Minnesota tourism offers some strange opportunities for fun. One of them is the World Famous Fishhouse Parade in Aitkin. Where else would you be able to see main street covered with decorated fishhouses doing down the street in a parade? The owners find a type of decorating idea they think will be funnier, more bizarre or tell a better story then their neighbors and off they go. This celebration of the coming of winter is a great way to prepare for the cold days to come.

The parade and celebration are held the day after Thanksgiving. Main Street comes alive with the floats, music and fun. You won't believe what some of the fishhouses look like as they go down the street headed for the 365 lakes in the surrounding area. If you can think of bizarre, then you probably can imagine what the humor of these hearty people can come up with to beat their neighbors out for the winner!

You may want to try your hand at ice fishing. It is a sport that is different from any other. You can sit in your warm fishhouse, drill your hole in the ice and go for the big walleye that got away from you this summer. For more information contact the chamber.

Fishing trips may be taking a back seat to fine restaurants and pulsing nightlife, but Miami fishing charter boat captains are still enjoying steady business. With the Gulf Stream so close, anglers can enjoy a fishing expedition catching grouper, tuna, dolphins, kingfish and more.

So, if you're planning a Miami deep-sea fishing experience, try checking out the area's top four marinas - the Crandon Park Marina, Haulover Beach Marina, Miami Beach Marina and the Bayside Marketplace. Each offers something a little different and a wide range of captains and ships to choose from.

Miami Crandon Park Marina

The Crandon Park Marina is home to some of the best charter boat captains and fishing guides in the area. The marina has an international reputation for Miami fishing charter boat companies that offer high quality service and guaranteed catches. It's located at 4000 Crandon Blvd, and charters typically cost around $700 for a full day or $500 for a half day.

Haulover Beach Park

Head down Collins Avenue in Miami Beach and you'll find the Haulover Beach Park Marina just steps away from the infamous Haulover Beach nudist beach section. Perhaps its the area's proximity to the Gulf Stream, but the Haulover Marina is home to the largest drift and charter fleet in South Florida. You can also call ahead at 305-947-3525 for recommendations and fishing updates.

Haulover Beach Marina is busy, with numerous boats to choose from, but recommended charters include the Helen C, Haulover Charter Company and the Kelley Fleet.

The Miami Beach Marina

The majority of boats docked at the Miami Beach Marina are private vessels, but there are a number of private fishing charters. Recommended captains and fleets include Miami Beach Charters, the Reward Fleet and the Sissy Bay.

To find the Miami Beach Marina, just take a stroll down the MacArthur Causeway or call them at (305) 673-6000.

Bayside Marketplace

The Bayside Marketplace is known for its relaxed vibe and hidden treasures. If you're tired of the high rates and competition at nearby Haulover Beach and Crandon Park, Bayside Marketplace is the place to go to find new captains, great deals and a friendly experience.

Average Costs

Typically, a small Miami fishing charter boat will cost between $450 and $500 for a half-day tour, providing you with everything except your food and drinks.

However, if you're on more of a budget, you can book passage on a group boat for about $30. Many of these boats also offer a 50-50 plan, where you can sell or take half your catch, while they sell or take the other half.

If a fishing venture or fishing trip in the beauty of Alaska isn't your gig but you love your time as an angler on the water, then how about a fishing expedition at the other end of the U.S. in Florida?.

Fort Lauderdale sport fishing is one of the area's biggest tourism generators. Because Fort Lauderdale and its nearby suburbs provides both saltwater and freshwater fishing, anglers can enjoy a deep sea experience, leisurely fly fishing or even bottom fishing.

Because sport fishing is so popular in Fort Lauderdale, you won't have a hard time locating a charter boat or fishing guide company. However, for the most current information on prices, quality companies and pier locations, try the resources below.

The International Game Fish Association World Fishing Center

The World Fishing Center, run by the IGFA (International Game Fish Association) is an incredible 3-acre park, museum and library that's also home to a virtual reality sport fishing simulator. Anglers can practice reeling in a computer-generated catch, browse the library resources or even find a list of recommended local guides and charter companies.

You can visit the World Fishing Center daily between 10am and 6pm, or you can call them at 1-954-927-2628 and ask to speak with a librarian. The IGFA has a website at igfa.org. The site even lets you search for IGFA-certified captains in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Fort Lauderdale's Hall of Fame Marina

The Hall of Fame Marina, on Seabreeze Boulevard, is full of captains and charter fishing companies, all clamoring for your Fort Lauderdale sport fishing business. Going down to take a look lets you inspect the boats in person, develop a rapport with local captains and often garner a better price.

