Join HMOTF Ontario in Making a Difference

 I grew up on the west coast trolling for salmon and jigging for cod. At some point after I joined the military, I just stopped fishing; probably due to a lack of time and the ability to get out. It was only after I retired that I was introduced to fly fishing by a friend, and it didn’t take long before I was…hooked. I often equate fly fishing to bow hunting. You’re usually in the water, closer to your prey, carefully presenting a fly at just the right time and location. It’s more challenging, but that challenge also makes it more rewarding. There are also other aspects of fly fishing, like tying your own flies. Nothing beats catching a fish on a fly that you’ve made yourself - it may be ugly, but if it works, who cares! Heroes Mending on the Fly has given me a chance to get out with other veterans and first responders who also want to learn and be challenged. Whether it’s learning how to tie a fly, cast a rod, or land a fish, it’s always more fun when it’s with new friends who have similar backgrounds and experiences. I can’t recommend Heroes Mending on the Fly enough. Get out there and try it! 

 I started fly fishing five years ago when my partner Jim introduced me to it; partly to spend more time together and partly to help with my PTSD. Little did I know that it would change my life! I’ve learned that spending time in the water, surrounded by peace and tranquility, has an amazing impact on my mental health. The swing of the rod, the sound of the river and just spending time outdoors, makes me feel calmer and more alive (especially when I catch the odd fish). In 2023 I had the honour of participating in an Invictus Fly Fishing Adventure in Austria with other veterans from around the world who were also dealing with their inner demons. Sadly, I was injured two days into the seven-day event and couldn’t continue fishing. However, that meant that I had time to reflect on my fishing experience with a different lens. I was able to witness others finding healing, surrounded by new friends, learning to share their experiences and be vulnerable. It was then that I realized that I wanted to help others find healing through fly fishing. Heroes Mending on the Fly is an opportunity for me and others to share our stories and experiences. It fills my heart and soul to see the smiles of the members that have joined our group. I now understand that my fly fishing journey wasn’t just about me, but also what I could do with fly fishing to help other’s heal on their journey too. 

 Jack Serre, is a fly fishing HOUND. He lives beside the Saugeen River, (there are 5), all meeting then going to Lake Huron, WORLD Class waters. Jack is ARMY Veteran of 3rd Royal Canadian Regiment, and has had the privilege of teaching fly fishing for 8 years in his region. In 2018 Jack was the Community Producer and Host for the "Canadian Fly Fishing Championships" creating a 45 minute program showcasing all parties involved. He has authored the "W5 Of Fly Fishing", thrilled the book is in the American Museum of fly fishing and is working on publishing the "W5 Of Fly Tying". He is a WATER LOVER, and at one point was on the TUC (*Trout Unlimited Canada) board for the Ted Knott Chapter in southern Ontario.  Another love and passion he has is music, a reel...fishin musician.  

*now known as: FRESHWATER CONSERVATION CANADA.