The felt-soled waders controversy

What do the following states have in common: Alaska (southeast), Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont and parts of Ohio? As of February 2012, these states have banned the use of felt-soled waders and wading boots.

What do the following fly-fishing companies have in common: Simms, Dan Bailey, Cabelas, Chota, Korkers, Orvis, Patagonia, Redhead and Reddington. Currently, these companies sell felt-soled waders and wading boots.

Ever fallen while wading? If you haven’t, you’ve probably missed some golden fishing opportunities.

My most embarrassing fall was several ago on the ‘Mo. Two guys on the shoreline warned me, “Those rocks are really slippery”.

“No problem,” I replied, then I did a face-plant into waist-deep water right in front of those guys. Fortunately, my falls have decreased since I’ve been using a wading staff — and felt soles.

Remember three years ago, when, in response to increasing threats of spreading aquatic nuisance species (whirling disease, zebra mussels, New Zealand mud snails, didymos)? Many wader/wading boot manufacturers said they would no longer sell felt soles.

But they still do. All but L.L. Bean and Hodgeman. And I’m grateful, because with my suture-scarred legs, I found rubber-treaded soles, regardless of brand, just didn’t keep me upright.

Rich Hahn, Simms public relations manager, said his company received many comments from anglers who preferred felt and fished just one waterway.

“We spent two years getting the word out about preventing the spread of aquatic nuisance species,” Hahn said. “We are committed to ‘wash, dry, inspect.’”

According to Hahn, it’s all about minimizing the risk of spreading aquatic nuisance species.

I never fish more than three rivers in three days, so my three sets of waders/boots are adequate to start each day with a completely dry, clean outfit.

The most recent Montana Legislature did not address the felt-sole controversy, so we stumblers are safe for another two years.