Project Healing Waters (PHW) has recognized the benefits associated with fly fishing in the rehabilitation of our nation’s veterans suffering from physical and psychological trauma suffered while defending our Nation.
Program participants are joined by Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing (PHWFF) volunteers at their points of rehabilitation, where they learn skills such as casting, fly tying, rod building and other techniques. These skills are then used as participants are hosted at various fly fishing events to apply their newly acquired skills.
In 2010, PHWFF teamed with Professional Salt Water Fly Fishing Guides for a day of fishing on the Chesapeake Bay for Striped Bass. The event has grown in size and interest, and has much of Maryland’s Eastern Shore community supporting the effort.
The Stars and Stripers fishing event is hosted through the generosity of Dominion Marina, on Crab Alley Bay in Chester, Maryland. In past years it was necessary for participants to rise long before sunrise, commute across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, fish all day, then return home that evening.
We are fortunate that a 1,000 acre waterfront property, located just outside of St. Michaels, Maryland has been donated to PHWFF (and other veteran groups), by Robert Pascal, to be used for programs and activities. The property includes several buildings able to house participants for extended visits, and offers amenities to assist in their fly fishing experiences. These include:
8 miles of Waterfront
Kayaks, Canoes, Jon Boats
A Farm House able to sleep 8 guests
A Lodge able to accommodate 8
A historic Post Office revitalized into a “Fly Shop” for instruction
A Boat House
14 miles of trails for hiking and wildlife observation
and many other amenities…..
With the addition of this property known as Point Pleasant Farm, we are able to bring participants into the area the day before, and allow them to enjoy a relaxing day at the farm, spend the night, and avoid the long day associated with past events.
Stars and Stripers 2012
Kick Off – Friday, 17 August – Point Pleasant Farm (* see note below regarding families)
The event will begin with a Kick Off at Point Pleasant Farm on Friday, August 17th, beginning at 12 noon. (This is to help participants avoid Friday afternoon beach traffic.)
1200 – 1730
Activities will include boat tours around the property, saltwater casting demonstrations and instruction, saltwater fly tying (in the new fly shop), kayaking and canoeing, tours of the farm, fishing, crabbing and most importantly, relaxing in the “Land of Pleasant Living”.
1730 – 2030
We will be hosting an Eastern Shore-style buffet dinner created by guest Chef, Andrew Richtol. It is here that we will establish the tournament rules, pair up the captains with their crews, and have a chance to mingle and converse with participants, captains and other invited guests and VIPs.
* We encourage participants to enjoy this event with their families. Lodging at the Point Pleasant Farm is, however, currently best suited for individuals and not families. There is lodging available in the area at reasonable rates, and we would be happy to help you.
Fishing Tournament – Saturday, 18 August – Dominion Marina
0730 – 0800
Coffee and pastries will be available while captains and crews assemble at the boats in preparation for the days fishing.
Larger pleasure boats will be available for families wishing to venture out to watch the activities on the water.
1430
Boats will return and record catches for awards.
1500- 1700
Crab Feast and awards ceremony.
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