Drone fishing, an exciting blend of technology and fishing, is taking the fishing community by storm. This innovative approach has redefined the way we fish, making it more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable for fishos of all ages and abilities. In this article, we'll explore the world of drone fishing, from its humble beginnings to the cutting-edge technology available today. Get ready to dive into the depths of this exhilarating fishing method.

What is Drone Fishing?

Drone fishing, as the name suggests, involves the use of drones for fishing purposes. These drones are equipped with advanced features that allow fishermen to cast their bait or lures to far-off locations, providing access to previously unreachable fishing spots. This technology opens up a world of possibilities for any fisherman, enabling them to target fish in deeper waters and at greater distances from shore.

History of Drone Fishing

The history of drone fishing is a testament to human ingenuity and a thirst for innovation. It all started with creative visionaries on platforms like YouTube. Early inspiration for drone fishing can be traced back to viral videos such as "RPG Fishing" in July 2007, which garnered over 900,000 views. These videos showcased the audience's fascination with unique fishing methods and, at times, sheer audacity.

Another attention-grabbing video, "Grenade Fishing Gone Wrong" from August 2012, with 400,000 views, highlighted both the growing audience size and the willingness of some to experiment with unconventional methods.

While alternative fishing methods like Kite Fishing had been around for decades, their popularity was reignited by viral videos. In June 2009, Paul's Fishing Systems shared a video titled "Fishing with Kites," which garnered a staggering 14 million views. Paul's Fishing Systems later transitioned into specialising in Fishing Drones, further fueling the drone fishing craze.

The earliest documented instance of drone fishing dates back to October 29, 2006, when Jeffrey Winemiller posted a video titled "RC Helicopter Fishing," which accumulated almost 900,000 views. Subsequent viral videos, such as "RC Helicopter Fishing" in July 2008 (5.3 million views), solidified the concept of using drones for fishing.

So.. When was Drone Fishing Invented?

The first documented drone fishing catch came in September 2012.

However, it wasn't until September 2012 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.

Aero Kontiki were not only the first purpose built fishing drone manufacturers but pioneered the concept of the drone carrying your bait out to sea and dropping it right on the bigger fish.

See their 2015 release video →  “fishing just got cleverer” 

Since this, our industry of drone fishing has “taken off”. Fishing drones have become more advanced, easier to use and exciting. They have changed the way we fish, made fishing more fun, efficient and accessible for anyone.

The idea of a piece of high tech, combined with fishing and recording lifelong memories has since captured the hearts of millions. The thrill of flying a drone and fishing with it is open to everyone, including kids and those who can't even cast, and the best part… It is super easy :) 

How Does Drone Fishing Work?

Drone fishing involves several key components working together seamlessly. Fishos use specially designed fishing drones equipped with cameras and release mechanisms. Here's a simplified step-by-step process of how drone fishing works:

• Baiting: Fishermen attach bait or lures at the end of the rod to the drone's release mechanism.
• Takeoff: The drone takes off from the shore or a boat, controlled by the Fisherman.
• Aerial Casting: The drone carries the bait (still attached to the rod) to the desired fishing spot, whether it's in deeper waters or farther from the shore.
• Precise Dropping: Once the drone reaches the target location, the fisherman releases the bait with precision using the electric bait release mechanism, ensuring it lands in the ideal fishing spot.
• Retrieval: After a successful drop, the drone will return home and land at the press of a button. Reel in your catch or when it's time to change the bait, attach to the drone and cast again.
• Monitoring: Fishermen can monitor their fishing area through the drone's built-in tilt camera, allowing them to spot fish and assess the situation.

 

Benefits of Drone Fishing

Drone fishing offers numerous benefits that have contributed to its growing popularity among fishos:

• Extended Range: Drones enable fishermen to access fishing spots that were previously out of reach, opening up new possibilities for catching various species of fish.
• Efficiency: Fishermen can cover larger areas and increase their chances of a successful catch in less time.
• Accessibility: Drone fishing is suitable for fishos of all skill levels, including those who may have physical limitations that prevent them from traditional casting.
• Real-time Monitoring: The built-in cameras on fishing drones provide live feeds, allowing fishermen to observe their fishing spot and make informed decisions.
• Excitement: Flying a drone and fishing with it combine the thrill of technology with the serenity of fishing, making it an enjoyable experience for all.
• Safety: Drone fishing reduces the need to wade into deep waters or use small watercraft, enhancing safety.
• Environmentally Friendly: Say goodbye to snags/tangles and unnecessary plastics filling up the ocean. Drone fishing allows for precise, fast and non destructive fishing.

 

Conclusion

Drone Fishing is the new and revolutionary way of fishing that is changing the game. With companies like Aeroo making drones for less than $1000 - Everyone can experience the thrill and take their fishing game to the next level.