Fishing experiences tailored for neurodiverse families

Angling4Autism Society is a Canadian registered charity founded in 2022 by John Carinha, a longtime Point Roberts resident and aviation business owner. The organization provides free, all-inclusive fishing experiences for neurodiverse families, including those affected by autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and related conditions.

The idea grew from Carinha’s experience raising his son, Brandon, who was diagnosed with autism at age two and a half. In 2016, Brandon was named a “champion child” by the Canucks Autism Network and took part in a high-profile father-son fishing tournament in Haida Gwaii that raised nearly $1 million. Carinha was inspired to create similar opportunities for everyday families who would not otherwise have access to such experiences.

Angling4Autism now operates several programs. Its Family Fishing Experiences take six families at a time to resorts such as Moutcha Bay Resort on Vancouver Island and Eagle Nook Resort, offering four days and three nights, two full days of guided fishing. The society is also expanding its programming with a sturgeon fishing trip for eight families on the Fraser River in September.

From May to September, one of Carinha’s boats is based in Point Roberts, where the society runs four-hour boat-based fishing sessions on weekends. Families participate in salmon fishing, bottom fishing, crabbing, and Prawning, depending on seasonal regulations. Each trip begins with a safety briefing, conservation education, and an overview of U.S. and Canadian fishing rules. “Point Roberts is the perfect launch point,” Carinha said. “It’s quiet, welcoming, and families can turn their fishing trip into a full day in the community.”

Programs are open to both Canadian and Washington-based families. At least one participant must be neurodiverse, and they may bring up to three additional family members or caregivers. Registration is done through an online lottery system, with priority given to families who lack boating or fishing opportunities. Multi-day resort programs are reserved for first-time participants to reach as many families as possible.

Carinha, who captains the boats himself, designs each outing to support sensory needs, including preparing children for engine noise and using music on board to create a calming environment.

Funding comes from corporate and individual sponsorships, an annual gala in March, a smaller gala in Victoria, silent auctions, and early financial support from Carinha’s aviation business. Recently achieving registered charity status has allowed the organization to apply for grants and offer tax benefits to sponsors.

The society promotes its mission through community outreach and media exposure, including exhibits at the Seattle Boat Show, where the Port of Seattle provides booth space. Its events are filmed by BC Outdoor Sports Fishing TV and broadcast on CHEK TV, with prior episodes also available on YouTube.

More information is available at angling4autism.com and on Instagram at @angling4autism.