A List of Things this Kayak Fisherman is Thankful for.

As I get ready for my first trip out in the kayak this season, I’m forced to reflect a little bit on what I’m thankful for. Both as a kayaker, and as a person, since hey, they’re connected pretty tightly.

1.) An understanding wife. I’m gone a lot in the summer. I like to be outdoors. And though she is starting to enjoy kayaking, she just isn’t going to be a fisherperson. That’s ok. She puts up with my constant blogging, networking, kayaking, and fly tying. I’m very blessed in that regard. (Thank you…)

2.) Living in Western New York. Where else can you fish for Pacific and Atlantic Salmon, native trout, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Muskie, Walleye… and the list goes on. The answer is: Not many places. WNY is a rare gem, rivaled by only a few other Great Lakes states. I’m very, very fortunate.

3.) A good job. Yup. It takes a lot of time away from me, but in this economy, you really need to thank your lucky stars that you have enough money to buy toys, and then have some time to use them. When you think about it, as a well employed American, I have more within my grasp than… what? 99% of the people on this planet? Definitely need to be thankful for that.

4.) Great friends. And some of my new ones even like to kayak fish! If you can’t be great yourself, surround yourself with great people, and good things will happen. That’s my motto, and I live it everyday. The new WNY Kayak Fishing Association will only strengthen this.

I could go on, as my list of things I should be thankful for is almost infinite. The four things above though really stick out in my mind. Without any of those four, I wouldn’t enjoy this great sport as much as I do.

Feel free to add your own below. I’ve really just scratched the surface.