Why do we do it? Why put away countless hours pondering, spend the money we do, jeopardize our social lives, set our selves up for failure, and or success? My answer is simple. It is because of the “one”. To most it is about the one fish of a lifetime or trip of a lifetime. I thought that was the explanation for my case, but through life, this has shifted. I learned quickly that this thought should focus more on a series of the “one’s”.

For example the that “one” fly you tied better than the rest, that “one” cast that could be translated into a painting, the “one” mend you chose to do for the perfect duration of time, which ultimately presented you with that “one” landed which will put a smile on my face for a lifetime. I figured if I celebrate those little “ones” first before letting that “one” fish of a lifetime get the best of me i’d see fishing with a clear mind.

I used to let that “one” shadow of a fish haunt me for days, or that improper hookset send the “one” back to the depths. Let that series of small victories outcompete the “one that got away”. If that fabled line was the case we all might as well give up, sell our equipment at the ramp, and go home.

I will still chase big fish, yes they do make me happy. With this new theory applied it holds true that in the end if you did not land the “one”, you will be grateful you were even in the situation to try.