Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing - Bend, Oregon Program

Another great night at Project Healing Waters in Bend as we filled the tying tables with Klinkhammer Emergers tied in a variety of sizes and colors to match both our local river and lake mayflies. These versatile patterns will definitely see some action this season.

It was also a special gear giveaway evening, with veterans heading home with some incredible equipment including a float tube, a high-end rotary vise, fishing shirts, fly lines, tippet, indicators, and more.

Best of all, everyone walked away a winner — with new skills, new friendships, and more excitement for the days ahead on the water.

Another great day on the Fall River with our Project Healing Waters Bend crew. The fishing kept us thinking—nothing came easy—but that’s often where the best lessons are found. With a little patience, some experimentation, and a willingness to adjust, the group found success and brought a few beautiful, healthy fish to hand.

More importantly, it was a day of shared knowledge and steady progress. Whether it was refining a cast, dialing in a drift, or offering a tip that made the difference, everyone walked away a little sharper and a little more connected.

Our own Mathew Staley landed a steelhead somewhere on the Crooked River.

There’s something special about kicking off spring on the Crooked River—especially when it’s shared with a group like this.

From the first nymph drifts of the morning to the excitement of rising fish in the afternoon, the day was full of learning, laughter, and a whole lot of fish stories in the making. What stood out most wasn’t just the great conditions or even the impressive catches—it was the way everyone showed up for each other.

Flies were tied and freely shared. Techniques were passed down streamside. Whether it was learning how to mend line, swing a soft hackle, or read new water, there was always someone ready to lend a hand. That’s what makes days like this meaningful—veterans connecting, supporting each other, and finding a little peace and purpose on the water.

Of course, a few memorable fish didn’t hurt either. But if you ask around, it’s the camaraderie, the quiet moments between casts, and the shared experience that will stick with folks long after the hatch fades.

Spring is here, and if this day was any indication, it’s going to be a great season ahead.

Sometimes it’s not about the catch—it’s about the connection…and Val’s amazing homemade chili!
After multiple weather reschedules and some stubborn Fall River fish, the real win of the day was the time spent together in great conversation.