Tower and Town, August 2015 (view the full edition)Why I Go Fishing'Going fishing' has been a large part of my life since I was a boy, catching sticklebacks in my local woods and being fascinated by watching them in my jam jar. From an early age I was attracted to the mysteries of running water. I learnt to understand its moods and found, whilst in solitude and contemplation, that a river would reveal its secrets. Time spent fishing is time free from the stresses and strains of modern living – when senses are harmonious with the natural world.
Whilst angling is, in essence, a solitary sport there are times when I enjoy the company of fellow anglers, and indeed, many long lasting friendships and a common bond have been formed. We are competitive by nature with hunter instincts and there can be great satisfaction fishing against other anglers to catch more or bigger fish. A main attraction must be the thrill of the take to the fly; that pull on the line, those few fleeting moments of joy when attached to an unlucky fish. The adrenalin-rush of a successful capture is addictive. As a Coach and Guide I want to pass on my enthusiasm to my pupils and clients – once hooked it can be a passion for life. Paul Maslin |
The pursuit of trout takes me to places I would not otherwise go to: beautiful, scenic countryside. Where there is water there is almost always fish and while there are fish in our waters there will be people who dream of catching them.