Husbands, wives, family, and friends need to do more things TOGETHER!
Celebrating the outdoors together is so much more fun. Trying out new sports, adventures, foods, and experiences helps us to grow. Life is more exciting when you pursue new and unique adventures.
It is true that interests change over a lifetime, but the memories of the campouts, hunting and fishing trips, travel, and special adventures are the strongest memories.
Fishing has always been a huge part of my life. My “go to date” was taking a girl fishing. You learn really fast if they are flexible and have potential as life partners. We would go to a pond and spend the day. I made sure that the pond had facilities and made a wine and cheese luncheon. We always picked a nice day. Everyone loves catching fish.
Later, I would clean and cook up our catch. Now I knew if the date had potential. If she was uncomfortable with my hobbies and interests, eventually she would become uncomfortable with me. Better to find out up front. If there was no Outdoor Spark, then the date was just a Catch and Release opportunity.
Taking a date hunting is a harder ask. I would do that if she asked but not force a Blood Sport on her. Camping, canoeing, boating, hiking, and bike trips were also fun ways to see what your date liked and hated.
Outdoor adventures bring people together. Being a Hunter and Gatherer is in our human DNA. Most of us are tougher than we know. Nature is a neutral place that is beautiful and always changing.
Teaching others how to do something that you cherish and enjoy is fun. Just remember that it goes both ways. If you expect your partner to rough it, then you may need to do the things that they enjoy as well. At first their interests may no appeal to you but give them a try. If you like the person, you may also like what makes them up.
Some anglers and hunters may become frustrated or jealous when their partner catches more fish, tags bigger bucks, and get really hooked on what you have enjoyed. Just be happy that you share your hobbies and interests with someone that you enjoy spending time with.
I have known sportsmen that have family and wives/husbands that will not eat the wild game gathered. Others may not go afield but love to cook and enjoy the bounty.
Hunting and fishing are not gender things. There is no rule that says the hunter or fly angler needs to be a man or woman. Kids need to be part of the outdoor adventures as well. Hiking, biking, boating, and so much more are available to enjoy. Try them all then pick and choose.
It’s ok to pick and choose what you prefer to do outdoors. Montana Lin camped with me for years but over time her idea of camping means seeing a tree from the window of Holiday Inn. It’s ok to change.
Do It Together!
Montana Grant
