The Final Post of the 2009 3rd Annual Project Healing Waters 2-Fly

The 2009 3rd Annual Project Healing Waters 2-Fly was held on May 3, 2009 in Syria, Virginia on the private trout waters of Rose River Farm. This year’s event was our most successful yet, raising over $100,000 for PHW. While the weather proved to be challenging, with nearly constant rain, many fish were caught and a great time was had by all.

The weekend’s festivities started off with a casual dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings in Culpeper the night before the tournament. Strategy and fly choice was a hot topic at many of the dinner tables. This year’s event drew anglers from Maine to California and many states in between. After dinner, it was early to bed as “roll call” at the Farm was at 7 AM Sunday morning.

In all, we hosted 17 Injured troops (many whom brought spouses), and 40 anglers who were fishing to support PHW. The number of volunteers, who worked as guides, stream monitors, helped with food, transportation and musical entertainment, numbered over 200. The Volunteers included a number of members of Eastern Blue Ridge Fly Fishers, Fly Fishers of Virginia, Rapidan TU, Kanawha Valley TU, and Beaver Creek TU. Without the support of these many volunteers the 2-Fly would not be possible.

The 2-Fly is a friendly competition, where winning is secondary to camaraderie and conviviality. The real contest is between anglers and the trophy-sized Rose River Farm rainbow trout. The Rose River is a pristine freestone stream that flows down from headwaters located in the adjacent Shenandoah National Park and holds a wide array of edible treats for wild rainbows, native brook trout, and jumbo Rose River ‘bows.

Fishing started at 8 AM, with each team fishing two, hour and a half rotations, on two different randomly selected beats. Points were scored for both numbers of fish caught and total inches of three measured fish. And while the weather was a challenge, the fish were really biting. You almost feel dry with a big trout pulling the line!

In addition to the wonderful fishing a special treat at this year’s event was the casting clinic taught by Joe Humphreys-- nationally featured caster and clinic giver and author. Joe amazed everyone present with his casting tips and tricks. Later in the day we entertained by the excellent music of the Hurt Hollow Blue Grass Band. And before our incredible BBQ dinner, graciously donated by Gentry’s Catering Service, we were treated to a private mini concert by country song writer of the year Sam Tate.

After the full day of fishing and special events the tournament culminated with the presentation of awards. The results were as follows:

1st place Pro/Vet Team: Mancini/Rowland
1st place overall: Team SouthFork-- Formato/Daniels
2nd place overall: Team Sua Sponte-- Baker/Williams
3rd place overall: Team FFV-- Genest/Heward
Biggest Fish: Brian Mancini
Runner up big fish: Preston Jackson

Thanks again to all the sponsors, volunteers, and participants that made this year’s 2-Fly the most successful yet. We hope to see everyone back next year—The 4th Annual 2-Fly will be held on May 2, 2010.

Project Healing Waters 2-Fly Winners

The participating injured Vets and Active Duty Military

Special guest Joe Humphreys with the overall winning team

The results are in and the winners are--

1st place Pro/Vet Team: Mancini/Rowland
1st place overall: Team SouthFork-- Formato/Daniels
2nd place overall: Team Sua Sponte-- Baker/Williams
3rd place overall: Team FFV-- Genest/Heward
Biggest Fish: Brian Mancini
Runner up big fish: Preston Jackson

More pictures of the winners to follow soon!

Welcome, Fly Anglers!

Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. (PHWFFI) with the assistance of, Eastern Blue Ridge Fly Fishers, Fly Fishers of Virginia, Rapidan TU, Kanawha Valley TU, and Beaver Creek TU, welcomes you to the Third Annual Project Healing Waters Two-Fly Tournament, on Sunday, May 3, 2008. PHWFFI is dedicated to teaching fly fishing and fly tying to aid the physical and emotional rehabilitation of wounded and injured members of the Armed Forces returning from the present conflicts, as well as disabled veterans of past wars. Fly anglers from across the country will be converging on the pristine waters of Rose River Farm, on the eastern slope of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, for a day of fun competition for the trout of the Rose River and, in doing so, contribute in a tangible way to the rehabilitation of these wounded veterans.

Your goal, and that of every fly angler participating in this event, is to catch, measure, and release as many trout as you can in two one and one-half hour fishing sessions during the day, beginning at 8:00 AM and finishing at 4:00 PM. At the start of the fishing day, you will select two flies to tempt the trout. If you lose your two flies, that’s rough luck – some anglers will, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy your day. You can continue supporting your team member through advice and encouragement; or get a casting lesson from our expert casting instructors, with the help of the Sage Casting Analyzer; or play Bocce Ball, while savoring the delicious lunch and barbecue of Gentry’s Catering Service, one of Virginia Piedmont’s pre-eminent catering companies. There will be Kayak fishing and fishing from the PHW drift boat the Mending. Cory Routh of http://www.ruthlessfishing.com/ will be giving fishing kayak demos instruction on the big pond. Try your hand, fish from a kayak. Mending fishing trips available on the big pond.You are also encouraged to browse our raffle table and stock up on raffle tickets, or just relax and enjoy the day at the idyllic setting of Rose River Farm.

There will also be two clincs taught by Joe Humphreys-- nationally featured caster and clinic giver. A legend in his own time, we are very happy have Joe join us and be apart of the 2-fly www.appoutdoors.com/joehumphreys

Having selected your two flies for the day, you must use only those flies to catch trout for scoring points. If for some unforeseen reason your fly gets snagged or hooked (on something other than a fish), you will be allowed to retrieve your fly. If you lose your fly in your efforts to retrieve it, then you will be left with one fly in your arsenal which you should guard with your life – otherwise, you will end your day as a spectator! Whatever happens, you are here to have fun and to support a great cause – the celebration and rehabilitation of our wounded and disabled veterans!

