One look from above and it's easy to see why the Finger Lakes Region of upstate New York deserves its name. Each of the long, slender bodies of water forms a striking resemblance to the fingers of a hand. Depending upon who you ask, however, the story of how the lakes came into existence can be as varied as the lakes themselves.

  According to Native American legend, the lakes are the divine handprints of the Great Spirit. In blessing the land, the spirit's outstretched hands were placed over the region leaving each finger-shaped impression. The hollows that were left quickly filled with crystal-clear water - thus the Finger Lakes were formed.

  Finger Lakes Region is truly blessed. It is a land of unparalleled natural beauty, unique geological features and eleven spectacular lakes. Finger Lakes. Big promise? OK, we’ll name a few activities: hike, bike, camp, rock climb, mountain bike, water ski, snorkel, sail, boat, canoe, kayak, white-water raft, fish, golf, tennis, polo, fly fish, bird watch. More? How about hang-glide, hot-air balloon, soar, skydive, hunt, ice-fish, down hill ski, snowboard, cross country ski, snowmobile, swim, horseback ride?

  Despite propulsion limitations that hold gasoline engines to ten horsepower and under or allow electric trolling motors or oars, most fishing boats plying these lakes are rigged with down riggers for deep trolling for such species as lake trout, brown and rainbow trout. These rigs will catch smallmouth bass, particularly late in the summer when surface temperature drives the bass deep. However, June is a great time to catch smallmouth bass in the shallows along the shore. Whatever you're looking for in a destination, you'll find it in the Finger Lakes Region. Activities, spectacular scenery, history, culture and entertainment