Thursday, May 02, 2024

I want to take my horses out and ride them, and today could be perfect. Here in Central Oregon, the weather isn’t yet summerlike enough but it’s warmish. This morning, there’s evidence that a gentle rain fell overnight. I have today off from my part-time job, and it’ll be great for doing almost anything: riding, photography, lunching out somewhere, gardening, reading. Maybe I’ll do it all!

Today’s wetness also has me thinking about a casual plan to go fly fishing with a coworker and expert fly-fisher. My coworker practices catch-and-release and emphasizes the sport over simply catching fish for consumption. I’ve long wished to learn how to choose appropriate bait and cast lines without tangling in surrounding shrubbery.

Past fly-fishing friends have told me that the sport is great fun and that they love being near or in the water and casting out. They explain that fly fishing is a more demanding form than bait-and-tackle; it requires them to master casting techniques, understand fish behavior, and tie their own flies.

They enjoy feeling connected to nature in beautiful, remote locations, immersed in natural sights and sounds. They can unplug and relax, appreciate the outdoors, and feel the thrill of the catch. Tying flies to them is an art form calling for creativity and personalization. Above all, the repetitive casting motions and intense focusing make them meditative, promote stress relief, and give a sense of calm.

I stay hopeful for opportunities to learn from a patient coach, to improve my coordination and control with a fly rod. Regardless of whether or not I catch any fish, a wonderful win would be gaining knowledge and skills to position, toss, and land my lines more correctly on/in the water.

Soon, I might have another opportunity to try again and learn the sport.

Dear Friends: It seems that fly fishing compares favorably with horseback riding. Diana