But from the first time I watched "A River Runs Through It', I was hooked though it took years before desire met opportunity to actually pursue this dream. But beware, it's addictive.
I recently described fly fishing as: "Fly fishing for trout (and tying your own flies) is art meets engineering meets biology (fish, insects, etc.). I'm in love!"
Costs to get started(you'll want reccs on all of them, buying the wrong stuff severely inflates costs)...
Minimalist Fly Fishing Starter Kit:
Rod & Reel, loaded with decent fly line.
Tapered Leaders - don't skimp here, crappy leaders only exacerbate problems. start with 7.5 ft 3X leaders from RIO, Trouthunter or Scientific Anglers in nylon.
Tippet - go with fleurocarbon tippet in 5x from the earlier mfgs.
Flies: I can recommend some dirty bakers dozen flies with colors and sizes for Iowa, but for your area you'll want local advice. Mom and pop FL you shops are key.