Boots or no boots? I've seen people walk through trails with tennis shoes/low cut foot wear without a worry in the world. No sir, No way for me. As much as I dislike snakes, no way in HELL would I make it easy for them.

If you've ever seen someone get bit by a rattlesnake in the middle of nowhere you will never walk there without boots again.

I wear tennies, always know where i am stepping and usually poke weeds and debris piles ahead of my walking, if there is a critter there, he comes out before my foot goes in. No worries, been doing it all my life in the woods. I am still here. And i fish as many or more creeks than ANYBODY!

Rudy

I wear snake boots when creek fishing. I need the ankle support, good traction and also water proof. My brother was bitten by a Cotton mouth and almost lost his foot. Ended up costing almost 200K. We were raised off a river and learned to always watch our surroundings and our step. He was wearing work boots fishing his pond, standing still and never saw it till too late. Cheap insurance. Just cause you don't see them does not mean you are not a threat.

I try to wear boots, especially if I know the creek or pond I am going to is overgrown with weeds. Some areas though, even with boots, I refuse to walk through. Just too overgrown. And I have been known to walk through where most people wouldn't just to wet a line, but trust me there are some clumps of weeds where I won't dare take my chance.

I was gonna say...most boots are poor protection against snake bites. Walk loudly...and carry a big stick!

Oh....and carry a little Gentleman Jack with you in case of snake bites.

Tall thick leather boots

I've been an outdoors type all my life. Hunting, camping, hiking etc. Had my fair share of skipped heart beats from happening upon snakes. I never gave it too much thought (despite how much I hate snakes) and would usually fish in my crocs or what ever I had on. Until late last year. I was fishing the lake at a spot I'd go to almost every day after work. I stepped over a fallen branch and right next to the molted skin of what I think was a Timber Rattler. That scared the tar out of me at first. Still searching for a good pair of snake boots, water proof, not cammo and affordable. In the mean time I just make sure to walk slow, heavy and keep my head on a swivel.

The pond near me is okay for tennis shoes, low shoes...the other places with high grass, knee-high rubber boots. I do like the way they look!

...wisdom through fang repellent

Academy has plain rubber high top (knee) boots for I believe it was $21.00 - $25.00 .

Yeah and walking around in them for hours while you bank fish is a beating. I would go for something that is more comfortable but still offers protection. your feet will thank me later.