We have mud and sand mixed in the ponds and rivers we hunt-both can become traps fairly fast. My Grandfather taught us two things-one never ever stop moving no matter what-the second was we carried an old ski pole. I hooked mine up with a sling and just carried it over my shoulder. If I ever felt like I was sinking I quickly put it down right next to the foot that was sinking and drove it down next to that foot. Same theory as the snow shoe I guess. Glad you got out and sorry it ruined your day of hunting