The Third Annual Two-Fly is intended as a friendly competition, where winning is secondary to camaraderie and conviviality. The real contest is between anglers and the trophy-sized Rose River rainbow trout. The Rose River is a pristine freestone stream that flows down from headwaters located in the adjacent Shenandoah Park and holds a wide array of edible treats for wild rainbows, native brook trout, and jumbo Rose River ‘bows.

The Rose River ‘bow averages two-to-three pounds, with plenty bigger. They use the natural structure and cover of their environment to great advantage. Typically wary and selective, they may eventually take your fly. When hooked, they fight hard, making strong runs, often interspersed with spectacular leaps. All this using only your “Two-Flies” where all the fish caught are scored and released to fight another day.

We are excited and grateful for your participation in the “Two-Fly”! We suggest that you do not become obsessed with catching fish at all costs, but rather enjoy your day at a gentle pace. Expect a fun-filled day where sportsmanship and stream etiquette are emphasized. Take time to enjoy the various activities planned for the day, in the company of good friends and like-minded anglers, surrounded by the serene countryside.

Bottom-line, the Two-Fly concept is not wholly about fly fishing or competition, but more about friendship, good humor, and fun times as you support our wounded and disabled veterans and contribute in a tangible way to their physical and emotional recovery!

We look forward to seeing you at the Two-Fly!

Best Regards,

Ed Nicholson
President and Founder
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc.

Douglas Dear
Chairman, Board of Trustees
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc.

Donations to Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. are tax deductible to the fullest extent of Internal Revenue Service regulations.

Weather Forecast keeps changing

Please be prepared for the crazy weather of Syria, Virginia. New forecast says 60 degrees and 80% chance of rain. We hope it will be sunny but be prepared with the proper gear in the event it does rain.

Looking forward to a great Day of fishing on Sunday!

Rose River Farm Fishing Report

Rain, Rain, Rain. We have gotten about an inch so far today and the forecast is for rain, on and off, for the next few days. Sunday is forecast to be partly sunny and 72 degrees! Perfect! We have had crazy weather the last few days. Last Friday we had a late season frost-- then Saturday it was 94 degrees and Sunday was also 90. Today it is 54 degrees.

What does all this crazy weather mean? It means the bugs are coming off sporadically and the fishing has also been up and down the last few days. From fast and furious to August style no bite in the heat. The good news is the weather should be stable from here on out and the fishing should peak on Sunday. Water flows will be great and cloud cover will be appreciated. The water never really goes off color unless we get 3 inches of rain or more in 24 hours-- this is rare.

Have your "A" game on for Sunday. Flys that I like: Rose River Specials, bead head nymphs size 14 (olive or black with some flash), yellow stimulators (Sulphers were coming off on Sunday), brown crayfish buggers, 0range stimulators, Adams, caddis nymphs and olive woolly buggers.

I like a 5 wt rod, 5x fluorocarbon tippet and 9 ft leaders. I like a good indicator for nymphing or a dry dropper rig (risky if you break both flys off). You can find more info at the Farm website at http://www.roseriverfarm.com/.

Good Luck and Have Fun,

Douglas

Cool cherry wood boxes and net (click the picture to see close up)

These excellent boxes and the landing net were made in Butte, Montana by Chuck Ledgerwood of Prize Catch Inc.

Chuck was kind enough to donate the net and a couple of special boxes to the 2-Fly. We liked the laser etching and solid cherry boxes so much that we ordered up a bunch to sell at the 2-Fly as well. Make sure you bring some cash or a check for goodies and raffle tickets!

Thanks Chuck!

Gentry's Catering Service is the Best!!!

What can I say about the generosity of Ed Gentry and his son Eddie? For the third year in a row they have donated lunch and dinner for the 2-Fly. His food is some of the best you will find anywhere. I sure am looking forward to his cooking on Sunday. You can book Ed for weddings or other events at http://www.gentryscatering.com/ . Thanks Ed and Eddie!

Alan Folger donates a Festive Print!

Alan Folger sent me this nice email today "I'd like to donate the limited edition print that I did as the festival artist for the 2009 Virginia Fly Fishing Festival. It's titled "Frenzy" and is a limited edition of 75. I'd like to donate number 27 of the 75. To view more of his art go to http://www.clearwatermemories.com/ . Thanks Alan !

Michael Simon Trout Print-- one of the raffle Items

This beautiful print of a Rose River Rainbow painted by artist Michael Simon will be part of the 2-Fly raffle. Read more about Michael at http://vasportsman.com/uploads/april%2008/Artist%20Michael%20Simon.pdf or at http://michaelsimonanglingart.com/

Schedule of Events

SATURDAY

Dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings in Culpeper, 6 - 8 PM
763 Nalles Mill Road Culpeper, VA 22701 map (10 min or less from hotel)
Open to all volunteers and participants in the 2-Fly -- Vets are free, all others pay cash.

