Glossary

Quick reference for terms used across our guides. Each definition is written to be useful whether you're a wheelchair user researching fishing options, a caregiver planning a trip, or a healthcare provider recommending adaptive recreation.

Fishing

Wheelchair Accessible Fishing Charter

A guided fishing trip on a boat specifically designed or modified to allow wheelchair users to board, fish, and enjoy the trip without leaving their wheelchair. Features include boarding ramps, open flat decks, wheelchair tie-down systems, accessible washrooms, and crew trained in disability assistance. Canada's only purpose-built accessible charter is Wheelin N Reeling Adventures in Campbell River, BC.

Adaptive Fishing

Fishing using modified equipment or techniques to accommodate a physical disability. Includes wheelchair-mounted rod holders, electric reels for limited hand function, adapted grips (foam build-ups, velcro straps), modified casting techniques (side cast, underhand flip), and trolling methods that eliminate the need to cast.

Trolling

A fishing technique where baited lines are trailed behind a slowly moving boat. The boat's forward movement provides the action to attract fish. Eliminates the need to cast, making it the most accessible fishing method for wheelchair users. Primary technique used on Pacific salmon charters.

Equipment

Boarding Ramp

A wide, non-slip aluminum ramp connecting a dock to a boat deck, allowing wheelchair users to roll directly onto the vessel without lifting or transfers. Quality boarding ramps have side rails, non-slip surfaces, and a weight capacity of 600+ lbs to accommodate power wheelchairs.

Wheelchair Tie-Down System

Straps or clamps that secure a wheelchair to a boat deck during transit. Prevents the wheelchair from moving while the vessel is underway, keeping the rider safe and stable. Essential on any accessible fishing vessel. Also used in accessible vehicles and aircraft.

Electric Reel

A fishing reel with a motorized retrieve function, operated by push-button or lever. Used by anglers with limited hand strength or grip, such as those with C4-C6 spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, or severe arthritis. The reel handles the cranking while the angler controls direction and tension.

Rod Holder

A device that holds a fishing rod in a fixed position, freeing the angler's hands. Types include wheelchair-mounted (clamp to chair frame), boat-mounted (gunwale slots), and belt-style (strap around waist). The single most important piece of adaptive fishing equipment.

Beach Wheelchair

A wheelchair with oversized, low-pressure balloon tires designed to roll on sand without sinking. Provides beach and waterfront access. Some adaptive kayak and boat programs use beach wheelchairs to help riders reach the water's edge for transfers.

Medical

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Damage to the spinal cord resulting in partial or complete loss of motor function, sensation, or autonomic function below the level of injury. Classified by vertebral level (cervical C1-C8, thoracic T1-T12, lumbar L1-L5, sacral S1-S5) and completeness (complete = no function below injury, incomplete = some function preserved).

Paraplegia

Paralysis of the lower body, typically resulting from thoracic (T1-T12) or lumbar (L1-L5) spinal cord injury. Paraplegics have full arm and hand function, can operate standard fishing equipment, and typically need only a wheelchair and tie-down system to fish from a boat.

Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)

Paralysis affecting all four limbs, resulting from cervical (C1-C8) spinal cord injury. Functional ability varies significantly by level — C6-C7 injuries may have wrist and some grip function, while C4-C5 injuries have limited arm function. All levels can fish with appropriate adaptive equipment.

Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD)

A potentially life-threatening condition affecting people with SCI at T6 level or above. Stimuli below the injury level (full bladder, skin irritation, temperature extremes) trigger a sudden dangerous spike in blood pressure. Symptoms include pounding headache, flushing above injury level, and sweating. On the water, triggers can include sun exposure, cold spray, tight clothing, and prolonged sitting. Crew and companions should know the signs.

Pressure Relief

The practice of shifting weight or repositioning to prevent pressure sores (pressure injuries) during extended periods of sitting. Wheelchair users should perform pressure reliefs every 15-30 minutes. On a 5-hour fishing charter, regular pressure management is essential. Techniques include forward leans, side leans, and push-ups off armrests.

Tenodesis Grasp

A passive grip mechanism used by people with C6-C7 SCI. When the wrist extends (bends back), the fingers naturally close into a grip. Used to hold fishing rod handles, cups, and other objects without active finger function. Adapted fishing grips work with this natural mechanism.

Programs

Sponsor a Trip

A community-funded program run by Wheelin N Reeling Adventures where 100% of donations go directly to funding fishing charters for wheelchair users on government assistance (PWD, AISH, ODSP) or disability income who cannot afford the cost. No admin fees, no complicated applications.

PWD (Persons with Disabilities)

British Columbia's provincial disability assistance program providing income support to eligible persons with disabilities. PWD recipients may qualify for reduced-fee fishing licences and sponsored fishing trips.

AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped)

Alberta's provincial disability income program. AISH recipients may qualify for fishing licence fee exemptions through MyWild Alberta.

ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program)

Ontario's provincial disability income program. ODSP recipients may qualify for free or reduced-cost Outdoors Cards and fishing licences through the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Sports

Sit-Ski (Monoski / Bi-Ski)

Adaptive ski equipment allowing wheelchair users to downhill ski. A monoski has one ski under a molded seat; a bi-ski has two skis for more stability. Outriggers (short poles with ski tips) provide balance and steering. Programs available at major Canadian ski resorts.

Handcycle

A three-wheeled human-powered vehicle propelled by arm-cranking rather than pedaling. Allows wheelchair users to cycle on paved trails, roads, and bike paths. Available in recumbent and upright configurations. Rental programs exist in most major Canadian cities.