6 Lesson from The Old Man and The Sea to Help You Become a Better Angler

“The Old Man and the Sea” is a book written by Ernest Hemingway, that has received considerable acclaim as a work of literature. It follows Santiago, an aged but talented fisherman who has been struggling with bringing in a catch for months on end.

It is a simple tale of a man who goes out to catch some Marlin, and runs across many trials and tribulations only to return empty-handed in the end. However, reading between the lines, it has a lot to say about the tenacious spirit of man, and rightly reflects an attitude all anglers could stand to benefit from!

Perseverance is Key

“Man is not made for defeat. He can be destroyed but not defeated.”

For Hemingway, true strength lies in going on despite the odds — in persevering even in the face of adversity. While your average fishing trip may not be as demanding and dramatic, there’s something to be said about the kind of patience and persistence the sport calls for from time to time.

Respect the Game

In the book, while the marlin is the main character’s designated adversary, he reveres it rather than being embittered with hate. He respects it, rather than puffing himself up with obnoxious superiority just by virtue of being human.

Humility Goes a Long Way

In Santiago, we see a man who is humble through and through. Even when given the chance to boast of his skills as a fisherman, he chooses to handle the conversation without putting himself up on a pedestal.

Whatever your skill level as an angler, it’s essential to avoid any big brags — it doesn’t make anyone look good! By practicing humility, you are also always looking for ways to enhance your skills, making you a better angler in the long run.

Age Isn’t a Factor

Santiago, despite being quite the old man, puts up a real fight when faced with the sharks lusting after his marlin. Age never comes into play here — and it shouldn’t come into play in fishing ventures either! You’re never too old or too young to get in on the fishing game.

Seek Inspiration from Others

The main character is seen to turn to Joe DiMaggio as one who inspires him, using the traits he admires about him as motivation. As an angler, there’s no shame in turning to your betters not only for inspiration but for guidance too.

Put In a 100% Effort — and More!

Santiago possesses immense spirit, and despite the many setbacks, continues to press on and go the extra mile. Sometimes, fishing will require you to wade a little further, yacht a little longer, and just spend a little more time and effort.

Lucrative fishing ventures can present quite the challenge from time to time, but sometimes what you need is a relaxing trip out on the open waters to kick back and let the game come to you.

Tag Cabo Sportfishing is your best bet for a satisfactory venture into sport fishing in Cabo San Lucas! You can charter a luxury yacht and let them take care of all the little details as you focus on your fishing. Get in touch with them to book your trip!

)
Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade