Paul’s Fishing Rod Adaptation

Two years ago, Paul suffered a severe stroke that significantly changed his life. Before the stroke, fishing was his greatest passion, but he hadn’t been able to cast a line since.

The stroke left him with major communication difficulties, severe weakness in his right leg, and no use of his right arm. He now uses a manual wheelchair inside his home and a powerchair when outdoors.

For over a year, Paul’s Stroke Recovery Coordinator had been searching for adaptive fishing equipment that could allow Paul to return to his favourite hobby. However, finding a suitable solution in the UK proved impossible. Paul had tried a standard rod holder typically used on boats, but it didn’t attach to his chair correctly.

Paul needed a fishing rod holder that would attach to his chair between his legs, as well as something to allow him to cast off and reel in one-handed. His wife also had concerns about the stability of his powerchair, especially when Paul leaned back to cast or reel in, as the chair was designed to be light enough for her to lift into the car.

Paul’s Stroke Recovery Coordinator reached out to REMAP and Paul was paired with Danny Rees, an engineer from REMAP’s Cleveland branch. Danny worked closely with Paul to understand his needs and his wife’s concerns, designing a custom fishing rod holder that was both stable and functional.

After two years of searching and waiting, Paul now has a solution that allows him to return to the water and enjoy fishing once again.

Would custom equipment help you reconnect with a sport or hobby? Get in touch.