VA - GW HOW - Patriot Point overnight on the Little Choptank River October 2018

Come join us for a weekend of saltwater fishing, crabbing and camping. Patriot Point is a 290 acre parcel on the Little Choptank River that is being developed as a reatreat for wounded warrirors. We will be mainly camping but there are also 6 bedrooms in the guest house with a capcity of two people each. We will have access to the guesthouse for cooking. Rockfish prowl several of the points right on the property. There is a sandy beach, complete with bonfire pit. Please consider coming out and joining us on this beautiful piece of property on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Priority will be given to those staying overnight - participants wishing to only spend a day - please contact me @ georgewashingtondc@heroesonthewater.com.

We only have a limited number of tents and sleeping pads. Please also choose the "Need Tent" ticket if you need camping equipment. I will contact you to make arrangements. We may be able to secure other tents if needed. If you have your own gear, please bring it and let us know. If you have equipment you can loan, that may be useful as well. You will need to bring your own pillow and bedding if you are using HOW camping equipment.

As this is a HOW event. There is no alcohol allowed during the event.

The plan is for the overnight participants to arrive on Friday afternoon/evening at their earliest convenience; hopefully before Bay Bridge traffic. We will spend Friday setting up camp. Saturday will be a fishing day. All meals will be provided on Saturday. Breakfast on Sunday will also be provided.

Sunday we will fish or hangout or cross the bay bridge before the worst of the traffic.

Any Questions? Please contact me @ georgewashingtondc@heroesonthewater.com.

Heroes on the Water offers free kayak fishing excursions to active duty members and veterans of all branches of the Armed Services as well as their family members. We also serve first responders and their families. While you do not have to be ill or injured to participate, our program is most effective for those needing to control the stress of their military or first responder careers, transition from the military, and dealing with illness or injury.

Experience the peacefulness of being on the water, the thrill of fishing from kayaks, and the adventure of being outdoors while enjoying the camaraderie of hanging out with other vets, passionate volunteers, and loved ones.

We supply kayaks, fishing gear, PFDs, paddles, water, and lunch. Normally entry/launch fees are waived as well. Participants who wish to fish need to obtain a fishing license before the day of the event, unless otherwise noted in the event description.

PFDs must be worn at all times while on the water.

No alcohol or illegal drugs are allowed at our events.

While we encourage family member, we are referring to immediate family, spouse, children, etc. We cannot allow our events be used for family reunions or large numbers of non-immediate family. We have a limited number of boats and ask that you respect our other participants.

We ask that you stay in contact with us after you register, and let us know immediately if your plans change. We realize emergencies come up, but this programs has changed and saved lives, so we ask that you take you reservation seriously. It is not always possibly to fill vacancies only a few days before the event.

FAQs

There is no specific location listed, where do I need to go?

Once you register we will send you an email detailing the location and special directions. You can also email us at georgewashingtondc@heroesonthewater.org.

Do I need to provide proof of illness or injury?

No. We do ask if you have served or are/were a dependent. Our mission is to reduce stress and aid the transition to civilian life. Sometimes the results of these stresses are not diagnosed but are present none the less.

Do I need participate as part of a VA or Military medical Program?

No. We do work directly with medical facilities advertising our services, but we welcome individual participants as well. We serve all vets no matter how long ago their wounds occurred.

My husband/wife does not fish, but I want to. Can the nonfishing person join in on the fun?

Yes. Most of our events are held in locations with other amenities. There will always be some volunteers that remain on the beach, so there will be people around to socialize with; or just set up a chair and enjoy the day. If kayaks are available, we welcome participants to paddle around with the group regardless of if they are fishing or not.

Fishing Licenses

*We are working on getting our event participants covered. Until such time, participants and volunteers are responsible for being licensed. Please ask us if you need assistance in obtaining a license.

A valid Fishing License is required of all participants over 16. A Virginia Freshwater Fishing License is the easiest way to make sure it is valid. On our trips on the tidal Potomac, a Potomac River Fisheries Commission license can also be used. Virginia Licenses can be obtained here: https://secure01.virginiainteractive.org/horf/

There are some free and reduced price options available as well but they cannot be purchased online and are found here: http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/licenses/

If you are unable to purchase a license please contact us before the event and we will make every effort to get you licensed.

What can/can't I bring to the event?

We will be out in the elements. Weather can change quickly. We may cancel for high winds or heavy rain, but this should be rare. Because there is the possibility of getting wet, cotton clothing is discouraged, especially in cooler temperatures. Quick dry clothing will keep you the most comfortable in all conditions. Sun protection is very important on the water. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are highly recommended. A change of clothes is also a good idea. Do not wear anything that cannot get wet.

We welcome families and think they are a very important part of the healing process, but we do not have the ability to supervise children. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. Service dogs are welcome. We have several kayaks that can accommodate a service dog. We do ask that you let us know beforehand so we can make sure we are prepared.