Unlike many of the sports I mentioned before, where there may be pressure placed upon children by parents, coaches, and other sources, fishing is completely free of that. Fishing on the non competitive level has nearly zero pressure, and very much unlike traditional sports, can be very relaxing and to a large degree very educational. I speak for myself when I say that I have learned more about the outdoors, that being things not directly related to fishing, such as water fowl, ecosystems, and biology, than I have ever leaned in a biology class. Its an activity where one can learn by doing, which are lessons that last a life time. Another reason I encourage children to fish, is people.
People are what makes the fishing, the hunting, and the camping so memorable.
I have met more people that I am thrilled to have as friends through fishing alone, than nearly any other way I can think of. Tournament partners, fishing club members, and a host of others, many of whom I have cultivated meaningful friendships which have made this sport so much more rewarding. Also, in fear of sounding like a child psychologist, fishing with friends, and learning from peers as well as instructing other, greatly cultivates social skills. Giving seminars, talking to sponsors, and mingling with people at trade shows, are all instances where being a people person is crucial, and I can honestly say that fishing has greatly helped me with that. I mentioned competitive fishing before, something that I hope to one day make a career out of.