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Activity

Fishing

Cast a line. Make a memory.

Overview

Program Overview

Find Your Fishing Adventure

Pontoon Fishing aboard the S.S. Squirrel

Experience fishing from the comfort of a fully accessible pontoon boat while enjoying the beauty of Lake Onalaska and the Mississippi River backwaters.

Highlights

  • Operates on Lake Onalaska and Mississippi River backwaters
  • Available Monday–Friday, June through August
  • Accommodates up to 9 passengers
  • Includes space for up to 2 wheelchairs
  • Equipped with Roll-A-Ramp, canopy, and safety equipment
  • Captain, fishing equipment, and bait provided free of charge
  • Fuel generously provided by Kwik Trip

 

Who Can Participate?

  • Individuals with disabilities
  • Veterans
  • Seniors
  • Youth groups
  • Community organizations

 

Reservations

  • Reservations open May 1
  • Excursions last approximately 1–2 hours
  • Reservations should be made at least 30 days in advance
  • Contact Mike 📞608-817-5405 #1

*We are fully booked for the 2026 season

 

Trout Fishing at Camp Decorah

A Peaceful Day at the Pond

Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in a relaxed and supportive setting at the beautiful trout pond at Camp Decorah.

Highlights

  • Open to all ages and abilities
  • Especially welcoming for individuals with disabilities
  • All equipment and bait provided free of charge
  • Lunch and beverages included
  • Supportive volunteers available throughout the event

 

Whether you’re catching your first fish or returning to a favorite pastime, Trout Fishing at Camp Decorah offers a fun and memorable outdoor experience.

Reservations

  • Dates are scheduled in advance annual and will be displayed on our events calendar.
  • Reservations are required.
  • Contact Wally 📞608-817-5405 #4

 

Accessible Pier Fishing

Enjoy fishing from convenient, wheelchair-friendly fishing piers that n.a.s.a. has helped provide throughout the region.

Locations

  • Lake Onalaska
  • Lake Neshonoc
  • Veterans Memorial Park
  • Trempealeau

 

Features

  • Wheelchair-accessible fishing platforms
  • Benches and rod holders
  • Fishing equipment and bait available at no cost
  • Volunteer assistance available when needed

Fishing from shore provides a simple and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors while remaining close to parking and accessible amenities.

 

Ice Fishing Adventures

Experience the excitement of winter fishing while staying warm and comfortable.

Highlights

  • Heated and accessible fishing shack
  • Located on Lake Onalaska
  • Open to seniors, youth, veterans, and individuals with disabilities
  • Fishing equipment and bait provided
  • Volunteer support available as needed

 

Reservations

Contact Chad Knapmiller at Shaffer’s Boat Landing 📞 608-781-3100

More Than Fishing

For some participants, fishing is a chance to catch their very first fish.

For others, it’s the opportunity to return to a favorite pastime they thought they had lost.

Every fishing experience creates opportunities to:

  • Build confidence
  • Enjoy time outdoors
  • Connect with family and friends
  • Experience independence
  • Create lasting memories

Sometimes the best part isn’t the fish—it’s simply being on the water.

Volunteer With Us

Fishing opportunities wouldn’t be possible without dedicated volunteers who donate their time because they believe in n.a.s.a.’s mission.

Volunteers assist with:

  • Equipment setup
  • Baiting hooks
  • Landing fish
  • Participant assistance
  • Pontoon support
  • Transportation and logistics

Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply enjoy helping others, we’d love to have you join our team.

👉 Volunteer With Us

Like all n.a.s.a. programs, these opportunities are powered entirely by volunteers who donate their time because they believe everyone deserves access to the outdoors.

Supporters

Donors & Supporters