Wheelin N Reeling Adventures
Fully accessible fishing charters and ocean adventures in Campbell River, BC. Experience the beauty of Quadra Island and the Discovery Islands — designed for everyone.
Departing from the X Dock, Discovery Harbour Marina — 2395 Spit Rd, Campbell River
Our Story
Wheelin N Reeling Adventures was born from a friendship and a promise. Cody and his best friend grew up together — snowboarding, fishing, pushing every limit. They were inseparable. Then life dealt a cruel hand, and his friend ended up with a spinal cord injury that changed everything.
After months in the spinal unit at Vancouver General, the question came up: what does the future look like? His friend — a fisherman since he was a kid riding his BMX to the wharf with a rod — looked Cody in the eye and asked if he could get him back on the water.
Without hesitation, Cody said yes.
What followed was nine months of grinding — designing, welding, and building a custom aluminum vessel from scratch, specifically tailored to be fully wheelchair accessible. Every detail was thought through: a wide boarding ramp, an open deck with tie-down points, and enough room to fish comfortably from a wheelchair.
The day they slid her in the water, steamed out of the harbour, and caught some springs together — it was one of the most emotional days of their lives. Cody didn't just build a boat. He kicked open a door that his friend thought was closed forever.
Now It's For Everyone
What started as one friend building a boat for another has grown into something bigger. Wheelin N Reeling Adventures now offers accessible fishing charters and ocean tours to anyone with mobility challenges. Because if Cody learned anything from his friend, it's this: a spinal cord injury doesn't kill the passion. It just needs someone willing to build the way back.
See Our Tours
See the original build story and more on Instagram
@codylafrance — The Full Build StoryAdventures For Everyone
Wheelin N Reeling Adventures was founded with one mission: to make the incredible waters of Campbell River and Quadra Island accessible to everyone, regardless of mobility.
We specialize in providing wheelchair-accessible fishing charters and ocean tours for people with paraplegia and other mobility challenges. Our vessel is fully equipped with ramp access, a spacious accessible deck, and all the safety equipment needed for a comfortable, worry-free adventure.
Based out of the X Dock at Discovery Harbour Marina (2395 Spit Rd, Campbell River), we're your gateway to some of the best fishing and scenery on the BC coast.
Our Tours
Three incredible ways to experience the waters around Campbell River and Quadra Island. All tours are fully wheelchair accessible.
Fishing Charter
A full 5-hour fishing experience in the legendary waters of Campbell River. All gear and tackle provided. Target salmon, halibut, lingcod, and more. Our accessible vessel ensures everyone can cast a line and reel in the big one.
- All fishing gear provided
- Fish cleaning & packaging
- Wheelchair accessible vessel
Quadra Island Circumnavigation
Circle the stunning Quadra Island for a full day of breathtaking scenery. Watch for eagles, seals, sea lions, and maybe even orcas. Explore hidden coves and take in the rugged beauty of the Discovery Islands.
- Full island circumnavigation
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Snacks & refreshments included
Crabbing & Sightseeing
Combine the thrill of pulling up crab traps with a scenic tour of Quadra Island's coastline. Learn about the local marine ecosystem while enjoying stunning views. A perfect blend of hands-on adventure and relaxation.
- Crab traps & gear provided
- Scenic coastal sightseeing
- Keep your catch to enjoy
Accessible By Design
Every aspect of our operation is designed to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for wheelchair users and people with mobility challenges.
Ramp Boarding
Wide, stable ramp for easy wheelchair boarding directly from the X Dock at Discovery Harbour Marina.
Spacious Deck
Open deck layout with plenty of room to maneuver and fish comfortably from your wheelchair.
Safety Equipment
Specialized safety gear including accessible life jackets and secure wheelchair tie-downs.
Trained Crew
Our crew is trained in accessibility assistance, patient, and ready to help make your trip unforgettable.
Want the full details on our accessible setup?
See our boarding process, vessel specs, safety equipment, and crew training — with photos.
Their Stories
Every person who boards this boat has a story. Here are some of them — the accidents, the challenges, and the moments on the water that reminded them what's still possible.
Marcus T.
Vancouver, BC
T6 Complete SCI — 8 years post-injury
"I hadn't been on the water since my accident. My wife booked this as a surprise for our anniversary. When I rolled up that ramp and felt the boat rocking underneath me, I broke down. Cody and the crew treated me like any other fisherman — no pity, just good fishing. I landed a 22-pound chinook that day. Best day I've had in years."
Sarah & James K.
Nanaimo, BC
James — C5/C6 Incomplete SCI
"James was an avid fisherman before his motorcycle accident three years ago. We tried other charters but nobody could accommodate his power chair. Wheelin N Reeling was the first time someone said 'yes, we can do that' without hesitation. The ramp, the tie-downs, the deck space — everything was built with us in mind. James caught three fish and hasn't stopped smiling since."
David R.
Campbell River, BC
L1 Burst Fracture — workplace injury
"I grew up fishing these waters. After my injury at work, I figured those days were over. A buddy told me about Wheelin N Reeling and I was skeptical — I've heard 'accessible' before and it usually means a ramp to nowhere. Not here. This boat was purpose-built. I could move around the whole deck, fish from wherever I wanted. We did the Quadra circumnavigation and I saw eagles, seals, and places I'd only ever seen from shore. Cody gets it because he built this for his friend. That makes all the difference."
Have a Story to Share?
Whether it's your first time back on the water or a trip that changed your outlook — we'd love to hear it. Your story could be the reason someone else takes the leap.
Sponsor a Trip
Not everyone who deserves a day on the water can afford one. Your donation sends someone fishing who otherwise couldn't go — someone on disability assistance, government income, or facing financial hardship on top of their physical challenges.
You Donate
Any amount helps. A full trip sponsorship covers the charter fee for one person with a mobility challenge.
We Match a Guest
We connect donations with individuals on government assistance or disability income who have applied for a sponsored trip.
They Go Fishing
100% of your donation goes directly to putting someone on the water. No admin fees, no overhead — just a day they'll never forget.
Every Dollar Goes to the Water
A spinal cord injury changes everything — including your finances. Many people living with mobility challenges are on provincial disability assistance or government income programs. A fishing charter isn't in the budget. But that doesn't mean they've lost the desire to be out on the water.
When you sponsor a trip, you're not just paying for a boat ride. You're giving someone a day where their disability doesn't define what they can do. You're giving them a story to tell. And sometimes, that one day is the turning point.
Questions from Wheelchair Users
Real answers to the questions that matter most. Can't find what you need? Contact us directly.
Find Us
Meet us at the X Dock at Discovery Harbour Marina — 2395 Spit Rd, Campbell River, BC V9W 6E3.
Departure Point — X Dock
2395 Spit Rd, Campbell River, BC V9W 6E3
Discovery Harbour Marina
Season
May through October
Weather permitting
Parking
Accessible parking available at the marina
We'll meet you at your vehicle if needed
Arrival
Please arrive 15 minutes before departure
So we can get you comfortably settled
Book Your Adventure
Ready to get out on the water? Fill out the form below or give us a call. We'll get back to you within 24 hours.
Get In Touch
Phone
(250) 555-0123Location
X Dock, Discovery Harbour Marina
2395 Spit Rd, Campbell River, BC V9W 6E3
Hours
Tours run May - October
Call anytime to book