Fishing or Fly Tying?
Submitted by DamselflyI am a morning person. I apologize for that to all of you night owls who dread the sound of the alarm in the early hours. Today I was up early enough to see a lovely sunrise as I peered up the road along the edge of the property. What a glorious sight! I am so happy for such simple beauty.
Morning is the time of day my mind is in full swing, all cylinders firing. At my age, it may take a wee bit longer for my body to catch up. I may have a few twinges, aches, and pains, but eventually, the body too is ready to go. This is the time of day I enjoy my training at the gym, although today is not a “gym day”.
Within 15 minutes of that spectacular sunrise, a gentle rain started to fall. I am happy for the rain today as it means nature is taking care of watering the garden, thus eliminating a chore on the list. Yes! The rain means a slight reprieve from the outside chores. I can shift my focus to things inside. The housework will get finished. Dinner is already planned.
Today perhaps I will tie a fly or two. But what will I tie?
I love to tie flies. It has been a passion for so many years. I was once asked, if I had to give up fishing or fly tying, which would it be? I did not have to think long to answer that I would give up fishing.
Really? Shock and horror spread across the face of the person asking the question!
Yes, really.
When I tie flies, I have something to give.
Through the years, I have been in the presence of many great fly tyers and fishermen. When I tie flies, I have the ability to trade talent with them. It is always an opportunity for a great conversation. We talk about how or where we would fish a fly, what materials we use most often and where we get them, or a technique that adds quality or saves time. We share stories about our favorite flies.
When I tie flies, I can give them to a fisherman who does not tie flies. That person has the opportunity (I hope) to catch a fish on MY fly. The more flies I tie and give to others, the more opportunities for others to love fly fishing as I do. Those opportunities allow others to have stories to tell.
I will continue to tie flies and fish, as long as I am able. Although life does not afford the time or opportunity as often as I would like, it does not squelch my passion.
With the gift of rain today lending a hand in completion of my chores, I will tie flies.
Comments
Fly Tying
Generosity. It is certainly a cliché of the sport that catching a fish on a fly you have tied yourself make the experience that much sweeter. True, but I'm with Kim, giving away flies sweetens everyone's day.
Thank you Marvin! I have
Thank you Marvin! I have learned my lessons well ;-)
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