Expert shares his views on National Camping Month
"I have been blessed to camp and fish in numerous countries and have always found that no matter where you go, you have something in common with so many."
June is not known just for its cold weather but it is the National Camping Month, and the time to stockpile on marshmallows, pack the tent or stock the campers, and head out into the wilderness.
Camping and fishing go hand in hand and will most probably be the order of the month amongst the outgoing and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
Wilgeheuwel resident, Chris Baumann is a registered deep-sea and fresh-water fisherman and scuba diver, as well as an ambassador for sustainable living and fishing in South Africa and its waters.
The father of two has been a camper and fisherman all his life and some of his best childhood memories are of him and his father going on fishing trips and camping out in the bush or next to the rivers, dams and oceans where they they caught fish.
According to Chris, learning how to fish was considered to be a knowledge that had to be passed on and with that knowledge he learned patience, respect for nature and how to bond with the ones he loved on a very different level.
“Everything from setting up tents and helping with the cooking was a process that has become a tradition with my young family.
“I have been blessed to camp and fish in numerous countries and have always found that no matter where you go, you have something in common with so many.
“Something that bonds us in the physical and spiritual realms, an ancient togetherness that so few have come to love in today’s crazy life and times.
“When we were young, we could go anywhere in South Africa and feel safe, but I have found that I am asking questions about the safety of venues, before I ask about their facilities.
“We still live in the most beautiful country in the world and it would be a cardinal sin not to go out and experience what it has to offer,” said Chris.
Chris encourages the community to go fishing as there is nothing that can bond your relationship with your children quite like fishing.
He admits that seeing his daughters catching their first fish and the quality time spent while waiting for the big one are truly among his fondest memories with the young ones, and have cemented a platform for communication and trust.
“There are too many places to go camping, hiking and fishing to mention, so get out there and live a real life,” said Chris.
