Fishing Between Accomplishments

Hey everyone, I’m BJ and I have been in Step-Up since 2023. I figured I would write a little bit about fishing because it has become a pretty important part of my life and sobriety.

Fishing has always been a big part of who I am. I grew up in Northern Minnesota, and if you are from the north woods up there, fishing/hunting is just part of life. Some people golf, and some do other things, but for me, I would rather grab a rod and head toward the water. Even now, living down in the cities while going to college, I still find ways to stay connected to that part of myself.

Sometimes I head down to Bohemian Flats because it is just a short trip from campus. Other times I head up toward North Mississippi Regional Park and fish the river up there. One thing about Minnesota is that even in the middle of the city, you are never too far from water. You can still find quiet spots where things slow down for a while.

This winter I went ice fishing up on Red Lake with a bunch of people in recovery. We camped out on the ice for three days and caught a pile of walleye. Sitting out there in the middle of winter with good people, cold air, heaters running, and lines in the water was one of those memories that sticks with you. I also love trout fishing down at Whitewater State Park. There is just something peaceful about standing in moving water surrounded by bluffs and woods that resets my brain.

I like all kinds of fishing. Walleye fishing over rock beds with a Lindy rig and a leech or a big worm is hard to beat, especially when you pull dinner up from the bottom of the lake. I love throwing topwater lures for bass too. There is nothing quiet about a bass smashing a lure off the surface of the Mississippi. One second everything is calm, then the fight is on. I like northern and crappie too, especially when the weather is cold.

A big part of sobriety for me is learning how to have fun in between the accomplishments. Fishing gives me that. It gets me outside, away from the noise and stress of the normal day. Sometimes I go alone because it becomes almost meditative for me. It gives me time to think, breathe, and reconnect with myself. Other times I bring people with me because some of the best conversations happen sitting next to the water waiting for a bite. Either way, it keeps me grounded.

I think growing up in Minnesota shaped that part of me. Up north in the country it's common to spend most of our time outdoors. You learn early that nature can calm you down and clear your head. Even now, no matter how busy life gets, I still feel most like myself standing near the water with a fishing rod in my hand.

One thing I have learned in recovery is that you do not always have to do things alone. Fishing is one of those hobbies where there is always room for one more person. If somebody wants to come along, I am usually open to it. Whether we catch fish or not, it is still time well spent.

Q & A with Olivia and Mitch

What are your summer plans?

Mitch: “I’m moving and starting my new job this summer. I want to
take a trip to Arizona to climb a mountain.”

Olivia: “to work on radical acceptance.”

What's your favorite fruit?