Fort Lauderdale's Pier 66

Like the Hall of Fame Marina, the Pier 66 Marina is another hot spot for some of Fort Lauderdale's biggest and best fishing charter companies. The marina can be found on SE 17th Street or by phone at 954-525-6666. Again, ask your hotel concierge or the IGFA for a recommended boat and captain.

Hillsboro Inlet Charters

Actually located in Pompano Beach, Hillsboro Charters are recommended by both Fodor's Florida guide and Frommer's. The company operates over a dozen charter vessels and tracks marlin, shark, sailfish and pompano. You can contact them by phone at 954-943-8222 to make a reservation.

Average Prices and Charter Rates

For bottom fishing, most boats charge about $40 per person for a 4-hour trip and will typically include reel, rod and bait. For private charters, expect to pay around $350 for a six-person, half-day trip and about $600 for a full day adventure.

For the frugal fisher or those looking for a quieter Fort Lauderdale sport fishing experience, pier fishing may be the way to go. Places like Pompano Beach, Lauderdale by the Sea and Deerfield Beach all offer fishing piers that range from free to $5 for a full day of use. Rod and reel rentals are also available.

If you're planning an Alaska float fishing trip, the key word is "planning." During peak season, quality lodges will book up fast and rates are high, but planning ahead can avoid both disappointment and excessive costs.

So, plan ahead, book early and know the best places to be. To find out more on how to make your Alaskan fishing trip a hit, keep reading for tips on what to bring, the best season and where to stay.

What to Pack

Because the temperature can vary radically in Alaska - from a hot noon sun to a freezing cold night - you want clothes that will layer, dry quickly and keep you both warm and protected. Opt for clothing made from quick dry fabric like smart wool or a performance blend and choose pieces that can layer. Ideally, you want long-sleeve shirts and pants that will protect you from both the sun and bugs.

Before you start packing all your heavy float fishing gear, double check with your lodge or charter company to see what is and isn't included in your package. Of course, pack your favorite floats and lures, but many charter companies include larger equipment and safety gear.

And last but not least, the best place to spend your money is on solid rain gear. Though Gore-Tex is expensive and breathable, it's actually not fully waterproof and will eventually start to seep after a full day of heavy rain. PVC can be hot and uncomfortable, but its impenetrable. So, whether you choose PVC or Gore-Tex, weigh your options, consider whether you're staying in a lodge or out in the wilderness - and choose accordingly.

The Best Time to Go Float Fishing in Alaska

The best time to go on an Alaska float fishing in Alaska is from June to September. The weather is great, the salmon are spawning, the trout are plentiful and the fishing is amazing. Unfortunately, this is also peak tourism season. That means you need to plan ahead, reserve early and book in advance.

Hot Fishing Spots in Alaska

The best fishing spots in Alaska are

* The Kenai River, a water known for its huge salmon
* The Copper River Delta, a river delta teeming with salmon and trout
* Bristol Bay, an angler's paradise and home to hundreds of remote lodges, and
* Kodiak Island, an island oasis that's remote, isolated and crammed with fish

It's hard not to have a successful float fishing vacation, but with a little planning you can make any trip a great one. Just remember to hit the best fishing spots, go at the right time and pack appropriately. Also, always check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Sport Fish Division before you book a lodge or charter company. Their website is available at sf.adfg.state.ak.us.

For an exciting overview of some of Alaska's most popular lodges and fishing tours, read on.

The Ultima Thule Lodge in Wrangell-St. Elias (ultimathulelodge.com)

Remote and pristine, the Ultima Thule Lodge is situated in the middle of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the country's largest, and has been listed by National Geographic as the area's premiere luxury Alaska fly fishing trips company.

The lodge can arrange almost any type of day trip, but a lot of their focus is on fly fishing in Moose Valley. However, if your interest is fishing experiences, make sure you book in advance to get there during the peak salmon migration period.

The company sets itself apart from other fishing lodges by offering a range of activities, making it a great choice for an extended stay, family fishing trip or corporate adventure. Side trips include glacier stops, white water rafting, skiing, or wilderness hikes.

However, if you and your group want a more rustic or self-catered experience, you may want to look elsewhere. Ultima Thule is known for luxury, not wilderness expeditions.

Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge (sadiecove.com)

Featured on ESPN, the Discovery Channel, the Environmental Magazine, "E", The Travel Channel, National Geographic and Forbes' magazine, Sadie Cove is widely known as one of the continent's best eco-lodges. The lodge is run completely off the grid on a non-polluting wind, solar and hydro energy system.

Rates are fairly reasonable at Sadie Cove, however they do charge extra for privately chartered or fly-in Alaska fly fishing trips. That said, their peak summer rate of four hundred dollars per day includes all your daily meals, use of all the lodge facilities (like the sauna), fishing equipment, housekeeping, wireless Internet and even an on-site pool.

