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If you’ve never tried fishing before, you may struggle to see the appeal – standing around for hours in the rain hoping to catch something doesn’t seem very exciting on the surface. For the millions around the world that do enjoy fishing, there’s clearly a greater purpose to it. Here are just a few of the reasons why people hooked into fishing.

It’s competitive

There’s a sense of competition involved when it comes to fishing that makes it addictive. This could include competing against other people to catch the most fish or make the biggest catch, or it could involve competing against oneself to always catch bigger and better fish. It isn’t all about luck, although as beginner it may seem so. Seasoned anglers develop a skill for fishing that involves finding the right spots, using the right bait and hooks to suit a specific fish, as well as developing a quick reaction when something does get caught. By making better catches and recording these achievements with photographs, you develop a drive to always do better, which is what turns fishing from a pastime to a passion.

There are lots of different types of fishing to try

Fishing is extremely diverse. You can fish on lakes, rivers or in the sea.  Angle fishing with a rod is the most popular form of fishing, and there are lots of different approaches to this form including casting, fly fishing, boat fishing, bank fishing and rock fishing. You can even do away with a rod and try net fishing, spear fishing, line fishing or even catching fish with your bare hands. Then of course there are different goals to set yourself. There are those that aim to catch the biggest fish possible, whilst there are those that prefer micro-fishing which involves catching the most amount of species possible. There are then those that explore far and wide to find the rarest fish. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, a collector hobbyist or someone looking for a peaceful past-time, there’s a type of fishing out there for you.

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You can eat what you catch

Fishing doesn’t just have to be a sport – you could bring home what you catch for supper. Not only is this money saved on buying food, you can also feel proud that you caught this food yourself. Obviously, there are laws when it comes to catching and killing certain fish when it comes to certain areas and species, however for the most part you don’t need any licenses or permits. You’ll find guides online such as this Indiana Fishing Regulation Guide.

It’s good for the soul

Human beings have caught fish for millennia – there’s something very primal and instinctive about it made more rewarding if you catch your own fish for food. Even if you’re fishing as a sport, it’s a great chance to get out the house and feel one with nature. Many people find it extremely peaceful and meditative – it’s a chance to get away from the distractions of modern life. You the have the sense of achievement that fishing gives you. All in all, it’s great for your mind and soul.

It’s good for your health

Your physical health can also benefit from fishing. Simply being outdoors for the day can be great for your body, giving your vitamin D from the sun and a fresh source of oxygen to help get rid of toxins in the body. Fishing can be active too – whilst some people prefer camp out in the same location all day, others walk great distances to find the perfect fishing spot, climbing down onto hidden beaches and banks and moving location if they get no joy. You can even combine fishing with activities like kayaking and sailing.

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It’s also a chance to travel

Fishing can also offer the opportunity to travel. Many anglers use sources like the Cutthroat Angler’s Fishing Report to hunt out the best fishing spots, which could involve travelling a fair distance. Even if you’re only travelling locally, it could be an opportunity to see new places you’d never considered going before in your area. Some people may use fishing as an opportunity to travel all over the world, seeking out new fish and exploring new landscapes. You can take fishing tours with local experts or go on your own adventures into the wilderness. Some places may even allow you to hire a rod if you don’t fancy taking your own.

It’s can be a great chance to socialise

Whilst some people may prefer to go angling alone, for many others it can be a great social activity. You can group together with a bunch of friends, bring food and drink and even camp out overnight. You can all compete to make the greatest catch or you can group together to all catch fish for supper. You can even hire a boat or go out rowing in a canoe or a dingy.

You’ll feel part of a community

Like any sport or hobby, fishing has a community surrounding it. You’ll likely meet people when out angling to share stories and tips with. On top of this, you’ll find online forums and Facebook groups for discussing fishing tips and tricks with people across the web. There are also magazines and blogs dedicated to the fishing community, as well as fishing societies and fairs.