We have seen an overwhelming number of posts lately of smiling children holding up the first fish they caught, families fishing together for tradition and bonding, and lovers on vacation fishing to spend relaxing outdoor time together. Many people don’t realize that fish, like mammals, feel pain and have been found by scientists to be able to solve puzzles, recognize facial expressions, and process complex emotions such as excitement, fear, and sadness. Taking your children fishing is teaching them to harm others needlessly. We live in a time where we do not need to eat animals for nutrition nor certainly do we need to murder beautiful living creatures for our own entertainment. Imagine going out with dog treats, hooks, and a plastic bag to suffocate dogs together then taking pictures holding the dead ones and smiling. That would be horrific and absurd. Fishing is no different. If you’re reading this and feeling angry or defensive, that’s good. It means on a deep level you care, that you understand culture and kindness do not always align. We encourage you to take those convictions and cultivate them into new traditions of kindness with your family in the great outdoors. Share your alternate outdoor activities with us in the comments to inspire others! #loveoneanother #period #yourentertainment #theirsuffering @fish.feel (at Blackberry Creek Farm Animal Sanctuary) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDuNMwaMxUZ/?igshid=1ad3xgqpy9thi
