This is a FlyCast first. Our focus is on providing the most up-to-date reports on fly fishing conditions in Colorado, but we understand that in a lot of cases having the right gear can make the difference between a good day and a great day on the water. We recently had the opportunity to test out
Rock Treads, an aluminum traction kit for wading boots, and we were so impressed, we just had to spread to word.
Our first difficult decision was deciding whether Taylor or I would test these bad boys out. After a very short discussion, we decided that I would test them due to my natural tendency to slip and take a swim in every river we fish. It doesn’t help that we frequently enjoy river beers, but even then, I’m the one going for a swim. When you order rock treads, you receive a number of aluminum disks in varying sizes that easily screw into your wading boot soles. I personally wear Korkers boots, which have interchangeable soles, which initially worried me. Luckily, Rock Treads fit every boot, whether it’s a permanent sole or interchangeable. Fast forward to installation. Rock Treads provide tread designs on their website to make things easy. Considering all components were provided, installation was surprisingly easy. All I needed was a drill and drill bit (screwdriver will work). A short 20 minutes later, I had my rubber sole, Korkers boots, outfitted with Rock Treads. I decided to test my new high traction boots in several rivers to see how they would perform. Living and fishing Colorado rivers, I’m exposed to rocky river bottoms and tail waters with healthy moss and vegetation. My initial concern was how comfortable the boots would feel after screwing aluminum platforms to the soles. Surprisingly, they were very comfortable and my feet didn’t feel any extra pressure. Walking to the river was comfortable and trekking through snow didn’t result in snow based platform boots like felt boots are famous for. Once to the river, my usual move is to scan the river to spot feeding trout or fishy sections. A quick entrance typically follows and this is when the slipping begins. I re-enacted the above tendency and with great relief, I was moving through the water without slipping. Several fish and a few hours later, it was time for a beer break and this is when the real test would begin. After enjoying my go-to river beer, Eddy Line IPA, it was time to hit the water. With my new beer legs (yes, I believe that’s a thing), I stepped into the water and maintained full control. For those of you who know the scenario I am describing, this was a big feat! Three days on the river and I’m still slip free. Rock treads may be more expensive than the cheap screws in studded boots, but the effectiveness and durability make these $60 rock treads well worth the money.