InTheBite alternative logo
Subscribe to InTheBite for Unmatched Big Game Fishing Insights!
 

The Psychology of Fishing Addiction

Introduction to Fishing Addiction

Alexandra Stark is a psychotherapist and a certified addictions professional. InTheBite has contracted Ms. Stark to utilize her clinical skills to break down what many wives, girlfriends, and bosses have often suspected”some amongst us might be addicted to fishing. 

The Science of Addiction: Understanding the Brain’s Pleasure System

While the term addiction gets thrown around pretty loosely these days, Alexandra breaks down the psychology of what motivates fishermen to do what they do.  Using her professional perspective and referencing the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (the book used by mental health professionals to diagnose and classify patients), to learn the steps involved in determining whether you or someone you love is a fishing addict.

Addictions are possible because the limbic system of the human brain seeks pleasure and rewards.  The feeling of pleasure and rewards are a necessary part of survival. This is the good feeling you get when you get praised for an outstanding project at work, hold your newborn child for the first time, or catch the big one. 

Comparing Substances: From Drugs to Fishing

When a person first uses a drug or substance of abuse, the brain releases a happy chemical (Serotonin, Dopamine, Oxytocin and Endorphin), which activates the pleasure center (limbic system) of the brain.  Although the drug or substance of abuse is an unnaturally occurring substance, it mimics that of a naturally occurring pleasure producer. Drug and alcohol addiction have potential to cause severe problems in one life.  So much so that sometimes this addiction can lead to death. 

Fishing Addiction: A Closer Look at the Symptoms

While there has never been a reported case of a person dying from their addiction to fishing, it can cause concerns in personal and romantic relationships. 

Is Fishing Your Addiction? Recognizing the Signs

Although a fishing addiction is not recognized by the American Psychological Association and there are no expensive treatment centers claiming to cure this disease, there are several reasons to think that you may have taken your love for the open ocean and the fish that live inside of it to the next level.  These reasons are comparable to the only non-substance related disorder in the DSM-V, Gambling Disorder.  If you have done five or more of these things, it is safe to say that you may have a fishing addiction.

Fishing lures hanging on a wall a fishing addiction
The tools of the trade for someone preoccupied with fishing…

DSM-V, Gambling(Fishing) Disorder.

Note the diagnostic below has replaced the term Gambling with Fish or Fishing for the purpose of this article.

Persistent and recurrent problematic fishing behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting five (or more) of the following in a 12-month period:

1. Needs to go fishing with increasing amounts of time in order to achieve the desired excitement.

2. Is restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop fishing.

3. Has made repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop fishing.

4. Is often preoccupied with fishing (e.g., having persistent thoughts of reliving past fishing experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, thinking of ways to get money with which to fish).

5. Often fishes when feeling distressed (e.g., helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed).

6. After losing fish, often returns another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses).

7. Lies to conceal the extent of involvement with fishing.

8. Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of fishing.

9. Relies on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by fishing.


captain image

Don’t Forget to Check Out Our Sportfishing Job Board! Did You Know? It’s the perfect platform for seeking skilled captains and mates. Whether you’re on the hunt for your dream team or looking to join one, your next big adventure begins here. Explore the opportunities now! Click Here

Dive Deeper into the World of Sportfishing

You’ve just experienced a taste of the exceptional content featured in the pages of InTheBite Sportfishing Magazine. If you found this engaging, you’re in for a treat with our full publication. Whether you prefer the tactile experience of print or the convenience of digital or both we have a special offer for you.

Are you ready to explore the thrilling world of sportfishing from the comfort of your home? Subscribe now and embark on a journey filled with captivating stories, expert insights, and insider tips. Choose between our digital or print edition and secure an incredible 50% discount on your subscription.

Subscribe today and get ready for an adventure like no other. Click here to subscribe and elevate your sportfishing experience with InTheBite Sportfishing Magazine.

6 23 InTheBite Cover

Subscribe Today

____________________________

Get Both Print & Digital

Give a Gift Subscription

Manage Your Own Subscription

Save 50% Act Now

_____________________________

Share Post