Tag: fly fishing

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Shall we gather at the river?

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When we help others, we sometimes help ourselves.

For more information about Project Healing Waters, visit their web site.

See you on the highway.

Brent

The Back Story

There is more to this personal essay, and it’s how it came about. I reviewed a documentary film last year called the Welcome, and I was haunted by the film–not in a bad way, but in a way to do something. It was like that voice in the bottom of my heart and soul that kept saying, “Well, Brent. What are you going to do now?” And, that voice would not leave me alone.

The premise of the film is about finding a way to welcome home the warriors–our veterans. I kept thinking about how I would use the motivation of this film to do something. I should do something. I am a veteran myself, a Vietnam Veteran. I should be helping my veteran brothers and sisters. It’s time to get involved somehow.

When I learned our fly fishing club, Buckeye United Fly Fishers, was involved with veterans programs, I investigated and joined the cause. That’s how I became involved with Project Healing Waters. It’s an incredible program. I don’t know if I would have been involved had I not seen that film. If you get the chance, you should see it too. You will be moved. –B.

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Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show

Once a year, the Buckeye United Fly Fishers host the Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show. It’s a gathering of the faithful to demonstrate fly tying, fly rod building, places to go, and of course, things to buy. Most of all, it’s an opportunity to introduce to the curious what fly fishing is all about. Buckeye puts a big emphasis on fly tying, giving some of the regions best the opportunity to show their stuff.

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I was blown away by this mouse. I have never seen anyone tie a mouse on a hook. Now, you’re probably asking what would go after something like that. Big bass. More protein per volume, I guess, and that big mouth is capable of swallowing big “snacks.”

A couple of tables down, another fly tier was showing off his creations, and in addition to more mice, he had some really cool flies.

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Our chief fly tying instructor is Ken Dixon. He is very generous with his time and knowledge, always giving interested individuals a hand.

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Also at the show, the club’s affiliation with Project Healing Waters. PHW is a program to help veterans by introducing them to the calmness of fly fishing and the quiet of healing waters. It’s a worthwhile effort, something I am involved in.

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Great show. Now, let’s find some time to visit a stream or two.

See you on the highway.

Brent