Australia has some awesome fishing spots including rivers, creeks and even fishing platforms in reserves across the city. Fishing is an outdoor sport that’s accessible to all ages and fitness abilities, and a popular family activity.
But did you know it can also help you to lead a healthier, happier life? We take a look at some of the best reasons to go fishing.
To Keep Fit
Yes, we know fishing isn’t exactly considered a cardio exercise but the exercise you do to reach your favoured fishing spot can be. Whether it’s paddling, hiking or biking, your fishing excursion can be as physical as you want to to make it. Fishing from a boat can also burn calories if you’re going for a swim in between catches.
To Relax and Reduce Stress
Many of those who fish recreationally swear by it as a stress reliever. Just being outside is good for your body and brain and the relaxed nature of fishing helps to manage overall mental health. Fishing is a way to reconnect with nature and at the same time your inner self. When fishing you have to focus on the present (if you want to catch any fish) so it removes you from the treadmill of task planning and stressing about the future.
To Get Positive
Being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine while you’re fishing is an excellent way to feel more positive after all vitamin D is the best mood booster there is. A study on how fishing affects mood has shown that after just three days on a fishing retreat participants showed a huge reduction in feelings of guilt, fear, hostility and sadness. Fishing has also been linked to lowering the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
To Eat Healthy
Fishermen who regularly keep what they catch and eat it for their dinner are more likely to have a healthier body and live longer. Everyone knows fish contains omega-3 fatty acids which apart from being excellent for brain health, also lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart failure and stroke. Other health benefits of eating lots of fish include less risk of rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, better eyesight and some protection from UV-rays.
On this note, we don’t recommend forgoing the sunscreen. Be sun-safe at all times while fishing with SPF30+ or higher sunscreen and protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt, wide-brimmed hat and UV-filtering sunglasses.