Project Healing Waters

May 7, 2026

Project Healing Waters once again brought together veterans, volunteers, guides, and supporters for a memorable day on the water centered around camaraderie, healing, and fly fishing. With 18 guides and volunteers from our Trout Unlimited & Fly Fishing International chapters participating, along with veterans from several Project Healing Waters chapters, the event was filled with enthusiasm, laughter, learning, and genuine appreciation.

The day began with volunteers gathering early to prepare breakfast, featuring bagels, donuts, hot coffee, and plenty of conversation before everyone headed to the water. Lunch, generously supported by Snider’s Meats, gave participants another opportunity to relax, share stories, and strengthen friendships formed through Project Healing Waters.

Several veterans were experiencing fly fishing for the very first time, and club members stepped up by providing extra rods and equipment to ensure everyone could fully participate. Throughout the day, experienced anglers offered instruction, encouragement, and patient guidance, helping participants improve casting skills, select flies, and experience the excitement that comes with hooking and landing fish.

As always, the real success of the outing extended far beyond the number of fish caught. The event highlighted the mission of Project Healing Waters — using fly fishing and time outdoors to promote healing, rehabilitation, and connection for disabled active military service personnel and veterans. The atmosphere throughout the day reflected gratitude, respect, and fellowship among everyone involved.

One volunteer, Bruce Pope, later shared heartfelt comments directed toward the veterans who participated in the outing:

“I just wanted to thank you for your dedication to the men and women who make up the brother/sisterhood of Project Healing Waters… Thank you for your service and all that you have done, and may continue to be doing. Welcome home.”

Moments like these remind us why these outings matter so much and why the bonds formed through Project Healing Waters are so meaningful.

High Country Fly Fishers and Trout Unlimited are proud to support Project Healing Waters and honored to spend time with the veterans who participated. Thank you to every volunteer, guide, donor, and participant who helped make this event such a success. We are already looking forward to the next outing.