Trout Warriors
Started in November 2023, Trout Warriors uses fly fishing as a form of healing for disabled veterans. This volunteer led program offers participants guided fishing trips, fly tying classes, and more.
Trout Warriors is far more than just taking disabled veterans fly fishing. The coordination and repetitive nature of fly fishing, fly casting, and fly tying helps increase dexterity, strength, stamina and reconnects muscle memory. The nature of fly fishing activities requires a singular concentration allowing the brain to reset which decreases anxiety from PTSD, TBI and every day stressors stemming from military service. These shared experiences offer participants camaraderie and bonding and provides motivation to continue their journey.
“Trout Warriors has transformed me with life enhancing mental and physical healing through fly fishing. I now belong to something that drives me to get outside instead of living a shut-in lifestyle.”
N.S., US Army, Vietnam Combat Disabled Veteran
“Fly fishing makes me feel normal.”
K.K., US Army, Post 9/11 Afghanistan Combat Disabled Veteran.
“When military life ended, I was suddenly thrust into an unknown life filled with darkness. During those dark times I was introduced to fly fishing. Fishing and tying flies with the program brings light, stability and peace to my life.”
V.S., USMC, Desert Storm Combat Disabled Veteran
“Fly fishing and being out on the water is what makes me forget about being blown up in Iraq.”
J.P., US Army, Post 9/11 Iraq Combat Veteran.
Trout Warriors by the numbers ...
57
57 fly fishing related meet ups, events, retreats and guide trips hosted and supported by ECTU since 2023.
3,022
1,986 disabled veteran participant hours and 1,036 volunteer hours since 2023.
$79,500
More than $79,500 invested in Trout Warrior programs by ECTU since 2023.