Page 56 - Panama City Living Magazine

ADRENALINE
was jumping off this bridge. The river was deep enough, but there could be entire trees floating by at any time. Somebody would have to swim across and clear the river before waving on the next hero who was determined to make the jump. I remember those three seconds of falling felt like a minute, but once your feet kicked off the river bottom below and your head broke the surface of the water, you felt reborn. Resurfaced with a taste of adrenaline in your mouth and a sting on your hands or a sting on whichever bodypart hit the water first. The bridge has given confidence and taken it away from hundreds over the years and I proudly share the experience and honor with those in the Denham Springs community who continue to experience the same.
The Emerald Coast isn’t exactly known for its surfing. But when the conditions are right, plenty of surfers can be seen along the Northwest Florida coast. You may have heard the legends of the swells that Hurricane Michael brought. When the wind is blowing hard to the north, you have to take advantage of it!
About five years ago, I picked up a pole spear for the first time in Orange Beach, Alabama, as I visited family. At the time, I lived in the Appalachian foothills. In our mountain town there is a crystal-clear lake named Lake Chatuge. The water is cold, but you can dive down 30 feet and have great visibility. I always say that I found my religion the first time I climbed to the top of a mountain but I found inner peace the first time I dove down 30 feet on one breath of air and speared a fish I could bring home to eat. An amazing feeling. Fast-forward four years, and moving to Panama City Beach opened the floodgates of opportunity to grow in the sport.
Spearfishing is arguably the most responsible way to fish. It doesn’t mean you should just pick up a pole and jump right in, like you would do with a regular fishing pole. You have to know that holding your breath for two-plus minutes and diving down to meet darkness can quickly become dangerous. You must remember to pay attention to your heartbeat and stay calm. Trust that you know what you are doing, and if you feel your ego growing larger than your knowledge, just back off. I admit that I get scared when freediving and I realize that I
56 • March—April 2020 • www.PanamaCityLiving.com