By Christa Clasgens, West Virginia Highlands Conservancy

Across West Virginia, folks are anxiously awaiting the weekend to arrive, checking out the stocking updates and weather reports. Even the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources is getting folks jazzed by sharing photos and videos of the mighty gold rush with our hallmark Palomino trout.

With river and weather conditions just about perfect everywhere across the state, it’s easy to get overzealous and make plans to hit the water, and sometimes we forget to slow down and remember what brought us all here.

Most of us grew up fishing and were taught by our parents, siblings, or even our neighbors. Now take a moment to reflect and think of just how important those first moments on the water were to you. Some might even say those were the happiest memories you have of spending time on the water.

For this month of “Christa’s Catch,” I want to encourage everyone who enjoys fishing to make an effort to take someone with you who wants to learn. Whether your kids have shown an interest in joining you or your significant other has told you they want to learn, even the most unlikely anglers can find something they enjoy while being out on the water.

When we take moments like this to instruct and help each other grow in the angling space, a couple of things happen. One, you’re creating memories and sharing your knowledge with someone who can use it for a lifetime. And two, you’re subconsciously reviewing and reflecting on your own methods and processes to fine-tune them. The relationship between the student and the teacher is symbiotic in its own way.

The strength, resilience, and support of the angling community are built on the principles of sharing knowledge, celebrating great moments on the water, and lending a hand so your fishing buddy doesn’t go home without catching at least one fish.

The moments we share with one another on the water are investments that pay lifetime dividends in happiness and memories. Go forth and build those memories today. As always, stay safe on the water, practice catch-and-release and tight lines!