Fine. Teach a man to fish. Just not here.

Fine. Teach a Man to Fish. Just Not Here.

There’s an old saying: “Give a man a fish, he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime.”

And that’s beautiful — in theory. In practice? It’s chaos.

Last weekend I hiked down to a stretch of river so perfect it feels like nature’s VIP lounge. I’m talking glassy current, mist hanging low, trout rising like clockwork. I wade in, breathe deep, tie on a fly — pure peace.

Then, from upstream:

“Hey babe, is this how you cast?”

I look up. There’s a couple learning to fish — lines tangled, gear flying, enthusiasm at full throttle. Cute. Love that for them.

Then, downstream:

“Wait, does the worm go on the hook or the string part?”

Another group. Same energy. A full-blown learn-to-fish seminar unfolding in one of the best holes in the state.

And listen, I’m thrilled people are getting into the sport. It’s good for the soul, great for patience, and even better for tackle shop sales.

But did they have to pick this spot? This exact honey hole that I’ve guarded like a state secret since 2014?

So I did what any reasonable outdoorsman would do — I muttered something inspirational under my breath like,

“Fine. Teach a man to fish. Just not here.”

Then I reeled in, hiked out, and ordered a pizza.

Because the truth is — the river will still be there tomorrow. And so will they. Tangled lines, laughter, chaos and all. And honestly, that’s not the worst thing in the world.

Just… maybe next time, teach ‘em downstream.