Our Ten Favorite Photos of 2024 - Warriors & Quiet Waters

Our Ten Favorite Photos of 2024

01/09/2025

We can't contain our excitement over the incredible gallery of 15,000+ photos that capture this year’s unforgettable Built for More initial and capstone experiences. Throughout the seasons, we’ve had the privilege of serving Warriors and their loved ones against the backdrop of Montana’s mountains & streams, North Dakota's rigid ice, and Florida's salty seas.

As we reminisce on the past year, we’re excited to share our ten favorite photos that truly capture the spirit of 2024's peak experiences in nature.

If you would like to see all of the amazing images captured by Mike Macleod and our Photography Experience participants this year, visit WQWPHOTOS.ORG.

WQW240117 123

This photo, taken in January during our Ice Fishing Experience on Devils Lake in North Dakota, showcases the resilience of our Warriors. Despite frigid, sub-zero temperatures and gusty winds, this program provided the perfect opportunity to forge camaraderie in challenging conditions while discovering a new way to enjoy fishing.

WQW240213 207 1

In February, we kicked off our Initial Photography Experience. With guidance from world-class mentors, participants had the chance to build their skills in stunning locations like Yellowstone National Park. This shot captures the group photographing along the Firehole River. As the year went on, each of them returned to Bozeman and took incredible photos of our programs—you can see their work at wqwphotos.org.

WQW240321 168

This striking photo, taken in March during our Saltwater Fly Fishing Experience in Islamorada, Florida, captures some of the vibrant wildlife that makes this program so special. Judging by its wide-eyed look, this osprey might just be starstruck at seeing award-winning photographer Mike MacLeod outside of his normal stomping grounds. While participants focused on mastering saltwater fly fishing, moments like this reminded us of the unique connection to nature that these experiences provide.

WQW240424 229

During our Built for More Initial Hunting Experience in April, this Warrior was captured at Quiet Waters Ranch, honing his skills with a bow during target practice. This preparation laid the foundation for the Fall hunts to come, blending focus, skill-building, and a deeper connection to the outdoors.

WQW240515 263 1

During our Caregiver Experience in May, Grant Grigsby stole the show as the most popular guy on the water. Our favorite Montana-mustached fly fishing guide kept caregivers and companions laughing all day—and it’s safe to say they gave him plenty to laugh about, too.

This photo captures a lighthearted moment as a caregiver, their companion, and Grant share a hearty chuckle in his boat.

WQW240519 112

This photo, captured in May, shows Warriors camping along the breathtaking Smith River. In this remote and unplugged setting, the Warriors had the opportunity to build deeper connections with each other and nature. We’re incredibly grateful to the amazing guides who make this journey so memorable, creating an unforgettable experience as they float down the Smith.

WQW240723 011

This photo, captured in July during our Conservation Experience, shows a Warrior giving back to nature through a restoration project in collaboration with Trout Unlimited. This program fosters a deeper connection to the outdoors by immersing participants in a hands-on project that highlights the collective power of individuals and organizations to make lasting, positive impacts on the landscape.

WQW240813 390

This photo, captured in August during our Backcountry Fishing Experience, is a true testament to the beauty of the places we are fortunate to share with our Warriors. Everything came together perfectly for this shot—the double rainbow, the llamas, and the serene landscape—creating a moment that will forever be remembered by everyone present.

WQW240904 170 2

This photo, taken during our overnight canoe trip on the Missouri River, captures the group's excitement as they paddled through the stunning, scenic landscape. The adventure and camaraderie were as breathtaking as the views themselves, making for an unforgettable experience on the water.

WQW240907 118 1

This photo, taken during one of our September hunts near Forsyth, MT, captures the essence of a memorable adventure. Surrounded by the vast Montana landscape, our Warriors experienced the quiet beauty of the outdoors while deepening their connection to the land. Every hunt is a reminder of the peace and clarity that nature can provide, and this one was no exception.