As a veteran, you’ve likely spent a lot of time outdoors. Whether it was training for your job or simply enjoying nature, you know the woods quite well. But do you ever get the itch to head back out there and take on Mother Nature again? If so, you’ll need to plan ahead this time. There are numerous reasons why veterans should think about getting into fishing as a hobby. Fishing is great for relaxation, an excellent way to spend time with friends and family, and above all else, it allows you to experience the great outdoors once more.

What is Fly Fishing?

Fly Fishing is a form of fishing where you use a rod and reel to cast a line with a fly at a fish. It is different from other fishing methods by using aquatic flies as bait on a hook instead of bait. This method of fishing has been around since the 19th century and has become a very popular sport in recent years. There are many advantages to fly fishing over traditional fishing. Fly Fishing for veterans is a great way to get back out there and experience the great outdoors. It’s also a very therapeutic hobby, allowing veterans to de-stress from work and other responsibilities.

Fly Fishing for Veterans: Why Bother?

Fly Fishing
(Source: Bureau of Land Management/Flickr)

Veterans like to get out of their houses, and fishing is a great hobby that can help with that. Fishing is a great way to get outdoors, go on adventures, and meet new people. Depending on where you go fishing, you’ll meet other veterans, families, and people from all walks of life. You can also do it virtually through apps like Fishing for All. Veterans are often drawn to fishing because of the solitary nature of the sport. When you’re fishing, you get to spend time by yourself, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When fishing by yourself, you eliminate the risk of having to talk to anyone. If you decide to go fishing with others, you can socialize as much as you want, but you always have the option to spend time alone if you so desire.

What to Bring With You

When fly fishing as a veteran, you’ll need to pack a few things that will allow you to get the most out of your trip. – Fishing rod & reel – This is the most important thing you need to bring while fishing. You’ll need a good quality fishing rod and reel in the fish. Some veterans prefer to bring their own fishing rods, while others prefer to rent them at their chosen location. – Lures – You’ll likely want to bring some lures to increase your chances of reeling in a prize-winning fish. Choose lures that are the right size for the fish you’re trying to catch. Veterans can also bring other items such as bait, tackle, hooks, and a net.

Finding the Right Location & Finding Fish

Fly Fishing On Oak Creek
(Source: Ray Redstone/Wikimedia)

Veterans will often go fishing with others for the first time, so finding the right location can be pretty important. Finding the right location for fishing is a bit of a challenge, but it’s also part of the fun. You can find a great fishing spot near you by asking around, looking online, or simply going to a popular fishing location and trying your luck. Finding fish can be a bit tricky, but you’ll likely be able to figure it out with a little trial and error. Fish are generally found in bodies of water, so you’ll want to find a lake, river, or stream. Once you find a body of water and start fishing, you should notice fish swimming around. If you want to be sure you’re fishing in a good spot, use a fishing app like Fishing for All to help you out.

Top 3 Tips for Newbies

  1. Calm your nerves – A lot of veterans who are new to the sport of fly fishing get extremely nervous and anxious during their first fishing trip. This is normal, but it can also be dangerous. If you feel nervous, you’ll want to try breathing techniques to calm your nerves and keep your mind clear.
  2. Be prepared for the worst – Veterans who are new to the sport of fishing will often quickly learn just how dangerous the sport can be. You’ll want to be prepared for all types of weather, including heavy rain and thunderstorms. You might also encounter dangerous animals.
  3. Start out small – Veterans new to the sport of fishing tend to overdo it and look for fish that are way beyond their skill level. If you’re new to the sport, start small and work your way up.

Conclusion

Veterans often miss the thrill of the outdoors after completing their service. Fishing can help veterans get back in touch with nature and provide a great way to relax. Fly fishing is a great hobby for veterans and can help you reconnect with nature.