My boots have rubber soles and came with studs already in. They've been great while out on the reservoir (Derwent) as its got quite a sandy bottom.

I've been out on a river recently and its got quite a rocky bottom. They're all mixed sized stones - from the size of a fist up to some that are bigger than a football. I can feel the studs grinding on the rocks, I can't help but feel that I'm scaring the fish off with the vibrations. Am I worrying about nothing?

What are felt soled boots for? Would they be better?

thanks, Bruce

On rivers with boulder type bottoms studs can down right dangerous, never mind noisy.
That type of river bottom is what felt is for.
Only problem is getting out on grassy, muddy banks!
felt is lethal!
hence most folk with felt will put a horsehoe of studs round toe and heel to stop slipping on muddy/grassy banks.
from what you say about your fishing felt would be best option, lightly studded, as will work equally as well as rubber and studs on your reservoir.
only downside is manufacturers are moving away from felt towards "sticky soles" as a precaution against spreading parasitical infestation!
wont be long before felt is frowned upon, and indeed banned in some places.
is already the case at some world championship fly fishing venues.
regards
bert

They probably do scare a fish or two but so would you slipping on an algal covered rock and landing on your bum , take it from me the studs do provide a better purchase to the river bed.

__________________
When you can see without being seen,strike without knowing why,and guess correctly where the best fish lie,they have taught you all they can.
(T.C. KINGSMILL MOORE)

Thanks for the replies guys. Conflicting advice.

Many of the rocks are covered in algae, and the banks are certainly very muddy.

I don't think spending another hundred quid on boots, and then find I spen half my like falling over is the right risk to take.

Felt soles are the only way to go when fishing on rocks, stones or slate. I have never had a problem with them loading up with mud. You will love the secure feel of the felt sole.