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Down in the lower gates the sediment builds faster. Sometimes the hip waders are a detriment because of suction and it's best to chance going barefoot. Barefoot means lacerations but also means expedience. So to bleed a little more or get left behind are the only two options. The lower gates are no place to be without support, without protection from behind, because that's the way they come at you. They don't like to look you in the face before they strike. They aren't into confrontation. There's too much competition for time spent on leverage and negotiation. They need your meat faster than refined technique will afford.