Tar Heel Fly Fishing: Why Do You Fish?

Friday, January 13, 2012

Why Do You Fish?

4:42 PM | Posted by Tyler Legg |

"I think I fish, in part, because it's an anti-social, bohemian business that, when gone about properly, puts you forever outside the mainstream culture without actually landing you in an institution." John Gierach

For some, it's solitude. Others agree it's an incurable addiction. Some folks will tell you it's not about catching fish, but rather it's spending time with family and friends that makes fishing worthwhile. If you put these reasons—along with many more—into a blender and mix it all up, the proverbial smoothie would be my reason. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to fish in numerous states, from Florida to Montana. I've found that catching fish isn't the only variable in the equation, although it is at the top of almost every angler's to-do lists. Fish aside, I find myself captivated by the scenery, the people, the experiences, the culture of the different regions you visit, the memories, the laughs, the time spent with loved ones... The list goes on and on. Everyone has their reasons, some unique, some shared by many others. Because you're reading this, I'm inclined to believe fly fishing keeps you sane. That roaring river, that tranquil lake, or that crystal clear bonefish flat, is likely your home away from home. It is for me. So, as an angler, why do you fish?

5 comments:

mahanvey said...: I fish to "get away" from the daily hubbub. I know it sounds plain but actually I'm surprised when a fish hits the end of my line.

And what a happy surprised I am! Realistically though, I'd be happy to be outside in my waders, with my friends, casting my line and not getting one bite. I enjoy seeing everyone else catch fish just as much as I enjoy catching fish and I would just as soon get their picture with a fish on one of my flys which, many times they are... Be Blessed and Tight Lines; January 13, 2012 6:54 PM
HighPlainsFlyFisher said...: For that special time of the morning when the sun is just coming up on the river and all of nature is just waking up...and the sound of the water tumbling over the rocks in a shallow riffle...sitting streamside and sharing a meal with good friends...that perfect cast when evrything comes together and the fly actually goes where you're expecting it too...and last but probably not least for the challenge of convincing one of our finned friends to approve of my fly offering.
Great question (sorry to ramble!); January 14, 2012 8:26 AM
Bill Trussell said...: Tyler
Good Post by the way----My main reason I fish is the love of the sport. I have fished all my life, started when I was a wee 4 years old and never known life without fishing. To me it is the greatest therapy in the world. I found for me it cures all problems that may occur during the day or week. Of course the love of the outdoors is always a plus for me too. I am sitting here now wishing I was on the water with my fly rod-------------but not in 21 degree weather like this morning!!!; January 14, 2012 10:04 AM
Fly fishing said...: Great blog, you got a new follower now ! I find your blog worth reading.Fishing have different impact on peoples.; January 16, 2012 5:27 AM
Clark Harris said...: I go fishing for so many reasons, some of why I don't fully understand. I simply know that I feel better every time I go. Maybe it's the only time I can quiet my mind because I'm truly interacting with nature, not just being in it like when I'm hiking.

This quote sums it up for me:

"Many go fishing their whole lives without realizing that it is not fish they are after."
Theroux; January 16, 2012 9:40 PM