SUNDAY

• 7:00 a.m. check in begins (coffee and donuts)
  
• 7:15-7:30 rules briefing and beat assignments
  
• 8:00-9:30 round one fishing for 15 teams (teams time slots will be picked at random)
  
• 10:00-11:30 round one for the 15 other teams
  
• 11-12:30 Lunch
  
• 12:00-1:30 round two for the first 15 teams
  
• 12:30-1:15 Joe Humphreys clinic at the trout pond
  
• 2:00-3:30 round two for the other teams
  
• 2:30-3:15 Joe Humphreys clinic at the trout pond
  
• 3:30-4:00 score tally relax time and other activities
  
• 4:30-6 dinner, awards and raffle

All Day:

• Computer casting analyzer Sage
  
• Rod Demo with TFO and Nonnemacher Cane
  
• Bass and Bluegill fishing in the 2 ponds (fly only)
  
• Kayaks in the big pond with Cory Routh

Directions to Rose River Farm 3099 Old Blue Ridge Turnpike (rt.670)Syria, Virginia 22743

From Washington D.C. - Take Interstate 66 West to Route 29 South at Gainesville. Stay on Route 29 South until 7 miles south of Culpeper. Take Right on to Route 609. Stay on Route 609 for 9 miles to a stop sign. Take Right on Route 231 North. Travel 1/2 mile. Take Left on Route 670. Travel 3 miles, Rose River Farm is on the left.(2 hour drive)

From Front Royal, VA - Take Route 522 South through Flint Hill. At Stop sign, take Right on Route 522/211 to Sperryville. At Sperryville, Take Left into town of Sperryville. At Flashing Red Light take Left on Route 522. Drive 1.5 miles Take Right on Route 231 South. Drive 14 miles, Take Right on Route 670. Travel 3 miles, Rose River Farm is on the left.(1 hour drive)

From Fredericksburg, VA - Take Route 3 West to Culpeper. Take Route 29 South. Stay on Route 29 South until 7 miles south of Culpeper. Take Right on to Route 609. Stay on Route 609 for 9 miles to a stop sign. Take Right on Route 231 North. Travel 1/2 mile. Take Left on Route 670. Travel 3 miles, Rose River Farm is on the left.(1 hour drive)

From Richmond, VA - (4 lane traffic to Madison) Take Interstate 64 West to Charlottesville. Take exit 118 to Culpeper, Route 250 Bypass. Follow Route 250 to Route 29 North (Follow signs to Culpeper) Stay on Route 29 North for approx. 26 miles to Madison. Take Left on 29 Business North. Go 1 mile, take Left on Route 231 North. Stay on Route 231 North for 8 miles. Take Left on Route 670. Travel 3 miles, Rose River Farm is on the left.(2 hour 15 minute drive)

Rose River Farm Map-- click it to expand view

Silverio Sends His Fishable Art to the 2-Fly

Steve Silverio ties some of the most beautiful flys you will find anywhere in the world. He has one steadfast rule about them-- they have to catch fish! Steve, we cant wait to try some of these flys out. Thanks Steve!

Tournament Rules

Teams
A. The Two Fly Tournament will field up to thirty teams; ten Pro/Vet teams will comprise a wounded veteran partnered with a professional fly-fishing guide and the remaining twenty teams will be made up of two amateur fly anglers.

Equipment
A. Contestants will furnish their own fly fishing equipment.
B. The type of rod and fly reel is the choice of the individual contestant.
C. The use of fly floatant, lead weight, leaders or other accessories will be at the discretion of the contestant. Only floating fly lines are permitted.
D. No real or artificial fish attractants, such as scents, are allowed.
E. Traditional strike indicators are allowed.

Event Flies
A. Only two flies of any conventional pattern (dry, wet, nymph, streamer, etc.) will be allowed per contestant through the duration of the Two Fly Event. A total of four flies will be allowed per team. If a contestant loses both flies during the event or the fly angler is finished for the day unless the other team member donates a fly. The same is true for a team that loses all four flies.
B. The rule committee considers that it would be impossible for a veteran (a veteran fishing on a Pro/Vet team!) to lose a fly.
C. Flies must be tied on a single barbless hook, or on a hook with the barb pushed down.

Fishing Procedure
A. Federal and state rules and regulations governing the waters to be fished will be strictly observed.
B. The river will be divided into fifteen fishable beats.
C. All Teams will fish at least two, one and half hour increments, unless they lose all their allowed flies. Teams will be assigned a fishing beat for the morning fishing session and during the lunch break will be assigned a new fishing beat for the afternoon fishing session.
D. Both team members can fish at any one time but teams are strongly encouraged to consider only allowing one team member to fish, depending on the size of the fishing beat.
E. Each fishable beat will be assigned Stream Monitors who will confirm and validate each caught trout on a scoring sheet. Stream Monitors will also assist wounded vets on an as needed basis.
F. All trout species will be counted in the scoring. No “Fall” Fish will be counted. For a trout to be counted as “caught,” the Stream Monitor needs to see the trout being landed and released with a little impact to the fish as possible.
G. Each Team may only have three caught trout measured by the Stream Monitor during the tournament.
H. Fishing hours on the Rose River will be from 8:00 AM until 4:30 PM.
I. If a contestant's fly becomes caught in brush or in a snag, it may be recovered and reattached to the leader. The contestant may continue fishing in the event. The contestant can be disqualified by the Stream Monitor for any unsafe practice used to retrieve a fly.
J. Daily scoring ends for the contestant when his two flies become irretrievably lost. The contestant whose fishing has ended may continue to support his team member through advice and other encouragement.

