Dream Casters Fishing in Port Coquitlam, BC
Soldier On, in collaboration with Dream Casters Society, will host an Introduction to Fishing event near Port Coquitlam, BC on July 16 or 17, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., on the Fraser River. Eight applicants will be selected for each day (two boats, four per boat each day). This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.
This is open to all registered Soldier On serving or retired members in the Vancouver area (within one-hour drive of Port Coquitlam, BC). There is no cost for the event other than the purchase of a one-day TIDAL fishing license for BC ($6). This is required to participate in the event. Assistance is provided in registration and filling out the waiver if requested.
Travel assistance is not provided for this event. Participants will meet the Soldier On staff and guides at 5 Burbidge Street, just off of United Blvd in Maquabeak Park, in Coquitlam. Parking is available at this location. The dock is right next to (under) the Port Mann Bridge.
The aim and scope of the practice will be to introduce basic fishing lessons/techniques, but most of all – to enjoy a day on the water.
The event will include some beginner lessons and/or additional techniques, all of the gear will be supplied.
Assistance throughout the event will be provided courtesy of
Dream Casters Society staff.
The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 16 (eight per day / four per boat).
Minimum eligibility criteria
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in the Vancouver area (within one-hour drive of Port Coquitlam, BC) who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.
Serving Members
Approval required by your chain of command.
Mental & Physical Requirements
- Participants must be able to tolerate up to eight (8) hours of light paced activities for one day.
- Due to the activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day.
- Participants are advised that this event will be held outdoors, and weather conditions can change on the water.
- Participants are expected to dress accordingly for the weather conditions.
- Participants will be required to wear a life jacket at all times while around the water and on the boat.
- Participants will also be required to physically get themselves in and out of the boat.
- Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.
- Participants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol allowed during the daily activities.
- Please be advised that six feet social distancing is not feasible on the boat.
- Masks will be worn at all times on the boat.