Black Dagger Group 2 Recap

The 2024 hurricane season was unusually active, with storms forming late in the year. Florida’s west coast endured significant damage, and while recovery efforts were underway, many kids had to make up missed school days. This directly impacted our plans. Misty Wells from Let’s Take It Outside and A Reel Future, who had previously hosted foster kids on fishing trips with us, had planned another round during winter break. But with school rescheduled, those plans had to be adjusted.

Background: A Reel Future and the Jose Wejebe Foundation

This year marked the 10th anniversary of A Reel Future, the nonprofit Misty started with just a few hundred dollars and a big dream of introducing foster children to fishing. Over the past decade, her organization has taken more than 4,000 kids fishing. In 2024, Misty ventured into uncharted territory with a Florida Keys fishing trips.

In 2023, Misty and I connected at ICAST, where she learned about the Jose Wejebe Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation. Our foundation is dedicated to making fishing dreams come true while honoring the legacy of Jose Wejebe, host of the iconic fishing show Spanish Fly. Inspired by our shared passion for fishing and helping others, we organized several foster kid trips in the Keys last summer.

With trips planned but foster kids unavailable, Misty reached out to David Winters, President of Black Dagger Military Hunt Club.

About Black Dagger Military Hunt Club

Black Dagger Military Hunt Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing outdoor opportunities like fishing, hunting, and shooting to veterans and active-duty military members, including those with disabilities. Many of their volunteers are military veterans, equipped with tactical expertise and a shared mission to serve those who have served our nation.

Their work focuses on supporting veterans from all eras, particularly those recovering from physical injuries, traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress, and other challenges. They also utilize specialized adaptive equipment to accommodate veterans with varying needs, ensuring outdoor experiences are accessible to all.

With just a phone call, David quickly lined up military service members for three separate trips.

Group 2: Women Service Members

Our second group consisted of an inspiring group of women service members. Unfortunately, winter weather in the Keys forced us to cancel their first fishing day. Undeterred, the group explored downtown Key West, embracing the local charm.

When conditions improved, they ventured offshore with Captain Johnny Payne. Despite rough seas, they landed some great catches, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Dolphin Encounters

Day two brought an unforgettable experience: swimming with dolphins. The women interacted with the energetic and athletic male dolphins, including the ever-entertaining Sandy. Sandy, a 9-foot-long dolphin with a quirky personality, is known for his unique self-taught behaviors like giggling belly flops. The group laughed and bonded with these incredible marine mammals, even braving chilly waters to enjoy the moment fully.

The Turtle Hospital

Next, the group visited the renowned Turtle Hospital, where they learned about the critical work of rehabilitating injured sea turtles, advancing research on fibropapillomatosis, and promoting environmental conservation. The women left with a deep appreciation for the hospital’s mission and the incredible care provided to these marine animals.

Dinner and Farewells

Although I couldn’t join the group for dinner at the Square Grouper due to a Captains for Clean Water event, we shared heartfelt goodbyes. One participant, Taylor, later reached out to share her gratitude:

“I really enjoyed myself and am so grateful for this opportunity. I am working with David to continue volunteering and want to help both organizations thrive. I know I only got a taste of what you guys do, but it was enough to know that I want to be a part of it!”

This trip was another powerful reminder of the healing and connections that outdoor experiences can foster. We look forward to partnering with Black Dagger and these inspiring veterans again.