Why We Do It
Captain Jimmy, Founder of Knot Lucky, suffered from PTSD after getting out of the army. He knows first-hand the challenges involved in returning to civilian life. The transition is daunting and can seem hopeless.
Knot Lucky takes veterans who are suffering from PTSD out on the water for free off-shore fishing trips. Our direction is undoubtedly in the face of the problem. it is a comfortable position war hardened men. Whether it be addiction, mobility, post traumatic stress from your career or in any way if life gets you down that’s what we’re here for.
Committed to the men that never let us down. committed to them now and always, whether you’re healing can be done on the boat or not we’ll have a good time with a plethora of resources and avenues for success.
Our Story
Following his medical retirement due to combat-related injuries, Jimmy faced a challenging period marked by struggles with PTSD and alcoholism. Bereft of the identity and purpose that being an Army Ranger had previously provided, Jimmy found himself weighed down by feelings of guilt, anger, and hopelessness.
At his lowest point, Jimmy made a bold choice to confront his alcohol addiction, enduring the arduous process of withdrawal. Subsequently, he founded American Fishing Charters, realizing that fishing had been a crucial lifeline for him during his darkest moments. Watching clients reel in catches while working as a mate on a local charter boat had kept him from succumbing to thoughts of despair. Through running fishing charters, Jimmy also discovered that the calming and therapeutic effects of fishing resonated with other veterans in a similar way.
Disheartened by the lack of practical solutions amidst the ongoing discourse about PTSD awareness, Jimmy founded Knot Lucky as an active initiative to provide support to fellow veterans facing similar challenges.
In 2022, Jimmy and Ryan crossed paths, igniting a shared journey that transcended the serenity of the ocean. Their joint efforts, both on and off the water, were aimed at being a beacon of recovery and positivity for the veteran community.
When Ryan encountered Jimmy, he had recently undergone a series of surgeries over the past three years at Walter Reed Medical Center. Striving to find purpose and positively impact his local veteran community, Ryan played a pivotal role in furthering their mission.
Their contributions to the local veteran community have been immeasurable, whether it be through providing housing for homeless veterans, aiding veterans struggling with addiction, or revitalizing veterans’ mental well-being to pave the way for a brighter future.
Ryan, an 11-year Army Ranger with five deployments spanning from civil wars in Syria to strike forces in Afghanistan, sustained combat injuries in 2019 that left him with one limb. Despite his sacrifices and challenges, Ryan’s unwavering attitude and strength make him a strong beacon of positivity.
As a former weapons squad leader for the strike force, Ryan faced a life-altering moment during a high-valued raid when an explosion resulted in him losing his legs and one remaining arm. Despite this, Ryan’s resilience shines through as he supports Jimmy with structure and efficiencies to maximize their impact on veterans in the region.
On the boat, Ryan skillfully navigates the helm and guides the boat, while Jimmy passionately engages in the pursuit of fishing. Together, they form an unbeatable team.
Ready to help?
Donations are the lifeline of this organization.
All donations go directly to fund fishing trips and other support for veterans.