On Friday, I’ll post for the 1,000th time on Casting Across.
I’ve written about the quarry and culture of fly fishing three times a week, for 333 weeks, over the course of nearly six and a half years. There are plenty of gear reviews, outdoor stories, and articles on technique in the back catalog. There are some real winners and some posts that probably could have used some more editing, thought, or inspiration. But what is here is here.
And while I don’t know what the future holds, my plan is to keep writing and talking about fly fishing. Why? Well, I have at least five solid reasons for keeping Casting Across going. Some have to do with me. Some have to do with you. One of them actually has to do with fishing.
Here is why I still enjoy writing about fly fishing:
Discipline I don’t think I’m obsessive. But I do really appreciate consistency. I like spreadsheets, order, and that last puzzle piece getting snapped into place. Working with a self-imposed deadline has fostered a great, casual rhythm for the past six-plus years. I also feel compelled to improve. Maybe each post doesn’t show that, but I over the trajectory of the whole timeframe there’s positive change.
Creativity When people ask me why I do Casting Across, I usually say something about how ministry requires so much precision. That isn’t to say that I can’t be creative as a pastor. Perhaps I just respect the source material a little more at work, and feel I can be a little fast and loose when it comes to fly fishing. Together, they compliment each other.
Industry From the first day I clocked in at a fly shop at the age of 18, I loved being immersed in the stuff, personalities, and culture of fly fishing. As I grew up, I quickly realized that the stuff was more peripheral. I’m fascinated by people who are passionate about making a living in fly fishing. I get to tell their stories and use their stuff. It might sound like an overstatement, but it feels like a privilege.
People Not to be sappy or anything, but getting emails from listeners and readers is one of my favorite things. Engaging with people who are compelled enough by my perspective to get in touch is great. Having it turn into a conversation? Excellent. Like I often say on the podcast: I hope what I write gets you thinking about fishing and fishing in a way that helps you enjoy your time outside.
Fishing Casting Across isn’t only about getting you to think about fishing. It helps me think about fishing, why I am fishing, and what I am thinking about while I’m fishing. Got it? Basically, with “what will I write about next” always in the back of my mind, I’m primed for observation. I’m not fishing for content. I’m not pressured into catching. I’m simply thinking about what I’m doing and why might be interesting about it.
If this is your first or 999th time on Casting Across, thank you.
I’m happy to hear your thoughts or observations, too: