Fishing Boots
Many fishermen prefer to wear fishing boots because they prevent their feet and lower legs from getting wet and provide them with added traction on commonly slippery surfaces. There are many different types of fishing boots used for different fishing occasions. Read on to learn more about fishing boots and what you should take into consideration before purchasing a pair.
Benefits of Fishing Boots
Having fishing boots is important for fishermen for a couple of reasons. The boots have traction on the bottom, which helps fishermen stand steady while fishing in water or on a rocky boat. Ankle fishing boots are mainly used to keep feet dry and prevent slipping while on a boat. When fishermen are standing in the water and wading around, they tend to use knee-high fishing boots or hip fishing boots, depending on the depth of the water. Fishing boots are almost always made with waterproof material, with knee-high boots and hip boots typically made of plastic. There are many different types of fishing boots, but a good rule of thumb is to get lightweight fishing boots, regardless of the occasion. Fishermen have to deal with long days on the water, so the lighter the boots, the better. Fishing boost can last anywhere from two to four seasons of fishing.
Things To Consider
When looking for fishing boots, you'll want to consider the following:
- What type of fishing boots are you looking for?
- How much are you looking to spend on fishing boots?
- What size fishing boots do you need?
- Where do you plan on fishing?
- What type of fishermen are you?
What are you looking for in fishing boots?
- Affordability
- Durability
- Style
- Waterproof
- Protection
- Insulation
Types
There are three main types of fishing boots: ankle, knee-high, and hip. Each one of these boots has unique characteristics that help with various aspects of fishing.
Ankle Boots
Ankle fishing boots are usually used for fishing trips that happen on a boat. Fishermen wear these boots to have better traction while standing on the boat and to keep their feet dry. These boots are beneficial for fishermen to stand steady on wavy water, avoiding slips or falls when the deck of the boat gets wet in uneasy waters. Ankle boots go for $40 to $150 on average.
Pros:
- Traction on the bottom of the boot is great
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Not effective for standing in water
- Not fully waterproof
Knee-High Boots
Knee-high fishing boots are specifically known for their versatility. Knee-high boots are usually worn for wading into the water while fishing, but they can be worn on fishing boats as well. The boots have traction on the bottom of them, which is essential for fishermen. These boots are made of plastic and other waterproof materials, keeping fishermen dry while they fish. These boots sell for between $40 and $150 due to their waterproof qualities.
Pros:
- Can be used for many different types of fishing
- Waterproof design
Cons:
- Heavier
- Not effective for wading into very deep water
Hip Boots
Hip fishing boots are completely waterproof and are commonly used for fly fishing or wading. Fishermen will usually stand in the water for hours while fishing, and wearing hip boots is essential to staying dry. The traction on the boots isn’t as pronounced as ankle boots and knee-high boots since fishermen spend more time in the water than on land when wearing hip boots. These boots are more pricey and go for $175-$200 if you are getting a quality pair, as there is more material and the boots are entirely waterproof. Cheaper pairs cost around $50 but do not last long and may not have fully waterproof material.
Pros:
- Extra waterproof coverage
- Can be worn in water for hours
Cons:
- Less traction
- More expensive
- Heavier
Brands
While many brands manufacture and sell fishing boots, the top three are XTRATUF, Shimano, and Huk.
XTRATUF
XTRATUF has a great selection of ankle and knee-high fishing boots. They come in many styles, and all of their models provide great traction on the bottom of the boot. XTRATUF boots are a little pricey due to the brand name and quality of the materials used. Their ankle boots are all priced from $95 and up on their website.
Shimano
Shimano is another great fishing brand that supplies all types of equipment and apparel, including fishing boots. They mainly specialize in ankle boots but do have some knee-high boots as well. All of their boots are made from a lightweight material, and some of their models are slightly cheaper than other top brands. Their knee-high boots are made of rubber, allowing for extra waterproofing. While far more than just a fishing boots brand, Shimano is another solid choice to consider next time you’re looking for a new pair.
Huk
Huk is one of the best brands for all your fishing apparel needs, including fishing boots. They sell ankle boots in various styles and colors. Their ankle boots are high quality and made of neoprene and rubber, which enhances their waterproof abilities. Huk’s fishing boots feature specialized technology to improve traction, marking-resistant outsoles, and heavy-duty pull tabs. You can typically purchase a pair of Huk boots for around $100 a pair.
FAQ
How much do fishing boots cost?
Fishing boots tend to cost between $40 and $200, depending on the type and quality of the boot. More expensive fishing boots usually have better traction on the bottoms and higher-quality, fully waterproof materials. Ankle boots usually go for $80 to $150, but very high-quality ankle boots can cost more. Knee-high boots are widely available in a variety of qualities and prices, typically ranging from $40 for cheaper models and $150 for top-of-the-line models. Hip boots will cost around $200 for high-quality pairs, while cheaper options can cost as low as $50. The wide range of prices for fishing boots allows fishermen the flexibility to decide exactly how much they are comfortable spending.
Why are felt wading boots banned?
Felt wading boots are banned because research has shown that felt can damage the environments they enter. They also can harbor invasive species that attach to the felt for a long period of time. So when fishermen who wear felt boots go in one area to fish and then fish somewhere new, they could bring invasive species with them and harm various ecosystems. It is important to use rubber fishing boots because they dry out quicker and kill the invasive species on them.
What are the best fishing boots for beginners to use?
The best type of fishing boots to use for beginner fishermen are typically knee-high boots. These boots are known for their versatility and affordability, with a huge range of options available. Basic models cost as low as $40, while more expensive boots with insulation or other special features will cost up to $150. Knee-high boots are the common ground between ankle boots and hip boots, making them suitable for most fishermen. They provide adequate protection from water entering the boots and feature traction on the bottom to prevent slipping on wet surfaces. At the same time, they are not as cumbersome or restricting as hip boots, giving beginner fishers more comfort while out on the water.