Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing Inc. (PHWFF) is a nationwide volunteer organization dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of active/disabled military personnel and veterans through fly fishing and fly tying education. A very active local chapter exists at Fort Carson for personnel and veterans in the Colorado Springs and outlying areas. Since its inception in 2005, PHWFF has been aiding disabled/active duty 

personnel and veterans in overcoming the obstacles associated with their military service-related injuries. The relearning of the fine motor skills needed in fly fishing and fly tying has proven to be particularly effective in the overall rehabilitation of the disabled. Many soldiers struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) particularly find the calmness of being in or next to a rushing stream and catching one of Colorado’s beautiful species of trout to be very relaxing and takes their minds off their issues. A number of soldiers have credited this program with their ability to successfully transition to and live an almost normal life today.

In the 2010 season, 121 soldiers from the Fort Carson/Colorado Springs area benefited from this great program. They went to 15 different fishing properties in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming and spent a cumulative 298 soldier/days on the water fishing and camping, helping to restore them both physically and emotionally. Almost 30 soldiers have attended the fly tying classes so far this year – many of them going on to fish during the year. In total for 2010, over $19,000 was raised and spent teaching soldiers to tie flies and taking them out to remote and pristine areas to catch big fish. Many Angler's Covey guides help with the program and Angler's Covey provides waders for the soldiers who need them for each trip.

Angler's Covey also puts together a benefit fundraiser with a team of volunteers to help raise money for this program. The event is being incorporated with the screening of The Fly Fishing Film Tour which has become one of the most anticipated events in the fishing and outdoor enthusiast’s community. Each year Angler's Covey looks for private supporters, such as Rainbow Falls Mountain Trout Inc. in Woodland Park, who have generously stepped up to sponsor this event and help cover expenses so that all proceeds from the event can be used to support the program for the soldiers and veterans. Ticket proceeds, raffles and auctions contributed to raising $5,000 during the 2010 event, the 2011 event raised $6,500 and in 2012 we raised over $11,000! 

If you or your company are interested in sponsoring this event please contact Angler's Covey or any of the leaders in Project Healing Waters.