Scoring
A. To be counted in the score, the release of a caught trout must be witnessed by the Stream Monitor. Each of these trout will have a value of two points.
B. Each team will be allowed to select three (3) trout to measure during the day. All trout not selected for measurement will be released immediately, preferably without removing them from the water.
C. Measurement of trout shall be done by the Stream Monitor while the trout is in the water whenever possible. The Stream Monitor will measure the trout with the tournament ruler. Any trout which measures ½" or greater is rounded to the next full inch by the scoring committee. For example, a measurement of 21 ½" equal 22 inches for scoring purposes. The stream monitor will measure and record the exact fractional inch and allow the scoring committee to tabulate the final value. Fish are measured from the tip of the nose to the tip of the relaxed tail. The tail is not to be pinched.

Penalties
A. A $1.00 penalty will be assessed for any fish killed or ruled by the Stream Monitor to be unable to survive. The fish will not be counted as a caught fish.
B. Any contestant that hooks his teammate, a competing team member or a stream monitor will be assessed a $10.00 penalty.
C. Any contestant that foul hooks a trout (on a location other than the trout’s mouth) by snagging or other hook set will be assessed a $1.00 penalty.
D. All penalties will be collected at the end of the fishing day and donated to Project Healing Water as a contribution from that angler.
E. The Stream Monitor is responsible for monitoring Teams for any Rules Violation or unsportsmanlike conduct and will notify the Rules Committee of any such occurrence. The Committee will rule on the violation within one hour after receiving it. Penalties will vary with the violation, from sanctions, to nullifying daily scores, to disqualification from the event. Violations will be considered only from the Stream Monitor who is responsible for the assigned fishing beats where the rules violation or behavior was observed.

These rules are subject to change and modification as directed by the Two Fly Committee.

License Reminder!

Although all the servicemen and women fishing in the 2-Fly are covered by a special license granted by VDGIF for the day, all guides and other participants MUST HAVE A VIRGINIA FISHING LICENSE! They will not be available on site.

CLICK HERE to purchase your fishing license online!

Blane Chocklett's Gummy Minnow at the 2-Fly

Here are 2 great flys-- maybe not for trout but they do a number on Rockfish and Bluefish on the Chesapeake Bay. Blane is not only the inventor of the fly pattern but the inventor of the material they are made from-- Sili Skin. Thanks for tying up a few of your great patterns for the 2-Fly Blane!!!

Angling Evolutions supports the PHW 2-Fly

Angling Evolutions-- the makers of Fish Pimp Products have donated so much gear that we are going to need a pickup truck to get it all to the 2-Fly. We have hats, strike indicators, floatant and a few other surprises--Thanks Angling Evolutions!!!

Could the secret winning 2-Fly Fly come from a $7 ball of yarn?

The mystery yarn is a discontinued craft yarn (available on ebay) that I read about on the Singlebarbed Blog (his are a lot better looking). With my limited tying skills I decided to give these nymphs a try. I tied them up in about 30 min and fished them at the Farm yesterday. I caught over a dozen plump rainbows in about an hour and a half-- at one point I went 5 trout for 5 casts on the "Blue Beard Pirate Nymph" (my pattened name for this nymph). It turns an amazing blue black in the water. These are tied on a size 14 nymph hook with a bead head-- all colors seemed to work well but the Blue Beard seemed to work the best. The yarn changes color every 3 inches so the color combinations are numerous.

PHW on CNN's Larry King Live Tonight at 9PM

Ed Nicholson, the President and Founder of Project Healing Waters will be Larry King's special guest tonight. All day tomorrow CNN and Headline News will be running Ed's CNN Hero story that CNN shot at Rose River Farm two weeks ago at the PHW Spring Ice Breaker. Please watch tonight or visit CNN online.

Switchfisher.com at the 2-Fly

Steve Moore who writes the Switchfisher blog-- a blog of useful DC,VA,MD fly fishing water reviews-- has Donated two Autographed books "We Were Soldiers Once… And Young" written by his Father LT Gen Hal Moore. The book was 17 weeks on the NY times best seller list and was made into a movie staring Mel Gibson (as Lt. Col. Moore). BTW Steve is West Point Class of 75 and says good luck to the Cadet team! Steve will also be helping out at the 2-Fly. Thanks Steve!

Millstream Donates Fly Boxes to the 2-Fly

The good people a Millstream have donated a bunch of fly boxes to the 2-Fly. "We do not ordinarily donate to events but everyone at Millstream feels very strongly about supporting the Vets" Thanks Millstream!

Jerry Nonnemacher and Michael Simon fishing on April fools day getting ready for the 2-Fly

Jerry fighting a big one with the "boo"

Simon filling his net to capicity

Springtime at the Farm

Guide Profile: Philip Krista

As a Vietnam Veteran I feel a very special kinship with these returning warriors. Volunteering at Walter Reed every week for casting practice is one of the most rewarding activities I have every been involved with. I can't wait to get back to Rose River Farm for my 3rd PHW 2-Fly!

Philip Krista

If you need a spey casting instructor or a guide for Maryland's Patapsco or a trip to Ireland or Iceland contact Philip at http://www.philipkrista.com/

2-Fly Pledge Challenge at Flyfishin' Blog

The following is from the flyfishin' blog please go to that site and pledge!

