13th Annual Alaska Halibut Fishing

June 12-17

Seward, Alaska

Four Purple Heart Heroes traveled to beautiful Seward, Alaska for the 13th Annual Alaska Halibut Fishing event. Heroes Joel, Jose, Randy, and Wayne were warmly welcomed by Host Captain John Moline and WWIA Guide Jon French for what would become an unforgettable adventure in the Last Frontier. After getting settled into their accommodations, the Heroes enjoyed a delicious steak dinner at the local American Legion and prepared their fishing gear for the days ahead.

Strong winds and rough seas prevented the group from heading offshore on their first morning, but there was no shortage of outstanding fishing opportunities. Local fishing expert Wes Oetinger introduced the Heroes to “flossing” for red sockeye salmon on the Russian River, where everyone received some hands-on instruction before putting their new skills to work. Later that afternoon, they headed to Resurrection Bay to snag red salmon and visited a nearby fish weir, where thousands of salmon could be seen making their way through the tributary. With rough ocean conditions continuing the following day, the Heroes returned to the Russian River and Resurrection Bay for another tremendous day of salmon fishing.

Conditions improved enough on Monday for Captain John to take everyone onto Resurrection Bay, where the Heroes quickly began catching cod and landed a nice sized halibut. The day also provided an incredible opportunity to experience some of Alaska’s spectacular scenery and wildlife as they observed whales, sea lions, otters, mountain sheep, and puffins. More outstanding fishing followed as the Heroes caught numerous rockfish before returning to shore. That evening, everyone joined Captain John in preparing an incredible meal featuring their fresh catch, including rockfish, cod, and red salmon.

The weather finally cooperated for their last full day, allowing Captain John to take the Heroes offshore in pursuit of rockfish, halibut, and cod. The fishing was exceptional, but the experience became even more memorable as whales were spotted along their journey and porpoises swam and played alongside the boat. It was a remarkable conclusion to several days spent experiencing the extraordinary waters, wildlife, and beauty of Alaska.

Throughout the event, the Heroes formed strong bonds while sharing incredible days on the water, outstanding meals, plenty of laughter, and meaningful fellowship. Special recognition and sincere thanks to Host Captain John Moline of Current Affair Charters for his extraordinary hospitality, generosity, and dedication to providing our Purple Heart Heroes with this world-class experience. Additional gratitude and appreciation to WWIA Guide Jon French for his outstanding leadership and support throughout the event, to Wes Oetinger for sharing his expertise on the water, and to all the wonderful volunteers and supporters who helped make the 13th Annual Alaska Halibut Fishing such a memorable experience.

“What a trip, Captain John and Frenchie did an amazing job. Lots of firsts for me. First time in Alaska, the scale of everything here really makes you appreciate how fortunate we are to be in this country, have the things we have, and how small of a footprint we take up. First trip with WWIA, wow! Fishing was great, Captain John and Frenchie did an amazing job and worked their butts off. The flights, accommodations, and my God, the food was amazing! First time using a fly rod, fishing saltwater, or fishing a river, (won’t be the last). On a very personal level this is one of the first if not the only time I have really felt at peace in 30 years. I have no words, as I tear up. Thank you all.”

– Randy H., US Air Force
Purple Heart Recipient