With more than 9.5 billion pounds of fish caught in just one single year here in the United States (at least according to data representing the year of 2016), it is clear to see that fishing is immensely commonplace. The data only continues to back that up, showing that more than 51 million people participate in fly fishing, saltwater fishing, or freshwater fishing in this same span of time.
And many of these people are young people, with more than 11 million falling between the ages of 6 and 17, very young indeed. Well over half – more than 60%, as a matter of fact – are under the age of 45, at least as of the year of 2017. In addition to this, more than one fifth of all surveyed people who fell between the ages of 18 and 29 said they had been fishing at least once in the past year (and some went even more frequently than this, as you might have already guessed).
But why is fishing so commonplace? Why are so many people going fishing at least 4-5 time a year (the average for people who participate in and enjoy fishing) – and some as many as 104 times a year? For one thing, fishing can be a very relaxing experience. In a world that is all about going places and doing things, fishing is all about waiting. Fishing requires patience and often a great deal of time, something that many people find soothing in the midst of an otherwise chaotic world – and otherwise chaotic life. And relaxation is a hugely important thing indeed. When we don’t take the time we need to relax, we all too easily and all too quickly run the risk of burning ourselves out. For many people, going fishing at least a few times a year is one way to avoid doing exactly this.
And fishing is a hobby with a reward built in. For many people, the fish at the end of the day is well worth the time spent catching it. While some people will catch and release (and while this is soemtimes the only legal option for some bodies of water), bringing a fish home to eat for dinner is the highlight of the trip for many people who participate in fishing. Fishing for food can not only save money, but can provide a delicious meal for the whole family to enjoy. Catching fish for dinner is most certainly a source of pride for many who go fishing, even for those who only do so sporadically.
Of course, going fishing with one’s friends can also be a great way to spend time with friends. Fishing can be a quiet and relaxing way to socialize, one without too much pressure to constantly keep up a conversation. Many find fishing to be a great bonding experience with family as well, particularly with one’s children or even parents.
But to go fishing – and to go fishing successfully, for that matter – you’ll need the right supplies. If you’re going fly fishing, for example, you’ll want to have a fly fishing gear bag. Investing in something like a fly fishing gear bag will be more than worth it at the end of the day. After all, a fly fishing gear bag will hold everything you need for fly fishing. And while this fly fishing gear bag might be a bit expensive at first, investing in a high quality fly fishing gear bag will withstand the test of time easily, meaning that the fly fishing gear bag in question is more than worth it.
Of course, other equipment will be necessary as well. In addition to the fly fishing gear bag, custom fly reels will also be ideal – or at least high quality fly rods and high quality fly reels. For many people, the right fly fishing outfit will also make a world of difference. Comfort is key, as fly fishing can take a good deal of time and is often an all day endeavor. Therefore, fly fishing gear bags and fly fishing outfits can matter quite a bit more than one might think at first.