Guided fishing tours?

[tvp2003]

My dad likes fishing. As a kid, I never liked it, so we never went. Now that he's retiring (and I'm slightly less whiny ), I'd like to get him something fishing-related for his birthday. Was thinking a nice fishing rod or something, but then started thinking about one of those guided fishing tours. Locally, it looks like there are a bunch of different fly-fishing "packages" available; I'd also be interested in more "regular" fishing (I'm guessing there's more proper terminology I should be using ).

Any tips, experiences or recommendations? Should I forget the "guided tour" and just get some gear instead?

Thanks

[troutman]

A drift boat trip on the Bow is probably $500. Look for them at silent auctions for a bargain.

[Slava]

I know a guy that I would recommend for sure, but he only does flyfishing.

[cam_wmh]

Go to Country Pleasures Fly Fishing in Willow Park.

The owner Mike, is a fantastic fellow and a brilliant fisherman -- he may be one of the most knowledgeable Calgary river guys around. He was also a flood hero in High River, but he probably wouldn't admit it.

[tvp2003]

Originally Posted by Slava

I know a guy that I would recommend for sure, but he only does flyfishing.

Sorry for the confusion -- I'm looking for both flyfishing recommendations as well as "regular" fishing recommendations. I'm guessing my dad has never done flyfishing before but I guess all the more reason to find an expert

[troutman]

Lake Minnewanka

http://www.brewster.ca/rocky-mountai...fishing-trips/

[DoubleF]

If you're up for the travel and cost, I had a great time with friends and my dad doing deep sea fishing in Vancouver. There's a huge variety of fish you can target and you're generally guaranteed to catch something sooner or later.

Locally? I have no idea. I've mainly gone with my dad wherever the alberta fishing guide told us, gone with clients/friends with boats and decimated the fish population at Arbour Lake with superstore shrimp rings as bait.