Stuck in a Scrolling Loop
During times of stress, the Canadian National Sportfishing Foundation (CNSF) encourages Canadians to turn to the traditional comfort of… you guessed it, fishing.
Children and adults alike are often glued to our screens. The allure of “doomscrolling,” and the dopamine we get from cute animal videos, or the latest “Snap” can take over our day-to-day. By spending a bit of time in nature, we can counteract the negative effects we might experience because of too much screen time – like stress and anxiety.
Fishing to Decompress Mentally and Physically
A 2008 study looked at a concept called the “relaxation response,” a practice that counteracts our anxiety-driven stress response. Researchers found that participants who practiced the relaxation response experienced a significant drop in blood pressure. One of the activities recommended by the doctor behind the study? Fishing.
Because fishing requires focus and an awareness of our surroundings, we are less likely to ruminate on internal conflicts or the 24-hour news cycle. It encourages respect and awe for a world beyond our screens. Surrounded by nature, it’s easy to slip into a meditative or mindful state.
Fishing also offers a form of physical activity. Wading through streams or walking to your next spot are great low-impact ways to get moving. And physical activity is a proven method of lowering stress.
Swapping Roblox for a Tacklebox
For children, fishing is a low-cost way to engage with family and friends. It teaches resilience, patience, and teamwork. Studies have shown that outdoor activities like fishing reduce symptoms related to ADHD. Some researchers even theorize that our minds are hardwired to be calmer and more creative when near water.
Get Started
Luckily for Canadians, there are many opportunities and ways to get started.
The CNSF supports Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Days, events designed to introduce youth and their families to fishing and foster positive relationships with law enforcement. Find out more at kidsandcops.ca.
Coming up this summer: National Fishing Week, June 28 to July 6, 2025. Find your free how-to guide at www.catchfishing.ca.
For recreational fishing news and industry information, visit www.keepcanadafishing.com.
