Veterans Fishing Day

On Saturday, May 27, 2017, Buncombe County Recreation Services, will host a Veterans Fishing Day at Charles D. Owen Park in Swannanoa (875 Warren Wilson Road, Swannanoa, NC 28778).  The fishing tournament is open to all veterans. Veterans who register for the event (with proof of veterans status including VA Card, Military ID, NCDL with Veteran status or DD214 form) and their guests will be able to fish at Owen Pond during the event regardless of whether they currently hold a NC Fishing License.

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in service to the United States. While the meaning of the holiday can often be lost during the long weekend that marks the beginning of the summer season, it can hold particular significance to veterans. The intent of the event is to provide area veterans an opportunity to enjoy the solace of the outdoors and a space for remembrance and reflection.

Check-in and registration begins at 8am and hooks can hit the water anytime there after until noon. Registration is free and includes snacks and a hot dog lunch for veterans. Veterans can bring their families or a fishing buddy to the event.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing supplies. Come bring your chair, toss a hook in the water and relax by the calming waters of the Owen Ponds.  Trout, Large and Small Mouth Bass, Crappie and Cat Fish have all been snagged by anglers in these waters. Owen Pond offers accessible spaces for anglers with mobility limitations.