How This Writer Uses Fishing to Benefit Her Mental Health

As someone who struggles with anxiety and depression, I’m always looking for healthy ways to lift my mood and find inner peace. One activity I’ve found that really helps my mental health is fishing.

Connecting with Nature

Being out on the water connects me to nature and helps me feel grounded. Focusing my attention on the wildlife around me and the rhythm of casting my line is a mindfulness practice that quiets my anxious mind.

The Joy of a Catch

Landing a fish releases feel-good endorphins! I get excited as I carefully reel it in, then feel awed looking at its unique beauty up close before gently releasing it back into the water.

Patience as Meditation

Fishing requires a lot of patience and presence. Sitting peacefully in my boat teaches me to let go of frustrations when I don’t instantly catch something, and instead simply be with the moment.

FAQ

What mental health benefits does fishing provide?

Fishing can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress by connecting you to nature, giving you a mindfulness practice, releasing feel-good endorphins, and teaching patience.

What kind of fishing is best for mental health?

Any kind of fishing can benefit mental health, but many find fly fishing, float fishing, or fishing from a peaceful boat, dock, or beach especially meditative.

Do you need fishing gear for mental health benefits?

You don’t need lots of fancy gear – even something as simple as a child’s rod with bobber and hook allows you to reap the mental health rewards of fishing!

Where are good places to fish for mental health?

Look for calm freshwater lakes, slow moving rivers, or quiet saltwater bays and beaches in nature for the most relaxation.

What if you can’t physically go fishing?

Watching fishing videos, reading fishing books and magazines, or listening to ambient water sounds can still lower stress levels and make you feel peaceful.