Is it catching fish or chasing the moment? The philosophy behind dry fly fishing and everything else in life

The phrase "Is it catching fish or chasing the moment? The philosophy behind dry fly fishing and everything else in life" suggests a deeper contemplation on the value of the experience itself versus the tangible outcomes or results.

Dry fly fishing, a method in fly fishing where an artificial fly is presented on the water's surface to imitate an adult insect, serves as a metaphor for savoring the process, the technique, and the moment itself rather than focusing solely on the end goal of catching fish. The very moment the fish takes the fly, however short, extends to a rather large “file” in our “harddrive”. This is in my mind caused by the anticipation, which can be several days, weeks or even month of “fever” prior to that orgasmic experience.

I am not the first to use the word orgasmic - I first heard it in New Zealand in Stu´s fly shop in Athol, but I am sure he´s not the inventor of this sexy connection.

In any case, the key concept is anticipation. Anticipation is a peculiar endeavor, thriving only when one has some inkling that success is achievable. If the odds are clearly nonexistent, the experience becomes joyless, and anticipation dwindles into nonexistence—unless one is utterly psychotic. However, when a slim chance of success exists, every imaginable effort is exerted to bring the undertaking to a successful conclusion.  The joy is inversely proportional to this slim chance. As slimmer the chance, as bigger the feeling of mastery. I guess this is why some weird people live on boats in the Malaysian jungle. I am not at that level. Nor would I drive 800km one way to a flooded river in Sweden to catch grayling - not even in the snow and heck, not alone.

Anyway, “Make the Moment Count" encourages a mindful approach to life, emphasizing the significance of being present and fully immersed in the current experience. To do this, one might practice mindfulness, appreciating the details of the present moment, acknowledging the environment’s sensory aspects, and cultivating gratitude for the experience itself. I guess sitting alone in a car for 800k helps with such a meditative task like this.

In the realm of dry fly fishing, success is not solely measured by the number of fish caught. It encompasses the skillful presentation of the fly, the connection with nature, and the appreciation for the art and tradition of the sport. Similarly, in life, the philosophy urges individuals to find joy in the journey, appreciate the small moments, and derive fulfillment from the process of living rather than being solely outcome-focused.

Ultimately, the philosophy behind dry fly fishing and making the moment count in life encourages to find a harmonious balance between pursuing goals and relishing the beauty inherent in the journey, embracing the idea that the process itself is a significant part of the reward.

In short - be mad and be proud of it!