Whenever you see a bent rod from the seat of a watercraft in Auckland, New Zealand, there’s a good chance you’ll find Andrew Hill holding one end and the catch of the day on the other. Ever since casting his first line as a boy from the rocky New Zealand shoreline, he’s been after the big one.
Hill has turned fishing from youthful pastime, to hobby, to meal ticket (literally and figuratively).
While the 46-year-old married father of four has hooked his share of wall-hangers throughout his career, he’s fishing in somewhat unfamiliar waters thanks to the Sea-Doo FishPro with its ability to access shallow waters and remote fishing locations.
“I’ve always fed a need for speed through motorsports. I really enjoy cars, road bikes and the water,” said Hill. “Sea-Doo has me really enjoying it all in one place with the sea being my true passion.”
How did your interest in PWCs start?
It was always a dream to own a watercraft. I love motorsports, speed and being on the water, so it’s a natural fit.
How many rides per year?
I’m on the water every week, whether it’s a solo fishing adventure, riding with friends or hosting large group trips with watercraft fishermen throughout New Zealand.
Who makes up your typical riding crew?
It varies by the day. We often go out in groups of two or three. It’s always fun enjoying adventures with your mates!
Favorite place to ride?
I love the far north of New Zealand. It’s four hours by car from where I live. Out of the city, it is pristine and has minimal fishing pressure. The tranquility and unfamiliar area of being able to go exploring on a new adventure is always an exciting experience.
Dream place to ride?
I would like to fish at our South Island Sounds or internationally in Guam. Adventures at new locations with stunning scenery is the best feeling!
Describe your perfect day on the water:
Heading out with a few mates while riding out as the sunrises, arriving at your fishing spot catching sporting fish with your first baits, completing the adventure joined by dolphins or Orca on a fast ride back to the boat ramp.
Describe your life away from the water:
I value my time with the family, appreciating the lovely country we live. I love the outdoors, travelling our beautiful green country. I enjoy watching sports or relaxing watching a movie as a break from the water. I still have an interest in motorsports as a hobby. I love taking the family to car shows with my old school V8 performance car.
What’s your one must-have accessory for your Sea-Doo?
The Ultimate Reel Cover is a must. It protects fishing reels from saltwater spray and secures the rod to the rod holder.
What’s one innovation you’d like to see on a Sea-Doo that doesn’t currently exist?
A front-mounted rod holder option.
Favorite place to eat?
Our local pizza shop.
First artist you add to your play list?
I don’t listen to much music on the water. I always enjoy the surrounding sounds and taking in the atmosphere, but on those long rides to fishing spots ELO finds its way out of the speakers!
Celebrity or person you’d most like to ride with?
Robson Green is an extreme fisherman, I would love to have him experience Sea-Doo fishing with me in New Zealand.
