I had something planned for today, for the 6th Anniversary of Casting Across. The plan was to share some of the highs and lows of writing and talking about fly fishing three times a week for six years. There were some angling stories, some life events, and some interesting perspectives that come from recording my thoughts through all of it.
Then I received an email.
I get countless messages because of Casting Across. About half are straight-up junk. Then, there are a lot of emails from fly fishing companies’ and conservation organizations’ mailing lists. Those are helpful for keeping a finger on the pulse of the people, places, and things that go into the pursuit of fish. What I really enjoy are emails and direct messages from you – from people who have made Casting Across a part of their week.
This particular email came through as I was standing in the checkout line at the grocery store. It was from someone who listens to the podcast. Like me, he is father, a pastor, and a fly fisher. He also has a way with words. He shared a little about how a recent episode got him thinking about his time outdoors.
More than view counts, more than gear to review, more than advertisers; messages like that make the energy and effort I put into Casting Across worth it.
This article is the 942nd post on this website. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday since October of 2015 I’ve put something online for whoever finds their way to my words. I feel like I’ve said it ad nauseum on the podcast, but so much of what I publish is intended to be a launching point for you. With few exceptions, the majority of those 900+ posts are meant to give you ideas, ways of approaching fly fishing, and perspectives on integrating it with what else you have going on in your life. When something resonates enough with someone, enough that they reach out to let me know their thoughts, I feel like I’ve done my “job.”
I love hearing stories. Book and product recommendations are always fun. Even the pushback or questioning is something I respect. Emails have turned into posts and podcasts, led me down research rabbit holes, and even resulted in real life conversations. If no one saw what I did, I’d probably still do it. But there is something good about this being an exchange instead of a monologue. It is the best part of the culture of fly fishing.
If you’ve ever gotten in touch, thank you.
If you never have, but feel so inclined, I’m looking forward to hearing from you when you have the chance.
I appreciate you taking the time to read, to listen, and to be a part of Casting Across for all or part of the past 6 years.