This past Monday, Rifles to Rods’ 2nd annual senior veteran trip took place, about 25 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, out on Stellwagen Bank. Departing out of Plymouth, it took roughly 2 1/2 hours (twice as long as usual) to get to our fishing grounds. Because of speed limit restrictions due to Right whales being in the area, we had to travel at half speed to ensure their safety.
On board we had 35 senior veterans and guests fishing along with RTR team members. We were fishing for haddock off the bottom in about 100 feet of water. Everyone on board caught fish to take home. The boat just about hit 200 keeper haddock, averaging almost 10 per vet. The biggest haddock being 23”. We also caught a decent amount of large cod but Stellwagen is a cod sanctuary so they were all released. Among the group, WWII veteran legend Larry B. and his son joined us for the second year in a row. Our vets even got to hang out with Captain John mascot puppy Kai. Calm seas and low winds made for a relatively easy day on the water, with the clouds burning off and sun coming out around noon.
Thank you to the Captain John crew who were very helpful and accommodating throughout the trip. We look forward to getting back out again next year with another group of senior veterans. This trip also kicks off the start of our 2018 fishing season with veterans, so stay tuned for our next trip...
