The Joys of Fishing: A Beginner's Perspective

Fishing is more than just a hobby for some; it's a way of life. For Meg, a young woman from Cornwall, it was something she had never really considered until her husband mentioned how he used to fish when he was younger and toyed with the idea of getting ‘back in the saddle’. 

Meg engineered a plan to ensure her husband received a new fishing rod and a reel to match as a Christmas gift.

Intrigued about her husband’s rejuvenated passion for fishing, of course Meg went along with her husband on a planned fishing trip where they took in turns casting a lure and watching a float. 

Little did she know, it would become a new passion that she would come to love.

"It's so addictive," Meg says, "Once you start, it's like an urge to go again and see what you can catch next time." She recounts how the experience is so immersive that it makes you lose track of time. "We completely forgot to eat our packed lunch we'd taken," she laughs.

But fishing isn't just about the thrill of the catch. It's also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the peaceful and relaxing environment of the sea. "It's so peaceful and relaxing with the sound of the sea hitting the rocks and the birds flying overhead," Meg notes.

For Meg, fishing also became a source of personal achievement. "It feels like such an accomplishment," she beams, "I was so proud I'd learned something new and actually caught a fish!!! Even if you don’t manage to catch anything, it's still the achievement of trying and just enjoying your environment."

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of fishing is its ability to connect people with nature. "It gives you a really rare opportunity to connect with nature and almost feel how amazing something so simple can be," Meg says, "Life doesn't need to be complicated, and something like fishing can ground you a bit if that makes sense!"

Indeed, the benefits of fishing go beyond just the experience itself. Research has shown that spending time in nature has significant health benefits, both physical and mental. According to a study published in the journal "Frontiers in Psychology," spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase cognitive function.

Fishing, in particular, has been found to have a positive impact on mental health. A study conducted by the Mental Health Foundation in the UK,  found that fishing improved the well-being of participants, including reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

Additionally, fishing provided a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which contributed to overall life satisfaction.

The therapeutic effects of fishing can be attributed to the combination of physical activity, social interaction, and immersion in nature. The act of fishing requires concentration and focus, which can be meditative and promote mindfulness. 

Furthermore, spending time with others who share a common interest can foster a sense of community and belonging.

Fishing can also be a low-cost and accessible form of recreation for individuals of all ages and abilities. With no age limit or physical requirement, fishing can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their fitness level. It's a great way to get out of the house and spend time with family and friends, or even just to enjoy some solitude in nature.

As Meg discovered, fishing can be an incredibly rewarding experience that provides a sense of accomplishment, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-time fisher, the joys of fishing are accessible to everyone. So why not give it a try? You never know, you might just discover a new passion.