I have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed more than any person’s fair share of exciting fishing adventures. In doing so, I have been exhilarated, literally brought to tears by the sheer beauty of nature… I’ve made lasting friendships that shaped my life, and seen things I never imagined in my wildest dreams.
But I’ve never, ever, felt the feelings of humility and deep respect as much as I have when I’ve stood in trout rivers with participants in Project Healing Waters. This program was created to show our veterans who have been affected, physically, mentally, and otherwise, the magical healing effects of fly fishing. Now, as it celebrates 20 years of changing lives for the better, we encourage all of you to connect with this important initiative. And for those of you already taking part, like onWater, which is launching this new effort… thank you, and keep on keepin’ on. – KD
From Project Healing Waters and onWater…
Project Healing Waters Celebrates 20 Years of Veteran Healing Through Fly Fishing
onWater Fish Partners with Project Healing Waters to Support Veterans’ Mental Health Through Outdoor Connection
For the past two decades, Project Healing Waters (PHW) has been providing physical and emotional rehabilitation to active military personnel and Veterans through fly fishing and associated activities. This March marks their 20th anniversary of empowering Veterans through the therapeutic benefits of fly fishing and the strength of a supportive community.
A Critical Mission… Every 82 minutes, a Veteran takes their life in America1. This sobering statistic underscores the urgent mental health crisis facing our nation’s heroes. Young male Veterans are particularly vulnerable, with suicide rates significantly higher than their civilian counterparts.
Project Healing Waters’ mission to address this crisis through community, connection, and the healing power of fly fishing has never been more important. Their evidence-based approach combines outdoor recreation with peer support, creating pathways toward resilience and post-traumatic growth.
“Twenty years ago, our founder, retired Navy CAPT Ed Nicholson, was inspired by a simple but profound idea – that fly fishing could be more than a hobby, it could be a lifeline,” says John Langford, President and CEO of Project Healing Waters. “Today, we’ve witnessed thousands of Veterans find peace, purpose, and community through our Programs. The water heals in ways that traditional therapy alone cannot.”
onWater Fish Partners to Support Veteran Access
In honor of PHW’s 20th anniversary, onWater Fish, longtime partner and supporter, is launching a special giveback campaign from March 12-26, 2025. This initiative reflects both organizations’ commitment to increasing fishing access for all and supporting Veterans’ mental health.
“We believe in Project Healing Waters’ mission and have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of time spent on the river,” says Alex Maier, CMO of onWater. “Through this campaign, we’re proud to support and supplement funding for Fly Fishing 101 instruction for Veterans, helping to expand access to the hands-on skills, guidance, and community that make a real difference on the water.
During the campaign:
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- Each new subscription will fund a $20 donation, helping to provide Fly Fishing 101 instruction for two Veterans through PHW.
- New onWater App users will receive 20% off their subscription.
“Beyond this campaign, onWater is committed to making fishing more accessible by providing public land and water data, including over 160,000 fishing access points, boat ramps, rapids, hazards, and more—ensuring Veterans and individuals with accessibility needs can safely enjoy their time on the water,” adds Maier.
The Therapeutic Power of Fly Fishing
Research increasingly supports what PHW Participants have experienced firsthand: fly fishing offers unique therapeutic benefits for veterans struggling with PTSD, depression, and other combat-related challenges2. The combination of mindful focus, natural settings, and a supportive community creates a powerful environment for healing.
Cameron Cushman, U.S. Army Ret., credits fly fishing with helping him reclaim his life:
“While going through the medical retirement process, I was told I would never live a normal life again, that I would never work, and that I would never do the things that I loved. Hearing this day after day for months, I decided I couldn’t accept that reality. So I did what I was told not to do, I picked my fly rod back up and headed to the most secluded river I could find, the Devils River in southwestern Texas. It was there that I found a sense of peace, a relief from the physical and mental pain, a place where nothing mattered but my focus on the water. Nearly ten years later, the water still brings me those moments of peace, and I’ve had the privilege of sharing these experiences with other Veterans all across the country.”
Research shows that fly fishing helps Veterans with PTSD by providing a structured, immersive coping mechanism that fosters mindfulness, restores control, and supports posttraumatic growth. Engaging in fly fishing offers immediate relief from intrusive thoughts while promoting long-term emotional resilience through skill-building, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose2.
Expanding Access and Inclusion
As PHW celebrates its 20th anniversary, the organization continues to expand its reach and inclusivity. Their recently launched women’s initiative addresses the unique needs of female Veterans, who now make up approximately 17% of the U.S. military3.
“Our mission has always been to ensure that every Veteran who can benefit from our programming has access to it,” says Langford. “We are dedicated to eliminating barriers to create an inclusive space where all Veterans can experience the healing power of fly fishing.”
