The Good Value man’s guide to fishing-
Getting into fishing was fun. I had children and I liked the outdoors, so it was an easy decision. While the kids were growing up, I planned camping trips to mostly center around fishing. The family likes to fish, but not like I do. They can do it or not do it. I have bought a bunch of gear for myself and every member of the family, but now that the kids are adults, we do not go out anymore. They have their own lives now. My sons like to saltwater fish, either from a pier or those party boats. I have taken my girls out, but again they are adults now and doing other things. My wife likes to fish too but it is not her main diversion like it is mine. It is my solitude. I like to go out and listen to nature and if I catch a fish then, even better. I do go with friends, but everyone has their busy life too so, it is hard to nail down a date with them.
I started bank fishing because it was cheap. As you will know, I am not one to spend thousands of dollars on something if I can get away with hundreds of dollars or even cheaper. I always look for a good deal.
I originally studied everything I can know about fishing. The internet, libraries, word of mouth. I noticed, over time, that I preferred freshwater fishing over saltwater fishing. Do not get me wrong, I do like saltwater fishing, but it can be an expensive hobby. With freshwater not so much, and with freshwater fishing, you have lakes that are majestic and very tranquil and rivers that can be exciting too. Also, freshwater fishing you can do without a lot of people around. Saltwater Party boats are usually ‘elbow to elbow’ and fishing lines get tangled a lot. Inland lakes and rivers are very serene and very soothing. Good for relaxing and recharging. I got the fishing bug late in life. I did fish when I was a kid but not so much. About 15 years ago, I decided to try it out again and I was hooked. I have rented boats before at marinas and I will get into those in future blogs. I have float tubed and that was fun. It just was different from having a boat. I thought about buying one of those small one-person pontoon boats, but they can be expensive. I finally bought a kayak and love it. It was a bargain too. Even with a big frame like me, it is easy to get in and out of and maneuver it around. The excitement of getting out there and doing something; soaking in the air, listening to the wind and birds chirping, it is not like anything else. I have fished enough not to be upset when I do not catch fish. Just getting out there is success enough for me. I do not care if I catch my limit or reel in a huge fish even though that would be very breathtaking. I am out there to have an enjoyable time and that is what matters most and if I catch a fish or two then, that is even better.
