A Tackle Shop Guide to Fishing Footwear
Choosing the right fishing footwear is about matching the shoe to your specific fishing style. A boot designed for gripping slimy rocks is a completely different piece of equipment from a lightweight shoe for a boat deck. This guide will break down the main types to help you choose.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"One of the best things I ever took home from my shop was a pair of Mariner Aqua shoes. While they're a general-purpose water shoe, they were perfect for those 'wet/dry' situations like launching the boat or walking the muddy banks of a river. It was that real-world experience that made me decide to create a proper category for fishing footwear.
It doesn't stop there, though. Rock fishing safety is critical, I've worn and swear by Adrenalin rock boots for fishing kiama blowhole so we stock a range of dedicated rock boots for serious grip on Australia's rock ledges. And for when I'm done for the day and cleaning the boat, I wear a pair of thongs, so I've sourced a quality range for anglers."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner, Fishing Tackle Shop (Ocean Storm) | Over 20 years in business
A Guide to Fishing Footwear Types
The first step is to match the footwear to your fishing environment. Here are the main types we stock:
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Rock Fishing Boots (Safety & Grip): This is among the most important safety gear for any rock angler. These boots are designed for one job: to provide the best possible grip on dangerous, slippery rock surfaces. They are an essential, non-negotiable piece of equipment for this style of fishing.
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Deck & Aqua Shoes (Wet/Dry Use): These are your all-rounders for boat, kayak, and estuary fishing. They are made from quick-drying, lightweight materials that won't get waterlogged, and feature non-slip soles designed to grip a wet boat deck. Their enclosed-toe design also protects your feet from dropped hooks and sinkers.
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Thongs & Sandals (Comfort): Sometimes you just need an easy, comfortable pair of thongs for the drive to the ramp, for wearing around the campsite, or for washing the boat down at the end of the day.
Pro-Tips for Your Fishing Footwear
- The "Rinse & Dry" Rule: After every single trip in saltwater, give your shoes or boots a thorough rinse with fresh water. Salt will corrode eyelets and degrade the glues and materials over time. Always let them dry completely in a shaded, ventilated area, as direct sun can make some materials brittle.
- The Dangers of Bare Feet: Never handle fish barefoot on a boat deck. A thrashing fish can easily flick a treble hook or a sharp dorsal spine (like from a flathead) straight into your foot. A simple deck shoe provides critical protection.
- Rock Fishing Safety: A pair of rock boots is only one part of the system. Never fish the rocks alone, always watch the swell for a set of waves, and let someone know where you are going.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between standard soles and spiked soles for rock fishing?
This is a critical safety question. Standard soles are designed to provide basic grip for general fishing styles. Spiked or cleated soles are for hard, bare rock surfaces, where the metal studs can bite in and provide a secure foothold. You must match your sole to the situation you fish most often.
What is a "non-marking" sole, and do I need one for my boat?
Yes, this is incredibly important for boat owners. A "non-marking" sole, typically found on quality deck shoes, is made from a rubber compound that will not leave ugly black scuff marks all over a white fibreglass boat deck. It's a key feature that boaties and their deckhands always look for.
How do I stop my fishing shoes from smelling?
The smell is caused by bacteria and mildew growing in the damp material. The best way to prevent it is to rinse your shoes with fresh water after a trip and, most importantly, let them dry completely. Stuffing them with newspaper overnight will help pull out excess moisture and speed up the drying process.
What are the best shoes for kayak fishing?
The best kayak fishing shoes are an aqua shoe. Look for something that is lightweight, drains instantly, has a protective enclosed toe, and features a quality non-slip rubber sole.
