PROMOTING HEALING AND WELLNESS

Anglers of Honor is dedicated to sharing world-class, therapeutic fly fishing experiences with military veterans and other individuals with physical and mental disabilities and their families.

WHY WE SERVE

Restoring physical function and mental wellness can be extraordinarily difficult for the injured and their caregivers. Throughout these arduous and ongoing processes, it is vitally important to draw people out of isolation and into communities offering encouragement, friendship, hope — and even some adventure.
Anglers of Honor is humbled to assist people who have an array of physical and mental disabilities and their families. Fly fishing has been shown to be a profoundly therapeutic tool for promoting physical and mental health.

HOW WE SERVE

Anglers of Honor provides accessible and therapeutic fishing experiences to:

military veterans with physical disabilities and mental health challenges and their family members. We aid in their acclimation to life after active duty.
people suffering from spinal cord and traumatic brain injury.

Through the Anglers of Honor program, participants and their families learn the basics of fly fishing, which they get to put to immediate use on premier, private fly fishing waters that have been restored to allow access for people with disabilities.

Our nonprofit organization is part of a larger alliance of entities with complementary missions to serve veterans and other people with disabilities and their family members. This alliance, which provides nearly 100 outings each year, is managed by the River Deep Foundation. We invite you to learn more about Anglers of Honor’s impact in the Foundation’s annual report.

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Testimonials

I recently called a client who attended an Anglers of Honor trip. His wife usually answers the phone for him because he has Alzheimer’s, TBI and PTSD. He’s a Bronze Star with Valor recipient who is usually reserved and very much to himself. This day, however, I could hear him laugh – happily, playfully, carefree. It was an amazing moment because before his recent fishing trip, he did not have days like this. What a positive impact on the lives of not only veterans, but their family as well, and in just a short time!

Rob AltenberndCMSgt (Ret.), USAF

I was invited with Operation TBI Freedom to participate in a fly fishing trip at Lincoln Hills. I cannot think of a time I had more fun. The scenery was beautiful, and the guides were top-notch and very patient with me as I was new to the sport. I was surprised at the end when we were given the fly rods we had been using during our time there. Since my trip with Anglers of Honor, I have gone to my local lake and have been practicing with it. I won’t give up and will continue to learn the sport. Thank you for the memories.

Scott QuaifeArmy National Guard, 5 Years
1 Deployment

As a veteran, I found the event incredibly therapeutic, and it definitely increased my interest in fly fishing. The staff and volunteers were extremely professional and knowledgeable in the sport. All of them took the time to ensure we were all taught about the casting process, the different types of flies as well as what areas to look for while fly fishing on the rivers and lakes. I wholeheartedly recommend Anglers of Honor to all veterans.

Karl BonkoskiUS Air Force, 20 Years
7 Deployments

The scenery was beautiful, the guides were patient and knowledgeable, and the food was great! I was able to relax and really enjoy myself among the company of other veterans. I had never been fly fishing, and the guide was great; he really wanted me to succeed. I had a wonderful day.

Michelle BonkoskiUS Air Force, 24 Years
2 Deployments

This was an incredible experience for multiple reasons. First, it brought a group of vets together and offered the camaraderie we all crave so much. Secondly, it took us to a beautiful location with world-class fishing. Lastly, it gave us the opportunity to learn a new skill with excellent guidance from professional-level fly fisherman. The staff from Lincoln Hills and Anglers of Honor were among some of the best people I have ever met. They truly believe in their program and in helping veterans — and it shows. I would recommend this program for all veterans, whether you like to fish or not. It goes far beyond just standing around with a rod and reel. This is good for the soul.

James CoxUS Army

I would strongly recommend that all veterans who are wanting to get over their anxieties and fears experience the tranquility and peacefulness of Lincoln Hills. Lincoln Hills offers a great opportunity to get outdoors and have a fly fishing experience you’ll never forget. I have benefited greatly in overcoming my anxiety and fear of crowds by going out with Anglers of Honor.

Kevin F.S. ChaconUS Army

This was a first-rate experience, not only for the combat veterans, but also for various patients from Craig Hospital. The work these organizations do gives everyone a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of the river and the surrounding area. The guides who dedicate their time and knowledge are first-rate people who genuinely enjoy helping. This was an experience I will not soon forget.

Matthew DilcherUS Army
4 Deployments

I loved the commeradie. This is one of the best programs I’ve attended in my 18 years of Service. Bob and his team go far beyond the extra mile to support our Military veterans and family members. Very well guided fishing experience.

Anonymous

Good attitude from everyone and I really appreciated the classes and training before we went fishing. Looking forward to doing this again!

William (Tim) Custer

Thank you for an Amazing experience. The staff was amazing. It is a blessing that this is done for veterans and their families.

Jason Tubbs

Phenomenal program run by great people. Very helpful and patient! Explained everything and spent additional time with those that needed it! Can’t say thank you enough!

Julio Alnanez

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