Project Healing Waters, 2010

Michael Kuhr's notes from the most recent PHW outing:

Project Healing Waters Milwaukee holds its fourth Fishing Outing of 2010 Veterans participating in the Project Healing Waters Program in Milwaukee enjoyed a day of fly fishing on Monday, July 26. The event was held at the Wern Valley Sportsmen’s Club, located just west of Waukesha. Eight veterans were partnered up with volunteers from SEWTU. The volunteers served as fly-fishing mentors for the veterans, who are learning the skills of fly fishing as part of their recreational therapy at the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee. The ponds at Wern Valley are home to many bass and bluegill, and veterans wasted no time in hooking several nice big bluegills early. Just as the anticipation began to swell, a yellow popper was cast out over the weeds into the pond. Two strips of the line and an explosion of water later, hoots and hollers began echoing across the small pond. “Get the camera” cried one of the vets. “We’ve got a real nice bass here” shouted one of the mentors. A few photos were snapped of the smiling vet and her 17-18” largemouth bass before it was quickly released back into the water. Many more bass and bluegill were caught throughout the day although a few managed to get off in the weeds. Wern Valley is quickly becoming a favorite fishing spot among the veterans. This is already our third trip since the program started holding outings in 2009. The ponds are well kept, easily accessible, and filled with hungry fish. Summer weed growth and bright sunshine provide a bit of a challenge as well. Thanks again to all those at Wern Valley for allowing us to access their ponds. As always, a picnic style lunch was provided by the VA staff who accompanied the veterans. Previous outings took place in April at Greenfield Park, in May at Wern Valley, and in June at Menomonee Park. Future outings are being planned for Monday, August 30 and date TBD in September.

Thank you to all of the mentors for volunteering their time, equipment, knowledge, and patience. Project Healing Waters would also like to thank the supporters who have made generous donations towards the program. This would not be the success that it is without the contributions of these folks. SEWTU will continue “healing those who serve” through the implementation of the Project Healing Waters Program in Milwaukee.

Here are some great photos of PHW in action:

For more information, please contact Mike Kuhr by email (mikek.trout@yahoo.com) or phone (414) 588-4281.