Identification

Have you ever been asked, “What do you do?” The usual response is to revert to your occupation, the one that encroaches upon your precious fishing time. Upon retirement, you become what you used to do for a living, not who you truly are. In reality, most people spend their time dwelling on the past rather than embracing the present, and forget about the future!

Your identity shouldn’t be defined by your work experience. Even if you still need an income stream, escaping the work world can be a gateway to discovering your true passions. Work is merely a part of life, not the entirety of it. Consider this: do you genuinely want to be known as a wage slave to a corporation or become that free thinker who can develop agency beyond work?

First and foremost, if you’re reading this, you’re a fly fisher and a conservationist. As a TU member, there are numerous opportunities to enhance your skills, contribute to stream rehabilitation efforts, educate others, mentor, and advocate for conservation. Hiding in the corners of meetings and criticizing group leaders is counterproductive. Instead, stay home, watch YouTube videos, and dream of the fantastic trips you’ll never take. Remember, TU is not a fishing club; it’s a conservation organization.

So, let’s start the new year on the right foot. Forget the typical answer to “What do you do?” and become an advocate for wild rivers, wild fish, and public lands.

Happy New Year to all!