Although Connecticut may not be thought of as a high-profile fishing destination, the region’s pristine and well-stocked rivers are full of fish begging to be caught.
“After spring break, I decided it was about time that Wesleyan had a fishing club,” said Nate Fowles ’10. “I knew I’d be happier. I knew the campus would be happier.”
And so the Wesleyan Anglers Guild was born. The group was immediately successful, with about 20 people on its mailing list and a core group of five students who fish at least weekly.
“People are out fishing right now,” Fowles said, on a sunny Monday afternoon. “Everyone comes from different
backgrounds. Some people have never fished before and it’s really opening doors for them.”
As for equipment, the group recieved great support from the Student Budgetary Committee.
“We got funding from the SBC [Student Budgetary Committee],
and now have six dedicated rods,” Fowles said. “Some people have their own gear. There are some serious anglers in the guild.”
Fowles also explained that Connecticut’s natural habitat has provided for them as well.
“Connecticut has a great conservation program,” Fowles said.
“They do a great job of stocking rivers with trout and salmon. There are beautiful rivers full of fish 20 minutes away.”
The area is familiar territory for Fowles, who went to high school in the area and was a part of its fishing club. In fact, Fowles’s love of fishing began even earlier—in childhood.
“I grew up on the bayou in Texas, and starting in first or second grade I fished every day after school,” he said.
The University’s new team is primarily interested in fly
fishing.
“Fly fishing does justice to the sport of fishing,” he said.
“You’re not just going out there and taking fish without proper skill. It’s just you and the fish. It’s a lot more pleasant, peaceful, and serene. If we had bylaws, we’d be catch and release; it’s more about going out and enjoying nature and respecting the environment.”
Fowles explained that the Guild has been in contact with the Yale fishing club, which has been around since the early 1900s, hoping to learn the secrets of their longevity. For now, the group is looking to expand its fishing styles.
“I think it’s realistic to expand into salt water fishing, the coast is so close,” he said. “Maybe someday pursue salmon fishing in northern Maine, more excursions further from Wesleyan.”
In order to ensure longevity for the group, Fowles chose Professor of Government Marc Eisner as the club’s adviser.
“I enjoy fly fishing—as one of the many things I do,” Eisner said. “I don’t get to fish as often as I would like given the competing demands. But on occasion, I have the opportunity to seduce trout in local streams or pursue striped bass in Long Island Sound.”
Since Fowles will be studying abroad next semester, Jeff Beck ’10 will take control.
“I see no reason why this couldn’t be around forever,” Fowles said.
Leave a Reply