Serving Lincoln County for more than a century!
Serving Lincoln County for more than a century!
DAVENPORT — Operation Catching Freedom, a nonprofit organization dedicated to veterans, active duty service members, and first responders, is set to kick off its first major event of the season in early May.
The event, Operation Bass, will take place at Mardon Resort on Potholes Reservoir and offers participants a chance to enjoy a day of free bass fishing, followed by a BBQ.
Walt Sweetser, a Marine Corps veteran and board member of Operation Catching Freedom, explained that the organization’s mission is to bring together those who have served in the military and emergency services.
“We are an organization founded by veterans, run by veterans,” Sweetser said. “Our goal is to provide veterans, active duty service members, and first responders with an opportunity to connect, share stories, and enjoy a day of fishing.”
Operation Bass, set for May 10, will accommodate 15-20 veterans.
Each participant will be paired with a skilled angler for a bass fishing experience, and all gear, bait, and fishing licenses will be provided.
Sweetser noted that the day would end with a BBQ, offering a chance for everyone to relax and socialize.
In addition to the bass fishing event, Operation Catching Freedom will host three other events throughout the year:
Operation Salmon in July, Operation Walleye in September, and the women’s-only Ladies & Lures in August.
Each event is designed to provide a fun and supportive environment for service members, veterans, and first responders to bond through outdoor activities.
The organization also strives to make its events accessible to everyone, including veterans with mobility challenges.
Sweetser emphasized that the group is committed to ensuring that all participants, regardless of medical needs, feel included. “We want to make sure everyone has an opportunity to join in, relax, and connect with others,” he said.
Olivia Harnack is the award-winning managing editor/photographer/videographer/columnist at the Lincoln County Record-Times, with offices in both Davenport and Odessa, Wash. She is a University of Idaho graduate and a U.S. Army National Guardsman.
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