Felt Soled Wading Boots Fishing Regulation

May 15, 2014

Question: I couldn’t find any fishing regulations regarding the use of felt-sole wading boots. Someone said they are illegal to wear in certain places. I fish mainly in Mono County. Can you please let me know? (Chris)
Answer: There is currently no regulation in California I am aware of that would prohibit anglers from wearing felt soles. With that said, we do encourage anglers to disinfect and sanitize their waders and boots in between trips to other non-connected watersheds. Although techniques vary in efficacy, I often tell anglers that freezing, if possible, and complete desiccations are better than nothing.

If your interest extends beyond California borders, this site has some useful information: http://www.stopans.org/Felt_Bans.htm.