A pair of comfortable fishing boots is worth its weight in gold. Good ankle boots will keep your feet dry and protected whether you’re loading and unloading the boat or standing on a deck for hours on end while battling less than ideal weather elements.
Our expert angling staff reviewed quite a few fishing boots over the years, researching and testing all the different models that are currently available. We talked with numerous professional anglers, guides and other knowledgeable anglers to come up with a list of the best fishing boots out there. Here’s what we found.
OUR TOP PICKS
- Grundéns Deviation Ankle Boots – Buy at Amazon
- Huk Rogue Wave Fishing Boots – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Under Armour Shoreman Deck Shoes – Buy at Under Armour
- Xtratuf Sport Ankle Boots – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Rocky Dry Strike Waterproof Deck Boot – Buy at Amazon
- M’s Simms Challenger 7-inch Boots – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LaCrosse Alpha Deck Boot – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Grundéns Deck-Boss Fishing Boots – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- AFTCO Ankle Deck Boots – Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- Muck Excursion Pro Mid Ankle Boots – Buy at Amazon
Grundéns Deviation Ankle Boot
I bought these last year, and they have become the favorite pair of fishing boots I’ve ever owned. Comfortable, good fitting, and easy-on. Plus, they sit higher under your bibs than most boating shoes so you are not going to have wet feet in a rainstorm.
These have the best traction in wet conditions of all the other boots out there, hands-down. Some deck boots are actually more slippery on a wet boat than regular tennis shoes. But the aggressive soles on these boots are awesome.
These are the perfect boots for cold conditions, saving you from wearing full-on winter boots, making them ideal for the early- and late-season.
– Kobie Koenig
AFTCO Ankle Deck Boot
AFTCO won best of show at ICAST in 2022 for this boot, and put themselves on the deck boot map with anglers. These boots are well made, with oversized loop straps that make pulling them on and taking them off these a breeze. And they are the only good deck boots we’ve found under $100.
I’ve now had the chance to fish out of these boots for several months and they have become my favorite pair of fishing boots. They are comfortable, have really good traction, don’t mark up your deck or track a lot of junk into the boat. I wear them bank fishing all the time. They are dynamite boots for a do-it-all angler.
The inner neoprene liner is quick drying, the insole offers a custom compression fit with antimicrobial properties. Go a size up or wear them a lot if you wear half-size shoes. They seem to mold to your feet after you wear them a bit. A great boot for the money! For more info, read our full review of the AFTCO Ankle Deck fishing boot.
– Jason Sealock
Under Armour Shoreman Deck Shoes
The Under Armour Shoreman deck shoes are a standout choice for anyone seeking performance and comfort on the water. They feature a lightweight, breathable design that keeps feet cool, while the water-resistant materials help repel splashes. The slip-resistant outsole provides excellent traction on wet surfaces, making them reliable for boating or beach outings.
I’ve worn these boots religiously over the last several months, and I’ve been really impressed with their overall comfort and durability. These have quickly become one of my go-to boots during rainy or overcast conditions. Overall, these shoes combine functionality with a stylish look, making them a great addition to any angler’s wardrobe.
-Sam Hanggi
Huk Rogue Wave Fishing Boots
I have worn the Huk Rogue Wave constantly for the past two years, and they are my personal favorite fishing boot. They are extremely comfortable. They slide on easily, stay put on your feet, and give you good traction in a boat and on the boat ramp.
The non-marking Grip-X outsole provides great traction. But the pattern on the sole will pick up small gravel and pebbles and you will see some little rocks in your boat now and again, the only drawback of this boot.I wear them for launching the boat where I might need to get ankle deep in the water. And always when I fish in the rain.
I also have bank fished a bunch with these. I throw them in my truck on my travels and if I stop off to fish, I throw these on, hit the water, kick through the mud and weeds and then throw them in the back of the truck and go.
– Jason Sealock
Xtratuf Sport Ankle Boot
These are some of the most popular fishing boots on the market, largely due to how easily they slip on and how lightweight they are. Throw them in your boat, truck or garage, and grab ’em and go anytime there is a chance you might have to get wet.
Whether you’re loading or launching the boat or fishing in a torrential downpour, these boots stand up to the test. I keep some in my storage unit with my boat as they have gotten to be as essential as my boat.
They are 100% waterproof, with non-marking outsoles with the highest rating for slip resistance possible. They also feature a breathable mesh lining that is sandwiched into the shoe to allow your feet to breathe. The pull on tabs are sturdy and these boots are made for heavy abuse.
– Jason Sealock
Rocky Dry Strike Waterproof Deck Boot
The Rocky Dry Strike Waterproof Deck Boot excels in both comfort and function. Constructed with a durable, waterproof material, these boots keep feet dry in wet conditions. The slip-resistant outsole offers excellent traction on slippery surfaces, making them perfect for boating or fishing.
With a lightweight design and cushioned interior, they provide all-day comfort without sacrificing support. Overall, the Dry Strike is a reliable and stylish option for anyone seeking dependable footwear for outdoor water activities.
– Sam Hanggi
Simms Challenger Boot
This vulcanized rubber boot has set the bar in waterproof protection. Simms makes arguably some of the best gear for keeping anglers dry and these boots are no exception.
