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Former Navy SEAL turned fishing guide talks health benefits of fishing

Posted at 6:20 PM, Jan 29, 2019
and last updated 2019-01-29 19:20:56-05

The thrill of catching fish is so popular it’s turned Corpus Christi into a fishing hot-spot along the gulf coast.

“There’s nothing like catching your own food,” said Robert Guillen, a local fisherman.

And lucky for anglers, a new study shows that taking that fishing rod for a spin can boost both your immune system and mental health.

“It can be a break from reality for a while; help you forget things and get focused on the water,” said Ryan Rock, a fishing guide and former Navy SEAL.

Getting off the couch to be in nature and particularly fishing can help reduce feelings of stress as well as increase your self-esteem.

Rock says its not only a healthy hobby but his full-time job.

“I take people fishing,” said Rock. “I take them out with their family their friends and show them a good time on the water make memories that last a lifetime.”

Daily outings to nature also decrease the risk of getting high blood pressure and helps fight depression.

“Rough days at work where fishing didn’t really go too well and I went out on my own afterward and just got focused out by myself on the water and trying to find fish,” said Rock.

So, next time you’re feeling down and out, consider hitting the pier. It could save your life.