Accessible Hunting, Fishing, Hiking, and More!
Trackchairs
Pictured above, trackchairs are a great way to get outdoors, traversing terrain typically inaccessible by most other wheelchairs. NC is proud to offer 8 Action Trackchairs (Model ST20) across the state. Renting a trackchair is a great way to get out into nature and explore unfamiliar land. These tank-like chairs make you feel powerful and free, removing barriers that were once placed on areas for people who use wheelchairs. Each chair comes with its own dedicated trailer with an electric tongue jack, allowing for the trailer to be hooked to a towing vehicle with ease. These chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost. They may be checked out by the user or a companion, which are required for users under the age of 18.
To reserve these chairs, send an email to track.chairs@ncwildlife.gov. In this email, please provide your full name, phone number, and the dates that you would like to pick up and return the chair. Reservations are typically capped at 6 days, but feel free to contact the office if you would like an extension. If there are no conflicting reservations, they may be able to extend your reservation. A new online reservation system may be coming soon, and this page will be updated when new information is available.
According to ncwildlife.gov,
Trackchairs provide a smooth ride on concrete, and can access terrain like sand, ice, dirt, and gravel. However, the Trackchair should not be operated on more than a 20-degree slope, and all inclines like small logs or curbs should be approached at an angle. The Trackchair can tip over in any direction on inclines. Additionally, wet snow, clay, and mud will decrease traction.
If you are operating the Trackchair in wet conditions, “You can drive in water about 8-10” deep; just avoid covering the tops of the batteries. You do NOT want to submerge the motor controller that is under your seat or your motors.”
Lastly, "Action Manufacturing Inc. does not recommend operating your Trackchair in the salt water, although our Trackchairs are powder coated to the highest quality with very durable powder coat, salt water is very corrosive and causes problems with powder coat and metal. If your Trackchair has been exposed to salt water, rinse the Trackchair completely with fresh water and dry off immediately."
Trackchairs can be used on any open game lands and other accessible and open public and private land. If you are concerned about the use of a trackchair on a specific plot of land, feel free to contact the appropriate management organization (i.e., US Forest Service, NC State Parks, etc.)
Hunting
Across the state, there are accessible hunting blinds, locations of which can be found here. These blinds are fully accessible and reserved for those with valid disabled sportsman licenses. For more information on these licenses, see the information at the top of this page.
The Disabled Sportsman Hunt Certification is a medical certification to establish eligibility for participation in disabled permit hunt opportunities. This application is used if the participant does not possess a lifetime disabled veteran or totally disabled license. This certification is not a license, so a valid hunting license must also be obtained in order to participate in a disabled hunt opportunity. More information regarding dates of these hunts will be provided here when it becomes available.
There are also some local non-profits that offer accessible hunts around the state of NC:
The state of North Carolina has many accessible opportunities for residents with disabilities. Below you will find a guide compiling information from many government and private organizations who exist to make the outdoors available to all. Bridge2Sports exists to connect people to accessible opportunities around them and fill in gaps where they may exist. We are proud of the work NC has done to make our beautiful land more accessible, so continue down to hear about how you can get involved!
Licensing and Eligibility
If you are interested in hunting or fishing, NC Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) offers discounted licenses to members of our state with varying disabilities. Due to the documentation requirements, in order to receive this benefit, you must visit one of their offices or mail information with your application. To check if you qualify, please visit their “Disabled Licenses” page on their website. If you do not fit their criteria, you may still apply for a license at full price here
Fishing
Accessible fishing areas are popping up all over the state. These areas consist of dedicated accessible parking, paved parking lots, paved paths to the water, and accessible piers that feature benches and alternating high and low handrails with bait shelves that can accommodate wheelchairs. To find an up-to-date map of these locations, visit NC Fishing Areas and Trout Waters. On this page, the menu on the left will have a drop-down to “Filter Fishing Areas". Within this filter, you can select “ADA Compliant” and then “Update Map.” This will show you all of the available accessible piers and bank fishing spots in the state.
Another thing you will see on this filter is the “Tackle Loaner Program.” Through this program, anglers of all skill levels are encouraged to check out rods and reels for free at sites all across the state! Many of the sites include adaptive fishing gear, including forearm pole holders, pole grasping cuffs, velcro reel adapters, and even wheelchair pole holders. You can find a list of available Accessible TLC sites here, or by using the filter on the map above.
If you are unable to borrow adaptive fishing gear due to availability or distance, send an email to ada.coordinator@ncwildlife.gov who can facilitate shipping gear to sites around the state from Raleigh’s central office. Bridge2Sports also has a few adaptive fishing accessories, so if you are in the area and want to check them out, feel free to give us a call or swing by!
Archery, Air Rifle, and Shooting Ranges
If you have read this far, you would probably be interested in Bridge2Sports’ bi-weekly archery and air rifle programs on Wednesdays in Durham! These programs are run by two veterans, Ian and Casper, who drive from the east coast to teach participants about gun and bow safety and different adaptations. All of the equipment, including any adaptations necessary, is available at our facility for anyone who wants to join. Friends and family are welcome to join!
Shooting ranges: The NCRWC manages 9 public shooting ranges that are wheelchair accessible across the state. To check if the facility nearest you is accessible, see this page.
Questions?
If you have any questions or would like help navigating the accessible outdoor recreation in NC, feel free to give us a call or use the contact us form at the bottom of the page. Most of the information for this page was found at www.ncwildlife.gov/outdoors/accessible-opportunities so feel free to peruse this site yourself if you are interested!