How to Find a Fly-Fishing Guide in Florida

With a huge variety of fish and locations, it's no wonder that the Sunshine State is a premier destination for fly anglers. Whether you daydream of fishing a swampy inland lake for bass, stalking weary bonefish or tarpon on the flats, or casting to tuna or sailfish offshore, finding the right fly-fishing guide can make your Florida fishing vacation a success.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Ask guides if they are licensed captains and insured. If they aren't, look elsewhere.
2. Get information about the guide's level of experience. Some guides do it full-time while others do it as a side job. Ask what species they like fishing for, if they enjoy guiding children or novices and if they have repeat clients who would be available as a reference.
3. Choose a species of fish you want to pursue. Fish located in the Florida Keys might not be available in north Florida and vice versa. Ask about the best time of year for the species you are after. Peak seasons might be very busy, with guides booking up months in advance.
4. Find out what kind of boat the guide has, what kind of safety gear is provided and if there is an extra fee for flies or tackle. Make sure the equipment is in good shape.
5. Determine how many people will be making the trip. Some boats can only handle 2 anglers and the guide, while others might be able to take 6 or more anglers.
6. Check if the guide provides lunch and drinks or at least an ice-filled cooler so you know what to bring.
7. Select a fly-fishing guide who will permit you to keep the fish if that is your preference. Some guides insist on releasing fish, so if you want a fish dinner make sure you are getting a guide who allows it.

Tips & Warnings

• Most local tackle shops or fly-fishing stores book independent guides and can help match up guides and clients with similar personalities and interests.
• It is often tradition that the client provide lunch for the guide, so ask whether they would like food or would rather bring their own.