I’ve discovered that when I face my fears head-on, a sense of relief washes over me. It reminds me of lyrics of a Pearl Jam song, “What you fear the most will meet you halfway.” Confronting my concerns about time slipping away in yesterday’s post, has led me to feeling tranquil. Something about acknowledging time’s pressure helped me find solace in its embrace.
Recently, I experienced the joy of catching a magnificent rainbow trout from our lake. While using a hook with power bait, like I did, is a decent way to reel in a fish, there is an undeniable magic in catching one on a fly pole. It takes me back to my college days when I had the privilege of joining two groups of friends on fly fishing excursions in their drift boats along the renowned Yakima River. This majestic river attracts anglers from all over the world, offering not only the promise of a successful catch but also breathtaking landscapes that carve through canyons.
I still vividly remember the first time I caught a fish on a fly pole. It was a transcendent experience, as I delicately cast my fly inches away from a slow-moving section near the riverbank, hitting the sweet spot. In that moment, my mind raced with anticipation, envisioning the hidden treasures beneath the water’s surface. The imagery from the movie “A River Runs Through It” comes to mind, and its capturing the enduring wisdom and serenity that those days held for me on the water.
Part of me believes that transitioning from a traditional fishing pole to a fly rod opens a door to a more engaging and thrilling fishing experience, one that aligns with my ethical values. I find myself contemplating the art of tying my own flies, paying close attention to the seasonal patterns of egg-laying larvae and creating customized flies to match. The mere thought of it sparks my imagination and fills me with anticipation for the journey ahead.
Fly fishing holds the promise of not only fueling my connection with nature but also awakening my own spirit. It is a journey that invites me to slow down, immerse myself in the beauty of the outdoors, and find solace in the simplicity of the present moment. And that’s exactly what I’m looking for in my next chapter of life.
Thanks for showing up. Love, Jaclynn