Author: Will Hay
From fishing tips, boating guides and stories of adventure, let’s explore, in no particular order, some of my favourite YouTube boating channels and what they have to offer.
Fishing & Adventure
Fishing & Adventure is the channel I often turn to when I need a dose of inspiration, guidance or just want to see Scott and Mig catch the big one. The lads’ showcase exciting, engaging, real-world fishing action across Aotearoa in a super fun and lively way which captivates you from the first minute. Scott and Mig share their journey through New Zealand’s stunning waters and even some off-water action (check out their ‘Side Missions’ playlist), with practical tips and scenic footage that makes me feel like I’m right there with them.
What to expect:
You’ll get fishing tips, boat, gear and tech guides, and footage of some of the most pristine and remote locations in New Zealand. Whether you're after big game fishing tips, the odd dry joke, or just want to watch an epic adventure unfold, the Fishing & Adventure guys are sure to deliver.
Check it out: Fishing & Adventure YouTube channel
Journey of a Fisherman
There’s now a stack of full-time sailing channels on YouTube these days but this one is personal because I find the story behind Journey of a Fisherman incredibly inspiring. A New Zealand family who sold everything, including a thriving fishing charter business in Northland to pursue their dream of sailing the world is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you truly follow your passion. It’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the journey and the lessons learned along the way.
The channel chronicles their adventures, challenges, and triumphs as they attempt to navigate the globe all in a raw and honest way. Even with a couple of large setbacks, they make sure to bring the viewer along with them, showcasing the real reality of preparing for and living a life at sea.
Why watch:
This channel is a must-watch for anyone who’s ever dreamed of abandoning the shore and setting off on a life of adventure on the water. Tony and his family's story is not just about sailing, but the freedom (and at times raw reality) to live life on your own terms.
Bonus: Journey of a Fisherman may be familiar to a few as the channel carries on from Tony’s successful fishing charter business, so an added perk of this channel is you’ll find an incredible cache of epic offshore fishing videos and tutorials before their new life at sea series.
Check it out: Journey of a Fisherman YouTube channel
Boating NZ Magazine
Boating NZ Magazine’s YouTube channel is dedicated to showcasing the latest in New Zealand’s boating industry. Like the print magazine, it’s an invaluable resource for staying updated on new boats, the latest accessories, and local boating trends hitting our shores. The channel provides a polished yet no-nonsense look at the New Zealand boating industry, which I find incredibly helpful as a boatie who likes to keep track of what’s new in the market.
What to expect:
You’ll find boat reviews, industry updates, and highlights from the New Zealand boating community and further afield. It’s not just all boat reviews though, there’s handy fishing and boating tutorials, interviews with local legends, and wrap ups from boat shows, yacht races and top boating locations around the world. It’s the perfect channel for anyone who’s actively looking to stay informed about the latest industry developments.
Check it out: Boating NZ Magazine YouTube channel
Coastguard Tautiaki Moana
Last but certainly not least, Coastguard’s very own YouTube channel deserves a cheeky plug on this list as the go-to resource for all things safety on the water. The channel offers safety tips, training videos, and educational content aimed at making Aotearoa’s waters safer for everyone, whatever your waka. There’s tips on operating in different conditions, bar crossing guides, member and rescue stories, and important updates from the Coastguard.
Why you can’t miss it:
Scott and Mig from Fishing & Adventure jump on with a few videos about fishing and boating tips as well, but one thing that’s especially cool to see is the recognition given to the volunteer award recipients. These local stories highlight the heroes behind Coastguard’s operations; the dedicated volunteers who head out in challenging conditions to rescue others on the water. Watching these videos makes you appreciate the importance of Coastguard’s work even more. It’s inspiring to see how these volunteers, from all over New Zealand, give their time to ensure everyone can enjoy the water safely.
Check it out: Coastguard YouTube channel
A safety message from Coastguard:
We realise that not everyone producing video content follows all of our safety guidance, so remember: always wear your lifejacket, take two forms of waterproof communication, check the forecast, and log your trip with Coastguard.