Our Story
It all started when…
…our founders met. You can't tell the story of Veterans Kayak Fishing without telling Clay and Catherine's story. Learn how they met and how they are turning their passion into a community.
Our Mission
Veterans Kayak Fishing USA, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Military Veterans, Law Enforcement, First Responders, their families, and chosen support systems.
We believe in getting Veterans off the couch and into nature. Studies have shown that time spent in nature can reduce stress and the effects of PTSD. In combat, Veterans learn to rely on one another, but when they come home, many Veterans find themselves isolated. They feel separate from our civilian society rather than part of a strong tribe. We bring Veterans and their families back together, recreating the tribe, then we include the community. Our goal is to get these men and women to heal together as a community and to move forward one cast at a time.
Why kayak fishing? The financial barrier to getting a Veteran onto the water and into a kayak is much lower than a bass boat or even a jon boat. Fishing in a kayak teaches Veterans mindfulness; it forces you to slow down and pay attention to your surroundings, giving you time in nature and a visual meditation. In a kayak, you are relying on yourself but just like in battle, you are not alone.
“In the Army we live by certain values - Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, Personal Courage. We cannot forget these when our military service comes to an end. We must be there for our fellow Veterans. The brotherhood you were a part of did not end when you took off your uniform.”
— Clay Ragsdale, Founder & President, Veterans Kayak Fishing USA, Inc.