Skip to main content

Timeless Reflections on Fishing, Family, and Connection

By Stephen C. Schultz


Some stories never really grow old. They don’t depend on what’s trending or new—they speak to something lasting. These stories about fishing, fathers, and shared time outdoors are just that—evergreen pieces that remind us of what really matters.


Fishing... It’s Really About Relationships
In this 2019 post, I reflect on what begins as a simple day—tinkering with an old boat, clearing space in the garage, and trying to decide whether the weather justifies a few casts. As the day unfolds, it becomes clear that fishing isn’t really the point. Instead, it’s about the feeling of being outside, the memories that come with every step, and the connection built when you invite someone along for the ride. It’s a reminder that time spent together doesn’t need a big plan—it just needs to be shared.

The One That Got Away – A Tribute to My Father
Originally published in 2010, this story takes you back to a fishing trip on Collard Lake in 1973. As a young boy, my father and I spent a quiet morning in a small aluminum boat. It’s not a story about a big catch—in fact, the surprise comes from a beaver, not a fish. But what stands out is the calmness of the day, the laughter we shared, and the way that moment with my father stayed with me. It’s a tribute not just to a man, but to the kind of steady presence that shapes a child’s sense of safety and belonging.

The Value of Relationships in Transition
While this title may not be the most engaging title on the blog, the message of cherished relationships runs through much of the writing. Fishing becomes more than a hobby—it’s a way to mark time, to honor tradition, and to reflect on how relationships grow and shift. In these quiet moments by the water, lessons are passed down, roles slowly change, and what once felt like simple outings take on deeper meaning.

Grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, find a quiet chair, and take a few minutes to read these stories. Whether you fish often or not at all, these reflections offer something familiar and true—reminders of time well spent, people who matter, and memories that stick. They take you back, and they help you hold on.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

The Young Boy and the Rattlesnake

By Stephen C. Schultz (Editors note: This is a story used in a Wilderness Treatment Program. Many come to this program having struggled with depression, anxiety and substance use.)   Many years ago there was a young Native American who lived in the very land you are residing in. He decided to seek wisdom by journeying to the top of Indian Peak. As he approached the base of the mountain he came across a rattlesnake that slithered beside him. The snake coiled as if to strike and the young boy moved back quickly in fear of being struck by the snake’s deadly venom. At that instant the snake spoke to the boy saying, “Don’t be afraid of me, I mean you no harm. I come to you to ask a favor. I see that you are about to traverse to the top of Indian Peak and was hoping that you may be willing to place me in your satchel so that I don’t have to make the long journey alone.” The young boy surprised by the snake’s request quickly responded by turning down the offer, stating, ...

Holiday Insight: Finding Grace in Imperfect Relationships

 By Stephen C. Schultz As we once again head into the Holiday Season, it is important to be aware of the impact of the holidays on those we love and care about. The holidays are often described as a time of joy, family, and celebration. But for many, they bring a quieter reality - one marked by stress, loneliness, or the resurfacing of painful memories. For some people, the holidays represent connection and renewal. For others, they stir up what has been lost, what never was, or what once hurt too much to recall. The very things that make the season feel special - music, smells, family gatherings - can also awaken deep emotional undercurrents, especially for those with a history of trauma. Why the Holidays Can Trigger Past Trauma Many people who have experienced trauma - especially early childhood or relational trauma - notice that this season brings unexpected emotional intensity. Science now confirms what survivors have long known: certain times of year can activate implicit ...

The definition of insanity…the sanity of recovery!

By Stephen C. Schultz We have all heard the old saying, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and over again, expecting a different result." As I work with teens and families that struggle with a myriad of problems, the one thing that amazes me is the tendency for families to keep thinking and behaving in the same ways and expecting positive changes to take effect. How often do we hope to change our destination in life, but fail to change the route? Here is fun story with a great message! Autobiography in Five Short Chapters By Portia Nelson Chapter One I walk down the street.      There is a deep hole in the sidewalk      I fall in.      I am lost...I am helpless      It is not my fault.      It takes forever to find a way out. Chapter Two I walk down the same street.      There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. ...