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As one can imagine, a high school senior has a lot on his plate. I am no different: homework, hobbies, and responsibilities keep me quite busy. However, with my full schedule I still find time for my favorite pastime, fly-fishing. I started fishing with my Dad many years ago and I have to say it has turned into one of the most enjoyable experiences I know. Thinking about fishing, reading about fishing and talking about fishing gives me great pleasure. I often catch myself day dreaming about making my way to a favorite river and throwing a few flies. For me, there is nothing more relaxing then getting out in the water, becoming one with nature and getting lost in my thoughts.
Standing in the water and passing the time between casts, I find I have plenty of time to think. I enjoy the serenity of being alone with nature. Recently, while I was fishing on the Swift River, I was pulled away from my thoughts by a Coke can rolling along the bottom of the river. Surprised, I picked up the can and placed it in one of the trash bags I always carry with me. Tucking the bag into my waders, I started thinking about recycling - keeping rivers clean of both trash and of other plants and algae which can ruin beautiful rivers and kill off trout populations. I have seen firsthand the effect pollution has had on the Assabet River, a river near my hometown. I have seen the river full of waste products. The river’s bed hosts everything from small plastic bags and six pack rings, to metal safes and even bath tubs. These things can destroy trout habitats, kill wildlife, and even harm birds and mammals that live on the river. The rivers need to remain clean for healthy breeding and sustaining our wonderful wildlife.
As the evening sun starts to approach the tree line I tie on my favorite fly and make my last cast before I head home. A large rainbow takes the fly and I skillfully land the fish and hold it in my hands. I admire its beautiful colors. I then release it back into the water and watch as it swims to freedom. I pause. I wonder. Will my children will be able to enjoy the luxury of fishing for these beautiful creatures? Will the pollution reach this river, like it has so many others?
After my day of fishing, I walk back to my car, toss my full trash bag into the trash can and think about how lucky I am to have all this beauty surrounding me. We all need to do our part to make sure our rivers remain clean…. simply taking the time to wash down my waders, rod, and reel in the shower after my day of fishing insures I don’t let any plant matter spread from one river to another. Let’s all be mindful of doing our part to keep our rivers clean!
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