George Abernathy
The Sun Lakes Fly Fishing Club (SLFFC) has held a fly fishing competition for the largest trout caught at our annual San Juan River trip for over 10 years. With 14 club participants and friends, a large number of trout were caught during the event from Sept. 22 through Sept. 25. This year, Keith Bachman won the event by landing a Rainbow Trout that measured 24-1/2 inches. In winning the event, Keith also won $140 and will have bragging rights while retaining the SLFFC’s perpetual trophy until the Fall of 2026 when we’ll hold the same event.
For 12 years, the Sun Lakes Fly Fishing Club has proudly partnered with Arizona Veterans Fly Fishing (AVFF) to bring healing and hope to veterans with disabilities. In 2024 this community came together and raised over $7,000, and this year, we’re going even bigger! Our fundraiser is being held on Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 5 to 9:15 p.m. in the Bradford Room at Oakwood Country Club, and it’s open to the public! Tip: Don’t buy those Christmas gifts just yet—our baskets make the perfect presents, and every dollar raised goes directly to supporting our heroes. Get ready to bid on an unbelievable line-up of themed baskets and experiences. To name just a few: private airplane flight from Chandler to Pinetop for lunch for three, sponsored by Cannon Hill from the Sun Lakes Aero Club; concert tickets; rounds of golf and pickleball; wine, liquor, and cigar packages; restaurant gift certificates; shooting sports opportunities; date nights; ladies’ and men’s baskets; and so much more.
We are seeking potential sponsors as well as items to fill a variety of themed gift baskets for use as silent auction items. Contributions such as gift items, merchandise, gift cards, service offerings, or even cash will help us achieve our goal of supporting our veterans. We welcome and appreciate your support, and we thank you for considering our request to support our country’s heroes. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at 480-521-1060 or email me at apachescout@gmail.com.
Together, let’s honor those who served us so selflessly.
Fish On! Fish On!