by Mike Nares
Arrival in Grants Pass
Our veterans arrived in Medford on October 15 and 16. Our first stop was Sportsman’s Warehouse, where Pat Schlauch, a kind gentleman, had arranged 12 fly-fishing rods and reels for the veterans to use during the trip and take home afterward.
On our second night, we had dinner at Cartwright’s Steakhouse. While we were seated, an older veteran dining at the restaurant overheard our waitress talking about our group and decided to pay for our beverages. The guys and I thanked him for his generosity, and before he returned to his table, our group decided to return the favor by paying for his dinner with his family. It was genuinely special watching everyone come together to repay this gentleman’s kindness.
On the River
0600 came early on October 17, but the excitement of starting the adventure made it a little easier to get moving. Before launching, the group decided to say a prayer for a safe, exciting and fish-filled adventure. Alex Tanner stepped up and led an outstanding prayer. Around 1000, the first boat launched, and you could hear the excitement coming from the boats as the guys began taking in everything the Rogue River had to offer.
The next morning reminded me that the military never really leaves you. When it came time to load the bag boat, without anyone needing to say a word, the guys naturally formed a line and began passing bags down to TJ, our bag-boat operator.
That day brought our longest stretch on the river. We ran our first rapids under tarps to shield us from the cold water, enjoyed fresh salmon for lunch, and tackled the famous Coffee Pot, an extremely narrow section of river where boats can get caught in the current and spin in circles. Our guides performed flawlessly and navigated it with precision.
New Rods and a Signed Flag
On our final full day of fishing, the guides rigged up the donated fly rods. Although only a handful of veterans managed to catch fish with them, everyone was excited to try something different, and best of all, each veteran got to take a rod and reel home. A stop in the small town of Agness gave the guys their first chance all trip to call home.
That evening at Lucas Lodge, I brought out an American flag that had been signed by all the veterans and guides and presented it to Alex. I also let Tanner know he didn’t need to worry about leading the dinner prayer that night, because I wanted to take that opportunity myself.
On our last day on the water, the weather was perfect, and it was nice to simply relax and enjoy the scenery. When we reached the take-out, our group thanked the guides who had given our veterans an unforgettable adventure down the Rogue River.
Final Thoughts
Beyond the fishing, scenery and adventure, what stood out most was watching the guys connect with one another. Whether it was helping load bags, sharing meals, exchanging stories or returning the kindness of a stranger at dinner, the camaraderie throughout the trip was something special.
My hope is that the friendships formed on the Rogue River continue long after everyone has returned home. I am incredibly grateful to the guides, Orange Torpedo Outfitters, Pat for donating the fly-fishing equipment, and everyone who helped make this adventure possible. Most importantly, I am thankful for the opportunity to spend a week with these veterans and be part of an experience they won’t soon forget.
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