What exactly is the perfect retirement gift? All things considered, freedom is at the top of the list, and with that comes the gift of fly fishing. With early retirement there are a whole lot of perks such as finally have the time to take that special fly fishing trip you've always dreamt of. Whether planning to go out of state or out of the country to go fly fishing, you will want to insure you are well-prepared and have all of the necessary gear for fly fishing including the right boots, chaps, uppers, suspenders, first-aid kit and all-terrain protection.

If this is your first time fly fishing, plan ahead and research the area where you plan to fly fish to determine the season and local specifics. In the case of the Golden Trout Wilderness, one of the most popular spots for fly fishing in California, fishing season begins the last Saturday in April and goes through November 15. The guidelines at this location require that anglers use only barbless hooks and artificial lures, irrespective of the species of fish you're trying to catch.

There are a number of rivers and lakes where you can go fly fishing in the United States. The best golden trout can be found at Cottonwood Lakes in the Lone Pine area of California. Another excellent spot is the Lower Kern River located near Bakersfield, California, which offers a wide variety of fish including carp, trout, catfish and smallmouth bass.

Another great choice is an overnight fly-fishing package in Montana, where trout fishing is abundant. Where you fish will dictate the equipment you need. For instance, in Montana, a fisherman might use hip boots simply depending on whether or not the fisherman needs to go far out in the water. Fly fishing trips in Montana include fishing such waters as Bitterroot River and Clark Fork Rivers. Three-day, two-night packages are available during April, May, October and November. What are you waiting for? It's finally time to relax, get booted and suited up, and get ready to fly fish!