Sunrise fishing

Airmen assigned to McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., and American Bass Anglers members wait for the start of a fishing tournament, June 11, 2016, at Big Hill Lake in Cherryvale, Kan. Airmen spent eight hours on the lake fishing alongside ABA members during this year’s Take an Airman Fishing event. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman Erin McClellan)

Fish measurement

Bryan Fahler, American Bass Anglers member, measures a fish he caught, June 11, 2016, at Big Hill Lake in Cherryvale, Kan. Fahler was one of many members of ABA who participated in this year’s Take an Airman Fishing event, which allowed McConnell Air Force Base Airmen to join them during a fishing tournament. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman Erin McClellan)

Airmen fish alongside American Bass Anglers

Published June 14, 2016
22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Several Airmen took part in a fishing tournament during the 8th Annual Take an Airman Fishing event, June 13, at Big Hill Lake in Cherryvale, Kansas.

During the tournament, Airmen paired up with members of American Bass Anglers. Each Airman rode along on an ABA member’s boat for the 8-hour tournament, while the professionals shared tips and experiences.

“Eight years ago, the American Bass Anglers came to us and said, ‘Hey, we want to take Airmen fishing,’” said Jim Vause, 22nd Force Support Squadron Outdoor Recreation director. “Years before, they had tried to do this, but they had no point of contact. We stood up and said we would be the point of contact; we would get people signed up and help with the tournament on the military side.”

The trip gave Airmen the chance to camp out for two nights, spend a day out on the lake, learn new skills and have some fun.

“I’m really into outdoor stuff,” said Senior Airman Jon Wurz, 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief. “This year was the first time I heard about this, so I figured I would try it out, and it ended up being a lot of fun. I had never been on a bass boat before, and I learned a lot from the [ABA member] I was fishing with.”

ABA continues to show support for the military by organizing and holding this event every year.

“For them, it’s all about sharing what they love to do with [Airmen],” said Vause. “Sometimes Airmen just forget how important the work they do is, and this is an opportunity to remind them. That’s what makes this whole thing work so well; [the ABA members] are more than happy to bring the Airmen out and spend time with them.”