Why Go Fly Fishing?
Here’s how Melissa Ceren answers the fly-fishing question in this Midcurrent post: “As the water braids around my waders and the sun begins to warm the chilly fall morning, I study the current and attend diligently to my fly meandering downstream. At this moment, it’s just me, the river, and the tantalizing possibility of hungry trout.”
The Mental Health Benefits of Time in the Outdoors
Fly fishing is about observing the present moment and fully experiencing your senses. “Without even knowing it,” Melissa says, “you are practicing a mindfulness therapy technique that helps to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression while also improving concentration and emotional regulation.”
It sounds like good advice for your mental health. And as a licensed mental health therapist, Melissa certainly knows what she’s talking about. She teaches her clients all about mindfulness.
A Fly-Fishing Paradise in Idaho
There are plenty of ways to practice mindfulness, but for us Idahoans, fly fishing fits the bill. We’re blessed with some of the best angling around. Right here in our own backyard, we have access to world-class experiences. To name two, Silver Creek and the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River.
Visit Idaho is a great resource for anyone fly fishing in the state. That’s true if you’re a seasoned local angler or you’ve just moved to Idaho and are looking to hook your first Yellowstone cutthroat trout.
You’ll find suggestions on where to fish and what to expect in each season, along with other tips to prepare you for an adventure in our outdoor paradise. The time you spend in the natural world is a sure way to boost your mental health.
Mental Health Coverage Through Your Health Idaho
For those occasions when the challenges of life prove too much for a trip to your favorite stream, you have options available with insurance through Your Health Idaho. Every plan includes the ten Essential Health Benefits.
One benefit is mental health and substance abuse coverage. All plans cover:
- Behavioral health treatment
- Mental health and behavioral health inpatient services
- Substance use disorder (commonly known as substance abuse) treatment
You can view the full list of essential health benefits and all the insurance plans available to Idahoans at www.YourHealthIdaho.com. While you’re there, see if you qualify for a tax credit. It acts as an instant discount to lower your monthly insurance premium cost.
More Fly-Fishing Resources
To learn more about the connection between mental health and fly fishing, check out this other post by Melissa Ceren.
Forbes Magazine has its own take on the subject. The article includes the reasons why women in particular excel at fly fishing.
Harvard Medical School weighs in as well.
Finally, if you’re doing any fly fishing in Eastern Idaho, this free guide is a must.