Yes, the Hodgeman (or similar) boots at Academy work great. The Marlwalkers are Cadillac - I just blew out my first pair that I've had for five years or so, and promptly ordered another pair. They are pretty damn good boots. In either case, you might want to get some neoprene gravel guards to keep shell, etc. from getting into your boots. In the summertime, you can wear neoprene socks and fold the top over the boot to accomplish the same thing.

Re: mud, it's where you want to be looking this time of year as it warms more quickly on sunny days.