Several of our Edmonton participants have returned from a fantastic multi-day trip with Dave Brown Outfitters on the Elk River. The picture says it all. 3 weeks prior, Darren had never casted a loop.

Dave’s email says everything -

I would like to thank everyone for their support of Operation Dry Fly , it was a great success. The Picture below says it all. An American and Canadian Vet out enjoying a day on the water ,hard to tell that both had been “Blown Up” in Afghanistan and Iraq. I would also like quote D.B.O Guide Derek Crawshaw who donated his time and knowledge summed it up by stating that “these guys fought so I can be a fishing guide ”

Thanks to these men for their commitment to the freedoms we all hold so dear.

It’s been a busy spring for PHWFF Canada!

Across the country our directors have been making contacts within the Military and Civilian arenas to get our name out to those that could benefit from our program. Work continues with local clubs and organizations to establish programs and trips – but most importantly – we’re working with clients who can really benefit from the program.

We’ve got a regular program running at CFB Namao, headed up by Kerry Pitt who has been teaching casting on base. As much about introducing the program as getting CF members involved this is a critical step for us. The more time we spend on base, the more trust we gain from our CF counterparts which is imperative if we are to be able to work 1 on 1 with them.

In addition we’ve had the great pleasure to work with a small group of PTSD sufferers through the CF OSSIS program. These soldiers, who have served over a number of conflicts including Vietnam and the Falklands, have welcomed us into their world. We’ve conducted an introductory fly-tying session already with the support of Thornes Manufacturing who provided some great fly-tying gear and we’re now planning a casting session outside the support facility in the coming month where the tools provided by TFO will come to good use.

One of our contacts within the group has really stepped up to assist us as a liaison to his support-peers and I’d really like to thank Darren for his efforts to bring the program to their sessions.

I look forward to sharing more news from our other regions!

Paul Morrell takes delivery of fly rods from Ken Whellems of TFO

In March, thanks to generous donations by the Chinook Waters Fly Fishing Club and Pembina Pipelines Ltd. Project Healing Waters took delivery of twenty TFO fly rod systems from Ken Whellems of Springbrook Manufacturing and Temple Fork Outfitters.

These rods come complete with reels, line and a durable case all with the dependable reliability associated with TFO products. The rods are being used here in Edmonton as well as Shilo Manitoba and some of them will find their way to New Brunswick as well.

The support from both of the donating organizations and TFO is helping us help the men and women who serve all Canadians. Our deepest thanks to everyone who contributes to advancing our programs across Canada.