blog #7 The Open Water

Contentment, happiness and joy are all examples of the aspirations we all strive to experience during the minimal moments of leisure found periodically through out the monotonous hustle and bustle of what is our reality. This concept is apparent to all of us when after a long day of school or work when we plop down on the most comfortable piece of furniture kick off our shoes to let the dogs breath and exhale that deep relaxing sigh of relief. This search for relief is naturally perceived by most but one of the first to academically analyze this concept was a world renowned psychologist Sigmund Freud, who concluded the Pleasure Principle; The ideology that our purpose in life is to seek gratification. This satisfaction is explored by many through a myriad of avenues. For some the expression of self through art or the ability to convey emotions through music are great solutions to this goal but others are inclined to a more active form of finding joy. To some the feeling of reeling in that majestic aquatic beast after a long arduous battle between man and animal is the most gratifying. Fishing for some is more than a hobby its a way of life and  the inevitable wait for that trophy prize is sublime.
Shore anglers in rural areas make up the majority of the percentage of people who indulge in the sport but an increasing spike in the percentage of urban dwelling individuals is rapidly catching up. Fishing is a sport dictated by seasonal patterns and strictly regulated by an array of restrictions. Guidelines set up to up keep the delicate ecosystem that so many humans rely on for livelihood and recreation. As an avid fisherman myself I become ecstatic when January first rolls around in my current area of Oregon. That marks the opening day of trout season in Oregon. Fishing is not an easy sport it requires patience, technique and quite frankly luck. In appliance with Oregon fishing and wildlife services my attempts to capture my elusive adversary become snagged by more meticulous regulations such as only being allowed to use barbless hooks and the constant presence of peering enforcement through magnified eyes ensures this. However an adamant angler does not let anything stop him from acquiring that feel of admiration fishing employes on its enthusiasts even if you don't get a bite all day. You wake up the next morning and cast that line back in the open water.