CCA Virginia supports a day of fishing for anglers with disabilities on the Chesapeake Bay.

 CCA Northern Virginia chapter member Ernie Rojas helped organize a fishing trip aboard the charter boat Redeemer, a specialized Bay built charter boat that provides disabled persons access to fishing the Chesapeake. 

One of Coastal Conservation Association’s core principles is to protect and improve  anglers’ access to our marine resources. And that is exactly the mindset that Ernie Rojas, a longtime CCA member, had when he helped organize a fishing trip for wheelchair-bound anglers recently. 

“It (the idea for the trip) all started when I spoke to Mike Trivett, Outreach Director at Christian Fellowship Church, where I attend,” said Ernie, a leader of CCA Virginia’s Northern Virginia chapter. “He led me to the folks at The ARC of Loudoun, specifically, the Ability Fitness Center. The work they do is nothing short of amazing! Greg Lutz, who is a therapist at the center, was the other co-leader.” Ernie adds that the CCA NoVA chapter quickly decided to help sponsor the trip.

Begun in 1967, the ARC of Loudoun is a non-profit organization with multiple programs that provide a lifetime of opportunities for people with disabilities. Redeemer Charters, which departs from St. Jerome’s Creek at Taylor’s Cove Dock in Ridge, MD, has specifically designed the grounds and a dock to meet the needs and concerns for wheelchair bound guests. The charter boat itself is customized to ensure anglers and their families enjoy a safe and fun day fishing and boating. Here’s also another example of CCA Virginia members’ commitment to helping ensure all anglers have an opportunity to enjoy the Chesapeake’s incredible fishing.

(Photos courtesy Ernie Rojas.)