Accessible Fishing Opportunities

Public Fishing Areas

With help from the Sport Fish Restoration Fund, the NCWRC has developed Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) across the state. Where feasible, these locations have paved parking lots with dedicated handicapped parking, paved paths to the water, and accessible fishing piers that feature benches and alternating high and low handrails with bait shelves that can accommodate wheelchairs.

Most PFAs are open to the public at no charge. The number of PFAs is constantly increasing. For a complete up-to-date list, visit the N.C. Fishing Access Map and filter by “ADA Compliant”.

Adaptive Fishing Gear

Through the Tackle Loaner Program, anglers of all skills levels are encouraged to ‘check out’ rods and reels for free – just like a library system! Adaptive fishing gear is available to borrow at many of the NCWRC’s Tackle Loaner Program sites across the state. These items include a forearm pole holder, a pole grasping cuff (left or right hand) and the ‘Reel Deal’ Velcro reel adapter and palm cuff kit, all designed for individuals with limited hand or finger mobility. A wheelchair pole holder is also available at some sites.

If you are unable to borrow adaptive gear from a participating Tackle Loaner Program partner due to distance or availability, we keep a stock of adaptive fishing gear at our Raleigh warehouse and would be happy to mail it to you to borrow for an agreed upon amount of time. Please contact ada.coordinator@ncwildlife.org to facilitate this need.

Our track chairs also have fishing rod holders.

Additionally, the NCWRC has fishing rod bells for anglers with vision impairment. These bells clamp to the end of a fishing pole and audibly alert the angler to a biting fish or a fish actively on the line. These bells can be requested by contacting ada.coordinator@ncwildlife.org

NC Tackle Loaner Program Sites with Adaptive Fishing Gear

MOUNTAINS

PIEDMONT

COASTAL PLAIN