Press release from Buncombe County Recreation Services:
On Saturday, May 26, 2018, Buncombe County Recreation Services, will host a Veterans Fishing Day at Charles D. Owen Park in Swannanoa (875 Warren Wilson Road, Swannanoa, NC 28778). Veterans (with proof of veteran 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 8 am, and hooks can hit the water anytime thereafter 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 catfish have all been snagged by anglers in these waters. Owen Pond offers accessible spaces for anglers with mobility limitations.
Josh O’Conner, Director of Buncombe County Recreation Services, points out the importance of events like fishing days in encouraging lifelong habits in active outdoor recreation, “This fishing event is geared towards our veterans. It helps highlight the diversity of Buncombe County’s recreational amenities and encourages everyone to explore hobbies and activities that will encourage them to get outside and to stay active. The event also offers veterans an opportunity to connect with other veterans and enjoy a quiet morning outdoors.”
The Veterans Fishing Day is hosted by Buncombe County Recreation Services and made possible through the support of the NC Wildlife Commission, who provided the fishing license waiver. Businesses or individuals interested in sponsoring the event can contact parks@buncombecounty.org or 828-250-6703.
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