PORT CLINTON, Ohio — Walleyes for Wounded Heroes is an event that doesn't have a price tag.
The Port Clinton-based organization is bringing veterans and first responders together at Camp Perry for a day of fishing on Lake Erie.
Generations come together to share a common bond of fishing. And for some participants, it's an opportunity to share their experiences in a comfortable environment.
"I made lifelong friends with the captain and the mate on that particular boat," said Mike Mcodonough, a Vietnam veteran from Wisconsin. "The acquaintances that you've had during the years, it's a great pick-me-up. And it's all because of this program here."
They're police, firefighters and Gold Star families, and they bring their stories with them to fish for walleye for three days.
"It's quite an experience, it's a unique experience, said Ken Hesser, a volunteer for Walleyes for Wounded Heroes. "It's really not done it this way at this level anywhere else."
Matt Hughes, an army veteran who served from 2003 to 2011, says the waters of Lake Erie help him deal with PTSD he has struggled with.
"It's really exceeded my expectations," he said. "I can attest to that because it's, in my opinion, better than any prescribed medicine the VA will prescribe you."
Walleyes for Wounded Heroes has other events, but organizers say this fishing event is its biggest of the year.
"Having organizations like these are crucial to our community and to all the wounded vets that are out there," said Lt. Col. Michael Yates, base operations supervisor for Camp Perry Joint Training Center.
The event continues at Camp Perry continues through Sunday. For more information, click here.