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believe as future physicians it is our duty to support population health. Our medical health is dependent on the environment that supports us, and so it is our goal to support those ecosystems -- starting with the striped bass populations that have been particularly threatened by over and irresponsible fishing. Through pictures and words, we have shared sustainable fishing practices, such as catch and release, crushing barbs, and keeping fish wet. We are also able to use our Instagram platform to amplify environmental messages from others, expanding our impact much further than just the communities in which we live. One of our favorite endeavors was taking part in advocating for the prevention of the Bristol Bay Mine in Alaska through stickers, monetary donations, and sharing media on Instagram.
By the nature of being three women, we have also been highlighted for showing how females have a place in outdoor spaces that are often dominated by men. Fishing can seem like it requires a lot of specific gear and training, which, more often than not, is unnecessary and rather intimidating. We hope to inspire other women to get outside and confidently enjoy nature as a way to recharge for the days ahead.
Last but not least, we share a message of work/life balance and the importance of mental health. This is especially relevant for medical students and those in the medical profession, where rates of burnout have increased over the past seven years. Our message of using fishing as a way to decompress and recharge from the stresses of medical school and the uncertainties of the world around us resonates with so many. We never imagined that our Instagram presence would shed so much light on the humanity that needs to be preserved in the medical community. We have connected with medical Instagram influencers who voice how important our message is and how grateful they are that The Fishin’ Physicians have made a presence. They also share their stories with us on how they have supported themselves through trying times, always finding themselves getting lost in nature in order to find their way back to their purpose in medicine.
Within three days of starting the Fishin’ Physicians account on Instagram we had over 500 followers, which has since grown to an audience of over 1,600 in a few short months. We have been featured by national organizations such as the Saltwater Guide Association and On the Water Magazine, as well as countless local Maine companies like Old Maine Outfitters, Origin Outfitters, Maine Fly Company, and Maine Fly Guys. and ourselves.
L: Kelsey Klingel and Charlie Bloom enjoying the water; R: Hannah Akre fishing in scrubs