I have a recently divorced friend who is venturing into the dating world again after more than 20 years. The other night, I laughingly asked how the “man-fishing” was going, and as we discussed the recent developments, it struck me how much dating really is like fishing.

You have to know what kind of fish you want to catch and go where those fish are. It doesn’t do much good to fish for salmon in a lake—or a non-drinker in a bar.

Know your fish! Use the right lure and the proper technique. Some fish like slow and sensible, while others like fast and flashy!

You have to be there when they are hungry (lol!)

Just because you caught one doesn’t mean you have to keep it. If it’s not what you want, don’t spend a lot of time trying to convince yourself that it’s really what you wanted; it will only die and neither of you will be happy. Throw it back and let it get on with its life. It’s okay to practice “catch and release” and get on with yours.

The funny thing is that I was never much good at fishing; too results-oriented, I guess. I operated on the premise that once you’ve caught a fish—mission accomplished—go home.

My Grandpa Risenhoover took me fishing once. That’s right—once. I was just not patient enough, he said. I’m still working on it, Grandpa!