BLACK DAGGER GROUP 3: A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FOR MILITARY COUPLES

2024 brought an unusual Hurricane Season, with storms developing late into the year. The west coast of Florida faced significant devastation, and while recovery was underway, students in the area had to make up for lost school days. This unexpected schedule shift disrupted plans Misty Wells and her organization, A Reel Future, had set up for foster kids to enjoy winter break fishing trips with us in the Keys. Misty, a dedicated advocate for outdoor adventures, quickly pivoted to salvage the plans.

A REEL FUTURE: A DECADE OF IMPACT
For context, 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of A Reel Future, the nonprofit Misty founded with just a few hundred dollars and a dream: to take foster children fishing on the west coast on a head boat. Over the past decade, the organization introduced over 4,000 children to the joys of fishing, and this year was particularly special as it included destination-based trips—a first for her nonprofit. Misty had connected with Krissy Wejebe, the daughter of Jose, and Executive Director at the Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation, at ICAST in 2023. The foundation, created to honor the legacy of the legendary angler and Spanish Fly host Jose Wejebe, is devoted to making fishing dreams come true. With shared values and a passion for creating meaningful fishing experiences, Misty and Krissy collaborated on several trips in the Keys for foster kids over the summer.

A NEW PATH FOR WINTER BREAK
When the winter foster kid trips fell through, Misty reached out to David Winters, President of the Black Dagger Military Hunt Club, a nonprofit dedicated to providing outdoor opportunities for veterans and active-duty military members. Within hours, David had organized three groups of military service members and their families to take part in unforgettable experiences in the Florida Keys.

THE THIRD GROUP: THREE MILITARY COUPLES
The third group to visit the Keys consisted of three military couples. Long-term relationships come with their own challenges, but the unique stresses of military careers add a new layer of complexity. This trip provided an opportunity for these couples to reconnect and recharge in a serene and beautiful setting. The weather finally cooperated, and the couples made the most of their time in the Keys.

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER ADVENTURE
The adventure began with a visit to the Dolphin Research Center. Despite their bravery in other areas, many participants were initially apprehensive about swimming with dolphins. However, the group quickly warmed up to the experience, and Summer, a spotted rescue dolphin, charmed everyone with her playful antics. This lighthearted activity set the tone for the rest of their trip.

OFFSHORE FISHING DAY
The offshore fishing day, where the group came together for an unforgettable experience on the water, and the weather finally cooperated. Captain Johnny Payne, a seasoned offshore guide, ensured a fantastic day of fishing for all. The seas were calm, and the cool weather didn’t dampen spirits as the group enjoyed non-stop action. They reeled in a variety of fish, including snapper, grouper, and other prized species perfect for a “cook-your-catch” dinner. The camaraderie among the couples grew as they worked together, cheered each other on, and shared the thrill of the catches. The day ended with the group enjoying a celebratory feast, relishing not only the fruits of their labor but also the joy of being surrounded by friends who understood their unique experiences.

PERSONALIZED BACKCOUNTRY TRIPS
To make the trip even more personal, each couple was paired with their own backcountry guide for a customized adventure. One couple wanted to focus on catching fish for dinner, and Captain Steve Hancock delivered an exciting day with a steady snapper bite. Another couple had a bucket-list goal of catching a permit or bonefish, and Captain Jared Cyr, a 4th-generation Florida Keys native with a passion for guiding anglers, helped make that dream come true with a stunning bonefish. The third couple, avid anglers themselves, were eager to experience the variety of what the Keys had to offer. Captain Bob Beighley, a Marine veteran with a deep knowledge of the local waters, provided a day packed with action. Photos from these personalized trips captured glowing smiles, trophy catches, and the stunning beauty of the backcountry.

A BRIEF DEPARTURE AND HEARTWARMING STORIES
Although I couldn’t spend as much time with this group as I would have liked, I joined them for a world-class dinner at the Square Grouper before heading to the mainland for a prior engagement—a hockey game tied to a six-year-old bet. While I was away, the photos and stories from the backcountry trips started rolling in, and they were nothing short of heartwarming.

A FOND FAREWELL
When I returned to the Keys, we gathered for breakfast at the Florida Keys Café to see the group off. The gratitude expressed by these couples was overwhelming and heartfelt. One participant shared, “This trip changed us, and we can’t thank your organization enough.” Another said, “If I could give this foundation 10 stars, I would! They made us feel so welcome from start to finish. These once-in-a-lifetime adventures will stay with us forever.” Another couple noted, “Your hard work and passion truly make dreams come true. This trip was a dream come true, and I loved how you emphasized sustainability, encouraging us to take only what we needed.”

THE POWER OF COLLABORATION
The partnership between A Reel Future, the Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation, and Black Dagger Military Hunt Club demonstrates the incredible impact of collaboration. Together, we created not only fun and relaxation but also life-changing experiences that left a lasting impression on everyone involved. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do, and we couldn’t be more grateful to support these brave men and women.