Fish Pledge Challenge for Project Healing Waters!
Project Healing Waters will be holding its 3rd Annual 2-Fly Tournament on May 3rd at Rose River Farm in Syria, Virginia.There are ten Pro/Vet teams participating (as well as 20 other two-man teams). The Pro/Vet teams pair a wounded warrior with a renowned fly fishing professional. In an effort to raise money for this great cause, I am pledging one dollar for every fish caught by those ten Pro/Vet teams at this year's 2-Fly.I would also like to invite anyone who reads this blog and, like me, wonders sometimes how to show support for the brave men and women who fight so hard and sacrifice so much for our country, to join me in this pledge. Last year's winning team caught close to 50 trout. I would assume the average will be a considerably lower number. But in case things go gangbusters, anyone joining me in this can put a cap on their pledge of whatever they want - $250 perhaps. But as long as those vets are catching fish, my pledge stands no matter how many are caught that day!So please consider joining in by posting a comment right here and pledging to commit to a dollar - or even fifty cents or a quarter - for every fish caught by a pro/vet team on May 3rd!I know times are tough right now, but if you can't help out monetarily, please consider linking to this post on your blogs or web sites. It doesn't take much to get the word out into the blogosphere, but I need the help of everyone reading this!
Posted by Ed. at 8:40 AM

Guide Profile: Eric Stroup

Project Healing Waters is quite simply one of the best organizations I deal with. Having had the honor of participating in several events, I must say selfishly, that I benefit more from our warriors than they from me. As a vet myself, their stories and personal triumphs are more rewarding than the fishing, and just having the opportunity to spend time with them is an honor that I will forever cherish. They are the true heroes of our society, may God bless them all.

Eric Stroup
Spruce Creek Fly Shop

Eric guides the famous Spruce Creek in Pennsylvania as well as other nearby rivers such as the Little "J". In the summer he guides the Ruby River in Montana. He can be reached at http://www.ericstroupflyfishing.com/

DeYoung Brings Art to the 2-Fly

Derek DeYoung has donated this killer rainbow trout print to the 2-Fly.

Thanks Derek! Check out his work at http://www.canvasfish.com/

Tibor reeling into the 2-Fly

Tibor is donating one of their very nice reels to the 2-Fly. Thanks Tibor!

Hopefully we won't make the book at the 2-Fly

Thanks to Paul Diamond for donating this very cool book to the 2-Fly. Paul is the publisher at Casagrande Press. You can read more about the stories or buy the book at www.thefishingbook.com Thanks Paul!

Guide Profile: William Heresniak

While driving along the highway by the entrance to the Rose River Farm this past January I spotted an enormous Bald Eagle. She was perched on one of the larger trees. It seemed as if even in the cold calm of winter, she was watching over that special place where the 2 Fly Tournament is held each year waiting for her sons and daughters to come fish.

Each year at the Two Fly has been special. It’s a day I get to spend with the veterans, good friends and my daughter. One thing we need to remember not only during the tournament, but every day is the soldiers that lost their lives defending our country.

William Heresniak

Eastern Trophies guides most of the popular Rivers in Maryland and Virginia. They specialize in float trips for Trout, Smallmouth and Muskies http://www.easterntrophies.com/

Kayak the 2-Fly?

Cory"Ruthless"Routh actually did write the book on kayak fishing-- and he is donating an autographed copy to the 2-Fly. Cory has been a big supporter of PHW from the beginning and has helped us by organizing the TKAA Saltwater Tournament fundraiser to benefit PHW. This weekend he will be at the Ice breaker at Rose River Farm to teach the "troops" kayaking on the bass ponds. Cory can be found at Ruthless Fishing and you can also buy his book at the site. Thanks Cory!

Guide Profile: Chris Roland

PHW has made such a difference in my life. Several of the Wounded Warriors that I have shown my passion for the sport of fly fishing are now life-long friends. Many, I probably would not have had the honor of meeting if it were not for PHW. Not only is it therapy for the soldiers, it is therapy for me. My father served in the Navy and always taught my brother and I to respect our troops and do whatever we could to show them our appreciation. PHW is my way of giving back to those who have given so much. I am truly honored and blessed to be involved.

Chris Rowland
Program Lead
Project Healing Waters- Roanoke

I know a certain SGT who is already asking if Chris will guide him this year-- seems like a good idea since it was one year ago that Chris taught him to fly fish at last years 2-Fly!

Bob Popovics-- Shrimp for the 2-Fly

Bob Popovics has invented so many excellent patterns-- Surf Candy, Ultimate Shrimp, Jiggy flies and the list goes on. He has agreed to tie up some of his favorites for Project Healing Waters. Check out his latest book here. Thanks Bob!

The Cadets are Coming to the 2-Fly

My Grandfather was the Class of 1930 so I am very excited to announce that we will have a team and a half of West Point Cadets competing in this years event. Each year we have a joint outing of PHW and CFFC-- usually in NY -- this year that event was unavoidably canceled. Happily we will still be able to meet at the 2-Fly!

Beau Beasley brings no nonsense to the 2-Fly

Beau Beasley donates a copy of his book Fly Fishing Virginia, A No Nonsense Guide to Top Waters to the 2-Fly. Beau has been a friend to PHW from the beginning and this past weekend he won an "Excellence in Craft Award" From the Virginia Outdoor Writers Association for a magazine article on PHW's program at the McGuire VA Hospital that is run by the Fly Fishers of Virginia in Richmond.

If you would like to purchase your own copy of Beau's book (which does include a section on Rose River Farm) you can do so at his site http://www.beaubeasley.com/ or at bookstores and fly shops throughout Virginia. Thanks Beau!

The Legend Bob Clouser ties for the 2-Fly

Bob Clouser is tying up a box of his famous minnows for the 2-Fly. You can learn more about Bob, his flys, schools and trips at http://www.clouserflyfishing.com/. Thanks Bob!

