Catch A Smile is an Ottawa-based, 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 for wheelchairs and other mobility devices. We provide the boats, crews, safety equipment and all the fishing gear you will need. 

Our 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.

We were founded in 1993 by Lionel Pauzé from Lanark County, Ontario. Operational since 1996, 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.