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Live Near Chicago - Why Fish?
Anglers If you've never been fishing before, then allow us to offer forth our deepest condolences, for you have not experienced the zen-like calm, sense of achievement, and wonderful meals that can emerge from such an activity. In fact, fishing is unlike anything else you'll ever take part in, and we wanted to offer several reasons why we think you should take it up immediately.
1) Relaxation.
If you feel stressed at work, want a holiday, or you're just looking for something to do in your spare time that doesn't exhaust or excite you too much, then fishing is the answer. Knee-deep in the river, on the bank, in a boat - wherever you are, you'll enjoy the natural environment, the peace and quiet, and the calm and focus required to catch fish.
2) Health.
Not only is a lack of stress going to help your body, but the walking, learning to stay still and ready, and fresh air are going to as well. Whether you go jogging or play partypoker on the porch in the summertime, there's nothing quite like stepping out towards the water, with a light wind and the scent of the woods all around you.
3) Skills.
Tying knots, aim, patience, preparing fish to be eaten, dealing with hooks, caught lines - there are a lot of elements of fishing that require training and practice, and a lot of them that you'll simply pick up as you go along.
4) Food.
Catching fish, oddly enough, means you'll have fish. Whether you catch-and-release or not, it's an achievement, but if you choose to keep what you catch (make sure this is allowed), then you'll become a reliable supplier of high-quality dinner material for those you're going home to - or even yourself, if you're camping near your fishing spot.
5 ) Socialize.
Meeting new friends to fish with is as easy as looking up your local fishing club. Club fishing events happen all around Chicago's suburbs. A cheap way to have some fun close to home fishing - attend a few club fishing outings, bring some bait, catch some fish and compare stories. Who knows a picnic or social could break out after you are done fishing.
Fishing is a zen experience that will allow you to unwind and learn some valuable life skills. If you're tempted, go for it. It might just become your new go-to spare-time activity.