April 25, 2020. The date has significance in many ways. Yes, it is the first day of the 2020 trout season, but it means more than that. We’ve been in isolation for almost two months, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this day will mark the first time I will spend more than 5 minutes outside of my house since the shutdown started.
I view it with mixed feelings: On one hand I’m excited to get back to a sport that I love, to be outside in the fresh air and to get back in touch with nature. On the other hand, I ask myself if I’m being responsible by going outside and have feelings of guilt knowing that so many others don’t have this option.
I will be alone with nobody within miles of me, so I’m not violating any social distancing guidelines, and there is no restriction (other than the distancing) for anyone who wants to go outside for any reason, so I’ve decided that it’s acceptable. I’ll forego my usual routine of picking up breakfast and a coffee on the road, so I don’t expect to see anyone face to face, which under these circumstances is fine with me.
I’ve been working towards this moment too. Having spent the last several months learning to tie my own flies, I have a sizeable collection and wide variety of lures to use this year, so I won’t hesitate to cast them into difficult waters or tight spots near submerged logs or overhanging trees in pursuit of my trophies. I may lose some, in fact I may lose many, but I can replace them easily and tying them is enjoyable in itself.
I’ve gone over my equipment and ensured it is ready to go. Even though my existing rod/reel was (is) highly rated and good quality, I took it up a step and purchased a much better rod and reel, and I cannot wait to try it out. So all preparations are complete and physically I’m ready.
Mentally, I’m not sure. It’s a different world right now, and I’m not entirely sure of what to expect when I venture out into it. At first glance I will find it much the same as usual, since I’m always alone and isolated in the rivers that I fish. I know the air will be fresher, the traffic lighter and maybe the fish and wildlife will be more abundant but on the surface although it will appear the same, I’m anticipating a different experience.
Normally I forget about life, and descend into my memories and random thoughts. This time my deep thoughts will likely focus on life; it’s twists, turns and uncertainties. I’ll have the time to contemplate events, emotions and developments of the past few months in depth, hopefully experiencing a catharsis, and ultimately, a renewal of hope.
At this time, there is no set date when we can get together with friends and family, and even though we can communicate via cell phone or video, we remain isolated in our solitude. But this will pass, and a day will come, hopefully soon, when we can all get together again.
Come Fly With Me 