COVID-19 has transformed the travel industry, and there’s no telling how and when we’ll be able to return to our travel plans. Seeing as we’re in the midst of the pandemic, going on a trip now comes with a certain number of challenges. Some of the questions you may be wondering about might be:
Will I be able to hop on a plane? What do I need in order to go on a vacation? How do I keep my family and myself protected?
The answers to these questions are changing as the situation develops. One thing’s for certain – traveling in 2020 will be different. A lot of people are swapping their international vacation plans for something closer to home, making this a great opportunity to explore the possibilities already around them. If you’re looking for a nice way to spend time outside, why not give fishing a try?
Fishing will get you out on the open water, away from the hustle and bustle of crowded cities. Talk about social distancing! Whether you’re experienced enough to fish on your own or you choose to hire a charter for the day, now’s a great time to explore the fun of fishing. Here’s five reasons why a fishing trip should be at the top of your summer plans.
1. Traveling locally is safer and more affordable
If you had plans to fly overseas this summer, chances are you’ve already had to cancel them. After countries around the world imposed quarantines and closed their borders, flights were canceled and hotels closed down. The tides are slowly starting to turn as countries reopen. However, people are unlikely to go traveling again any time soon.
Airports are hubs of international travel. With people from all over the world coming into contact, it’s not always easy to protect ourselves. Add to that the fact that you might have to get tested or go into self-isolation upon arrival, and your summer vacation quickly becomes hard work instead of enjoyment.
Luckily, with fishing, you can have your cake and eat it too! In the hyperconnected world we’re used to, exploring our immediate surroundings has taken the back seat. If there’s one thing COVID-19 has opened our eyes to, it’s that the beauty of spending time in nature has become a forgotten pleasure.
Hopping in your car and driving to the nearest body of water for a nice day of fishing will provide you with much needed time outside without setting foot on a plane.
Not to mention the price! Charter fishing can cost you a bit of money. However, compared to the cost of a full-on vacation – it’s a real bargain. This is a great way to get out with your loved ones without spending the thousands of dollars you’d spend on international travel.
2. Supporting local businesses
With the economic downturn as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of small businesses have been under pressure. Boosting the economy after this stagnant period is going to play an important part in post-COVID-19 recovery. This is where you come in!
Charter captains everywhere have had to make sacrifices. Not going out on the water at the beginning of the high season has put a strain on their ability to keep their business afloat. By investing in a trip on a fishing charter, you’ll be lending a helping hand to these small businesses that depend on us.
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your holiday funds on a trip with the family, consider fishing. You’ll get to spend some time in nature having fun, enjoying nice views, and reeling in some great catches. Getting your money back in the form of a couple of delicious meals is well worth it in our opinion.
3. Catching your own food
The situation we’re in right now has affected a lot of areas of our lives, and food isn’t an exception. According to the CDC, there’s nothing to worry about when it comes to food safety itself. However, some people are feeling uneasy about ordering takeout, as well as the safety of the meat they buy.
Fish is one of the healthiest sources of nutrients, and there are a lot of benefits to eating it regularly. “Teach a man to fish and he’ll eat for a lifetime” is an iconic expression for a reason. Fresh fish is an important part of people’s diets around the world.
Going fishing for a day or two puts you in a great position to source your own food. If you’re inexperienced, a charter captain is the best person to show you the ropes and make sure your bags are filled with delicious fish.
You can prepare the fruits of your labor back at home. But you can also have it cooked in a local restaurant – that’s one more small business you’re supporting!
4. Boosting your immune system
Staying inside for prolonged periods hasn’t been easy, right? As much as we like spending some time inside, we value our freedom and love spending time outdoors. With the myriad of benefits that come with spending time in nature, our health is perhaps the most relevant at the moment.
Staying inside and not coming into contact with any germs can affect our body’s natural immune response and weaken it. With this in mind, getting outside and being in the sun has a lot of advantages – it helps our immune system be more efficient. So this is why safely getting outdoors and spending some time in nature could go a long way to keeping you healthy.
Additionally, social isolation affects our physical and mental health in other ways. Loneliness is a big factor to avoid when it comes to staying healthy in mind and body. Therefore, fishing can provide you with some time outside with family and friends. Also, you’ll be boosting your immune system and have a relaxing outing after a stressful couple of months.
5. Spending the holidays while social distancing
With some of the biggest holidays coming up, all of us would like to be able to relax, let loose, and just enjoy the festivities. However, social distancing measures are making this a little harder for us.
Are you worried about heading out to see the fireworks for 4th of July? Or maybe you’d like to have a family trip on Labor Day but you’re not sure if it’s possible?
Spending time with our loved ones on the holidays is something we all crave. How does it sound to enjoy them on the water? Imagine your family on a boat, having a nice day of fun fishing activities, only to be greeted by the 4th of July fireworks in the evening. Paints a nice picture, doesn’t it?
Move away from the city crowds and consider some tranquility and nature during this year’s summer holiday season. You’ll get all the benefits of being with your family while still following social distancing guidelines and staying safe.
Stay Safe and Have Fun
Even though the situation is not ideal, you don’t have to completely cancel your summer. A change of plans might take you on an adventure you really enjoy, or one that you didn’t think you’d be on. This is an unusual time, a time that has shaken everyone out of their comfort zone. So what better time to try out fishing as another experience that will enrich your life?
Ready to get out on the water? Be sure to read our charter fishing safety tips before you go. Don’t forget to tell us about your travel plans or ask any questions in the comments section below!