Is there light at the end of the pandemic tunnel? We are all hoping and praying that the misery of the coronavirus epidemic will abate, but sadly many countries have mismanaged the crisis, so at the time of writing (summer 20202) the infection rate has increased. So, sadly, no real end is yet in sight. 

If, however, you one of the lucky ones who live in jurisdictions where lockdown restrictions have been eased, you’ll be relieved to be able to get out and find safe ways to enjoy the summer weather for the first time. 

You may have even used the lockdown to consider pursuing healthy outdoor activities and hobbies that will help you make the most of your newfound freedom that will help keep you fit and well (in fact, studies have shown that outdoor  hobbies can improve your health, your career path, and many other significant areas of your life!). 

Have you considered the benefits of fishing? If not, read on and you will be pleasantly surprised to learn why this hobby is so widespread and popular – and why you should participate. 

 

The Facts About Fishing 

Fishing is wildly popular, all over the world. In the USA alone, there are 60 million anglers, (nearly 1 in 7 Americans) of which 46 million are regular participants – a number that exceeds more than golfers and tennis players combined. 

Take this staggering statistic on board -  if it were a “corporation,” sportfishing would rank #51 in the Fortune 500 list of America’s largest businesses in terms or revenue, over $40 per year, placing fishing above such giants as Intel and Google. 

More younger people are also taking up the sport, encouraged by popular TV programs like the UK’s ITV4 television show,  ‘The Big Fish Off” that  features celebrity anglers completing against each other. These type of shows also drive on the popularity of fishing (which is now the UK’s largest participation sport) via social media interaction. It is commonplace for people to place photos of their biggest catches on their Facebook, and Instagram pages, and to share information about fishing on some of the largest Facebook Group fishing pages.

 

Why Take Up Fishing Now? 

Access to water – even as lockdown eases, many public bodies of water, and beaches are closed to the public, and travel restrictions remain in place. However, many community lakes have remained open, so a short walk to the local lake is still within reach. As such, fishing is an easy way to make the most of time outside without having to run the risk of falling foul of lockdown easing travel restrictions. 

Social distancing –  fishing has health and safety pretty much built in. Most outdoor activities encourage large groups of people; which gatherings are prohibited by social distancing guidelines. It is simple to go fishing with just family member or two, and with fishing if you get too close, then lines easily get tangled – it is an activity that lends itself to keeping a safe distance without having to think about it!

Here are three major benefits of pursuing fishing as a pastime, anytime:

1.Improve Mental Health

Fishing has been shown to be a great aide to mental health, especially after months of being cooped up inside on lockdown. Fishing needs considerable patience, focus and concentration – there’s little else to thin about. By occupying such a large space, it almost creates a meditative state in the mind, and reduces anxiety and depression.

In fact, scientific studies have even shown the benefits of fishing as a therapy for war veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

There are many factors and moving parts to fishing – no day is ever the same. The problems and challenges have to be dealt with, as well as adjusting he equipment – again, there is no tie to worry about the stresses and anxiety of everyday life whilst you are in the mist of problem solving.  

2. Bonding time with the children

Children spend so little time outdoors in these times of digital obsession, in fact less than ever before –less than half the time that their parents spent playing outside. In one government study commissioned by the National Trust in the UK less than 10% of the children surveyed had been to a natural environment like a park, forest or beach for at least one year

Fishing is something that can easily be enjoyed even with young children (obviously you will have to take the basic safety precautions, such as life jackets and staying close to them at all times, being near the water’s edge). Make sure that you buy the best fishing equipment that you can afford within your budget.

Children will learn hand-eye coordination from setting the bait and casting off, and, of course, the patience required to be successful anglers. This is also a great opportunity for you to teach your children fishing skills, and to spend some quality time talking to your children, and sharing stories.

 

3. Exercise and Health

Fishing gets your body moving! You’ll be carrying your fishing equipment on foot, ploughing through shallow water, and hauling in your fishing reel – all quite a multi-purpose whole body workout! This will strengthen your legs, back and arm muscles and provide you with a cardiovascular workout all rolled into one. Quality fishing equipment need not cost an arm and a leg, but it can be heavy

Lead by healthy example and your children will follow. Also, if you decide to keep your catch, and perhaps have an outdoor meal, you’ll be consuming valuable Omega-3 fatty acids in your diet that ate heart healthy and help protect your heart and improve your eyesight. Cooking what you catch with the kids is also a great way to teach them healthy eating and is another activity that the whole family can do together

Other health benefits will be gained from your body producing Vitamin D from sunlight (Vitamin D is a vital defence against Coronavirus according to notable new studies).  

And so…

We all hope that lockdown easing will proceed swiftly, but sadly there is a very good chance that this will be a slow process and become the new normal for the foreseeable future. We hope this article encourages your and your family to get outdoors and enjoy the fishing experience that will help your mental and physical health and overall wellbeing. 

Feel free to share your best fishing tips and tricks in the comments below. Wishing you good luck and tight lines!