Wading Boots

[nate larson]

Well I just bought some new waders for trout fishing in Southeast MN. Now I just need to figure out what wading boots I should get. I am thinking I will either get them at Gander Mountain in Rochester or Cabela's in Owatonna. I am leaning towards getting the lug sole rather than the felt because I will be using the boots primarily on muddy and gravely areas and will also be using them during the winter season. Does anyone have any suggestions on a good pair of boots for around 50 bucks? Also, would it be a good idea to buy a pair of neoprene socks to wear over the top of the stockingfoot to help prevent excessive wear? They come with gravel guards...but I just want to make sure they feet don't wear out. Let me know if anyone has any thoughts or suggestions.

Thanks!

PS...here is a picture of the waders I bought.

[SWMuskeye]

Nate,

First off, I highly recommend an additional pair of neoprene socks. Not only will they add warmth in winter, but they will help your waders last a lot longer.

I think they may be sold out or discountinued, but I own a pair of Jim Teeny-felt sole w/studs that works in a bunch of different settings.

If you want a versatile shoe that'll cost you a little more, check out korkers. They come with several sole types and are interchangeable, which keeps you versatile.

I also own a pair of the Bite sandals which work good if you aren't in Mud.

Cabelas will offer you the cheapest lug sole options out there, and they are pretty good quality from what I've seen, no firsthand experience wearing them though.

Good luck.

[DinkADunk]

There are two models of Korkers that have been going through a remodeling change so you can find them for cheap. The more expensive of the two models is very good, the less expensive model only lasted me two years. I keep them around so I have a pair of lug soles for the mud and winter. Being able to swap soles is great, especially if you're investigating new water and don't know what will work best. My new pair of boots are studded Weibreners and they're fantastic, rebuildable too.

[nate larson]

Thanks for the tips guys. I will have to take a look at the Korkers. I will definately make sure to add neoprene socks when I am wading. I am guessing they might get a little hot though in the summer. Hopefully I can find some good boots in the next week or so.

Nate

[Ron Burgundy]

What do you wear under your chest waders. I got Hodgeman neoprenes and boots at Walmart for thirty bucks and sweat like pig just trying them on. I was just wearing my undies. I only bought them because they were so cheap and I'll probably only use them for fall smallies on the Root.

[DinkADunk]

Cabela's fleece wader liners.

[WxGuy]

I've got the Cabela's backcountry wading boots with the lub/rubber soles. That would be right in your price range. I find the lug sole works much better for walking through anything from mud to snow to grass...whatever, and since I spend more time out of the water than in the water I'm not too worried about the whole slippery rock issue, but someday I wouldn't mind a pair of felt soles. They're not too high on the priority list right now, personally.

The boots are on their 3rd season and I fish them an average of 1-2 days/week. If they make it through this season, I'll be very lucky...they're pretty ratty looking...which I like. Not bad for the $45 I spent on them a few seasons ago. I beat 'em up and they've treated me well, but am not sure if I'll go with them for a second time around.

Just my 2 cents.

[DT10 Guy]

Does anyone use the Cabelas felt sole zippered wading boots?

If so, would you recommend them for someone that only gets out a couple of times a year?

Thanks

[JP Z]

Just bought a pair of Korker Wetlands for $47 on Clearance at Sierra Trading post. These are the kind with interchangeable soles. Not the highest priced ones, but a good pair nonetheless. And the price was right.