local
'Fishing saved my life': A story of redemption and transformation
By George Noleff at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· July 17, 2026
· 1 min read
MENDOTA, Va. (WFXR) -- This is a story about fishing. Sort of. But it is also about hope and how one man says fly fishing and the outdoors saved his life. Dan Rice is a fishing guide. He runs trips on various streams and lakes in southwest Virginia and Tennessee through his Riverfeet Fly Fishing ...
Key takeaway But it is also about hope and how one man says fly fishing and the outdoors saved his life.
Why this matters in The El Paso
While Dan Rice's story of redemption through fly fishing may have unfolded in the streams and lakes of southwest Virginia and Tennessee, its themes of hope and transformation resonate deeply in El Paso , where outdoor recreation plays a significant role in the community's wellbeing. The Franklin Mountains, Rio Grande, and surrounding desert landscapes offer ample opportunities for residents to connect with nature and find solace in activities like hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. As El Paso continues to grow and urbanize, preserving access to these natural spaces and promoting their therapeutic benefits will be crucial for supporting the mental and emotional health of its citizens. By sharing stories like Rice's, local organizations and community leaders can raise awareness about the importance of outdoor recreation and conservation in fostering a healthier, more resilient El Paso.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 17, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? MENDOTA, Va. (WFXR) -- This is a story about fishing. Sort of. But it is also about hope and how one man says fly fishing and the outdoors saved his life. Dan Rice is a fishing guide. He runs trips on various streams and lakes in southwest Virginia and Tennessee through his Riverfeet Fly Fishing ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 17, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by George Noleff at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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