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Local chapter of Let's Go Fishing aims to launch in Forest Lake with donated pontoon and volunteer base
Summary
Keith Coomley told the Parks & Recreation Committee that Let's Go Fishing, a nonprofit serving seniors, veterans and people with disabilities, plans a Forest Lake chapter and seeks remaining startup funding and volunteers to begin operations by June 2026.
Keith Coomley, representing the nonprofit Let's Go Fishing, told the Forest Lake Parks & Recreation Committee on Nov. 19 that the group plans to launch a local chapter and operate free, handicap‑accessible fishing and boating trips for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities and youth.
"Let's Go Fishing is an organization that's been around for 20 years," Coomley said. He described the group's model of taking guests on pontoon trips free of charge, and said the organization has served more than 250,000 guests across its chapters. Coomley told commissioners the newly incorporated Forest Lake chapter has about $30,000 in committed funds, has identified 40–50 volunteers and has four board members so far.
Cooley said the chapter estimated roughly $75,000 is needed to start the first year: about $60,000 for a new custom pontoon and roughly $15,000 for equipment and materials. To reduce the immediate funding need, the chapter has agreed to purchase a used pontoon from a nearby chapter for $20,000 and expects to need an additional $7,000–$9,000 to outfit the boat and cover startup expenses.
Commissioners asked whether guests are charged; Coomley replied trips are free but staff and volunteers accept voluntary donations. Discussion included site logistics: Kyle and other staff said they are discussing slip access with the local boat club and are exploring whether the city can offer a no‑fee slip or other dock arrangement. Coomley also said he has contacted local groups including Invisible Wounds and other community partners to recruit guests and volunteers.
The presentation closed with staff and commissioners offering to help publicize the program. Coomley said the chapter aims to be operating by June 2026 with an online trip calendar and 8–10 short trips per week.
The commission did not take formal action on funding at the meeting; commissioners and staff discussed potential city assistance for slip access and encouraged outreach and publicity to increase local donations and volunteer recruitment.
The committee's next steps: staff will continue dock discussions with the boat club and follow up with the presenter. The group requested community help spreading the word and indicated it will return with updates as the chapter lines up equipment and volunteers.
