Fishing needs to be changed to function like mining or botany give us ability

[Kyuuen]

I'm doing similar thing. Fishing in my kitchen (real one) far away from my TV or while watching movies (not seeing game screen). THAT is the reason for a change in fishing in my opinion.
Is it realaxing? No. Is it fun? No. Do you have to think even a little while fishing? Not to count baits, no.
I think fishing should be made fun by making it a not demanding mini game, which let you forget about other things. Something that, as it was said by Yoshi himself, let us relax. Not make us living bots only pushing one button when fish bites.

Not to sound condescending, but how is this different from 'real life' bait fishing?

You bait the hook, attach a bobber if needed (most often is), and you sit around hoping that you catch something worth while.

Is it fun? Not really, much like real life bait fishing. Is it relaxing? I think it is, compared to most other activities in game.. it at least allows me to trudge through my College work.