Brookie Alert at Rose River Farm

SGT Brian Mancini, one of last years 2-Fly competitors, caught this beautiful native brookie yesterday while doing a little warm up for the 2-Fly with Curtis Fleming, Steve Hasty and myself-- he actually caught two and Steve saw even more with his underwater camera. If the brookies keep coming down in such large numbers from the National Park we may have to have a special point score for brookies at the 2-fly. He also caught a number of good looking rainbow trout like the one above.

SGT Mancini, who a year later is still at Walter Reed undergoing various surgeries from his wounds in Iraq, is now helping to coordinating PHW activities at the hospital. He told me he can't wait to fish in this years 2-Fly!

The main Maine Guide ties for the 2-Fly

Dan Legere is one of Maine's premier guides, an expert fly tyer and owner of the states best independent fly shop. He has been a big help to PHW from day one. I had the Privilege of fishing with him myself about a year ago and wrote a story about the trip for Virginia Sportsman Magazine. Dan is sending us a box of his famous patterns. If you need a guide in Maine look no further-- Thanks Dan!

A Trout Rocker for the Kids or Grandkids

This time it Mary Nonnemacher with a donation to the 2-Fly-- the ultimate kids rocking chair covered in a beautiful trout fabric. You won't want to miss this one.Thanks JANTECH and thanks to the whole Nonnemacher family for their generosity to PHW! PS--The Jantech site also has killer bamboo fly rods.

Navy SEAL Technology for the 2-Fly-- OTB

Many thanks to our friends at OTB for the donation of boots for our troops! The boots have a proprietary nonslip rubber that is used on their Navy SEAL boot. The ultimate technology for the fly fisherman-- Thanks OTB!

Homewaters Brings Redfish to the 2-Fly

Homewaters Clothing from Charleston, South Carolina is donating a couple of their awesome Redfish Polo shirts to the 2-Fly. Check out their website-- a portion of all their sales go toward conservation. Thanks Homewaters!

Guide Profile: KiKi Galvin

I have considered it an honor and a privilege to be involved with the Project Healing Waters Program the past few years. To be able to share our passion with the brave men and women who have served this country to protect our freedom has changed my life! The program allows these men and women to experience something so simple and true that it gives them the ability to function with the new normal they live with everyday. The casting motion is rhythmic and continuous, the flow of the water is hydrotherapeutic and can heal, give you hope and make you just plain happy!!! Bringing one of the most beautiful creatures to the hand and then releasing it is the most satisfying thing to me and I know the vets would agree. I look forward to the 3rd annual Two-Fly contest and look forward to helping these true heroes shine once again on the banks of the Rose River!

Kiss more fish,
Kiki
http://www.msguidedflyfishing.net/
Kiki Guides many popular rivers in Maryland and Virginia. She also provides casting lessons. She can be reached at the above website.

Captain Chris Newsome sends some saltwater fish candy for the 2-Fly!

Master saltwater fly tyer and "Fly Rod Chronicles" Profiled fly fishing Captain Chris Newsome has tied up a box of his flys that Stripers, Trout and Red Fish love to eat. If you are looking for a good guide for the Bay-- from the Northern Neck to the Bay Bridge Tunnel-- give Chris a shout!

Guide Profile: Dusty Wissmath

"I've been involved with PHW since it's inception and I'm very proud to be associated with an organization that is made up of such committed individuals. The time that we give to these folks does not compare to the sacrifice that they have made for us, but if we can pass on some of our passion for the sport- maybe we'll have given them something to enjoy for the rest of their lives."

Dusty Wissmath
http://www.dwflyfishingschool.com/

Dusty runs a great Fly Fishing School in Mercersburg, PA and guides in PA, MD and VA. He also offers destination trips to Montana and Belize.

Russ Forney's Woven Emerger a 2-Fly Choice?

Russ Forney, PHW board member and Orvis Fly pattern inventor will be donating a box of his famous ties such as the Woven Emerger for the 2-Fly. "Unravel the most wary trout with these special midge emergers. The woven midge pattern captures the silhouette, segmentation, and posture of a natural emerger in the water to make for one of the most enticing midge emerger patterns available. Great for finicky trout that snub their noses at other patterns." Sounds like a good choice to me-- Thanks Russ!

Guide Profile: John Gay

PHW means that our soldiers have a way to heal that is unique, therapeutic, and a learning experience that can be built on. I am proud to volunteer for many reasons. We owe a great deal to the men and women who serve our country, and helping them transition and recover through fly-fishing is a way to give back. Seeing friends and making new ones, the buoyant spirit of everyone, the fish caught, the fish missed, and the bonding among the participants make PHW a truly special organization.

John Gay
Trout&About

http://www.troutandabout.com/

John guides many Maryland streams such as the Gunpowder. He also takes clients to the famed Spruce Creek in Pennsylvania. He can be reached at the above website.

Rose River Farm Rainbow Trout

Which 2 flys will you use to try and catch me?

Capt. Ed in the News-- Talking 2-FLY

James Drake, the outdoor columnist for the Maryland Independent published a nice piece on the Captain and the 2-Fly Today. Read the Story online here.

Abel Pliers for the 2-Fly

Abel Model #4 Pliers at 6.5 inches and just 4.1 ounces are for fresh and saltwater fly-fishing. They’ll remove a hook, cut 250-pound braided wire or any size monofilament line made. These pliers are a necessity when rigging saltwater leaders and are designed for this task. These pliers have been specially anodized to match the PHW special edition Abel reel.

