As summer is about to kick off, it must be time for an Out and About Twin Cities focused on two great Minnesota pastimes: fishing and being outdoors. The 2026 Governor’s Fishing Opener was held May 8–9 in Stillwater on the St. Croix River, and Minnesota fishing licenses for the 2026–27 license year are effective through February 28, 2027. As always, check current Minnesota DNR rules before heading out, since seasons, licenses, and regulations can change.
There are several ways to enjoy fishing without having to climb into an old fishing boat, which can be challenging for some seniors. Pontoons are often a much better option because they allow anglers to step straight off the dock onto a flat surface. If you are not fortunate enough to have a friend or family member with a pontoon, rentals are available at various locations around the metro area.
When renting a boat, make sure it is accessible for your situation. If someone uses a wheelchair, look for a wider access gate, a ramp, and enough room to move safely. In rougher water, it may also be helpful to ask whether tie-downs or other safety accommodations are available.
Fishing from shore can also be a good choice for seniors with mobility concerns. A vintage shoreline fishing guide from 1992 noted that few metro areas had as much wheelchair access to good fishing as the Twin Cities, thanks to fishing piers, paved paths, and plenty of lakes and rivers. While the guide is older, the basic idea still holds: accessible fishing piers and level shoreline areas can make it much easier for anglers of all abilities to enjoy a day by the water. Who can resist this old fishing guide--even if there are newer resources?
Just remember that rules, license costs, and site conditions may have changed since older guides were printed. Before heading out, check current DNR fishing regulations and, when possible, call ahead to confirm accessibility.
Comfort Keepers RN Ole Nettestad shared that he is still involved with fishing events for veteran groups. Over the years, Ole has worked with or participated in events connected to Band of Brothers Outdoors, Vets R Us, We Got Your 6 Outdoor Adventures, Trolling for Troops, and Fishing with Vets.
Ole also shared a meaningful update: he recently sold his fishing boat and purchased a new pontoon so he can better accommodate older, less agile, and handicapped veterans. That kind of setup can make a big difference for veterans who still want to enjoy time on the water but need a safer and more stable way to do it. Thank you for your service Ole!
Band of Brothers Outdoors provides outdoor experiences for active-duty military members, retired military personnel, and veterans. Their activities include fishing, hunting, backpacking, foraging, and other outdoor outings designed to build community and support healing through recreational therapy.
Vets R Us, Inc. is a Minnesota-based nonprofit founded in 2023 that serves veterans and active-duty military members through meaningful, life-enriching experiences. Their site includes information about events such as hunting opportunities, photo galleries, sponsors, and ways to get involved. Ole noted that he is especially interested in groups like Vets R Us because they tend to be a good fit for older generations of veterans.
We Got Your 6 Outdoor Adventures, also listed as We Got Your Six Outdoor Adventures, provides outdoor adventures for veterans, current military members, military families, and Gold Star families in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Their mission focuses on creating opportunities for veterans to connect with peers through outdoor activities, especially fishing. Ole shared that he is also noticing this group because of its fit with older veterans. Find a local link up here.
Trolling for Troops is part of Minnesota Veterans Outdoors, which partners with veteran service organizations and community groups to provide hunting and fishing programs for veterans and service members. Trolling for Troops pairs veterans and active-duty service members with experienced anglers for a day on Mille Lacs Lake or the Mississippi River. The 2026 event was scheduled for June 4–5, with applications due April 19, 2026, and selected participants required to have a valid Minnesota fishing license.
Fishing with Vets is a nonprofit organization that brings veterans together through group fishing outings. Their mission focuses on honoring veterans, supporting mental wellness, and building camaraderie through time outdoors.
Veterans on the Water, based in Arlington, Minnesota, offers free fishing trips for veterans of all ages. Their trips include single-day and extended weekend options, and their website notes that they use boats built or rebuilt to accommodate special needs, including wheelchair-accessible pontoons.
Get out there and enjoy the Great Weather!
Minnesota summers go by quickly. Whether it is a quiet afternoon on a fishing pier, a pontoon ride with family, or a veteran fishing event built around fellowship and accessibility, now is the time to get outside and enjoy the season with your favorite seniors and veterans.