Catch A Smile / Friends in Sportfishing is a volunteer-run, charitable organization offering free boating and fishing experiences for groups of people with special needs in our community.  

We operate a fleet of 3 twenty-eight foot pontoon boats that have been modified to make them accessible. We provide the boats, crews, safety equipment and all the fishing gear you will need. 

Activities are conducted under the guidance, supervision and support of an elected Board of Directors who also volunteer their time as captains and mates on our boats.

Founded in 1993 by Lionel Pauzé from Lanark, Ontario, we continue to grow and offer trips to an ever wider range of guests.  Lionel observed how therapeutic boating and fishing was for people who rarely have the opportunity to experience nature and the thrill of fishing. His vision is our mission.

In 2023, we celebrated our 30th anniversary by  welcoming more than 1,500 guests!

We thank all the community groups that booked more than 200 trips at our three Ottawa-area locations. Our volunteer crews were delighted to serve you. We look forward to having you on board again next summer.

If you enjoyed your trip, spread the word. We are always happy to meet new groups and introduce more people to the joys of being on the water.

See the CBC story (text & video) about us, published in August 2022!

Current President Pat O'Brien (2023-25)

The late Dave Smith (left), a major donor, with past president Peter Homulos at our 25-year anniversary reception in 2018.