Fishing with a drone may sound complicated and high-tech, but it's a surprisingly easy and innovative new approach that enhances your fishing experience. Whether you’re a total beginner, an expert fisherman, or someone simply looking to cast further beyond the waves, this exciting blend of technology and fishing is the perfect fit for your next outdoor adventure.
So, What Exactly is Drone Fishing?
Drone fishing is exactly what the name suggests — using a drone to help you fish. Specifically, the drones are equipped with advanced technology and capabilities that allow you to fly your bait out and drop it exactly where you want it. No boats. No long casts. No guesswork.
All you need is a fishing drone like the Aeroo Pro, some bait, and a decent fishing spot. The drone handles the heavy lifting, allowing you to kick back and get ready to reel in the next big catch.
When Did This All Start?
The history of drone fishing is a testament to human ingenuity and a thirst for innovation. Believe it or not, people have been experimenting with it since way back in the mid-2000s, and it began when folks started posting viral YouTube videos. Early inspiration for drone fishing can be traced back to viral videos such as "RC Helicopter Fishing” from 2006, "RPG Fishing" from July 2007, and "Grenade Fishing Gone Wrong" from August 2012, with these videos showcasing the audience's fascination with unique fishing methods and, at times, sheer audacity.
It wasn’t until September 2012, however, that the first recorded drone fishing catch took place. "Stefs Engineering" used what appeared to be a homemade drone (before the DJI Phantom era) to pull a small fish out of a lake and land it next to him, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of drone fishing.
- “Fly Fishing” - First Recorded Fish Caught with Drone: Sep 2012
After these early adopters, it took a few years before drone fishing as we know it took shape, and it came in the form of our longtime friends at Aero Kontiki.
By 2015, companies like Aero Kontiki released drones actually built for fishing purposes, and that changed everything. Now, with brands like Aeroo making smart, simple drones at an affordable price, drone fishing is officially a thing — and it’s here to stay.
See their 2015 release video → “fishing just got cleverer”
How Does Drone Fishing Work? (It’s Easier Than You Think)
Drone fishing involves several key components working together seamlessly. Here's a simplified step-by-step process of how drone fishing works:
- Baiting: attach bait or lures at the end of the rod to the drone's release mechanism.
- Takeoff: Fly the drone out over the water where the fish are hanging out.
- Aerial Casting: The drone carries the bait (still attached to the rod) to the desired fishing spot.
- Precise Dropping: Once the drone reaches the target location, drop the bait with precision using the auto-release mechanism,.
- Retrieval: After a successful drop, fly the drone home using the Return-to-Home Function (RTH) or manually, before reeling in your catch.
Benefits of Drone Fishing
Here’s why drone fishing is taking off:
- You can reach the fish: Big fish aren’t always near the shore. Drones let you drop bait 300+ meters out with ease.
- Anyone can do it: No need to be a casting pro. Drone fishing is easy and accessible, great for kids, older fishermen and anyone looking to improve their fishing experience.
- You can see where you’re fishing: The drone’s built-in cameras help you accurately drop bait where you want it.
- Added excitement: Flying a drone and fishing with it combine the thrill of technology with the serenity of fishing.
- Safety: No more battling waves or worrying about slippery rocks.
How Much Does it Cost?
Drones like the Aeroo Pro start at $1299, and include everything you need to begin fishing straight out of the box. It is an affordable, multi-purpose fishing drone that is a bargain compared to boats and high-end fishing rods, opening up a realm of new fishing opportunities.
Final Thoughts
If you love fishing and you like the idea of flying something cool while doing it, drone fishing is 100% worth trying. It’s easy, exciting, and incredibly satisfying when you see that line go tight from a drop hundreds of metres out.
It’s fishing, reimagined — more accessible, more precise, and more fun.