Drifter's Lodge on the Kenai River (907-595-5555)

If you're looking for a more rustic experience that centers it attention almost exclusively on fly fishing, Drifter's Lodge is a great choice. The lodge offers a more down-to-earth Alaskan experience and has been featured in National Geographic, the Lonely Planet and Time magazine. For fly fishing, their draw is on the fall season when the trout are at their peak.

The lodge employs expert, local guides who know the best spots on the Kenai River and the perfect flies and casting techniques. Their catches and trips include Alaska salmon, Dolly Varden trout and, of course, rainbow trout. With on-site lessons and guided expeditions, some of the best Alaska fly fishing trips can be found right here.

Alaska float fishing, also known as angling, is some of the best in the world. The salmon are massive, the scenery spectacular and the fishing adventure is unbeatable. For an overview of angling, good angling sites in Alaska and where to look for more information, keep reading.

Float Fishing Explained

Angling is a method or type of sport fishing. The hook is attached to a line and fishing rod, and it's basically the most popular form of recreational fishing, as opposed to nets. A float is used to suspend the bait and also serve as a bit indicator. So, when a fish bites the bait, the float moves and the fisherman knows to pull his line.

Float Fishing Licenses

When planning an Alaska float fishing vacation, remember that you'll need a fishing license, and the cost is different for non-state residents. A tourist's fishing license in Alaska is $20 per day, $35 for a 3-day stay, $55 for seven days and $80 for fourteen days.

If you want to fish king salmon, you'll need to purchase an additional stamp which costs $10 for the first day, $20 for three days, $30 for seven days and $50 for fourteen days.

Great Fishing Locations in Alaska

While Alaska has an abundant fish supply and some incredible fishing locations, it can often be about your timing and knowing where the fish will be. That's why a guide or tour can really help your fishing trip be a success. However, the best spots for fishing in Alaska are Kodiak Island, the Kenai River and the Copper River Delta and Bristol Bay.

Kodiak Island is known for its abundance of salmon and great roadside and float fishing. The Kenai River has massive king salmon, but they're fast and strong, making them hard to catch for a beginner fisher and not the best for float fishing.

The Copper River Delta is rich in fish, but fast, meaning it's not recommended for beginners nor really ideal for relaxed float fishing. The Kenai River has the world's biggest king salmon, but the fish are fast and powerful and the trout are minimal. Meanwhile, Kodiak Island is crammed with spawning salmon, but along with very well-fed bears.

Additional Resources

If you need additional information on Alaska float fishing, guidelines or quality charters or lodges for your fishing vacations, try the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Sport Division. Their website can be found at sf.adfg.state.ak.us and they offer a wealth of information on great fishing spots, the best seasons and recommended fishing companies and lodges.

So, you're investigating Alaska fishing vacations? Maybe wondering what to bring, where to book and how to prepare for what could be the adventure of a lifetime?

Alaska has the best fishing in the world, pristine wilderness, amazing landscapes and plentiful wildlife, so don't let poor planning spoil your vacation. Keep reading for four great tips that will make your fishing expedition a success.

Plan for Bugs

To avoid a mosquito nightmare, plan ahead by packing a high-quality mosquito net hat, long-sleeved shirts and pants free from holes. Look for clothing that offers ventilation, but has holes that are small enough to keep out the pesky bugs. You should also bring a strong, cream-based mosquito and bug repellent, and avoid depending on mosquito coils.

Pack Sunscreen

Despite the sometimes cold temperatures and rain, there are still high risks for sun damage and possible sunstroke. Keep yourself protected with long clothing and a high-quality, non-greasy and waterproof sun block. Choose an SPF higher than 30 and avoid combo bug-repellent products as these tend to wear off faster.

Book Ahead

During the peak summer tourism seasons, places like Juneau, Anchorage and Flagstaff can book up fast. The area sees over a million tourists every year, many of whom are booking their own Alaska fishing adventure - meaning hotels will fill up, recommended charters will be reserved and you'll be left wishing you had planned ahead. Don't be disappointed - book your lodgings and charters well in advance.

Always Pack a Personal Survival Kit

Whether you're on a fully catered luxury tour or a self-guided adventure expedition, you should always pack a small survival kit that can be carried in a vest or pocket at all times - in case you're separated from your pack or tour group.

The kit should include purification pills, waterproof matches, chalk to make markings, a whistle, a granola bar, fishing line and hooks and a Ziploc bag for carrying water. You can pack it all in a metal tin or can, which can also be used to boil water.

Alaska fishing vacations are the adventure of a lifetime, offering abundant fishing, beautiful wilderness and truly wild nature. You can make that trip even better and safer by following these four critical tips - book ahead, plan for bugs, safeguard against the sun and be prepared with a wilderness survival kit. These are simple preparations, take very little time, and will all enhance your fishing experience.