Can fishing help improve your mental health?

I'm not sure if fishing will improve your mental health, but here are a few reasons why fishing might make you feel good.

Being in Nature. Fishing, almost by default, forces you to be in nature. Whether it’s a peaceful lake, rushing river or vast ocean, fishing requires you to “get off the couch” and participate in the natural world. Think of it as an escape from the busy and oftentimes overwhelming world we live in. Also, I just like being near water.

Physical Activity. Fishing does require some level of physical activity. Whether it’s hiking to a lake or a river; or, walking along a quiet beach, ya gotta move your body to get there. Most agree that exercise is not only good for your body, but also good for your mind. Casting and reeling, a rhythmic action can provide a form of relaxation. The patience required when fishing can make you slow down, take a breath and feel calmer.

Social Interaction. Fishing can also provide a way to interact with friends and family. This social interaction has become more important as our world has become more disconnected. Whether you catch a fish or not, the experience of being in nature with people close to you can be a satisfying experience.

Can fishing help improve your mental health? I’m not sure, but I do know that it can be a quite useful way to make you feel good by offering a serene escape from the stresses of everyday existence. And one more thing, if you do catch a fish, or two, it sure makes for a good dinner!