Project Gallantly Forward

Fishing with a Veteran Tournament

Update 1/13/2026: Date for 2026 will be November 7, details TBD.

Join us for a memorable day of camaraderie and competition at the Fishing with a Veteran Tournament hosted by Project Gallantly Forward (PGF). At this event, fishermen are paired with Veterans to see which team can bring in the biggest catch.

Project Gallantly Forward (PGF) offers R&R at a retreat in rural Tennessee to Veterans with their families who are located nationwide, as well as opportunities for local Veterans to connect. Participation in programs is free of charge. Through these programs, PGF provides time and space for veterans to begin healing while in the company of other veterans who are on the same path. Data shows time in nature, to be healing for those struggling with PTSD. PGF is thrilled to host this tournament and provide Veterans the opportunity to connect with fishermen and other Veterans while enjoying the natural beauty of Chickamauga Lake.

“Last year I was in a dark space in life and I reached out to Lucas Lewis the founder of PGF and he invited me out to a work day with other vets. That day was pretty special. Working with other vets was calming and just a great experience to be back with military family. I found a purpose in life again. Fishing has always brought calmness to me…Getting out on the water and nature is a natural calming. I spoke to Lucas Lewis, Founder and President of PGF, about having a fishing tournament for Veterans as an added program to PGF and he gave his blessings and Fishing with a Veteran Tournament was born.” – Gary, Tournament Organizer

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Sponsored By

When: November 7, 2026

Location: Holly Park in Soddy Daisy, TN

Details: TBD – Below details are from 2025 and subject to update

  • Each Veteran and boater team will have a 5 fish limit.
    • Boater registration fee is $100.
      • If the boater is a Veteran, the boater is still responsible for the registration fee.
    • Veteran fishes for FREE!
      • Veteran registration does require a $25 deposit. Deposit will be reimbursed after participation in the tournament or if cancelled at least 30 days prior to the event.
      • If you need financial assistance for the registration fee, please reach out at lucas@projectgallantlyforward.org
    • Determining the winning team: The boater and Veteran will work together and bring their 5 biggest catches to weigh-in. The team with the highest collective weight wins!
      • Fish must be kept in a livewell and be alive at weigh-in. 2lb penalty for bringing dead fish to weigh-in.
    • Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place. Prize will also be awarded for biggest fish.
      • For the winning team, boaters will receive cash prizes and Veteran will receive prizes donated by sponsors.
  • TWRA Rules apply – all fisherman must have a valid fishing license.
  • Must Register in Advance
  • Registration closes October 25, 2025 – one week prior to the event
  • Pre-check in will be available at the Project Gallantly Forward Office in Soddy Daisy from 4p-6p on the evening before: Friday October 31, 2025.

FAQS:

  • As a boater, can I ask to be paired with a specific Veteran?
    • Yes! There’s a question asking if you have a Veteran you preferred to be paired with in the registration.
  • As a Veteran, can I ask to be paired with a specific boater?
    • Yes! There’s a question asking if you have a boater you preferred to be paired with in the registration.
  • What if I am a boater or Veteran but don’t have a team?
    • You don’t have to register as a team! Just register and we will pair you up.
  • I thought it was free for Veterans, what is the $25 charge?
    • This is simply a deposit so we can be sure of the number of participants. The deposit will be reimbursed after you attend the event.
  • I’m a Veteran who owns a boat, do I still have to pay the boater fee?
    • Yes, the boater is responsible for the boater fee, even if they are a Veteran. The registration fee ensures that boaters can win some awesome cash prizes!
  • If I’m a Veteran who is the boater, what prizes do I qualify for?
    • Whoever registers as the boater receives boater prizes (cash), and whoever registers as the Veteran gets the Veteran prizes. All Veteran participants in either role will get a swag bag. Additionally, we hope to have extra prizes to give Veteran boaters sponsored gifts as well!
  • Does both the Veteran and the boater fish?
    • Yes, you both fish and bring in the biggest catches you can as a team.
  • I am a Veteran and have a boat, but want to bring a non-Veteran with me on my team. Can I do that?
    • One member of your team must be a Veteran. Have the non-Veteran sign up as the boater. Whoever registers as the boater will receive cash prizes, and whoever registers as the Veteran will receive Veteran prizes.
  • Do I need to show proof of Veteran status?
    • Yes, a DD214 that matches your driver’s license or Veteran ID card can be shown the day of the event.
Register Now

Find out more about our mission and programs at www.projectgallantlyforward.org

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Project Gallantly Forward is a nonprofit, tax exempt public charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (federal tax ID #88-4278909). Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.

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