need fishing destination for vets with disabilities

[T1]

A non-profit group helping vets with disabilities needs to take a group of about a dozen to a place around 2 hours of Manhattan where they can be almost certain to catch a fish. The eager vets have been diligently practicing casting with fly rods, but are still new to the sport. Any suggestions on where to go would be most appreciated. At this point in their skill level, rivers may be a bit out of their reach. I'm thinking stocked ponds, but they seem to be scarce.

post replies or pms gratefully received

Thanks!

 

[PRomano]

Try Eldred Preserve at Eldred Preserve Outdoor Resort: Hunting, Fishing, Shooting

 

[afishinado]

Great cause - good luck. I wish I could help with suggesting a spot but I am not familiar with any lake or easy to access stream in that area. I'm sure there are many on this board that can come up with some options to help.

Again, good luck, and "tight lines" to the vets!

 

[Broadheadscreek]

The Brodheads Creek has some access and a small pond for disabled and handicapped people I am not sure when your event is as long as the water remains cool it will hold fish and if you would like to stock it or have someone do it prior to your arrival. I' m shure that a local trout hatchery would be more than willing to donate some trout for the cause. And the are pavilions and grills to cook on as well as rest rooms. Great cause and if you would need help putting it together I would be able to assist.

 

[JeffK]

Try the Pequest Trout Hatchery. The Education Pond there hosts other disabled vet events and it is loaded with huge bows. Staffing and hours is an issue there, but they may be able to fit you in.

The Hackettstown Hatchery has a warm water pond. PM Rusty Spinner and he may be able to help you, since his office is at Hackettstown.

 

[Broadheadscreek]

Good suggestion JeffK I also forgot to mention the Little Lehigh you can contact Rod at the Little Lehigh Fly Shop and the city of Allentown. Plenty of level stream side and alot of trout and it is a no wadding zone.You would probably get a good responce here as well. Good Luck with this great cause!!

 

[Hllywd76]

Try the Pequest Trout Hatchery. The Education Pond there hosts other disabled vet events and it is loaded with huge bows. Staffing and hours is an issue there, but they may be able to fit you in.

The Hackettstown Hatchery has a warm water pond. PM Rusty Spinner and he may be able to help you, since his office is at Hackettstown.

Great cause. If you need any help let the board know. Next year I maybe able to get you on some private water in NJ. I possibly could this year also but next year would be better.

Hllywd

 

[Bamboozle]

T1:

If success is one of your goals, I'd put trout on the back burner and focus on warmwater species on lakes or ponds in state or local parks, in and around the NYC Metro Area.

First if all, just about all of us cut our fly-fishing teeth on willing sunnies, second, ADA requirements in public facilities means that access will more than likely NOT be an issue, plus there will other amenities available if the fishing is slow.

I'm also sure that the various government agencies that oversee the parks with "fishing ponds", will be enthusiastic about making your event a success.

Good luck!