As an art form it demands constant attention and honing of skills and often the more intensely you pursue it, the more you are filled by it. The allure of fly fishing is many faceted. There is a freedom and rhythm contained within the experience of fly fishing that is like the river itself, vibrant and fluid. The energy transferred from angler to rod to line to fly is matched by a similar chain of energy that flows in nature. The angler is as connected to the energy flow of the river and its inhabitants as they are to the action of casting and retrieving.

Whatever the season, the fish species, the weather, the stream; the angler is a total participant. This mystique, this Zen of fly fishing draws each fly fisher out to fish in the worst and the best of weather conditions. Through the medium of fly fishing there is an opportunity to transfer our soulful experiences into all aspects of our lives. As we enter into the natural world, our health and spirit is revitalized and we are once more made whole.

I am a fly fisher. I celebrate this choice, as I celebrate much of the joy I receive in this life. It is hard to capture in words the sheer joy I feel when I am engaged in the creative activity of fly fishing. It is more than a pastime; it is a commitment to times past, to the diverse associations of nature to plant, insect, avian, fish, animal, and humankind.

Who knows how our first connection is initiated. It may be respite from a hectic schedule, a desire for self healing, the encouragement of a friend, the need for time alone, a mysterious call from the secret voice of the river. For me, fly fishing is a commitment I make for my spiritual health. It is a decision, a conscious choice, and in this I am wondrously rewarded.

Full nets,

Sincerely Yours, Sandra Root