FISHING COMMITTEE PAGE

Do you like to fish?  If you do, and have been missing out, n.a.s.a. offers four opportunities for you or someone you know to get out and hook a big one!

We have traded in the older pontoon and bought a bigger and better one.  Specially built for wheelchair accessability, we provide the boat from May through September, free of charge, to the elderly and physically challenged and their families.  Click here or scroll down to learn more about reserving the pontoon boat!

If boating isn't your thing, then fishing from one of the n.a.s.a. fishing piers just might be.   Through a partnership with local government agencies and generous sponsors, we have placed wheelchair accessible fishing piers on Lake Onalaska and Lake Neshonoc where you're certain to enjoy many hours of easy-access fishing.  Each pier is equipped with benches and pole holders. 

Maybe you would rather catch trout at a peaceful trout pond in the country, well we can provide that opportunity also.  You not only get to catch the trout but we clean them and serve them right on the site for you to enjoy.

Click below to view a short feature on the construction of our boat launch and pier!

Below are some pictures highlighting the 2007 construction of the n.a.s.a. fishing pier on Lake Noshonoc.

TROUT FISHING POND OPPORTUNITY

We also provide the disabled fisherperson an opportunity to go trout fishing.  Each fisherman/woman  will recieve help from n.a.s.a. members, personal aides, and other volunteers in catching, cleaning, cooking, and eating their catch.  This is sure to be a most memorable experience for everyone involved!  Last year we had five different nursing homes bring out over 50 residents to the pond.  Boy oh boy did they have fun.  Nasa provided a big tent with tables and chairs for them to get away from the sun.  Each person caught trout that nasa cleaned and cooked for a meal fit for a king.  The fishing trip provided by nasa brought out many great memories of days gone by.   There were many stories that were told both during and after the days trip.  We were told by the staff of the homes that the fishing trip was a huge topic of discusion for weeks and weeks and they are looking forward to next years fishing trip.

Click below to view a short clip of youngsters enjoying a fishing outing at a local pond!

Pontoon Boat Information

 KWIK TRIP HAS DONATED  ALL OF OUR GAS NEEDS.  PLEASE THANK THEM BY SHOPPING AT THEIR STORES.

On July 28th, 2004, n.a.s.a. introduced our first major project to the public:  a 20-foot pontoon boat dubbed the S.S. Squirrel!  This boat is available at no charge to anyone with a disability and their family and friends, veterans, senior citizens over the age of 65, nursing facility groups, adult foster home groups, high school special education groups, youth groups, and other organizations working with the elderly, youth, or persons with disabilities.  For 2008 we will be putting a brand new pontoon out on the lake with more stability and more room.  We hope you take advantage of the boat and enjoy the water.

The S.S. Squirrel is a fully accessible vessel loaded with extras!  It is equipped with a Roll-A-Ramp for easy on-and-off access for all users, a canopy for protection from the elements, and life vests for all passengers.  Whether you want to go on a fishing adventure, a cruise on Lake Onalaska, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of the backwaters of the Mississippi River, this is for you!  All outings are guided by a trained captain who understands the boat and the lake waters.  If you are worried about the safety of yourself and your companions, all nasa services, programs, and activities are covered by a $1,000,000 liability insurance policy.

Click below to see a short clip about the pontoon boat!

After each pontoon season ends, the S.S. Squirrel undergoes a thorough cleaning and engine overhaul to ensure the boat will be running smoothly and safely for the following year.  The n.a.s.a. pontoon boat is placed in the water each May 1st, and taken out each Fall by October 1st.  In 2004, the pontoon boat served approximately 150 individuals.  In 2005, it served over 300, and in 2006 and 2007 that number soared to over 1600!  The reservations fill up quickly, so sign up early and don't miss this opportunity to get out and enjoy what the great outdoors has to offer!

Any person physically challenged or elderly (72 and above) and their guests are invited to use the pontoon boat up to two times per month.  We have become very popular so we are limiting the use by each group or individual so more people can use the pontoon boat during the summer.

The pontoon boat is free of charge and we will provide a captain for each and every trip.  We will have life vest for your use and if you need fishing poles please request them ahead of time.

Remember:  The boat will only hold ten passengers plus our captain.   We can hold up to four wheelchairs at one time.

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 Ice Fishing Shanty Information

If you enjoy ice fishing, then n.a.s.a. has something exciting for you to try out!  In 2005, we began offering use of an accessible ice fishing shack on Lake Onalaska free of charge to the elderly, youths, and anyone with a disability.  The guys  will help you get out to the shack and back, and set you up for some of the best ice fishing action in the area.  In the winter of 2007, n.a.s.a. is planning to offer a similarly accessibly ice fishing shack on Lake Neshonoc.  Watch this website for more information!

Click below to see the ice fishing shanty!

You will be asked to sign a waiver of liability releasing the association and its members from any lawsuit. The waiver will need to be signed before using the pontoon.  The link to download the release waiver can be found oon the left-hand side of this webpage.

To make a reservation, just click on the desired date and provide the requested information. It is important that a telephone number is given so that we may contact you to confirm your reservation.  All information requested must be filled in so we can serve your needs.  If you have any questions about reserving the ice shanty, please call Red at 608 397-6773

 
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