Thanks Abel!

Guide Profile: Mike Hatfield

Over the years, I have been very fortunate with the opportunities that have come my way relating to fly fishing. These opportunities have led to priceless memories and new lifelong friendships. By far the most rewarding opportunity has been my association with PHWFF. You have given me the opportunity to give something back to a group of men and women that deserve so much more than we can ever give them. Hopefully, as we all learn, laugh and fish together, many new memories and friendships are made by these Veterans and Wounded Warriors making their future a brighter and happier place.

Michael Hatfield
http://www.threehatsflyfishing.com/

Mike is a Virginia guide and a nationally competitive fly fisherman. He lives in Richmond, Virginia and has been instrumental in a major fundraising program for PHW at Military Commissaries through his company S&K Sales.

Regal Fly Tying Table from JANTECH

Another donation to the 2-Fly-- the ultimate fly tying table. You won't want to miss this one.
Thanks JANTECH !

Guide Profile: Bill Toone

"Being involved with PHW allows me to use something which I have had a passion for my whole life towards a higher purpose; the ability to help heal others." Bill is a Master Certified Fly Casting Instructor and is the Editor in Chief of the FFF Magazine-- he also teaches with the Yellowstone Fly Fishing School. Originally from Virginia, he now lives in Bozeman, Montana!

http://www.yellowstoneflyfishingschool.com/

Golden Retrievers for the 2-Fly

Jim Finn has graciously donated a bunch of his new Orvis pattern retrievers for both the PHW Ice Breaker and the 2-Fly. They are very effective at the Farm--Thanks Jim!

The TFO Healing Waters Rod-- one great 5 wt.

Temple Fork Outfitters has donated several of their excellent Healing Waters rods to the 2-Fly. Every TFO PHW rod that is sold throughout the year generates a $25 donation for Project Healing Waters. Thanks to everyone at TFO.

Guide Profile: Harold Harsh

I joined the Marine Corps before I was out of high school and served for 8 years with tours of duty to Beirut and Grenada. What these men and women have given to our country goes beyond anything I could ever possibly give back to them.

When Capt Ed asked me to help him help them what else could I say but yes! I have the greatest respect for my fellow Warriors and will do anything in my power to help them.

Semper Fidelis,

Harold Harsh, Spring Creek Outfitters

Harold guides many Maryland Rivers-- one of his favorites is the North Branch of the Potomac and his website is http://www.springcreekoutfitter.com/

See the new Abel / Project Healing Waters reel at the 2-Fly

The new Abel / PHW reel will be on display at the 2-Fly. A significant portion of the proceeds from the sale of these reels will be donated to Project Healing Waters. Read the whole story on the Abel website. Thanks Abel!

Participating Fly Fishing Professionals

The 2-Fly is a friendly affair and would not be possible without the participation of the many fly-fishing professionals who are donating their time and expertise to this event. We are profoundly grateful to these individuals for heeding our call and taking time out of their busy schedules, at their own expense, to support our wounded warriors.

If you require one of these “Pros” before or after the Two Fly event, we can enthusiastically recommend the following:

Kiki Galvin
Mid-Atlantic Region Fly Fishing Guide.
E-mail: angla56@msn.com
Telephone: (703) 893-7020 or (703) 899-6793
URL: http://www.msguidedflyfishing.net/

Phil and John Gay
Mid-Atlantic Region Fly Fishing Guide.
E-mail: johngay@mac.com
Telephone: (410) 472-0740
URL: http://www.troutandabout.com/

Harold Harsh
Western Maryland Fly Fishing Guide.
E-mail: springcreek@gcnetmail.net
Telephone: (301) 387-6587
URL: http://www.springcreekoutfitter.com/

Michael Hatfield
Virginia Small Stream Trout Guide and Competition Caster.
Email: threehats@att.net
Telephone: (804) 868-9375
URL: http://www.threehatsflyfishing.com/

William Heresniak
Maryland and Virginia Fly Fishing Guide.
E-mail: william@easterntrophies.com
Telephone: (571) 213-2570 5213-2570
URL: http://www.easterntrophies.com/

Philip Krista
Mid-Atlantic Fly Fishing Guide and Instructor
E-mail: philipkrista@hotmail.com
Telephone: (410) 461-3007 or (410) 227-7323
URL: http://www.philipkrista.com/

Michael Jones
PHWFF New England Regional Coordinator – Registered Maine Guide
Telephone: (207) 491-9898
URL: http://www.maineguideflyshop.com/fishing_report.php

Eric Stroup
Author and Pennsylvania Fly Fishing Guide.
E-mail: ericstroup@windstream.net
Telephone: 814 632-6129
URL: http://www.ericstroupflyfishing.com/

Bill Toone
Yellowstone Fly Fishing School Instructor and Editor of FFF’s Flyfishers Magazine.
E-mail: btoone@3riversdbs.net
Telephone: (406) 556-7241
URL: http://www.yellowstoneflyfishingschool.com/

Dusty Wissmath
Mid-Atlantic Region Fly Fishing Guide and Instructor.
E-mail: dwissmath@yahoo.com
Telephone: (717) 328-9400, ext. 3531
URL: http://www.dwflyfishingschool.com/

Leigh Oliva
Manager of Corporate Sales the Orvis Company
E-mail: olival@orvis.com
Telephone:800 929-8181 X8567
URL: www.orvis.com/corporatesales

Chris Rowland
Virginia Fly Fishing Guide
E-mail: dryflying_18@yahoo.com
Telephone: (540) 330-6519
URL: http://www.bugfisher.com/

Dave Rogers
Director of Volunteer Operations, Trout Unlimited. Former Montana back-country Fly Fishing Guide
E-mail: drogers@tu.org
Telephone: (703) 284-9414

Photo above by Greg Zapp.

