The Importance of Hunting, Fishing and Life-Long Learning

I go hunting and fishing with my boys often. We trap as well, which is always an adventure with my younger two boys. Together, the five of us have cultivated many memories together. 

Hunting and fishing with them are times for bonding, sharing similar hobbies, discussing tactics and shopping for the essentials. The pictures captured bring constant smiles to our faces, as we reminisce about that "hunt."  We often laugh at the "one that got away."  

Many lessons are taught in the art of hunting and fishing. My four boys and I are still learning the art of skill, precision, patience, disappointment, persistence, and determination.

For a 15 ½ year old and 13 ½ year old—they don't have much to say. But here is what they said: "I had a great time! I am hoping to be able to go out next year and do the same thing, but bigger and better,” said Parker Podzimek.

"I'm glad I stuck it out,” said Palmer Podzimek. “The wait was worth it!"

Parker Podzimek	Palmer Podzimek

Hunting and fishing in my family runs deep, as my grandfather, their great grandpa was an avid, passionate hunter/angler who traveled the world to claim trophies in many parts of different countries. He instilled many life lessons for me as a young child, and through him, I teach the same. He may not be around, but his life still shines as bright as ever through his photographs, videos, and his trophies he left to give to his four great grandsons. 

My boys often bring his treasures to school for show and tell or utilize them in parts of their lives. There is an invisible bond that he has created with them, long after his passing. My only wish is that he could be here to enjoy the times with them, as he would have been delighted to share in the love of his favorite hobbies! 

As a young girl, my grandfather sat quietly with me, stringing the worm on the hook and gently teaching me how to cast a reel. In that quiet moment, little did I know, his act of love with teaching me a hobby would soak in for the rest of my life and would bless me with the same gentle moments I encounter with my boys. To say that hunting and fishing is just that, you’d be foolish. When I sit back and reflect, hunting and fishing has given me the ability to connect with some of the softest parts of my heart that I get to carry for the rest of my life. And in time, I hope I can be the person for my future grandchildren to come and continue this legacy of love.

Vern Smith, Whitney's grandfather, with a gemsbok from South Africa.

About Whitney Podzimek

Whitney Podzimek is Student Affairs Office Manager & Career/Internship Advisor at Mount Marty. She has been a general education teacher for 17 years. She taught preschool, Title and Middle/High School Special Education before taking the initiative of working in Secondary Education. Along with hunting, fishing, and teaching, she also enjoys baking, singing, working out, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. She hopes to pour more into Mount Marty University, continue to connect with the students and make her mark on this wonderful institution.