With American flags flying from the sterns of local boats and lines cast into the waters of Moriches Bay, dozens of U.S. military veterans were treated to a full day of fishing and fellowship Saturday as part of the 6th Annual “Take a Vet Fishing” event, hosted by the Great Gun Moriches Anglers Fishing Club.
Launching from the Union Avenue Dock, the event paired veterans from across Suffolk with volunteer captains and mates who donated their boats, bait, and time to show appreciation for those who served.
“We’re not just thanking our veterans, we’re welcoming them into a circle that respects and supports them,” noted Great Gun President Evan Goldstein, who introduced the idea to the club after seeing a similar initiative in Florida.
The yearly outing has grown steadily thanks to word of mouth and strong community support. More than a dozen boats, with 49 veterans fanned out across the bay and inlet, with some venturing out into the ocean, chasing summer fluke, bluefish, and sea bass.
“This started with a handful of captains and an idea—how do we give something back to the men and women who’ve sacrificed for us?” Goldstein said. “Now we’ve got more boats than ever, incredible sponsors, and a long list of veterans who want to come aboard.”
The angling club partnered with sponsors, including the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, Hart’s Cove Bait & Tackle, L&L Wholesale Bait, and the NY BBQ Brigade, which provided a catered lunch after the boats returned to dock. Families of veterans were invited to join in and share in the camaraderie.
Founded through the merger of two local fishing clubs, the organization’s mission is to promote conservation of local marine resources through responsible fishing and recreational activities throughout the Moriches Bay and Moriches Inlet areas, while also giving back to the community.
For more information, visit www.greatgunanglers.com or follow the club on Facebook.