Fly fishing—a specialized angling method which involves using a light-weight lure attached to a weighted line on a fly rod to catch fish—is a popular pastime enjoyed by millions of Americans each year. In addition to being a relaxing way to pass time while enjoying the fresh air and scenery that mother nature provides, there are many health benefits of fly fishing. To learn more about how this unique sport can benefit your physical and mental health, continue reading.

Physical exercise

While fly fishing might not seem like much exercise, it’s a surprisingly physical activity. Standing, casting, and reeling in fish all combine to provide a low-impact, total body workout. If you wade against a current while fly fishing, the exercise becomes even more beneficial; the effort to stabilize yourself against the moving water strengthens your legs, core, and back muscles.

Improved mood

Fly fishing is especially beneficial for one’s mental health. The mentally-beneficial capabilities of the sport are largely attributed to the natural surroundings that anglers find themselves in while fishing. Such fresh air and beautiful scenery are both known to raise levels of mood-elevating hormones such as dopamine and serotonin in the body. Therefore, if you need a pick-me-up, consider spending time fishing by a lake, river, or ocean.

Relaxed mind

Fly fishing is regarded by many as an almost meditative activity. Simply spending time with nature has been shown to lower anxiety and have a calming effect on the mind. In addition to the benefits of being in a natural setting, fly fishing provides you with a break from everyday life’s hustle and bustle. Rather than being glued to your phone, it provides you time alone to think, reflect, and let your worries fade away.

Improved attention span

If you find yourself constantly distracted, fly fishing may help you improve your attention span. Outdoor activities in general have been shown to increase one’s ability to focus. Sports such as angling, however, are especially beneficial for enhancing concentration, as they require you to perfect your technique and remain alert to make a good catch.