I've used the NRS Storm boots for the past two years.  I had to have a local cobbler reinforce some stitching for me (at the top of the ankle, simply stitching the outer shell to the liner better than it came from NRS) before I took off.  I spent a lot of time in the BWCAW and QPP last year and used these boots for all but the very early and late season trips.  I found them to be very supportive, drain well and have good traction.  I wore a silk or polypro liner sock with them (makes them a lot easier to get on and off).  At the end of the season, I had a tear near one toe (from snagging on a root--taking a header with a full pack and canoe).  Over all I like them a lot.  At the end of a long day, though, taking them off is a treat.  Sandles never felt so good.  I never overheated in them, simply because they were always wet.  I use a Superfeet insert inside them to give me better support and cushion.  Works well. 
I know the portage boot question always draws a lot of responses.  I wonder how many times a similar thread has occurred on this forum...
On another note:  I use the Chota breathable mukluks for early and late season.  I have had a lot of problems with them (stitching tearing out and general construction issues) and resoled them after less than a month's total time in the parks (check out Aqua Stealth as a material for resoling--best grip I have ever had).  All that being said, they are still my choice for cold weather paddling/portaging.  Far from perfect, but best I've used so far (though that's not saying much).
Cheers,
gp

How early is to early to wet-foot? Or is that not a concern? Reason I ask is because I'm in the pre-planning for a trip next early May, and trying to decide if I'm going to do the wet-foot route or try to keep dry with a pair of hip-waders? Am I completly out of line for even considering the hip-boot idea?

I understand and can surely see the negative effects one could have with waders filling up, when I refer to my hip boots, there not actually full length waders like you might think, more so just short of my crotch boots. I have given some thought to the knee boots, but it seems that I hear many many  stories of guys with even knee boots that seem to always find water 1in. over them. Thats my only reason for thinking my hip boots might be a better idea if I decide to go the dry route. I'm still debating  if the water temps will be to cold to go the wet-foot way? Any thoughts of water temps in early May?

Spring and summer don't normally compare. You need to be careful in spring. Numb feet are no fun. Getting a boot full of cold water is one thing but wet footing it is another altogether. Most springs you would not want to do that. Slippery rocks and numb feet don't mix well. Also, in spring, a brightly colored PFD is preferred by search parties but you really want to get out of the water as fast as possible. Can you swim in your hip boots? Could you get them off.

The living is easy in summer, spring can be unforgiving. If your feet are cold and it's 40 degrees, overcast, drizzling and will be for the next few days, it sucks big time. I forgot a knit hat once and used my emergency go-to pair of socks just to keep my ears warm.

Wet feet are an eventuality, either from water getting in or sweat soaking your socks.  We try to mitigate, but you'll eventually find water that tops your boots.  Warm feet are as much a factor of your socks as your boots.  Winter is a different story.

The taller the boot, the bigger the risk if water can flow in.  I think fishing wader style boots could be a big risk.  The ones I'm familiar with are baggy.  Maybe try swimming with them on in the warm summer water before risking a dump in cold spring freshet?

My wet boots are LLBean 16" Maine Hunting Shoe.  They are not 100% waterproof.  The seams need to be treated annually.  They still leak a little even when treated, but no more than I sweat.  For getting in/out of the canoe they're great.  For the price and the ability to have a dry pair of camp shoes, I'm happy with them.  Not as slick as what I've heard about Chotas.