Why do we head out to the water, fishing rod in hand, and hope to catch something? It’s a thought that’s worth chewing over. Fishing, like most stuff in our lives, has changed a heap in the last ten years or so. We’ve got our heads filled with stuff from social media, jaw-dropping videos of folks landing big ol’ bass, and all the new tech coming at us every day. It’s easy to lose sight of why we take to the water in the first place.
Are we looking to escape from the daily grind, find a bit of peace and quiet with Mother Nature? Or are we just after some bragging rights on social media for our latest catch? Sure, it’s a thrill to hook a big one, but we shouldn’t forget what fishing’s really all about. It’s about spending time on the water, maybe catching a fish or two, and shaking off the day’s worries.
Here are a few reminders about what the heart of fishing really is and the therapeutic benefits on your mental health.
1. Connecting with Nature
There’s something calming about being out in the open water, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Bass fishing forces us to step away from the distractions and stressors of everyday life, providing a peaceful environment that can help lower anxiety levels and promote mental clarity. At the end of the day, getting out and feeling the wind whip at your face, sun beat down your skin, and taking in your surroundings is what it is all about. Catching a few fish is just a bonus.
2. Mindfulness Practice
Bass fishing requires patience and focus, making it an excellent form of mindfulness practice. The act of casting the line, waiting for the fish to bite, and being present in the moment can help clear your mind and improve your mental wellbeing. After a tough week at work, struggles at home, or a quick evening trip, it’s nice to disconnect and have very little brain function besides cast, reel, cast reel.
3. Boosts Confidence
When you catch a bass, it’s not just a fish you’re reeling in; it’s also a sense of accomplishment. This boost in self-confidence can be truly therapeutic, particularly for individuals struggling with self-esteem or personal difficulties. There is nothing that boosts my mood more than crushing some fish after the guy at the boat dock told you that “they aren’t biting”.
4. Get Active
Although bass fishing might not be the most strenuous sport out there, it does require a certain level of physical activity. This light exercise can help reduce stress levels and promote better sleep, both of which are essential for good mental health. Obviously, the physical aspect increases significantly for the bank beaters and kayak anglers of the world. Getting in a workout, however small, is always a win in my book.
5. Promotes Social Interaction
Bass fishing doesn’t always have to be a solitary activity. It can also be a way to connect with others, whether you’re out on the boat with a group of friends, participating in a local fishing club, or even engaging in friendly competition in a fishing tournament. The best memories I have are fishing with dad and friends. In the same vein, don’t be afraid to be strangers at the lake. This does not mean roll up to strangers on a 15,000 acre lake on your boat and expect friendly conversation. It means chat at the boat ramp, be friendly, and remember that providing information to a fellow angler can pay dividends at a later date. Don’t just take my word for it, refer to this article from the National Alliance on Mental Illness on how fishing with others is a huge boost for your psyche.
6. Teaches Resilience
Not every fishing expedition is going to be a success. There will be days when the fish just aren’t biting. But that’s okay. Bass fishing teaches us to handle disappointment and promotes resilience, which is beneficial for our mental health. While it is always often to have those days where you could throw a bare hook and seem to still catch them, there will always be those days where you can’t buy a bite. Remember to take it in stride, and remember to have good days of fishing you have to lick your chops and have a few bad ones in between.
7. Creating Fond Memories
Whether you’re fishing alone or with others, bass fishing gives you the chance to make memories. These positive experiences can provide a mental escape from daily stressors, enhancing overall happiness and satisfaction. While this is repetitive, it is worth repeating. Enjoy your time on the lake, don’t take yourself too serious, and introduce some new folks to the wonderful sport that is bass fishing. One day you will grow old and wishing you can cast a line and share a conversation with your dad or best fishing buddy.
Though this post might sound a bit old-fashioned or seem like it’s laying down the law, it’s good to remember that bass fishing can be as laid-back or as serious as you want it to be. But, every now and then, take a moment to pause and reflect, so you don’t miss out on the precious moments that we’re all out there trying to experience in the first place.
Tight lines,
Dawson