Alright guys, let me start off by saying I'm glad to still be here. I had two very close calls, and as many weeks.
#1-
2 weeks ago I went to The American via Mammoth bar. Water was real high, and real fast. towards the end of the day, my buddy was dozing off, and I broke out the fly rod. Waded out, and she was alot quicker than I thought. I was swept down into a bigger current, and just COULD NOT swim to the side. I decided to ditch the rod(thats how I knew it was getting bad), but the fly line got wrapped around my feet, making it even harder to swim. My only option was to swim to the other side, which I finally did. My quads were cramped up, and it took me 15 min. to catch my breath. 1 1/2 hours later I swam to the other side, and I am just thankful that I made it! (without my shoes, but saved the rod.)
#2
Tuesday, I headed out to Pacifica, with a boogie board, wet suit, pack with tackle, 11' loomis and a Daiwa Emblem. 2 hours after I got out of my car, I was back in it, minus a set of flippers. My 2 piece loomis was now a 3 piece, and the reel seat was still one the rod, with no reel attached to it. I looked up to Heaven, and said a big thank you to Him, and drove away.

Next time you are out on the water, do not take anything for granted. Always be prepared, and if it looks too risky, DON'T DO IT.

Tight Lines, Ben