FS Digest

Context: I'm not a patient person at all. I know I shouldn't need constant stimulation but I do. I watch tv and am on the phone simultaneously most of my day.

That being said, I am trying this year to better myself in certain ways. I've taken to learning sign language, am trying to get away from devices and more into being outside in the air, and trying to lose weight.

My job has cut me down to part time during the pandemic and will stay that way for a while yet. So, having always admired that idealized perfectly content fisherman/hunter that apparently my grandfather was(unfortunately I never met him) I thought to give fishing a try.

I'm not asking for which pole to buy or line or all that, there's apps and websites for all that. However, I can't find a website I like that talks about how to go from chaotic busy life to standing on a dock for hours peacefully. I saw a couple websites that said to read(and one that said to sleep, which I have no idea how that works) which I'm not opposed to, but wouldn't that make you miss fish?

Obviously, I understand it takes time to go from one mindset to another. Mainly I guess I'm asking for advice or if any recent fishermen/women have gone through something similar.

--
by MrSoodo

Flytier Loc: Wilmington Delaware

This is going to sound kinda weird, but if you really want to relax, try a basic beginners yoga class. It will strengthen muscles you probably haven't used in a while, and will help to lose some weight for the exercise. Also helps because now you have something to do other than eat out of boredom. The fishing will get you outside, give you a way to eat healthier food with all the benefits there.

Ben Bragg Loc: Dayton Ohio

I think I know where you are comming from. My job is very stressful. Sometimes it takes a while to get in the zone.
My truck is to cruise around studying my electronics before ever casting a line.
This helps me plan my approach. Keeps my mind occupied while shifting into fishing mindset
You mention a dock or pier , I’d reccomend just sitting there a while looking at the water , shore , birds or squirrels or whatever. Take it in for a while. Be away from the distractions and entourage it.
Then cast a line. Visualize what your bait is doing. I’d you catch a fish , cool. If not , big deal. Sometimes fishing isn’t about catching fish

Grizzly 17 Loc: South central Pa

Ben is right about just being out there. I've said before fishing is the cake catching is the icing. Having a boat definitely helps. I use to get so stressed at work. I had to finally accept the fact that the kids they was hiring didn't give a dam. Exploring new bodies of water brings me peace of mind. I started bass fish 20 odd yrs ago. I found hunting for them addictive and relaxing. I go stripper fish with a friend now and then n have fun. I've always luvd fishing but my 1st boat opened up a whole new world. One of my best decisions. Life is too short not to squeeze the best out of every day. Pick up a rod n chill

Just1Fish Loc: Woodstock, GA

Sounds like you need a book from Wayne Dyer. Hope they're biting when you go.

FinFisherman Loc: Born in Ohio - 40 yrs Florida- Clearwater,Fl

I've got one of the boring parts of fishing solved. Waiting for the bite. I don't read. I listen to my Kindle. I've got a bluetooth JBL speaker that's waterproof that I can hang on my belt loop so if I fall in which has happened the speaker still works. You can buy books for 99 cents some are free. And if I get caught up in fishing I can turn pages back to where my interest got interrupted by the fish. I even have earphones so while I'm at the doctors waiting I'm still in my book. It has worked for me the last 5 years.

peter stratton Loc: lewes de.

I envy you. If you just get out there you will have a new rush of first time experiences that you will never get again. In the process you might loose a few pounds.

peter

Billy Bob Loc: Terre Haute,IN

Think a few of you folks are missing the point. Unless you expect an emergency or have kids you need to stay in touch with leave all electronics shut off. That's the whole reason to get out and fish, hike, hunter or just wander around in the great outdoors. Pay attention to what is going on around you, watch the birds, squirrels , the clouds. There is always something going on that is exciting. We got along for years and years without all this crap, I think you can handle a few hours. That being said some folks are just not the sit and fish type and that's all right. Just find something that really interests you and go for it. Hopefully outside. There are also different ways to fish if your not the sit and watch the bobber type. Find an area where you can walk and cast if you don't have a boat. That way your still moving and a grooving, but letting off a bit of steam and stress. Main thing is get off your butt and go do something. You'll be a happier person for it.

MSHohman Loc: Nebraska

Fishing in general is just getting outside and enjoy what’s around you. Find a mentor that you think would best suit your style. Mine is fly fishing, understand if it swims you can catch it on a fly rod. I use depending on size of pond: float tube, or a kick boat, or a Kayak. You are constantly working the shoreline so your not bored by just sitting there your active pursuing your target fish. Pike, bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish for warm water. Trout, salmon for cold water just go for it.

peter stratton Loc: lewes de.

Thanks for sharing

bfallens Loc: Cape Coral, Florida

Another idea is to hire a guide. Find someone that has reviews from families with children. A guide that can keep a 10 year old entertained can probably put you on fish consistently (*but not always). At least that way you can test the waters to see if it is for you or not. Fishing to me is about the hunt... trying to learn how to catch bigger and faster has gotten my full attention. I am fortunate to live near the coast, and I curse the weatherman every weekend that isn't fishable! I am definitely hooked. If you have the opportunity for a saltwater/offshore charter, they can be well worth the money for the experience they can offer as well.

tominsdtn Loc: Soddy Daisy TN

Walk. Fish a stream, river or lake and walk the shore while fishing. If you keep moving around from time to time it stops you from getting bored. A good pair of waders will help.

Mauwehu Loc: Norwalk Ct

Never had much peace until I found Jesus at 53. Been through a lot of crisis since then. A crisis is something that no amount of money or brains can get you out of. Only one person to go to, Him he offers a peace that surpasses all understanding. He is a miracle worker! Ask Him for help, He won’t refuse you.

Jwid Loc: Lake Killarney, Ironton, MO

Different approach. Get a rod and reel and 3 to 10 fancy lures. Get to the shore and beat the crap out if the water until you get tired. Then slow down and enjoy the quiet. Relax. Maybe bring a nightcrawler and bobber someday, but not right away.
IMO based on your words.
Someone as wound up as you can’t just decide to relax and enjoy. You need to teach yourself. Might as well do it with bait in the water, and out, and in.

Foodfisher Loc: SO. Cal coast

Age? Patience comes with experience/wisdom. Instant gratification is fleeting and hollow. Once I was becoming impatient by not getting any bites. Sitting on the bank, under a tree, a good sized spider started to decend from a branch on a silken thread. About half way down, a wasp flew in and attacked the spider. I was enthralled by the battle that lasted approx. 3mins. In the end the wasp flew off with the spider.
If you don't take the time to notice, a lot of life's "stuff" will pass you by.
Focus on what's important to you. Cull what's not.