Las Vegas may be the gambling capital of the world but it is much more than just bright lights, glitz and glamour and casino after casino. If you’ve booked flights to Las Vegas but want to avoid the betting hoards, why not take yourself off for a spot of fishing at the beautiful Lake Mead, just minutes from the Strip.

Lake Mead is the 16th largest man-made lake in the world. It was created by the Hoover Dam along the Colorado River and occupies about 1.5 million acres of rugged landscapes. Lake Mead offers year-round recreational activities, with everything from boating to swimming, hiking, wildlife watching and fishing. If you’re a keen wildlife photographer, or fisherman for that matter, this is the perfect place for you. Escape the plastic palms and slot machines of Las Vegas and instead spend the day catching some sun on Lake Meads very own sandy beach with not so much as a blackjack table in sight.

Lake Mead’s location is rugged and beautiful and is a far cry from the gaudy neon lights of Las Vegas. It’s close enough to nip back for a quick flutter if you wish to, but with such stunning scenery not to mention fun activities from boating, canoeing and kayaking, you may not even miss the hectic city pace.

There are many charter boats running fishing trips out on to Lake Mead. You will need to obtain a temporary fishing licence before you can begin, which costs approximately $21 per day plus you will also require a Nevada/Colorado River Stamp. The charter boat can cost anything from $100 to $200 for a day trip which includes all your fishing equipment like rods and tackle, drinking water, lifejacket and a very knowledgeable captain to give you tips and point out the sights.

Once you have all the necessary paperwork, you’re ready for a day out on the scenic blue water where you can expect to catch plenty of striped bass. If you’re lucky enough to catch one, or two, there are charming little picnic areas on the shore with fire grills where you can cook up a feast of freshly caught fish as you compare angling stories with your fellow fishermen.

Enjoy alfresco dining at its very best with a backdrop of breath-taking mountains, plateaus, cacti and canyons. A short desert hike out into the wilds after dinner may be just what you need to send you off to a good night’s sleep.

So if you have booked a flight to Las Vegas Mccarran but have decided, actually you want to keep a hold on your money, take a gamble on fishing instead. Lake Mead won't fail to disappoint.

Photo Credit: HuntFishGuide