New barrier-free fishing pier at Wockersee: fishing for everyone!

New barrier-free fishing pier at Wockersee: fishing for everyone!

There is a reason to be happy in Parchim, because the new barrier-free fishing pier at Wockersee was ceremoniously opened. The project, which was initiated by the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania State Anglers Association, aims to make it easier for people with and without disabilities to have access to fishing and recreation in nature. Dr. Ramona Kern, who was present at the opening, emphasized the importance of participation, inclusion and experiencing nature together. Planning for the jetty began in 2021, while construction started in February 2023.

The ceremonial inauguration was attended by Sabine Hübner, the initiator of a program in Schleswig-Holstein, which served as a model for Parchim. There are around 40 barrier-free fishing piers in operation in Schleswig-Holstein, and people have now benefited from their experiences. The construction costs for the new jetty amounted to almost 80,000 euros and were financed from the fishing levy, as Nordkurier reports.

Barrier-free fishing for everyone

A key aspect of the new fishing pier is taking into account the needs of anglers with various handicaps. As Angelmagazin explains, a lack of suitable fishing spots often represents a major challenge for people with disabilities. The Wockersee-Stieg was designed so that it can be reached directly by car and is completely at ground level. These factors are crucial so that wheelchair users can also fish without any problems.

An important addition to the structural requirements are the safety precautions, such as the possibility of securing a wheelchair against rolling away and the availability of a barrier-free toilet nearby. Such aspects are fundamental to making fishing possible for everyone.

Outlook for further projects

Association chairman Bernd Dickau has already announced that further barrier-free fishing piers are planned in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. These new projects should continue to meet the same strict requirements, including barrier-free access, short and paved paths and sufficient space for carers.

These developments are important not only for people with disabilities, but also for the entire community. The positive effects of fishing for all ages and abilities, such as reducing stress and promoting conservation, are well recognized. Barrierefrei Magazin emphasizes that fishing is a leisure activity that brings people together and also ensures digital deceleration.

Overall, the new jetty at Wockersee shows that barrier-free fishing is not just a beautiful dream, but can also be realized in concrete terms. This is a step in the right direction that will hopefully result in many imitators and further projects. Because nature belongs to everyone!