On the Rail hosts Fishing for Freedom fundraisers

Zach Brown knows the importance of Fishing for Freedom.

“My friend growing up, he was in the army, and he was injured in Afghanistan,” Brown said. “He participates in it every year. You know, as soon as this one’s over, he’ll already be looking forward and talking about next year.”

Fishing for Freedom provides veterans with the opportunity to fish for either crappie, bass, or catfish at no cost. The vets are paired with professional anglers, avid tournament fishermen, fishing guides, and local outdoorsmen to fish local waterways.  This year’s event takes place the weekend of June 3. 

Brown himself served. A marine out of Camp Pendleton traveling to both Iraq and Afghanistan. He also leads the local chapter of the Leathernecks Motorcycle Club. The group has partnered with On the Rail Sports Bar and Grill to host an event to benefit Fishing for Freedom. 

“Being all veterans we kind of strive to help out veteran organizations and, being local, we’ve seen what Fishing for Freedom has done for the community. We thought it’d be nice to try and give back a little bit.”

Scott Edlin, owner of On the Rail, jumped at the opportunity. “My dad, he served our country and I just think it’s a great cause.”

On May 28 the two organizations are hosting a poker run with all proceeds benefitting the local chapter of Fishing for Freedom. Registration runs from 9:00a to 11:00a at On the Rail. There will be six stops with last vehicle in by 5:00 pm.  Also, those participating will be eligible for discounted entry into On the Rail’s Rockfest Concert that evening.

Brown knows how special an event like this is. “I can ride my bike anytime I want,” he said. “But given the opportunity to ride my bike with, you know, a handful other Marines, it makes it 10 times better. I think it’s the community part of it, getting everybody together and doing something.”