The United Special Sportsman Alliance (USSA) hosted its third annual catfishing trip at Pickwick Landing State Park in Counce, TN, on September 22nd and 23rd.
The fishermen and their families gathered at the gymnasium of First Baptist Church Counce. The Adult Ladies Sunday School Class beautifully decorated the room with soft-colored tablecloths, various colored balloons, and colorful decorations. They even had a photo shoot for family pictures. Following a delightful buffet dinner hosted by its members, there was an educational program sponsored by Pickwick Landing State Park Rangers. It featured a live bird and snake exhibition and animal pelts for the kids to observe and touch. 
The following morning, the anglers and their families headed out on the Tennessee River, one of the top fishing spots renowned for its giant catfish. Twenty-six children and their parents from Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee were thrilled to embark on a fishing trip, hoping to reel in the giant catfish.
Lara said, “This trip was just what Cullen needed. Fishing is one of his favorite sports, and he can do it without too much trouble. In 2022, he got extremely sick and almost didn’t make it. So, we have spent the past year and a half getting him back to close to his baseline. This trip was Cullen’s first time being able to go fishing since his illness. Both my husband and I were filled with emotions seeing him enjoy life. His fisherman guide, Anton Stump, was so good with him. He let Cullen help cut the bait and even rigged up a line to make it easier for him to reel in the fish. Cullen was full of smiles, and the smile got bigger and bigger with every fish he caught, especially since the fish kept getting bigger and bigger.” 
Brittney, the mother of 6-year-old Ethan, added that the entire experience was unforgettable, especially seeing him reel in the nice fish. It was amazing to witness his enjoyment of an activity that can be challenging for us due to Ethan’s sensory issues. Our fisherman guide, Jeff Dodd, was so kind and thoughtful, and we are excited to go fishing again soon.
Aimee said, “One of the best moments was seeing the pure joy on my daughter Juliette’s face as she reeled in her first fish with assistance from Lewis Miller. My autistic teenage son Johnny may not have been very expressive, but he was very proud of his fish and shared his photo with his friends at school the next day. As their mom, I’m proud of them for trying something new and different outside their comfort zone.”
Becky, the mother of 12-year-old Landon, had a great time catching many fish during the event. She mentioned that when Landon became impatient while fishing, he persuaded Cedric Poynor to speed up the boat. Landon’s favorite part was surfing the waves and bouncing on them. Cedric also took them to a waterfall, where they spotted a bald eagle.
Myranda shared, “My seven-year-old daughter, Chloe, is in a wheelchair. The whole experience was wonderful for her. She had the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. During our fishing trip, she caught seven big catfish with the assistance of our fisherman, Joseph Clark. We all appreciated the special time we enjoyed during our trip.”
“Abby was catching the big fish while her older brother Cameron struggled, but he finally managed to catch a few smaller ones. Their sibling rivalry almost erupted into a full civil war,” chuckled their dad, Chris, a veteran.
Becky said, “The best part of the fishing trip was just hearing the joy in Breck’s voice when he talked about his ‘giant’ fish that he caught. He was so proud of himself.” Mason’s mom, Ashley, added, “Meeting people is always the best part of these trips. Donnie and DJ Long were wonderful, and we left with wonderful memories and new friends.”
Darby said, our family had an incredible experience. We were greeted as soon as we arrived at the hotel, and everyone was extremely welcoming and accommodating. My most memorable experience was watching my kids be kids! Having a child with a disability can be challenging. We have to adapt and overcome a lot. USSA took the thinking, preparation, and planning out of our hands for the first time. I got to sit back and watch my children enjoy themselves while having fun myself!
When the boats returned to the dock, families and volunteers eagerly awaited the unveiling of everyone’s catch. After taking photos, the fishermen and kids safely release their fish back into the Tennessee River.
The Hardin County Fire Department served a delicious lunch provided by Bubba’s Smoke Shack. The children received B&M fishing poles with B&M reels, educational packs, and other fishing-related gifts.
Many thanks to the Catfish anglers, the Lodge at Pickwick Landing, Pickwick Landing State Park, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, First Baptist Church Counce, B & M Fishing, Bubba’s Smoke Shack, the Hardin County Fire Department, Fat Fish Designz, Cruzr Saddles, TriStar, Bode Farms, and Wendy Nails.
Also, thank you to the many wonderful USSA volunteers and donors who provided the necessities and dollars to support this special fishing event. Shout out to Cedric Poynor for his outstanding job of organizing it. God bless!
If you are interested in getting involved or know of a deserving child or veteran, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]