By Greg Cook
waterhead.com
October 5, 2011

When it comes to fishing supplies, do not forget about the importance of fishing boots and waders. Good fishing boots and waders can make the difference between going home empty-handed or with a cooler full of fish. Many fishermen and women enjoy fishing wading style, but the proper equipment is a must.

The first thing to decide is your budget for fishing boots and waders, and how much money you would like to spend on each item. They can range from being fairly inexpensive to quite a costly purchase. Latex fishing boots and waders are one of the more inexpensive options available and they can be patched just like an inflatable pool toy or air mattress. However, they do not breathe very well and some people are allergic to latex. Gore-Tex waders, on the other hand, breathe extremely well, but they are one of the most expensive options. Neoprene boots and waders are a great choice for cold water fishing, but may not be the best choice for other climes or situations.

You will also need to decide which type of wader you want to buy. There are two general types, one is the stocking-foot wader and the other is the boot-fit wader. Stocking-foot waders end at the ankles and need a separate boot to be purchased with it. The boot-fit is all one piece, so it is more convenient. However, this also makes the outfit a little more heavy and cumbersome. It also does not have as much ankle support as boots that are purchased separately. Stocking-foot waders take more time and effort to put on, but they do offer more ankle and foot support in the water and while traveling over rocks and uneven river beds. If you do go with the stocking-foot wader, you may want to invest in a gravel guard as well as good wading boots. This item seals the area between the boot and the wader to keep gravel from getting in your waders.

Wading boots do not offer as much support as other boots such as hiking boots, so the fit may feel different at first. They should offer some ankle support, enough to make you feel secure when wearing them and have stiff, durable soles. Fishing boots generally come with two types of soles, felt or rubber. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it mostly comes down to personal preference. Felt soled boots offer better grip against on gravel bottoms or beds with rocky surfaces. Rubber soles are better for muddier or slippery surfaces. 

You will also need to determine how high of waders you want. Again, there are typically two choices, the chest wader and the hip wader. Hip waders end just above your hip bone and right below waist level. Chest waders go all the way up to your armpit level. If you tend to fish in water that never goes above your knees, hip waders are a fine choice. If you fish in varied locations with differing water levels, chest waders offer the most versatility. Hip waders offer better mobility and ease of movement, allowing you to move easier and get you to a better fishing spot. However, if you are anywhere near water above knee level, chest waders are a must.

One more consideration with chest waders, if it does not come equipped with some kind of restraint system designed to keep water out, you will have to wear a wading belt with it. A wading belt will also keep water out of your waders if you should slip and fall in the water. Your basic choices of fishing boots and waders are stocking-foot and boot-fit and chest or hip waders. You will need to determine where you fish the most, the type of water, the type of water bed and how high the water is where you fish most often.

A wading staff can also be a wise purchase to add to your fishing boots and waders gear. If you have ever found yourself in an uncomfortable situation while wade fishing, you may have wished you had a wading staff with you. There are a few different types; one of the more popular versions is the collapsible staff. Many collapsible staffs come with options such as cork handles, lightweight aluminum bodies and compasses embedded on the handle. Most collapsible staffs are about ten inches when closed, and at fifty inches at their full height. Many also fit into a convenient carrying pouch that can be hooked on your waders or vest when not needed.

Fishing wading style with fishing boots and waders does not have to be a dangerous or hazardous event. In addition to purchasing the appropriate fishing boots and waders that fit well and are comfortable, there are a few things to keep in mind while out casting your line.

Start out in shallow water. This will allow you a better chance to gauge water level and find any underwater holes and divots. You will also be able to ascertain where the drop offs are at more accurately. Take small, deliberate and careful steps. There is no need to rush when fishing, you will just scare your prized fish away. By taking careful steps, you can avoid tripping over underwater debris, losing your balance and ending up underwater with the fishes.

When you are facing water with stronger currents, walk diagonally. This creates less resistance and makes walking steadier. This is also where the correct choice of wading boots comes into play. The correct choice in boot can make a difference between keeping you upright and ending up in trouble. Avoid walking on rocks whenever possible; walk in between them rather than on top of them, even if it takes a few extra minutes. Many wading accidents happen because of careless mistakes and rushing into things. The fish will wait for you, take your time and make calculated decisions.

Do not get overconfident just because you have the best fishing boots and waders, wading belt or staff available. Avoid dangerous situations, and stick to water that you are comfortable in and have the ability to navigate efficiently. Wade fishing does hold inherent risks, but you can greatly reduce these risks by making smart decisions and knowing what you are up against.

If you do happen to fall into faster moving water, do not try to stand up. You can create a more hazardous situation for yourself. Instead, turn on to your back, if possible, with your legs out in front of you. Allow the water to carry you downstream to slower and shallower water and then stand up. It is worth the extra hike back to your camp and staying alive rather than fighting a heavy current and losing.

Buying the right fishing and waders is not only important to give you the best fishing experience, but it can also save your life in certain situations. Try each style on, see what fits your body properly and offers you the best options for your needs. There is a wide variety of styles offered, and it can be a daunting task to figure out which one you need, but if you break it down to the basics and what your fishing style demands, you will have no trouble finding the perfect fishing boots and waders for you.

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