"Grinnin' like a mule eatin' saw briars."

Thursday, September 2, 2010

A [Fly] Fishing Manifesto

What is it about a man that makes him perceive nature in such a way that he, and he alone, is its sole solicitor, defender and protector? The passion some have for God is as stridently evoked in our fly fishing community -- in our rivers, and on our streams. They, in the vain of proselytizing zealots, create an aura of impenetrable righteousness and foaming hatred toward change. The only difference between the self-righteous fly fisherman and the Holy See is that the former does not wish conversion. Instead they worship at an exclusive altar built by like-minds and egos. Constant is his droning, resisting change and advancements, all while believing himself to be progressive, a healer of his country's (if not world's) backward ways.

And why you'll forgive me ....

It certainly seems like everyone wants to "be the best", the most knowledgeable, or possess some arcane talent that befuddles the average angler. I think there's a severe case of hypertension in fly fishing and our sport is slowly dying. All the "don't dos" and "have to dos" come from the armchair moralists who, while not baffling us with such spectacular feats (dare I jest?), are home watching reality TV, whether they enjoy it or not. I suggest they fish their way and not obsess upon recreating decades passed. If you want to live with one foot in the past and one in the future (a future which further strips away my rights), then by all means do. But I'll be damned if you change me, no matter how much you write in your blog, stamp across your website, or write in some magazine... Keep looking down your nose, you'll find me, smiling and having a good time.

So, what will I do?

I will continue to enjoy my sport each day, regardless of industry changes. I will not complain about "yuppies." I will ignore the online and on-stream communities that bemoan and belittle other anglers. I will not participate in photo contests or make hero videos. I will simply fish. And the rest of the slovenly progressive fishing bastards can get as angry or indignant as they like.

4 comments:

Michael Agneta said...

Very enjoyable read. The fact that fishing (no matter the form) should be fun is lost on far too many.

James Cates said...

Thanks, man! I had an interesting meeting that mad me boil. I should just simmer down!

Josh Linstrom said...

Well said Jim! It amazes me the simple act of getting out there and enjoying the fishing landscape is replaced by some convoluted mess. For everything I get from standing waist deep, I cannot replicate anywhere else.
Thanks for keeping the blog rolling and giving us some solid reads and pics!

James Cates said...

Thanks, Josh. You da man! (Despite being an Oregon Duck fan.)