Jen

I have two boys who always ask to go fishing every summer. I had no idea how to make that happen until I found Captain Art and Cast it Forward. From safety information to basic fishing techniques, my boys and I were able to have a fishing experience that exceeded my expectations. Captain Art was an amazing captain and teacher to the boys and I. He spoke in kid-friendly language and was extremely positive with them. Even when one kiddo made a mistake, he turned that into a learning experience. Art went out of his way to make this trip a memorable one. I couldn't have asked for a better experience with my boys. Thank you Cast it Forward for making this trip a reality for a single momma. I can't wait for our next fishing adventure.
 

We had an absolutely perfect day on the lake with Captain Art. I am quadriplegic and in a wheelchair, so it's not possible for me to safely teach my 5 year old son the joys of fishing and being out in nature, when I'm unassisted. Art accommodated us in incredible ways, from loading up the wheelchair, to doing all the casting, baiting, and netting the fish. His attention to details is exceptional - down to packing snacks on the boat and assuring everyone's safety. It was an incredible day for us, and I think my Sammy is hooked on fishing, just like his dad is. This was the first time I've been on a boat since the accident 5 years ago. Thank you so much. 

All I can say WOW! I can't think of a more perfect day. Art is a wonderful Captain and fisherman and knows how to create a one-of-a-kind experience. He is also a great teacher, freely sharing his knowledge of big water fishing and boating. I came home with a full cooler and, equally important, wonderful memories and a great deal of walleye fishing knowledge. Cast it Forward is a truly wonderful organization and I whole heartily recommend this experience! 

Captain Art and the entire team at Cast it Forward are truly living out the organization's mission, as emphasized and recognized by their partnership with Cornerstone of Hope's Camp Cornerstone! Thanks to Cast it Forward, nearly 80 grieving children and teens had the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride, learn about and sit in kayaks, learn how to cast and reel, while being provided with love, support, and patience. Art went above and beyond throughout the entire process of planning, providing all necessary documentation and assuring the campers were able to make the most out of our time together. Additionally, Art secured fishing poles, tackle boxes, shirts, and hats for every single one of our campers! We can not wait to see how our campers continue to "cast it forward"! 

I picked up one of the local papers which showcased an article about Cast It Forward. I thought it would be a great opportunity for my nine-year-old son Nolan. Nolan loves to fish and anything to do with fishing.

I contacted Art and we had a nice chat, he even invited us to his home to meet before our adventure. Art gave Nolan the tour of his boat, and even gave him a fishing rod and tackle box to take home.

We met Art very early for our fishing adventure. What an experience! I grew up in Lakewood and was familiar with Lake Erie and fishing but had not been fishing in 30 plus years. It was so great to be back on the lake and the fish we caught were amazing and so tasty!

Nolan had so much fun reeling in the walleye (and some pesky sheepsheads too). Art was excellent with time management and was very respectful and knowledgeable.

What a great experience I got to enjoy with my son. I will always remember it.

Thanks for all of your hospitality, Captain Art! We hope to see you in the future!

We couldn't have asked for a better experience for my dad, Andy Hocevar. A lifelong boater and fisherman, he had so missed being on the water walleye and perch fishing on our most precious north coast asset, Lake Erie. Due to his age (94) and difficulty walking and balance, that has not been possible on a private boat or a charter. And then I read an article about Cast It Forward and the difference Art Panfil is making in the lives of veterans, giving them a re-taste of their earlier days of fishing. Art was so cognizant of my dad's needs, making sure he was ok with the chop of the water and making it comfortable to board and exit the boat, but his expertise in finding fish and allowing my dad to bring them in was priceless. My dad had the time of his life, and we -- including Art -- were all tickled to see how much dad was enjoying himself. And, oh, the stories that flowed between my dad and Art as they shared back and forth! What a gift of a day, a memory we will not soon forget, and an experience that has dad still smiling! (BTW, we thought this might be a one-shot deal, but Dad is ready and geared up to go back again! This fishing trip has energized him!) Art, thanks for what you do! God Bless you in your endeavor.

I don't know where to start. Capitan Art is the most amazing guy! He's like that friend you have that you haven't seen in a while and when ya meet up again you pick up where you left off. He is a genuine man and someone that I will always consider my friend. He is extremely knowledgeable about Lake Erie and how to fish it. He had us on the fish and they just kept on biting! Heck as we were trying to reel in to head back in they kept on biting. Capitan Art and his organization do all of this for the love of doing it and to see everyone smile. I say in all honestly his smile got bigger everytime myself or my buddy smiled. He helped check off one of my bucket list fish and I'm forever grateful for the amazing opportunity he afforded me. Thank You Capitan Art!

My husband Chris saw the article in the Richfield Times for Cast it Forward. It was a blessing because for a few years we have been trying to fulfill my dad’s bucket list item.

My dad, Lloyd Wright moved back to Ohio 3 years ago and kept mentioning how he wanted to catch a walleye on Lake Erie. With him turning 97 this year we were doubtful we could make it happen. Thanks to Art Panfil and the organization my dad was able to get out on the lake and pull in some big walleye. A day was filled with fishing, laughs, new friends, and sunshine.....what a blessing!! Memories to treasure forever! Thank you so very much.

Thank you Captain Art and Cast it Forward for an amazing family outing on Lake Erie! My husband, son and I have never been fishing on a boat together. Art gave us two Veterans and son (pursuing Navy Officer program) an opportunity that we would not have without his organization's generosity. We enjoyed a beautiful day and are grateful for Art's help in everything - fun boat ride, catching the Walleye, giving us delicious recipes and teaching us how to clean the fish. His work is so rewarding for Veterans and people with special needs.

Just wanted to send you a Big Thanks for Monday.  Tommy & I had a BLAST!

 As my Daughter likes to say, “making memories is what life is all about”. And, as Tommy and I talked about Monday's fishing, it is definitely “On The List”.  

Thank you again for ALL that you are doing.    

You take care & stay SAFE.