What does the river symbolize in the bass the river and sheila mant?

In "The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant," the river symbolizes the passage of time and the complexities of adolescence. It serves as a backdrop for the protagonist's internal struggle between his youthful desires and the realities of growing up, particularly in relation to his infatuation with Sheila Mant. The river also represents the choices one must make, as the narrator ultimately has to decide between his passion for fishing and his desire to impress Sheila.