Fishing with my Dad, circa 1980
Fishing is a tradition in my family. I grew up fishing with my father on the Chesapeake Bay and the Little Choptank River. I liked to sit on the bow of our boat, watching the sun’s quivering reflections on the waves, as we sped out across the water to where the river meets the bay. The open bay was so vast and beautiful, like the boundless presence of my father’s love. We spent many happy hours together on the water, side by side in our own world, casting for bluefish.
Another favorite fishing spot was in Georgia, where we would often spend a few weeks in the summer visiting my father’s relatives. The best part of the trip, for me, was fishing for catfish around a big pond with my Dad on his family’s farm. I loved to hear stories about his fishing adventures in the creeks and ponds of his own childhood. I was proud that I could absorb everything he taught me about fishing and I was never squeamish about holding up my little fish for the camera!
My boy on a fishing trip with his Grandfather
I loved mastering the flick of the wrist that sent the line flying out over the water. I loved the anticipation of patiently watching the bobber for any signs of a bite. I loved the thrill of reeling in a good catch, even if we tossed it back. Most of all, I loved being outdoors and spending time with my Dad. Now my father takes my son, Max, fishing, and I think Max loves it for all the same reasons.
This collage is a tribute to fishing, but it is not only about the catching of fish. It is about the special experience of being quietly absorbed in the rhythms of the natural world, and the connection to the loved ones with whom you share that experience. I included a treehouse in the final piece, which has been a recurring motif in my work, symbolizing childhood, sanctuary, and the possibilities of the imagination. In the quiet hours spent around a pond, love grows, ideas are born, and you just might reel in the big one.
Fishing, acrylic collage, 12 x 12
Detail, Fishing
Detail, Fishing
Detail, Fishing
Detail, Fishing
My Suburban Life 
Loved your article. I have so many memories of my father taking me fishing, which layed the foundation for me passing this tradition onto my children. Because of my father, fishing has become the misstress my wife has learned to tolerate. Being an outdoor humor writer, I have one article I had published many years ago called “Courage Above And Beyond” which looks at the humorous side of taking your children fishing. I hope to get it on my blog soon. Your story is truely an inspiration. Thank you
thanks so much for visiting my blog and glad you enjoyed it! Would love to read your article about kids and fishing!