NEWS & STORIES
Disabled veterans heal on the Madison with Beartooth Fly Fishing
Four disabled veteran participants from Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing programs traveled to Montana on May 7-11, 2019 to fly fish the world famous Madison River. The group was hosted by Dan and Nancy Delekta of the Beartooth Flyfishing Lodge and Fly Shop. The Delektas and their staff Jennifer, Kevin, and Brian truly went “above and beyond” to make sure everyone in the group enjoyed the best of accommodations, stream-side lunches, and services. Volunteer chef Michael Gerhart and friend Mark supplied the delicious and filling breakfasts and suppers. The hospitality was tremendous! (be sure to view the photo gallery below!)
The fly fishing was a combination of drift boat and wade fishing in a variety of settings. Professional guides Dan, Brandon, David, Gunnar and Marty floated the participants on different long stretches of the river in their drift boats – enabling them to experience the beauty of Montana while traveling down this famous river – while volunteer guide Bob took them on a wade-fishing adventure to some difficult to reach sections of the Madison. Fish were caught by everyone – every day! Fast water proved to be the most effect as it consistently yielded big, hard fighting wild rainbow trout.
The spectacular Madison Valley scenery was truly mind blowing. The veterans were treated to broad vistas of snow covered peaks and sweeping valley plains. The Valley provided them with the opportunity to see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, eagles, and numerous species of waterfowl. The always temperamental spring weather in Montana even threw-in some snow showers one day to remind the anglers that Spring comes a bit late in Montana!
In summary, it was a truly outstanding experience and the entire group raved about it and vowed to return.
Our deepest thanks to the Delektas, their staff, Michael and Mark, and the guides for offering a truly unforgettable experience.