Therapy Is Expensive. Try Fly Fishing.
Fly fishing is a wonderful sport that allows you to explore beautiful landscapes, enjoy a serene environment, get creative with your fly selection, try your hand at creating your own flies, and connect with a tight-knit community of anglers. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to try your hand at this exciting activity, there is something for everyone in the world of fly fishing. So leave your worries on the desk and let’s get wild on the river.
The Platte River just outside of Denver, CO
One of the biggest draws of fly fishing is the stunning landscapes in which it takes place. From crystal-clear mountain streams to sprawling lakes and meandering rivers, there is no shortage of breathtaking vistas to explore. As you cast your line into the water, you can take in the sights and sounds of nature all around you, and feel truly at peace in the great outdoors. Fly fishing puts you waste deep wading through a river in a postcard.
Me fishing the Sipsey Fork in Jasper, Alabama
In addition to the beautiful scenery, fly fishing also offers a sense of serenity and relaxation that is hard to find in other sports. The slow, methodical process of casting and reeling in your line can be incredibly therapeutic, and the peaceful setting of a river or stream only adds to the sense of calm. For many people, fly fishing is an opportunity to escape the stress and distractions of everyday life and reconnect with their inner selves.
Fly fishing is often considered a form of therapy because it has the ability to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and a sense of accomplishment. The peaceful and natural setting of fly fishing can also contribute to feelings of peacefulness and well-being. Being surrounded by nature and away from the distractions of everyday life can provide a sense of escape and allow you to fully relax and unwind.
The sense of accomplishment that comes from successfully catching a fish can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. One of the greatest feelings is spotting the fish you want to target, casting and presenting your fly perfectly, and landing it in the net. Nothing better.
The combination of the peaceful environment, mindfulness-promoting activity, and sense of accomplishment can make fly fishing an enjoyable and therapeutic experience for many people.
Fly fishing is not just a solo activity – it is also a great way to connect with others who share your passion for the sport. Whether you are fishing with a group of friends or joining a local club, you can find a sense of community and camaraderie in the world of fly fishing. Whether you are seeking advice, sharing tips, or simply enjoying the company of like-minded people, fly fishing offers plenty of opportunities to build relationships and make new friends. Personally, I’m a big fan of camping trips for the sake of fishing new territories. So much fun from dawn to dusk. 🍻 Just load up the band and go.
A couple of gentlemen making their way out of the Sipsey Fork in Jasper, Alabama
“Fly-fishing is solitary, contemplative, misanthropic, scientific in some hands, poetic in others, and laced with conflicting aesthetic considerations. It’s not even clear if catching fish is actually the point.”
So how do you get started in fly fishing? The first step is to invest in some basic equipment, such as a fly rod, reel, line, and a handful of flies. There are many different brands and types of gear available, so it is worth doing some research to find the best options for your needs and budget. I recommend you check into some of the beginner combo set-ups from Orvis, Echo, or Reddington. You might also consider taking a beginner’s fly fishing casting class or hiring a guide to help you get started. Check out these local shops for some help:
Deep South Outfitters (Birmingham, AL) - https://www.fishdso.com/
Riverside Fly Shop (Jasper, AL) - https://riversideflyshop.com/
Chris C. casting on the Toccoa River in Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Chris C. casting on the Sipsey Fork in Jasper, Alabama
There are also many excellent resources available to help you learn more about fly fishing. Here are a few books that are particularly helpful for beginners:
"The Orvis Fly Fishing Guide," by Tom Rosenbauer: This comprehensive guide covers everything from selecting gear to casting techniques to fishing various types of water.
"The Complete Guide to Fly Fishing," by Peter Gathercole: This in-depth guide covers all aspects of fly fishing, from choosing equipment to reading the water to selecting flies.
"Fly Fishing for Beginners," by Tom Lenehan: This easy-to-follow guide is designed specifically for those new to fly fishing, and covers all the basic concepts and techniques you need to know.
With a little bit of knowledge and the right gear, you can be on your way to enjoying the wonders of fly fishing in no time. So grab your rod and reel, a cooler and your favorite sixer, and head out to explore the beautiful landscapes that fly fishing has to offer. Leave the work at the office and come on. You’ll be glad you did.
Let me know when you’re ready