Fishing was always something I was drawn to, but not just because of the fish. Here are some reasons fishing could benefit your life in ways you may not have thought.

1) Relaxation/ Stress Relief
Life can be so hectic! We all have lots going on with work and family life that can sometimes get very busy and overwhelming at times. Having an outlet to de-stress and relax can positively affect our lives in every aspect. Fishing has a way about it that can bring such a calm over you. Personally, I am most relaxed and calm when I am on the water. If I have had a stressful day at work for example, I will make it a point to stop on my way home even if just for an hour, to relax by wetting a line. Being surrounded by beautiful scenery, the sounds of nature and focusing on one thing have a way of really slowing everything down and relaxing you. Stress can really take a toll on your health, so having something you can turn to that helps relax you can be very beneficial. Fishing can be an extremely therapeutic experience for those who give it a chance.

Fishing is relaxing and good exercise

2) Exercise
Now I know most people wouldn’t think of fishing when they think of an activity that has a lot of exercise involved. But let me tell you it can give you a pretty good workout you may not be expecting. From hiking through rough terrain and bush to get to “the perfect spot” to wading through strong river currents. Depending on the type of fishing you are doing you may also be doing all of this carrying lots of gear which is sometimes not the lightest (let me tell you getting a canoe on and off a car in very high heat is not as fun as it looks). So if you’re ever feeling guilty about missing the gym one day, (or ten) take a few hours to get out on the water, your body will thank you for it.

3) Connecting/ Bonding
Being able to really connect with someone and bond over a shared passion is an awesome feeling. When you can do something you both love together, what is better than that?! I think really true and strong bonds/ friendships can be forged through a mutual love for something. It gives you common ground to experience, learn, have fun and make memories with people you love. Isn’t that what life is all about?! Whether it is your child, relative, significant other, parent or friend, fishing can bring you closer to the people who mean the most in your life. The connection you make with nature is another thing I cherish about fishing. Fishing at its core is about man and nature connecting in a kind of harmonious delicate dance. Being able to experience nature at such a grass roots level can really make you feel connected and a part of it.

Fisher Girl with Pike

4) You Time
Fishing is also a time that you can really get away from everything and have time to just yourself. It is a great activity that you can do solo. It can be very healthy to have time to just yourself and fishing can give you that. It is a time you can really be present, but also gives you time to unwind and think. Some of my most enjoyable fishing outings have been times where I have gone on my own. A great self of accomplishment and pride in yourself can also come from doing an activity on your own, catching a fish is an added bonus!

5) Life Lessons/ Skills
Through fishing you can learn many things that will also help you in other areas of your life. Learning and mastering different fishing types, styles and equipment can really up your dexterity. Fishing can really challenge you. When I started fly fishing, I was completely in love right away. But it is challenging! Once I got a grasp on it, I wanted to catch a carp on the fly (which is no easy feat let me tell you- even for people with a lot more experience than me). It took LOTS of time, patience and persistence before I successfully landed my first one. Fishing really helped build my patience and persistence, skills which I also take with me to different areas of my life. A huge part of fishing is how you handle not catching any fish or even losing a potential catch. This is a BIG lesson that we all get taught when fishing. There may be days (sometimes many) that go by that you will not catch a single fish. By not letting that get your spirits down and not giving up, that alone is a huge lesson to take with you throughout life.

Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoyed the article.

-Marina