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. 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. 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 |