One of my regrets of the past year is how little time I got to enjoy on the water. Fly fishing is how I meditate. My mind grows quiet when I approach a trout stream, and I find myself living fully in the moment in a way that's otherwise extremely difficult for me. That sensation—or being present in the present—makes me understand the Buddhist concept of the Middle Way.
I might not have done enough fishing this year, but on Sunday, November 6, I plan on enjoying the fellowship of fly anglers at the first Maine Fly Fishing Show. I'll be signing copies of my books at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Other events include casting contests, a silent auction, instructional workshops, a fly tyer's theater, and booths hosted by some of Maine's premier outfitters and guides. Admission is only $5 for adults ($3 for kids), and all proceeds benefit the Maine Council of Trout Unlimited's fantastic Trout Camp—which has done so much to teach nature-starved childrens about the wonders of the outdoors.
The show takes place at the Maine Military Museum in South Portland. If you plan on being in Greater Portland that day, I hope you'll stop by.