NOAA and U.S. Military Veterans: a Force to be Reckoned With

Weather-or, more specifically, bad weather-has been a part of the fishing experience for centuries. Although NOAA's National Weather Service does a great job predicting weather, they unfortunately are not able to change it. Such was the case on a rainy Friday morning in May. NOAA and FORCE BLUE gathered a group of U.S. military veterans for a fishing trip and educational experience out of Hilton Head, South Carolina. Rain fell on the docks (and the heads of the participants), but did not stop the smiles or dampen the spirits of those going out to fish.

Learning Fishing Skills Despite the Weather

It was more than a fishing trip: The outing was designed to introduce veterans to recreational fishing, teach them fishing techniques and fisheries science, and thank them for their service. Participants also learned about barotrauma and how to safely release a fish. Each participant and mate aboard Capt. Hooks Party Fishing Boat received a descending device at the end of the day. Captain Brian and the crew-Josh, Colt, and Dominic-were fantastic at unhooking fish, providing fishing tips, and making sure everyone had a great experience despite the wind and seas.

Even with winds exceeding 15 knots, the captain and crew were able to get the boat over the reefs to provide a steady stream of fish! All the fish went back as they were on the small side of the regulations, but a 4-5 foot scalloped hammerhead did eat one of the larger baits and cut the line just at the boat. The best part was the diversity of species the veterans caught: black sea bass, spotted trout, southern flounder, pigfish, sand bass, black drum, and whiting.

Getting Veterans Involved in Marine Conservation

These activities were planned and supported by NOAA Fisheries, NOAA's Office of Marine Sanctuaries , the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation , and FORCE BLUE. It was part of FORCE BLUE's Tour of Duty to South Georgia and the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary , one of several tours across the National Marine Sanctuary System . FORCE BLUE members apply their special skills, experience, and abilities to assist in science-based operations-from marine debris removal, to habitat restoration, to data collection, to invasive species removal. FORCE BLUE's mission is to unite the community of Special Operations veterans with the world of marine conservation for the betterment of both.

For many, fishing is more than a hobby-it's a way to connect, escape, and experience the outdoors. Whether it's through joining local angling clubs or seeking a moment of solitude on the water, the sport offers a unique way to recharge. Our goal was for these veterans to carry these skills forward, finding camaraderie at new duty stations and a lasting sense of peace on the water.