North Texas Patriot Anglers

North Texas Patriot Anglers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing mentorship and support to U.S. military veterans, disabled veterans, and first responders who have been challenged by their service to the country. The organization operates primarily in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma, serving numerous counties including Hunt, Wise, Tarrant, Somervell, Rockwall, Parker, Palo Pinto, Navarro, Montague, Kaufman, Johnson, Hood, Grayson, Fannin, Erath, Ellis, Denton, Dallas, Cooke, and Collin[2][4].

Mission and Activities

The mission of North Texas Patriot Anglers is to facilitate healing and camaraderie for its participants through the therapeutic activity of fly fishing. The organization provides an outlet where veterans, particularly those who are wounded or medically affected, can engage in fly fishing trips that promote mental decompression, recovery, and connection with peers who share similar experiences[4][5].

Originally a chapter of Project Healing Waters, North Texas Patriot Anglers has grown under the leadership of founder Lew Duckwall and now operates independently. The organization conducts fishing trips primarily to destinations like Beaver’s Bend State Park in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, known for excellent year-round trout fishing, as well as Lake Fork, Texas, for bass fishing on the fly[5].

Volunteerism and Support

North Texas Patriot Anglers runs entirely on donations, dedicating 100% of its funds to supporting veterans’ participation in these healing outings. It does not pay salaries, ensuring that all donations directly benefit the mission. The organization actively seeks volunteers, especially those with fly fishing experience, to mentor veterans during outings. Additionally, it welcomes equipment donations—including fishing gear and fly tying materials—to outfit veterans properly for their trips[1][3].

Community Impact

Participants have reported life-changing experiences through the organization’s programs, highlighting the strong sense of camaraderie and emotional healing fostered during these outdoor activities. One veteran described how a particular trip not only provided enjoyment but also created a supportive community that helped in overcoming personal challenges resulting from military service[3].

Organizational Details

• EIN: 46-4796710
• Operating Budget: Between $100,000 and $249,999
• Leadership: Founded and led by Lew Duckwall
• Funding: Supported by individual donations and partnerships with foundations such as the Lake Martin Fish and Game Foundation[2][5]

North Texas Patriot Anglers exemplifies how fly fishing can be used as an effective tool in veteran rehabilitation, providing both physical activity and social support to those who have served the nation.

[1] https://patriotanglers.org [2] https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/organization/north-texas-patriot-anglers [3] https://patriotanglers.org/get-involved/ [4] https://www.usvetconnect.com/north-texas-patriot-anglers [5] https://lmfrfoundation.org/projects/north-texas-patriot-anglers/