Every part of this wonderful country offers up amazing fly fishing destinations.

Ask anyone who knows anything about fly fishing in the western U.S. and Lee’s Ferry, Ariz., is bound to pop up. When construction ended on the Glen Canyon Dam the result was a haven for fishermen known as Lake Powell, situated between Arizona and Utah. What makes Lee’s Ferry such a popular fly fishing destination is that the water remains crystal clear nearly year-round. There are plenty of fish to spot, averaging about a foot long, though some have claimed to nearly double that. It has been said that on any given day even an average fly fisherman can expect to brag about 10 to 20 catches and a lucky few have boasted of landing more than twice that. Rainbow trout will dominate your haul.

Across the country you can enjoy a more secluded destination for catch-and-release fly fishing at Gunpowder River in Maryland. Brown trout dominate this 8-mile stretch of tree-shaded, Mid-Atlantic beauty, though you shouldn’t be surprised to land a rainbow trout or two. Even though Gunpowder River fly fishing is no more of a secret than Lee’s Ferry, it still remains possible to wade into shallow waters with the feeling that nobody else exists in the world but you. Fly fishing on Gunpowder River differs substantially in another way from Lee’s Ferry in that you shouldn’t expect to brag about landing over a dozen trout. This is the destination of choice for those who enjoy a satisfying challenge.

Northern fly fishing destinations don’t get much better than Au Sable River on the lower peninsula of Michigan. Here you will find 180 miles of trout fishing heaven. This river offers a stunning variety of access sites where you pause on your drive and get in an hour of fishing until you discover your lucky spot. Once you find your hot spot, expect to land some good-sized brook, brown and rainbow trout. Catches may not haul in Lee’s Ferry numbers, but don’t be surprised to land more than you expected. Depending upon the area you fish in, those trout can range from smallish to trophy sized.

For great saltwater fly fishing there is probably no better destination in America than the Florida Keys. This particular locale comes with its own peculiar challenges. For instance, you may never have considered sunglasses to be a vital part of your fishing supplies, but you will be glad you shelled out for the high-quality lenses when everybody around you is landing the fish you can’t even see. It is also highly advised that you practice casting in a strong wind if you aren’t used to it. Expect to land bonefish, redfish and tarpon in the warm waters off the Keys.

Few choose Hawaii as a vacation destination because of its fly fishing, but this tropical paradise offers opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater fly fishing. Saltwater catches range from bonefish to barracuda off the big island, while Oahu and Kauai both deliver bluegill and catfish on your freshwater expedition.

Submitted by: Timothy Sexton