The neoprene lining and elastic top give you a nice form-fitting boot that is not too tight, but also stays very close to the leg so no water can trickle in. The rugged outsole grips well on most surfaces and the foot bed is very comfortable for all day wear.
This has long been a standard in deck boots.The latest versions are every bit as good as this boot has ever been, with some added improvements.
– Jason Sealock
LaCrosse Alpha Deck Boot
The Lacrosse Alpha Deck Boot is an impressive choice for those who need durable, waterproof footwear. Made from high-quality rubber, these boots provide excellent protection against the elements while remaining lightweight and comfortable. The slip-resistant outsole ensures solid traction on wet surfaces, making them ideal for boating and fishing from a bank or boat.
The easy pull-on design and breathable lining add to their convenience, making them a reliable option for outdoor adventures. I’ve worn these shoes on several occasions, and I’m a huge fan of how they fit around your ankle. The foam, flexible fit is perfect for moving around in less than ideal conditions. Overall, the Alpha Deck Boot combines function with comfort, making it a solid investment for all anglers.
-Sam Hanggi
Grundéns Freeboard Chukka
I was looking for a good-looking slip-on shoe with fishing-specific design features that could do double-duty as a casual shoe. I like the slip-on for convenience — no laces mean they go on quickly and fit consistently. This shoe style also allows for some sock layering, so I can bulk up when temps take a dip. They’re also waterproof, an obvious plus in the boat.
The sole is non-marking and built for grip on wet and slippery surfaces. I’m a clean freak, so cleanliness is a side benefit of the boat-specific sole. The low-profile tread pattern doesn’t carry a lot of dirt, so it minimizes tracking soil and mud into your boat. Cosmetically, the leather upper looks great and has a cool technical and casual hybrid look where the leather meets the black leather band and white sole.
The contrast in materials is attractive and functional, offering durability where it matters (heel and toe). I’ve worn my pair of Freeboard Leather Chukka’s for two years and running, and they’re still in excellent shape, given the abuse they’ve been subjected to.
– Ryan DeChaine
Grundéns Deck-Boss Fishing Boots
The Grundens DeckBoss fishing boots are an excellent choice for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to fish from the bank or in messy conditions. Crafted from durable, waterproof materials, they keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions. The slip-resistant soles provide great traction on slippery surfaces, making them ideal for boat decks and rocky shorelines.
I prefer these boots whenever I’m fishing ponds, banks or other locations that involve hiking through treacherous cover. The tall sides and durable material make this boot perfect for dealing with thorns, sticks and mud. These boots double as my hunting boots, and I truly trust them under any condition. Overall, the Deck-Boss boots offer a blend of practicality and durability, making them a solid investment for anyone who likes to fish in nasty conditions.
-Sam Hanggi
Muck Excursion Pro
Muck has a long history of making great-fitting waterproof boots and the Excursion Pro Mid is one of their most popular ankle boots ever. I wore mine for many years before retiring them. The boot features a soft neoprene upper section with a molded rubber lower section with aggressive tread to keep your feet dry, comfortable and pain-free after a long day of fishing.
The 4mm neoprene bootie and Xpress cool lining makes for a nice wear. The sock liner keeps foot friction to a minimum and the EVA midsole adds additional comfort and support. These boots are also very sturdy around the lower foot so they won’t tear up if you have to climb over obstacles on your bank fishing adventures. For more info, read our full review here: Muck Excursion Pro Mid Boot Review.
– Jason Sealock
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING FISHING BOOTS
A good pair of fishing boots is invaluable to an avid angler. Taking care of your feet will make your days on the water a lot more enjoyable.. Keeping your feet healthy and happy when fishing all day means keeping them cushioned as the boat bobs up and down or as you climb over sticks and rocks along the bank to get to your spot.
It also means keeping them dry. When the weather is cold, the last thing you need is wet feet. Lookfor boots that are not only waterproof but also fit snuggly to your ankle so water has a tough time getting to your feet. Molded rubber and neoprene often make for a snug fit. The boot should fit close to your leg and your rain pants go down over them, and those two layers keep the water out of your feet.
Look for good insoles that keep your feet comfortable and provide some cushion as well as support. Look for good pull tabs so you can get the boots on and off easily. And finally look for a good outsole with plenty of traction to keep you from slipping in wet conditions or even icy conditions. One added benefit you can find in fishing boots is if the insoles have some antimicrobial protection. There are some things you can do to fight that below.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR FISHING BOOTS LAST
A few things will keep your fishing boots lasting for more than a single fishing season. To protect your investment, we recommend cleaning them after fishing, and then hanging them to dry and removing the insoles to prevent them from building up mildew. Dry them by turning them upside down to make sure the moisture goes out of the inside of the boots.
I built a boot rack with a single 2×4., cut so that there are two standing posts about 12 inches tall. Use the rest of the board to make a platform to keep the two postsupright. When you come in from fishing, hang your boots on it and you’re good for the next trip.
Use a silicone rubber spray to prolong the life of your boots. This spray will help prevent debris from sticking to your boots, and protect your purchase.
Store your boots in a warm, dry spot. Keep them out of the sun and clean them after heavy use. Doing all this will ensure you will have boots that last for multiple seasons, making them well worth any amount of money you spend on them.
