Amanda Cody casts a line on June 10 at the Sam D. Hamilton National Wildlife Refuge in Starkville. Cody came out to Noxubee on a whim. She made the hour and a half drive from Pontotoc, Mississippi, where she lives. “I’m glad I came out here. It’s been an adventure,” she said. Photo by: Claire Hassler/Dispatch Staff

Amanda Cody looks out at the water on June 10 at the Sam D. Hamilton National Wildlife Refuge in Starkville. Cody got to the refuge around 2 p.m. and saw deer, two alligators, an eagle and lots of other birds. Photo by: Claire Hassler/Dispatch Staff

Amanda Cody smiles while fishing on June 10 at the Sam D. Hamilton National Wildlife Refuge in Starkville. Cody has been fishing since she was a little girl and said she learned from various people throughout her life. Photo by: Claire Hassler/Dispatch Staff

Amanda Cody ties fishing line around a hook on June 10 at the Sam D. Hamilton National Wildlife Refuge in Starkville. Cody tries to get out fishing at least once or twice a week. She said it’s a good way to clear her head, turn her brain off and get fresh air. Photo by: Claire Hassler/Dispatch Staff

Amanda Cody puts a new topwater bait on her fishing line on June 10 at the Sam D. Hamilton National Wildlife Refuge in Starkville. Cody said COVID-19 has left her feeling lonely and isolated at times, but also more compassionate towards others. Photo by: Claire Hassler/Dispatch Staff