By: Shawn Best, Senior Wealth Management Advisor
Some of my favorite memories growing up were on the water with my dad and my brothers. We’d be up before the sun packing the truck with rods tackle boxes and peanut butter sandwiches. It didn’t matter if it was a hot summer morning or cold enough to see your breath. If the fish were biting, we were there.
My dad always said fishing wasn’t just about catching something. It was about waiting quietly and having a plan. I didn’t fully get that as a kid. I just loved being out there with them. But years later working in financial planning it all started to make sense. Fishing taught me more than I realized about how to approach money and life.
Every Trip Started with a Plan
The night before a fishing trip we’d spread everything out on the garage floor. Rods reels bait extra line you name it. My dad would check the weather and talk about where we were headed and what we were after. It wasn’t guesswork. It was a plan.
That’s how I see financial planning now. Whether it’s saving for retirement, buying a house or setting your kids up for the future you don’t just wing it. You think it through. You prepare. You make sure the right tools are in the box.
Patience Is the Real Skill
Some days we’d sit on the water for hours without a single bite. As a kid that could be tough, but I learned quickly that patience was part of the process. You keep your line in the water and trust that the right moment will come.
It’s the same with building wealth. It takes time. You won’t see results overnight and sometimes the market throws you a curveball. But if you stay steady and stick to the plan the results will come. Just like the fish do if you wait long enough.
Not All Gear Works Everywhere
We learned fast that different fish need different bait. What worked in a slow-moving creek didn’t do anything in open water. You had to change things based on where you were and what you were trying to catch.
That’s exactly how I approach financial planning. Everyone’s situation is different. A young couple just starting out doesn’t need the same plan as someone getting ready to retire. You must match the strategy to the goal.
Sometimes the Weather Turns
One time we got caught in a surprise storm out on the lake. The sky turned dark fast, and we had to get to shore quickly. But my dad had extra rain gear in the boat and dry clothes in the truck. He was ready for it.
Life’s the same way. Things change. Unexpected bills come up. Jobs shift. The market takes a dip. You can’t control it all, but you can be ready. That’s why we build emergency funds, carry insurance and keep our investments diversified. It’s like packing that poncho before you leave the house.
Know When to Move the Boat
We had days where a spot looked perfect, but nothing was biting. My dad would give it some time then say let’s move. Ten minutes later we’d be pulling in fish like crazy.
Sometimes financial plans need the same flexibility. You might have to change direction, shift your goals or adjust your approach. Life isn’t static and your plan shouldn’t be either. Being willing to move the boat can make all the difference.
The Best Moments Came After the Wait
I’ll never forget the first time I reeled in a big one all by myself. That moment made all the slow days and early mornings worth it. That feeling is the same one I get when a client reaches a big milestone. Paying off debt. Retiring with peace of mind. Helping a grandkid get through college. It’s quiet joy and deep satisfaction.
Keep Casting
Looking back those early mornings with my dad and brothers weren’t just about fishing. They taught me how to think long-term, how to stay patient and how to trust a good plan. That’s what I try to bring to every client I work with now.
Because whether you’re holding a rod or managing your finances the key is the same. Keep casting. Stay steady. And trust the plan.
And if any part of your own plan feels unclear or if you’re wondering where to begin, we’re always happy to talk. Reach out anytime. We’d love to hear your story and see how we can help you cast in the right direction.
