Top Fishing Destinations

If you're a fishing enthusiast, you know there's more to the sport than simply standing in or near a body of water and waiting for the fish. Fishing is an experience that brings you closer to nature and clears your mind, body, and soul of the pressures in daily life. The sport also allows you to visit new terrain and, if you're adventurous enough, see the world while engaging in a fun, free-spirited activity. If you're unsure where to plan your next excursion, check out the locations on the following list. They include some of the best acclaimed spots sure to leave you with a line full of fish and a lifetime of memories.

" Florida: Florida is a popular fishing destination because it accommodates all genres of fishing. It has an extensive saltwater coastline for deep sea fishing and saltwater shore fishing and over 7,500 freshwater lakes saturated with fish just waiting to bite into your line. The pros? Because Florida is such a popular fishing destination, you don't have to travel with a lot of equipment. Everything you'll need is generally close-by wherever you choose to fish, and often available for rent. The cons? Because Florida is such a popular fishing destination, it tends to gear towards social activities. Places can get crowded quickly, especially during high season, so you'll need to make reservations in advance. Also, don't plan on enjoying too much peace and quiet.

" Arkansas: This overlooked state has over 9,000 miles of water, and it's less populated than fishing-heavy states like Florida riddled with tourism. This means cleaner water, more fish, better privacy, and a true-blue fishing experience. Many of the fishing spots contain multiple types of fish and accommodate several methods of fishing, so you can fish with a varied group. Enjoy superb trout fishing at Bull Shoals Lake, White River, and the little Red River. However, if you prefer catfish, you'll have better luck at Buffalo River or Lake DeGray. If you're a traditional bass angler, try a cast at Greers Ferry Lake, the Arkansas River, or the Caddo River. For those of you who enjoy fishing for all species, Lake Ouachita has large populations of different sporting fish varieties, even Rainbow Trout. Arkansas boasts crystal clear waters, plentiful schools of unusual fish, and breathtaking scenery.

" Alaska: For most, this may be a seasonal destination, but during that season Alaska offers incredible fishing. The diverse landscape allows for every method of fishing imaginable, including some less traditional forms like ice fishing. The Alagnak River has the best trout fishing in the state during high season, and if you want the fishing experience of a lifetime, go salmon fishing on the Alaskan Peninsula while the Salmon swim upstream to spawn. It's an absolutely incredible spectacle and you'll catch a boatload of fresh salmon. The best part about Alaskan fishing? It's a complete experience. Many lodges have fishing guides that take you to great spots and even offer instruction, so you can test your skills with another type of fishing. You'll also see more natural wildlife than you've ever encountered.

" Around the World: Canada is a surprising fishing destination for rarer sporting fish. Our neighbors to the north boast over 70,000 bodies of fresh water, some of the fiercest pike in the world in Manitoba, and the rare native brook trout in Labrador. If you want to visit Europe, the Test and Itchen Rivers in England are located just an hour outside of London (perfect for a quick trip if you're traveling on business or with family). Brimming with various fish varieties, including Atlantic Salmon and trout in the same river, these two destinations have incredible variety that accommodates all types of fishing. Finally, one of the best fishing destinations is also about as far out of the way as a fishing destination can get. Seychelles, off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Sea, is an archipelago of tropical islands teeming with trophy fish like bonefish, triggerfish, and giant trevally that pose a challenge even to expert anglers. Seychelles is not for the faint of heart or weekend fisherman; this is an expedition with serious fishing that will offer an incredible challenge and some of the best experiences of your life.

The next time you're planning a fishing excursion, visit one of these places to experience breathtaking scenery, crystal clear water, and nature at its best. If you don't plan on buying or renting equipment on site (or if you can't) be sure to stock up on quality equipment from a trusted dealer. When you take the time out of your busy life to visit one of these places, it's important to have the very best and most specialized equipment possible you can get the most out of your fishing experience. You won't be disappointed.