Fishing with a disability
Kevin Tavernier is a former sailing instructor who, following an accident, finds himself handicapped. Kevin's dream is to regain his autonomy through sports, and in particular through fishing. He is ambitious and wants to fish with a rod and reel.
Fishing is also a way to regain confidence, to learn about oneself, to surpass oneself. It is also a way to set new goals, whether sporting or personal. And nothing is impossible, with reflection, work, methodology, and a good accompaniment.
Adapting the equipment to the disability
With the help of a road-pod, we adapted the different accessories. For the shock absorber for example, after several tests and ideas, the cup was chosen.
To store his line, Kevin will use a rectangular foam folding box, which floats if he drops it in the water. A simple accessory also practical, because the hook is stuck in it, and will not fall on the ground when he unwinds his line.
To facilitate the setting of baits, in this case maggots, but also to remove the hook from the mouth of the fish, we opted for long shank hooks.
For the bait, Kevin prepares it before coming to the fishing, thus, he facilitates its installation, its preparation and optimizes his time to devote it to fishing. From his armchair, he has everything at his disposal, at his height. He can then, put himself in fishing.
The different adapted fishing routes
The federations and AAPPMA are setting up more and more disabled pontoons. Do not hesitate to ask them to set up new pontoon projects, but also to bring your help within these associations.
A commitment for all
I pay particular attention to the development of fishing through the handicap. As well as under my glance of Animatrice Monitrice Guide of fishing, that on the realization and conception of adapted material.
For the past two years, I have been organizing events under a project called "fishing for all", on which I work with IMEs, old people's homes and various cultural and social reintegration centers.
Goal achieved!
After several meetings Kevin found the right gestures, the right installation and the right material. The mission is accomplished! From now on, he can go fishing alone.
Attentive to his float, he has not finished to see it sink and to make us dream in his turn by his beautiful catches. Fishing helps Kevin to surpass himself, but also motivates him in his daily fight.
Today, Kevin has a new goal, to compete, and the challenge has been accepted. Fishing, and sport in general, is a good way to find a source of motivation and well-being. And even more in a natural environment, where nature, will allow you to contemplate, dream, and breathe.
