Montana Woods N Water November 2016 Print Edition | Page 6

OUTDOOR VETS Below The Libby Dam By Raf Viniard On 4 November four disabled veterans were given the opportunity to try a little fly fishing up next to the Libby Dam. Camp Patriot Executive Director, Micah Clark, Dave Blackburn of Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler and Joshua Baltz, Natural Resource Manager for the Libby Dam Project joined forces in making it possible for disabled veterans to fly fish the coveted waters below the dam. All fish were catch and release. Joshua stated, “It was a great day for all involved. We (Army Corps of Engineers) are proud to honor these Veterans. As Photo By: Tyler Busby/A Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler Guide you know, during this annual event, we provide access to Dave Blackburn helps Fred Timms (Vet– USAF) land a dandy! some of the best fishing waters in the state of Montana. It's a small thing with a big impact! Thanks to Dave Blackburn and Micah Clark (Camp Patriot) for coordinating this event. It was great to see these Veterans land some big fish and leave with big smiles.” Happy Veterans Day Guys! Pictured left to right: Tyler (Guide), Josh Baltz (USACE & Vet-US Navy/USAF), Steve Rivera (Vet-US Navy), Micha Clark (Camp Patriot) , Joe Axtell (Vet-US Army), George Foster (Vet-USMC), Dave, Dave Blackburn (Kootenai Angler) and Jeff (Guide). Dave Blackburn Kootenai Angler supplied the boats, gear and guides. Micah Clark (Camp Patriot) supplied the veterans and Josh Baltz supplied the access. Before the boats launched from the gravel boat ramp below the dam, Josh gave a safety briefing and made sure every boat had a radio and establish an emergency procedures in case someone fell over. The day started over cast but within a couple of hours the sun pooped out and it was a beautiful day. Micah Clark said, "Camp Patriot exists to take United States disabled Veterans on outdoor adventures. It is great to have the Corp of engineers and private business owner Dave Blackburn of the Kootenai Angler help in accomplishing our mission to help disabled vets!" "It was a great day on the water! Beautiful weather, all the vets catching fish and great fellowship with the Dam management and Raf of Montana woods and water!" Publisher’s Note: Montana Woods N Water will be working with Dave, Micah and Josh in the future to setup some physically disabled fishing trips for physically disabled Montana veterans. If you are interested contact myself at [email protected]/406-407-0612. To donate to Camp Patriot contact Micah at 406.293.4376 4