I second the Korkers idea. I have a pair with their Kling On sole (rubber like Simms Vibram) and felt sole. I also have a pair of Simms Guides in their Vibram. The Vibram is super slick on our rives around here. I added cleats which helped on everything but bare, dry rocks where they sound like fingernails on a chalkboard as I slide around. Only advantage I saw in the rubber soles was hiking in; better traction in mud, leaves, etc. But I'm 90% in the water here and sometimes in a drift boat (which means I have to take the cleats out of my Simms if I want to ride in the boat), so I usually just wear the Korkers.

I don't carry a wading staff, probably should.