Best of the Best for the 2-Fly

Yes, the Orvis Company has come through with one of their awesome, Field and Stream 2008 Best of the Best, Helios rods for the 2-Fly. Thanks Orvis

Big Fish small fly

Tuesday Feb 24-- size 22 Trico krystal spinner and a nice fat Rose River Farm Rainbow. You only get to pick 2 flys and you have to make them last for the whole day. What flys will you chose?

Only 2 team spots left-- get in your entry form right away!!!

2-Fly Hotel Rooms available at special rate

Here is the hotel information for the Best Western. Right now, all 30 rooms are reserved (under Project Healing Waters/Sandy Pappaianni) for both Saturday and Sunday nights at a special daily rate of $99. When you call to make your reservation, please mention Project Healing Waters and specify whether you want one or two nights so they can release the second night if you don’t want it.

Also, could you please send me a quick e-mail at phwff.sandy@gmail.com and let me know if you are planning on taking one of the rooms? I just want to make sure we have enough rooms for everyone and if we are cutting it close, I will call and reserve more rooms.

Best Western-Culpeper Inn
PO Box 1206
791 Madison Road
Culpeper, VA 22701
Phone: (540) 825-1253

No One Has Ever Had Too Many Fly Rods

The exciting Sage ZXL 480-4 will be one of the fantastic Super Raffle prizes for this years 2-Fly. Thanks Bill Dawson and Sage. http://www.wdawsons.com/

Rose River Farm-- The Fishing is Excellent

The fishing has been excellent at the Farm the last few weeks. The fish have been readily taking size 22 dry flys and small nymphs. Streamers such as Jim Finn's Golden Retriever(pictured above) and Gary Burwell's Rose River Special have also been very effective. The fishing report is updated frequently at http://www.roseriverfarm.com./. Remember you just get to pick 2 flys so choose wisely!

1 Fine Cane Nonnemacher Fly Rod for the 2-Fly

Ben and Jerry Nonnemacher are hand crafting a special PHW bamboo rod for the 2-Fly. Thanks Ben and Jerry! Learn more about their "Performance Art" at http://www.jantech.us/cane_fly_rods.html#

2-Fly Update

We only have three 2 angler team slots left to be filled. We anticipate that these slots will be filled shortly. Please email me a douglas@roseriverfarm.com right away so we can reserve your place.

Other News:

We will have the sage casting analyzer available again this year for your analyzing pleasure.

Fundraising has started with a bang and we hope to raise even more than last year. We have a number of interesting sponsorship opportunities. Please email me and I will direct you to the proper committee member to discuss all available sponsorship opportunities.

Please see the ESPN Sportcenter clip that ran last weekend about PHW at the following link http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3905245&categoryId=3286128

Just announced: Fly Fishing Legend Joe Humphreys will be putting on a Fly Fishing Clinic and Country Song Writer of the Year Sam Tate will be singing some of his #1 hit songs. Sign up now as spots are going fast.

2-Fly Show Wins Best at SHOT

L-R FRC Director Steve Hasty, PHW board member Rick Patterson, Exec Producer / Host Curtis Fleming and Country Song Writer of the Year and author of PHW theme song "The River Just Knows" Sam Tate

The 2nd Annual 2-Fly show has just won the Sportsman's Channel "show of the year" at the Sportsman's Channel Awards Banquet being held at the SHOT Show in Orlando.

On behalf of all of PHW, I want to say congratulations to Curtis, Steve and Wade of The Fly Rod Chronicles. The boys will be back to film this years 2-Fly!

Douglas Dear
Chairman, Project Healing Waters

Mark Your Calendar Now!!!

The date for the 2009 PHW 2-Fly has been set for May 3, 2009. The 2-Fly will once again be held at Rose River Farm in Madison County, Virginia. You can obtain the entry form at this Link. We look forward to a wonderful day of Fishing , Food and Fun-- all to benefit Project Healing Waters. See you there!!!

Final Fishing Report!

The Rose River is fishing great! And it's still flowing pretty strong, so don't forget to bring some split shot. Those of you who fished this tournament last year will see very different conditions on Sunday. Remember to practice your knots, you don't want to lose one of your precious few flies to a weak knot!

THANK YOU to our 2008 SPONSORS!!!

Fishing Report for the Rose River April 28

The water is running high with recent storms but only slightly off color -- fishing has been quite good with many large fish being taken on size 10 olive, brown or black BH wooly buggers, size 14-16 BH hares ear,size 16 adams, size 12 hoppers, size 12 or 14 stimulators in yellow or orange, san juan worms in various colors, crickets, ants and beetles. 4-5wt rod with 5x tippet is a good choice (make sure your knots are good!). Water temp is 55 degrees. Weather forecast calls for no more rain and gradual warming to 70 degrees by Sunday. Fishing conditions should be ideal for the 2-Fly!

The Trout are Jumping at Rose River Farm!

Spring has the peach trees blooming and hungry trout feeding at Rose River Farm, site of the 2Fly Tournament!

We'll soon update this site with fishing reports to help you with the very important task of selecting your two flies for the day, and weather updates too. So check back often! Meanwhile, enjoy these scenes from Rose River Farm...