Learning to Be Alone Together

Why do people go fishing? I know the obvious reasons such as catching a great meal or being involved in sport fishing anxious to land that really big prize. But there seems to be another reason that brings fishermen to lakes, steams and ponds. A few fishermen are alone but most are with at least one other person; maybe more.

The summer I was ten I went fishing for the first time with my great-great-uncle. I had not spent a lot of time with him before; we lived in states that were far apart. I enjoyed the time I had spent with him though and when I was invited to go fishing I was excited. I knew he fished a lot and that I would learn a lot from him. I bought a small tackle box and fishing pole. I was ready.

The day of the fishing trip we loaded our selves and our gear into the car. The lake was about an hour and a half drive away. We talked on the way there about school, vacation and the weather. It was a great day and a great chance to talk. I was surprised that he shared stories about the days when he was in school. His experiences really didn't seem that different than mine.

We drove to a cabin that he shared with friends. The area was very green, lush with vegetation and a small pier led out to the edge of the water. It was very quiet. The only sounds were of us walking, the slight noise of leaves rustling in the trees and a few birds. He helped me choose a lure and attach it to my line. He gave me a few pointers about casting and told me what to watch for. Then he baited his line and threw it out into the lake. We both stood there watching and waiting. The sun was warm; it sparkled on the surface of the water. My eyes began to search the edges of the lake taking in the surroundings. I was aware of my uncle on the other side of the pier. I had enjoyed our visit during the trip to the lake; I understood his quietness while we were standing there. I was aware of the fact that we were along together. I had never thought about that possibility before. It was a great experience being there together yet so far apart. I wondered what he was thinking of. Did he enjoy the feeling of the sun as much as I did? I could see that he was very comfortable and was happy to be fishing. I looked at my line and moved it to another area. Again I looked at the surface of the water and my mind seemed to be on idle. I too was comfortable. I really didn't care if I caught anything or not. It was a great day just to be alone with my uncle soaking up the surroundings.

The trip back included a stop at a favorite restaurant and more stories. The food was as great as the stories. I think I laughed as much as I ate. Then it was time to head home. So that's why people go fishing?