After more than fifteen years of laughter, tight lines, deep conversations, and powerful moments of healing, the Mossy Creek Invitational has cast its final line. Held in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, this year’s event marked the end of a truly legendary run, a gathering that has not only raised over $2.5 million for Project Healing Waters, but more importantly, helped restore a sense of purpose, peace, and connection for dozens of Veterans.

The 2025 Invitational brought together longtime supporters, first-time participants, families, friends, and one very special guest, our founder, Ed Nicholson. His presence at the final Mossy was a full circle moment. Ed’s vision, started with a fly rod and a mission to serve, has turned into a national life-changing movement that continues to ripple outward.

And fittingly, this year’s event gave us all the elements. Literally. Cloudy skies gave way to torrential rain. Then, as if on cue, the sun broke through and blessed us with stretches of bluebird skies. That wild weather couldn’t dampen spirits, it made the fishing better, the conversations more memorable, and the weekend unforgettable. In fact, some of the best fish numbers we’ve seen came out of this final gathering.

Veterans were once again paired with passionate guides and generous sponsors, casting into the storied waters of Mossy Creek. But the fly rods are only part of the story. Between the banks and over shared meals, real stories were told, some painful, some joyful, all deeply human. This is what the Invitational has always been about: connection, community, recovery, and belonging.

We also were honored to recognize another pillar of the Invitational’s success, Dietrich Maune. From early days as a volunteer helping with setup and capturing event content, Dietrich has grown into the role of Tournament Director, stepping up time and again to ensure the event runs smoothly. We were proud to present him with the Patriot Award, honoring his progression from behind-the-scenes volunteer to the guiding force he has become truly embodying the Invitational’s spirit and mission.

We honored longtime friends. We welcomed new ones. And we said goodbye to something that has meant so much to so many. To everyone who has made the Mossy Creek Invitational what it is, from local businesses and national sponsors, to guides, volunteers, staff, and especially the Veterans, thank you. Your support has created not just a world-class event, but a sacred space where healing happens and lifelong bonds are made.

Though this was the final Mossy, the spirit of this gathering lives on in every fly cast in hope, every story shared in trust, and every step forward taken in community. Here’s to 17 incredible years. And to whatever comes next, Project Healing Waters will be there with tight lines, full hearts, and to the stories worth telling.

Many thanks to the 2025 Sponsors:

Lance Trenary
Awesome Friendly Foundation
CSL Behring
Dan Craytor
Steven Toyota
Guha Bala
Walt Havenstein
Steve Love
New Market Eagles
Blue Ridge Honda Dealers
Michael Barbero
Steele Foundation
Hans Harman
Harrisonburg Honda/Hyundai
Dave Hayward
Engineering Solutions
Jacktown Restaurants
Sustainable Solutions