Angling, a lost art for survival and the soul

Angling, a lost art for survival and the soul
James Walton “I Am Liberty” Audio player below!

There may be no greater way to find balance in this mad mad mad mad world than to stand on the banks of a river in July with the sun winking at you from the horizon. Fishing rod in hand, you take that first step into the water and the day begins. There are fish to be had, sights to be seen and, of course, the thrill of entering an environment that is so alien to your everyday, yet, so inviting.

Listen to this broadcast or download “Angling, a lost art for survival and the soul” in this player!

That is the allure and the romance of angling.

Reading Izaak Walton (because of his last name) and Henry David Thoreau has taught me about angling and nature. When I say angling I mean the true inhalation of the act. Not only fishing but experience the sights and the sounds of nature. Immersing yourself as deeply as the baits you cast, in the world around you. That is angling, in its purest form.

Angling is an art worthy the knowledge and patience of a wise man

Izaak Walton

Greater a teacher than any writer is the experience itself. For many, fishing happens on a boat, it happens on a bank or it happens off a pier. Now, the act of fishing is quite therapeutic in any form. Ripping buzz baits through weeds or soaking heavy weights for spot, its all fishing and it takes us away from the monotony of such long life.

Still, there is something very different about becoming part of an environment and exploring it by foot. Wading deep pools and walking through woods to find the very best spots. This is how you get the lasting and powerful effects of angling to penetrate deep into your soul. Its about the connection. You just cannot experience that same connection from a boat or a bank.

Angling and Survival

Again, the truth about angling is that it is meant to immerse you in the natural world. While fishing the city waters of the  James River in Virginia is how I spend much of my time, I still learn much about survival. I learn about the wildlife and the natural foods in my area. I learn about those people who live around me, as well.

There is another level. One that will truly test my survival skills. Its when I head deep into the mountains to chase native trout. This requires attention to navigation as well as managing much more dangerous wildlife than a blue heron. Some trips into Shenandoah are best when they feature a nightcap. The hikes can be arduous and fishing a little before bed and then again in the morning is the best way to enjoy them.

We need the tonic of wilderness

Henry David Thoreau

There is no truer statement than that above. I encourage you to gather yourself this spring and make a commitment to angling. On this weeks podcast we are going to discuss angling for the soul and survival. The show will be live at 9 EST at www.prepperbroadcasting.com you can join the live chat as well or call in with your own fishing stories at 347-202-0228

In an age where we are constantly seeking out happiness, angling can be the answer. For me happiness has been most often found covered in weeds and mud in that heart palpating moment after releasing a nice fish. Consider another Walton’s advice on the pursuit of happiness.

No life is so happy and so pleasant as the life of a well-govern’d angler

Izaak Walton

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