Fishing and Boating

Several opportunities exist around Wisconsin with excellent shore-fishing opportunities for people with disabilities. There are piers and platforms on Wisconsin's beautiful lakes and rivers.

Since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), every fishing pier the Department of Natural Resources builds is accessible to people with disabilities. The accessible fishing piers are designed to accommodate wheelchairs, are wider to offer enough room for turning around and have lower railings and rod holders so that anglers can cast out and fish.

• Find boat and shore fishing access sites with our mapping application.
  NOTE: This map application shows boat and fishing site locations under various ownership, including DNR, counties, municipalities etc.
• Use our printable Parks Accessibility Map to find accessible fishing piers and other accessible features within the Wisconsin State Parks System.
• Use the interactive map on our Find a Park page to explore recreation opportunities that fit your abilities, including locating accessible fishing piers. Filter the map by Accessible Features and Services.

Disabled fishing organizations

Three prominent disability groups in Wisconsin provide enhanced fishing experiences to people with disabilities. From adaptive equipment to numerous events throughout the year, these organizations offer a variety of opportunities for people with disabilities to get out on the water fishing. See their websites below to find out more.

• Fishing Has No Boundaries [Exit DNR]
• Challenge The Outdoors [exit DNR]
• The North American Squirrel Association (NASA) [exit DNR]