Five Great Reasons to Go Fishing

I've enjoyed fishing as long as I can remember. I've also been a poor fisherman for as long as I can remember.

The funny thing is it has never mattered. I went through a peek, after I learned to appropriately tie fishing knots and use lure, when I caught a half dozen to a dozen largemouth bass every day one spring and summer.

In retrospect, I was fishing just before dusk, when the day had cooled off and fish were coming up to feed. I probably could have caught fish on an empty hook back then.

Since then, I've expanded my fishing horizons. I've tried closed spin casters, open casters, and last year, I even bought gear to use deep sea fishing.

Whether you are using a cane pole and worms, or an expense rod and reel, fishing offers many benefits.

For one thing, you might pull in a nice sized fish for dinner. If you don't mind cleaning it, fresh fish is definitely the best tasting.

Fishing is a great activity to alleviate stress. It is an opportunity to spend time in nature, enjoy the landscape, and let go of all the stress that accumulates in your mind and body.

A day of fishing is also a fun way to spend time with your family and friends. Pack a picnic lunch, bring small poles for the kids, and pack plenty of worms and crickets. Using live bait will ensure the kids at least enjoy the thrill of a nibble, whether they catch anything or not.

I like to fish because it increases my awareness of the environment around me. When I see a soda can or beer can carelessly tossed into a lake or river it sets me off on a kick against littering. If someone I'm fishing with trashes the natural environment, our next outing is going to be to come back to the same spot, or somewhere nearby and pick up litter.

If life is dealing you a rough hand, a day of fishing may help. Not only is fishing relaxing, there are some powerful lessons to be learned from nature. I can fish all day, even when I have not caught anything. When it is time to go my pleas for "One last cast," are anticipated before I say them. Every cast encourages hope, expectation, and anticipation. Each time, I think I am going to land a fish. It is an exercise in hope.