From guiding to giving more to others
/To guide, or not to guide. It’s a question I’ve been asking myself since I’ve been on my sabbatical. Initially, the answer wasn’t clear.
Some days I remember feeling divided in too many ways between my family, my day job and my serious side gig taking people fly fishing. The never-ending business administration. The anxiety of managing multiple lists in my head and hoping I didn’t drop the ball on something that really mattered on the water. That bone crushing tiredness driving home after a massive day of guiding and praying I’d make it home in time for bedtime stories.
Letting my mind wander on the mitta mitta
Other days, I recall the pride of watching the penny drop for my students. The feeling that I had the best job in the world, where people come alive and unlock the best parts of themselves they often hide. That feeling of excitement for the day ahead. Watching the mist rise off the water and hoping luck might bite. The cold beer at the end of day and the tales of triumph and tragedy that had me smiling on the way back to the ranch.
one of my happy students
Deciding which of these wildly contrasting feelings outweighed the other to guide my direction was fruitless. Then it came to me … I love the legacy of giving people new skills and experiences. I love the human connection fly fishing provides, the feeling of freedom that being in the great outdoors brings and the eternal hope (and comedy) that chasing fish brings to everyday life. So, why don’t I just give up professional guiding and take people fishing for fun? And that is exactly what I’m now doing.
Giving up guiding has made fly fishing enjoyable again. I’ve been able to balance my personal, professional and creative life so much better. I’ve had the time to take family and friends fishing - which has been an absolute joy - and it’s allowing me to volunteer with Casting for Recovery. Casting for Recovery (CfR) Victoria is a non-profit organisation that runs life affirming fly fishing retreats for women with breast cancer. Casting for Recovery retreats are delivered by experienced altruistic fly fishers and healthcare professionals. I was an instructor at the inaugural Victorian CfR retreat in 2019 and I’m volunteering again in March 2023, and I hope to do many more in the future.
Casting for Recovery Victoria crew 2018
Established in the USA in 1995 by a breast cancer reconstructive surgeon and a professional fly fisher, CfR now runs in six countries around the world including Australia. Endorsed by medical professionals, the program is proven to be physically and mentally rejuvenating for participants. The calmness of being on the water, the kindness of the CfR team, and the cameradie of fellow cancer survivors makes people feel connected, cared for, and gives them hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Me with my Casting for recovery buddy
Casting for Recovery is a charity close to my heart because I’ve lost family and friends to this cruel disease. Many other Australians have lost loved ones too. It makes me feel helpless and angry at times. I’m just a fly fisher, the real heroes are the oncologists and nurses who are there day in, day out with unfailing support. But taking part in Casting for Recovery makes me feel like I’m playing a small role in helping survivors with their journey. Sometimes just catching a fish or laughing at losing a good one, can brighten the day of someone who’s having a hard time - and that’s a nice thing to do.
getting hooked on good vibes
So, while I’ve hung up my professional guiding boots I’m still splashing about in my waders helping others learn to love life-changing joy fly fishing can bring. You to can make a difference by getting involved in or making a donation to: https://www.castingforrecoveryvic.org/