I just got back from the annual Paralyzed Veterans of America North Central Chapter fishing trip in Chamberlain, SD, on the Missouri River. This is my second year and won't be my last. It’s great that PVA opens allows anyone in a wheelchair to attend this fishing event. For a lot of us this is the one and only time we get to go fishing throughout the year and everyone involved with this event makes sure we make the most of our time on the water. None of this would be possible without all the volunteers that work hard to put this on and the fireman who donate their boats, tackle, poles and time to take us out on the river.

The weather was a bit chilly, but the fish were biting all day, both days. It was an absolute blast. Most of the fish we caught weren't keepers, but we got five nice ones on the first day, and our limit the second day. Though we couldn't keep anything under 15 inches, they were sure fun to catch and throw back and we probably caught over a 100 fish each day. It keeps things entertaining when they are biting up a storm. At times we would hit dry spells and that's when I would break out my camera or take a moment to grab a sandwich. I kid you not, the minute I clicked that first picture there was a fish on the line and I'm doing everything in my power not to drop my new camera in the water. And when I would take the first bite of a sandwich a fish would bite before I was done chewing. Since we are all fishing no one could grab my sandwich or pole, so like a lot of us in chairs do, we use our mouth to hold things. I put the sandwich in my mouth and reeled the fish like a pro. It was the ideal Kodak moment, but no one thought to the get camera from me while I'm reeling in a keeper. It made everyone in the boat laugh and it got to be my fishing technique during dry spells. I still haven't mustered up the courage to take my own fish off or bait my own hook. With all these guys in the boat I really don't have to and I'm in no hurry to learn.

After fishing the first day the PVA puts on a big steak dinner and recognizes all our captains, co-captains, and volunteers, with speeches and huge raffle give away. Last year my dad and I didn't win anything but everyone around us did. It was beginning to look that way again this year until my captains told me to go up there and tell them our numbers. Mind you this was after almost everyone had prizes and they were asking people who hadn't won to show them their numbers. Dad's ticket got called, but the night went on and my number had yet to be called. Eventually the MC came over with a box of stuff and assured me he called my number during a speech, but truthfully, I think he just felt bad. It was a very nice gesture, but I missed the thrill of hearing my number being called like everyone else. Maybe next year is my year in the raffle.

I cannot tell you into words how breathtaking Chamberlain and the Missouri River are. This is pure nature and beauty at it's finest. We saw a bald eagle the second day. I wasn't able to get a good photo of it, but truly a magnificent sight to see it flying around. The dam itself is an amazing sight, but nothing beats the rock formations and cliffs you see along the shoreline and the greenest grass and hills that go for miles. If I wasn't such a city girl I could see myself living out there. Even if I didn't catch a fish the entire two days, I would have enjoyed just rocking in the boat and enjoying the scenery around me.

This is an incredible experience in so many ways. The fishing of course is fun, but this event brings you together with people in similar situations. We all have tough days; hell, I'm having a tough year medically. This trip made me forget about all those problems for a couple of days. I know other states offer events like South Dakota and I hope anyone who reads this take the opportunity to check them out. You will have the time of your life and make some new friends as you float away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. We all can use a little fun in our lives. Get out there, catch a big one.

More photos can be seen here. Missouri River Photos

© 2011 Kristina Allen