Introduction: In recent years, an increasing number of young people have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, prolonging life with the disease and increasing the degree of disability. Due to the progression of the disease and the presence of symptoms, people gradually abandon their roles and daily activities, which increases their dependence on others and reduces their quality of life. Engaging in meaningful activities helps preserve both physical and cognitive abilities, strengthens the sense of control over one's own body, and reduces stress, thereby contributing to overall well-being. One such activity is fishing, which is gaining popularity in Slovenia, as it increases time spent in nature, encourages the development of motor skills, and has a self-sufficiency aspect. Despite these potential benefits, there is a lack of research that would address the importance of fishing for people with Parkinson's disease; most studies mention the said activity only within the broader context of people with various limitations. Purpose: The purpose of this research was to explore the fishing experiences of people with Parkinson's disease. We examined how they experience fishing, how important this activity is to them, and what factors either encourage or hinder their engagement. Methods: Five recreational fishermen with Parkinson's disease were interviewed. We analyzed the data using qualitative thematic analysis, which aimed to identify key topics and enable an in-depth interpretation of the results. Results: Six topics were formed: Life with the diagnosis, The significance of fishing, The benefits of fishing, Social context, Motivation and obstacles in fishing, and Adaptations. For most participants, fishing has taken on a deeper personal significance and represents an important way to cope with the disease. Improvements in both motor and non-motor symptoms have been reported, which contribute to better disease management and slowing its progression. The desire to continue fishing and internal motivation encourage participants to introduce adaptations. However, some already consider gradually abandoning the activity due to the progression of the disease and the consequential obstacles they encounter. Discussion and conclusion: We interpreted the findings in relation to existing literature on people with Parkinson's disease and the importance of their engagement in meaningful activities. We identified a discrepancy between the need for rehabilitation and the lack of information on available support options. The results emphasize the importance of actively promoting occupational therapy, which could raise awareness among people with Parkinson’s disease, as well as increase their participation in therapeutic programs, directly improving their quality of life and independence.
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