Interesting indeed.
I think when your a young man, you tend to think/act in full on I want it now mode. I remember thinking when 30 was "old". You think better to die young living to the fullest, than get old and have regrets.

That may of been a reasonable idea back when the life expectancy wasn't what it is today. Now 40 assuming you've taken reasonable care of yourself is the new 30 or less.
That really adds to the meaning of life is a marathon, not a sprint ;)

My goal like I suspect many here is too extend my quality of life and well as my outdoor interests as long as possible.
That means forgetting the idea of going hard or going  home, at least part of the time.
Nothing the matter with scaling back and taking time to enjoy what you love to the fullest.
A shorter trip, more time for fishing and maybe 3x portaging at least in the initial day of your trip, " might" of made a difference?
Hopefully when you've recovered/rehabilitated, your lesson will stick,this time ;D
Rest assured, your buddies here will remind you of your comment if/when your eyes get bigger than your stomach :-?