Quality of Life Grantee Spotlight: Chicago No Limits Fishing

There’s nothing quite like the calm of open water and the thrill of a bite on the line. 

“I’m an avid outdoor person; I love fishing and the sense of liberation that boating can bring,” says David Hanson. “I’m also a C6 complete quadriplegic, and I know first-hand the challenges individuals with paralysis face when trying to access water recreation.”

Inspired by an accessible boating experience during a Key West vacation, Hanson decided to replicate the joy and freedom he found on the water in his hometown. In 2023, he partnered with Ken Carwell, a fellow outdoorsman and cancer survivor amputee, to launch Chicago No Limits Fishing (CNLF).

“CNLF is dedicated to offering fishing opportunities on a fully accessible pontoon boat along the shores of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River at no cost to participants,” says Hanson. “We found a 22-foot,20-year-old pontoon boat and worked with a local company, Advantage Trailer, that donated time and materials to widen the gates, remove the seats, move the helm and install electronics.”

During its inaugural season, CNLF hosted 14 outings, creating opportunities for nearly 40 individuals with disabilities, family members and friends. In 2024, CNLF was fully booked, serving over 100 people. 

“Our current boat has limited space, which restricts the number of individuals and families we can accommodate on each trip,” says Hanson. “With more demand than we could handle, we knew we needed a bigger boat.” 

While attending the annual Abilities Expo, Hanson learned about the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Quality of Life Grant Program. In 2025, CNLF received a $24,999 Quality of Life grant to purchase a larger, fully accessible three-pontoon boat that would more than double passenger capacity.

“This tri-toon boat lays the foundation for long-term growth and sustainability, enabling us to reach hundreds of new participants who will create lasting memories without accessibility barriers,” says Hanson.

CNLF worked directly with Godfrey Pontoon Boats to design and manufacture a fully universally accessible tri-toon. The Boat House of Chicago played a key role as a dealer partner in coordinating the project.

“Their willingness to listen, problem-solve and innovate alongside us made all the difference,” says Hanson. “This boat reflects what’s possible when manufacturers and dealers truly commit to inclusion.”

Wider entryways, flexible seating arrangements and adaptive fishing equipment ensure a stress-free, welcoming environment so that individuals of all mobility levels can board and navigate the ship safely. 

“Fishing and boating are more than just hobbies. They create lasting opportunities for social engagement, skill development and improved quality of life,” says Hanson. “For many, this is the first time they’ve engaged in an outdoor sport since their injury. The boat is an inclusive, hands-on environment where participants can interact, share experiences and form new friendships.”

Beyond just a recreational activity, CNLF's programs foster mental and emotional well-being and provide a space where individuals with paralysis can build confidence and reconnect with nature, their families and their community.

“The great thing about boating is that everyone is there together; no one can wander off,” says Hanson. “It is a great feeling to do something different and have everyone together.”

The new boat will also allow CNLF to expand partnerships with key organizations, including the Chicago Park District Adaptive Sports Program, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, as well as special recreation associations and centers for independent living. 

“Through these partnerships, we’ve compiled a mailing list of nearly 500 individuals,” says Hanson. “The new boat will allow us to increase outreach, serve new communities and provide more specialized outings tailored to different groups, such as veterans, youth and newly injured individuals adjusting to life with a disability.”

CNLF is the only program of its kind within a 200-mile radius of the Chicagoland area, making it a vital resource across Illinois and neighboring states. The new boat should be ready to launch for the 2026 season and will be conveniently docked in downtown Chicago at DuSable Harbor.

“This will allow everyone, regardless of ability, to enjoy time on the water,” says Hanson. “The new boat will have a lasting impact, providing life-changing experiences for years to come.”