Go Fish! 4 Reasons Why You Should Go Fishing Today (or Soon)
Fishing is a favorite pastime for many people for many reasons. Some find the solitude and quiet of being on a boat or a dock alone with their thoughts (and the fish) relaxing, while others like the competition of fishing for sport.
Regardless of why you fish (or why you might be interested in learning to fish), it's an excellent way to spend time outdoors, enhance your safe boating skills, and get out of your daily routine – unless your daily routine is fishing!
So, when was the last time you went fishing? If it's been a while or you never have, consider four reasons why you should cast your line today!
1. Fishing Boosts Your Mood
Are you stressed? Jump on a boat and cast a line!
There's nothing like hitting the pause button on your hectic life and relaxing in the great outdoors. Spending time in nature can boost your creativity and improve your mental health. So, if you're feeling a bit uninspired, overwhelmed, or stressed, just pack up your rod and reel and take a trip to the lake!
2. Spend Quality, Uninterrupted Time with Loved Ones
Fishing is a great way to get your kids (or even your significant other) to step away from their computer screens and spend quality time together.
As the saying goes, "Kids won't remember their best day of television," but they will remember reeling in that giant bass!
Kids love fishing and being outdoors. While they might not like touching the worms to put one on a hook, they will enjoy spending time with you on the water and the excitement of feeling a fish on the line and pulling it into the boat.
Remember: When taking the family out for a day on the boat to fish and enjoy each other's company, make sure everyone has a fishing license for where you plan to fish. Teaching kids the proper way to fish and follow local regulations is crucial!
3. You're Funding Conservation Efforts
Speaking of those licenses, did you know that purchasing a fishing license helps fund conservation programs?
Each year, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service distributes millions of dollars to state fish and wildlife resource agencies. These agencies and funds are dedicated to restoration and enhancement projects throughout the country.
If clean water, clean air, and preservation of natural habitats sounds good to you, then do your part and go fishing!
4. You'll Have Plenty of Fresh, Wild Fish!
I know what you're thinking. Why fish when you can buy salmon and tilapia at your local grocery store?
Well, for starters, wild-caught salmon has fewer calories and less fat than its farm-raised counterparts. It also has more omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower your risk of heart disease.
Plus, going fishing is more fun than simply picking up some salmon or catfish from the grocery store.
When planning your fishing trip, make sure your favorite fishing spot allows you to take your catch home. Some areas only allow catch-and-release fishing to protect the fish population. However, catching and releasing holds the same mental health and mood-boosting benefits as fishing for your dinner!
Get Safety Certified Before Heading Out for Your Catch of the Day
Now that you've decided to go fishing, you'll need your boater education card if you plan to cast a line from a boat.
Boat-Ed helps anglers or weekend warrior fishers stay safe when fishing from a boat. Through our state-approved online courses, you'll learn about essential safety equipment your boat needs, how many family members your boat can hold safely, and what to do if someone goes overboard while reeling in a big fish.
Find the course for your state and start learning!
Originally published June 16, 2015. Content updated March 21, 2024.
