2nd Tennessee Tailwater Fly fishing experience

April 16-20

Bluff City, Tennessee

Two Purple Heart Heroes were warmly welcomed to Bluff City, Tennessee for the 2nd TN Tailwater Flyfishing Experience. After arriving and getting settled into their accommodations, Heroes Jeremy and Don received a safety briefing on wade fishing and proper techniques while fishing from drift boats. Hosts Joe Roland and Greg Chambers also spent time introducing the Heroes to fly-fishing equipment and casting techniques. Following a delicious dinner, everyone enjoyed an evening of conversation on the porch, getting acquainted and looking forward to the days ahead.

The first full day began on the South Holston River, where the Heroes were paired with experienced fly fishermen and worked on basic fly-fishing techniques while wading the river. Cool, overcast and foggy conditions made the fishing challenging, but provided an excellent opportunity to learn and develop their skills. Later that afternoon, the groups returned to the water and concentrated on dry-fly techniques. The highlight of the day came when Don caught his first fish ever on a fly. Everyone returned to the lodging that evening for dinner, followed by a campfire filled with conversation, laughter and camaraderie.

The following morning, the Heroes met fishing guides Pat and Travis and headed to the Watauga River for their first day fishing from drift boats. It proved to be an outstanding day on the water as numerous rainbow and brown trout were caught. Despite unseasonably warm temperatures, everyone enjoyed approximately eight hours on the river before returning to the lodging. That evening included another wonderful meal, some additional casting instruction, and plenty of laughs and fellowship on the porch.

The final day on the water brought another exceptional day of fly fishing on the Watauga River. Although windy conditions made casting more difficult, the Heroes persevered and enjoyed tremendous success, catching an impressive number of trout throughout the day. At the conclusion of the fishing, everyone gathered for photos and presented coins to the fishing guides in appreciation for their support. Back at the lodging, the group enjoyed one final evening together around the campfire, where the Heroes were recognized and presented with coins. Don was also surprised with a fly rod to commemorate his experience.

While the fishing throughout this world-class experience was exceptional, the most meaningful moments took place beyond the water. The conversations on the porch, evenings around the campfire, shared laughter, and genuine camaraderie created lasting memories and connections that extended far beyond the fish caught.

Special recognition and sincere thanks to Hosts Joe Roland and Greg Chambers for their tremendous hospitality, enthusiasm and dedication to our Purple Heart Heroes. Additional gratitude to WWIA Guides Michael Ryals and Jason Gaudette for their outstanding leadership and support throughout the event, to fishing guides Pat and Travis, and to Patrick Fulkrod, owner of The South Holston River Company, for helping make this remarkable experience possible.

“This trip was awesome. I linked up with some new brothers and had time to get to know them all and to get to fish with them. It gave me a chance to further deal with my PTSD and to help them deal with theirs. I would like to thank WWIA for the opportunity and above all would like to thank Joe and Greg for Hosting and helping to facilitate the path to healing. Brothers Forever.”

– Jeremy Y., US Army
Purple Heart Recipient