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Not only is it an art form and a type of mindfulness, but fly-fishing takes Dr Ashley Kai of Leopold Pet Hospital in Victoria to some of the most beautiful places in the world.
“The difference between fly-fishing and other types of fishing is a matter of weight. The fly weighs basically nothing and you cast a weighted line to take your fly to the target. Depending on your target fish, the fly can imitate just about anything, including bugs, insects, worms, other fish, crabs and crayfish. Certain flies are tied to mimic weeds. If the fish aren’t biting, it can be as simple as changing the style of fly. It’s all about knowing what’s happening in the local environment.
“A big part of being a fly-fisherman is tying your own flies. I once attended a talk on mindfulness aimed at vets trying to de-stress. I soon realised that tying flies is a great way to be mindful. Each fly is small, a half centimetre or less, and you need to get the proportions and look just right. I’ve found the best way for me to de-stress after a hectic day is to go home and tie a couple of flies.
“I’m Hawaiian and fishing is a large part of our culture. I grew up fishing with my father and grandfather. In my life, I’m keen to try as many things as possible so when my wife bought me a rod and reel, I was excited to give it a go. Unfortunately, it broke before I even cast it. I went to a fishing shop to buy a new one and the guy behind the counter directed me towards a good quality set-up. My wife then bought me a trip on a guided fly-fishing expedition. I’ve never looked back.
“I go fishing once a month but good spots are pretty limited in Victoria. I’ve travelled overseas a few times to go fishing and have just returned from the Cocos Keeling Islands. Saltwater fly-fishing is a fantastic experience and I managed to catch some magnificent fish. Even though they’re good eating, absolutely everything I hook is catch and release.
“I love that there’s a real art to fly-fishing. It’s much more than just baiting a hook and dropping it in the water. You need to cast properly and accurately, and twitch the fly in a way that encourages a strike. Even though you’re thinking all the time—about the type of fly, the location, the weather, the currents—you’re not thinking about work.
“Fly-fishing allows you to experience beautiful places and enjoy a sense of peacefulness. It teaches patience and persistence. Of all the places I’ve fished, I’d return to any of them in a heartbeat.”
