 
If you are not planning on wading, NRS makes a great pair of paddling pants and jacket.
Socks are always Smart Wool. For me they are the most comfortable and moisture wicking sock on the market. 
Footwear is often overlooked, but is an important part of your winter wardrobe. I wear Simms G3 boots fitted with the Hardbite Studs. What good is all of that warm gear if you end up on your arse because of slippery rock?
I always wear a wader belt as well. Besides adding a bit of support, a wader belt will keep water out in the event you go in over the top. 
Pack good rain gear. Our weather can turn on a dime. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. 
Always, and I mean always, wear your PFD. 
Keep a change of clothes in a good dry bag. And keep an extra set in your recovery vehicle. 

Vinny and Bodhi-Consummate explorers 

Gear up!
Survival in the winter starts with being prepared. Dumping on a lake, while still dangerous, is not nearly as perilous as an unplanned entry 2 miles into a 6 mile float. 
Learn how to use and carry a throw rope bag. 
Carry a magnesium fire striker to start a warming fire. 
Own a quality PFD and WEAR IT.
Carry a good waterproof flashlight.
Pack a few hand warmers. They take up little space and can be a god-send when your hands are cold. 
Keep your primary paddle on a leash. 
Carry a spare paddle when possible. I carry half of a paddle under my seat just in case. 
Keep your phone, wallet and keys in a good, floating, dry box. 
Inspect your boat between use for cracks, seal rot etc. 
I plug all of the scuppers in my ATAK except the two under my seat. This keeps the cockpit dry, but will let water out if I do happen to ship some in. 
Carry a packable solar blanket. If you happen to get stranded, this and the magnesium striker could end up saving your life. 

Practice survival tactics. 
One of the first things I did after getting my kayak was to practice deep water reentry. Always practice this with your PFD on and fastened. 
There are several qualified white water survival classes in the Ozarks. Contact the guys at Ozark Mountain Trading Company for more info. 

Final thoughts.
Keep your self hydrated while on the water. Dehydration will accelerate hypothermia and fatigue.
Watch your pace. Don't plan a float you can't handle in one, short winter day. 
Take food. Protein and carbs will help keep your energy level up, and the risk of fatigue down. 
Enjoy the scenery. Winter is the cleansing season. With the leaves gone, you can see deeper into the verge, allowing for some incredible wildlife viewing. 

See you out there!