On January 24, 2026, eight veterans gathered in Watertown, Wisconsin for a hands-on fishing rod building workshop focused on skill-building, camaraderie, and shared accomplishment.
The event brought veterans together — many meeting for the first time — to learn how to build their own custom fishing rods using premium St. Croix blanks. By the end of the day, participants left not only with a completed rod, but also with new friendships and a renewed sense of connection.
A Morning of Community and Support
Veterans arrived around 8:00 a.m., welcomed with coffee and Glazers generously donated by Kwik Trip in Watertown. The morning began with introductions from rod-building instructor Al and his staff, followed by veterans introducing themselves to the group.
The event also welcomed Mayor Robert Stocks of Watertown and Jeremy Lyons from the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administrator. Both leaders spoke with veterans in attendance and highlighted the strong tradition of veteran support within the Watertown community.
Mayor Stocks reflected on Watertown’s longstanding commitment to honoring and supporting veterans, while Lyons shared information about benefits and services available through the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs.
Hands-On Skill Building and Shared Accomplishment
After introductions, Al and his team guided participants step-by-step through the rod-building process. Veterans learned how to assemble, wrap, and customize their rods — creating a functional piece of equipment built with their own hands.
Beyond the technical skills, the workshop created space for conversation, shared stories, and collaboration. Many participants arrived not knowing one another. They left with a sense of friendship, teamwork, and pride in a shared accomplishment.
More Than a Workshop
Events like this reflect the mission of Hometown Hero Outdoors — creating opportunities for veterans to reconnect through outdoor activities, hands-on experiences, and peer support.
Whether in the field, on the water, or in a workshop building a custom fishing rod, these moments of connection foster resilience, confidence, and community.
Hometown Hero Outdoors extends gratitude to the instructors, community leaders, and sponsors who helped make this veteran rod-building workshop possible.
