Growing up, I have fond memories of fishing with my dad, mostly spin fishing for trout in Colorado or fishing for stripers on the Long Island Sound. When I went to college in Maine, I started fly fishing and quickly became obsessed. Slowly over the years, like many anglers, my fly fishing addiction grew exponentially. Initially, it was for trout, then saltwater, and after a flats fishing trip, it was game over. I knew I would spend my entire life fly fishing and chasing species. My dad had fly fished a bit when he was younger, but never seriously pursued it.
I had a dream that my dad and I would go on fly fishing trips together. We started small and local, a few days here and there, sometimes with a guide or just messing around near home. After my dad taught me so much throughout my life, it has been so meaningful to teach him about fly fishing. Giving him tips on his double haul and sharing my favorite spots has been a fun role reversal. Whenever we walk into a fly shop, people always ask him, “Teaching your daughter how to fly fish?” And with a big goofy grin, he replies, “She’s teaching me!”
Fly Fishing with Dad
When I finished graduate school, it was a rare opportunity to take a trip together. We ended up going Bonefishing on Andros Island. Since then, we have logged 3 other trips. Another trip to Andros Island, Louisiana, for redfish, and recently Ascension Bay, Mexico, targeting bonefish, tarpon, snook, and of course the elusive permit.
Fly fishing with my dad is a win-win. There is no one else in the world who is genuinely more excited when I catch a fish than when he does, and vice versa. He is endlessly encouraging and will always be my biggest supporter. He never fails to give me a compliment and always cheers me up if I miss a fish or mess up a cast.
My dad is truly my favorite fishing partner. Our time on the water reminds me how lucky I am to have him as not only my biggest cheerleader in fly fishing but also in life. He has helped me navigate every aspect of life’s journey, including my career, athletics, academics, relationships, friendships, finances, and everything in between. Not to mention being my on-call handyman for anything that needs fixing in my apartment.
Cheers to the Dads
What does it mean to be a father? Fathers don’t have to be one’s biological male parent. A father is someone who supports, mentors, and lifts you up when you need it. A father is someone who provides sound advice and is always a shoulder to cry on when times get rough. Having a father figure in your life could be a sibling, close friend, family member, or anyone who helps navigate the inevitable ebbs and flows of life.
I am always grateful for my dad, but Father’s Day is a time to be extra grateful. I am lucky to have the most genuine, humble, kind, and caring dad in the world. I cherish our time together both on and off the water.
Cheers to the dads!
Words and imagery courtesy of Grace Baldwin.