Drake's Fly Shop — Local services in Grayling

I called Drake's Fly Shop from out of state ahead of an upcoming trip to Grayling, Michigan, and had an outstanding experience from start to finish. Sarah answered my initial call and was incredibly welcoming, immediately connecting me with excellent local guides and fly fishing instructors, including Dave Morrow, who provided fantastic fly casting lessons.

At the shop, Sarah and the team not only suggested gear that solved some specific issues I was experiencing but also taught me how to get the most out of my existing equipment. Scott and Sarah recommended rivers and regions to explore in Michigan and beyond, offered invaluable advice on the best flies and optimal times of day to fish, and patiently answered all my many questions throughout my stay.

With their advice, I caught brook trout and browns and then put them back where I found them so other anglers can catch them.

The entire team at Drake’s was friendly, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about helping people enjoy fly fishing. Their hospitality and expertise made my trip both memorable and successful. I highly recommend Drake's Fly Shop to anyone looking to have a great experience fishing in the...

I decided I wanted to get into fly fishing while on a road trip through Michigan with my fiancée. Headed from Kalkaska towards the Upper Peninsula, I found Ron's on my route and decided to stop in for the necessary gear. I don't think I could have found a better shop to walk into as a total novice looking for the right outfit. Ron was incredibly helpful, getting me everything I needed, talking me through what each piece of equipment is for and how it functions. He seemed genuinely excited to share his knowledge and help someone get into the sport. He didn't try to upsell me or give me anything I didn't need, and the prices were extremely reasonable. As I was checking out, Ron asked Sam if he wouldn't mind taking me out back and showing me how to cast, and I got an impromptu casting lesson. All in all a fantastic experience for getting into fly fishing.

While I didn't manage any catches in the UP, I went camping again a few weeks later in upstate NY and landed my first catches, five bluegills. Really appreciate everything, Ron and Sam. Looking forward to future fishing...

Granted I could spend all day in a fly shop, but you know it's a great shop when your first visit lasts two hours. I had the pleasure of meeting both Scott, Dave, and Lucy while allowing Scott the opportunity to teach this warm water guy (myself) a thing or two about our cold water fisheries. Scott couldn't have been more gracious. We had chatted a couple times prior to my visit, and I was able to cast multiple rods until we settled on the perfect fit. We then chose a line to pair with it in addition to a reel, flies, and all the other fixins' all while I was being coached on my cast and local entomology. Such an awesome experience with plenty of laughs and the highlight of my week. Looking forward to visiting again and booking a guided trip with Scott. This is how a fly shop visit should feel. Sidenote: the 8'6" 5wt TFO Solution is a freaking rocket and yet still able to deliver a nice soft presentation as well. Just got done ripping on it at home and am...