This outdoor hobby became the secret to my happy marriage

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • June 29, 2026

It has become clear to me that the secret to a happy marriage is — kayak fishing. While we haven’t completely eliminated other forms of romanticism, our dates these days often consist of loading kayaks onto the trailer, making the 45-minute drive to the state park, backing down the boat ramp and fishing for smallies and largemouth until the park rangers blast a closing time warning to us on their bullhorns. There will still be romantic dinners, walks on the beach and sunsets on Maui. But really can there be any better way to sustain a happy marriage than kayak fishing? If you disagree, my wife would like to have a few words with you. ~ Craig Evans