Accessible fishing
More ways to get outdoors
THIS NOVEMBER, Veterans Day reminds us to take a moment and remember the sacrifices so many have made for our freedom. For me, it’s also a reminder of the challenges faced by many veterans with disabilities who want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Thankfully, there are multiple programs across the state that help make fishing accessible to all—veterans and civilians alike.
As a volunteer boat captain for the annual Paralyzed Veterans of America bass tournament on Lake Barkley, I have seen firsthand how excited veterans are at these tournaments. I can also tell you that the bank fishing division of the tournament is just as competitive as the boater division, and they have a blast.
Other accessibility initiatives include the Fishing in Neighborhoods program (FINS). Started in 2006, this program created urban lake access near towns and cities. With 45 FINs lakes to date across Kentucky, there’s probably one near you. The FINs lakes are regularly stocked with catfish and trout. The sunfish and bass populations are also monitored to ensure natural reproduction is meeting angler needs. These species are supplemented with stocking when needed. Regulations, which are posted around the lakes and available online, are a little more stringent than in other locations to help spread the harvest among anglers.
The Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive program encourages private landowners to grant access to their property for outdoor recreation. The department works diligently to acquire new access to outdoor opportunities statewide. This program is not just for fishing, but for any outdoor recreational activities such as dove hunting, wildlife viewing and hiking. Please note that VPA sites are private property, and continued access is determined by guests’ behavior. If you visit one, respect all posted regulations—and let’s keep a good thing going.
To learn more about fishing access for all, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website: app.fw.ky.gov/fisheries/waterbody.aspx. This comprehensive list provides all the information you need, including accessibility, FINs and VPA designations for lakes, ponds and streams across the state. Whether you use a kayak, fish from shore or prefer fishing from a pier, the website lists everything you need to plan your trip.
If you have a disability and want to fish in the PVA tournament in April, more information is available at www.kipva.org. The organization supports veterans with disabilities, but participation is open to “anyone with physical challenges who loves the sport of fishing.” Let’s all get out there and enjoy the great fishing Kentucky has to offer.
