Jason Tison, Rogue Offshore
So many times we are in a rush to load our boats with gear and bait ready to chase that monster catch that we often forget about the three «Fs» – Friends, Family, and Fishing. Experiences on the water are not always about the biggest fish or winning money in a big tournament. It’s about sharing the time we have on this earth with the ones that you love, doing what you love to do. The humbling feeling of being offshore is the lure that continues to drive us to go offshore and the tug of war with a great fish is the fuel that keeps us coming back. All fishermen have that specific memory when you can remember all the details of the day – the smell of the air, the sight of the sun rising in the east, and the great catch, but who was with you to share those memories? There is nothing that bonds a group of people better or teaches them lessons of teamwork like fishing hard all day and only landing one fish. We all know how fortunate we are to be able to experience the offshore lifestyle. As great stewards of our industry, hobby, and lifelong passion it is our responsibility to share these experiences with others and take the young and old fishing. The adrenaline rush of the screaming drag and bending of the rod will have them hooked for life and teach them that nothing is easy and nothing is free. It is the building of this bond and memories between friends and family that will live on for years to come. On your next trip think about a friend or family member that hasn’t been fishing and offer them a boat ride. They will never forget the experience with you as you share your knowledge and love of the great ocean. Just as Henry David Thoreau said: “Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.”
