The hundreds of Virginians and outdoor enthusiasts who receive a thrill from catching a 30-pound striper or witnessing a stunning brook trout turn onto a fly don’t need to be persuaded to start planning their outdoor activities. However, if you still need some persuasion, we’ve put together a list of ten excellent instances that could just give you a cause to skip those “honey dos” for another weekend or call in sick to work so you can go Punta Cana fishing for a day.
Make a Conservation Contribution:
Anglers are environmentally conscious and put their money where their mouth is. Anglers have contributed to the funding of several wildlife and conservation initiatives in the US and in Virginia by acquiring fishing permits and paying specific levies that they have agreed upon. Additionally, they support education and non-gaming initiatives as well as the acquisition of thousands of acres of public lands that are open for recreation all year round. Anglers take great satisfaction in safeguarding our environment, natural communities, and priceless habitat because they understand how important clean air and water are.
Reduction of Stress:
The term “freedom” is probably what most fisherman will say when asked why they appreciate being outside. We may escape our extremely stressful, daily surroundings by spending a day bobber fishing for bluegills in a pond or casting for trout on a calm mountain stream. Nothing restores our inner reserves and gives us a sense of aliveness like spending time in outdoors.
Social Cohesion:
Relationships with family and friends are strengthened when fishing together. It also gives one the opportunity to contribute to society by teaching others the value and enjoyment of taking excellent care of our natural resources.
Aids in the Management of Fisheries and Wildlife:
An essential tool for managing animals is fishing. By assisting in the establishment of seasons and creel limitations, fishermen have been contributing to attempts to manage fisheries and wildlife for more than a century. A decade ago, many fish species suffered from overfishing and the negative consequences of pollution; now, the majority of fish species have stable and even thriving wildlife populations. Along with supporting numerous initiatives to conserve and protect the environment and all species, anglers also have a stake in boosting biodiversity.
Advantages for Health:
Over half of Americans suffer from obesity. Being active and spending time outside improves your mood and promotes a healthy lifestyle. It may be easier to go to your neighborhood supermarket and fast food joint, but fishing may also help you burn more calories, improve your lifestyle, and live longer.
Leisure:
Even a lousy fishing day is preferable to a day spent at work or doing housework. Whether you prefer trolling for stripers or outwitting a tired brook trout with a hand-tied fly that mimics an insect the size of a pinhead, the most common reason given by those who like fishing is that it’s just enjoyable.
Self-actualization:
By learning outdoor skills, attaining personal objectives, and showing respect for the environment, fishing gives you the opportunity to boost your self-esteem. A person’s social and personal growth can also be significantly impacted by fishing. Regardless of age, fishing is a lifelong sport and talent. You only need to ask a child who caught their first fish how much pleasure fishing can be.
Economic Boost:
Any state government would be happy with the economic boost that Virginia’s fishermen provide, as they directly support thousands of employment and contribute millions in state and local taxes.
Fishing for Food: Wild fish are high in protein and low in fat and cholesterol. Actually, eating fish on a regular basis is advised by the American Heart Association. Furthermore, catching that platter of fresh fish is far more difficult than aimlessly browsing a grocery store aisle if you choose to keep your catch.
The Excitement:
The ancient drive to pursue and catch is satisfied by fishing. The difficulty, like matching the hatch or pursuing an elusive wild fish, is what makes the experience exciting. However, many would quickly assert that the incalculable life lessons you will learn along the road are more significant than the actual number of fish you catch.