Rusty the Pirate: The Saltwater Adventurer!

Rusty the Pirate, as he's fondly known, is a true child of the sea. Born with more saltwater in his veins than blood, Rusty lives and breathes the salty air of the ocean. His heart beats to the rhythm of the waves, and his soul feels most at home when the horizon stretches endlessly before him. If there's a boat in the water and a fish to catch, you can be sure Rusty is behind the wheel, leading the charge.

It wasn't by chance that Rusty found his way to the legendary boat Striker—it was fate. With the sea in his blood and an unquenchable thirst for adventure, Rusty was a perfect match for teaming up with Rik and Striker. The boat, once under the steady hand of the renowned Bruce Smith, now carries Rusty’s passion and experience. When he took the helm, it was as if the ocean had called him home.

Fishing is in Rusty’s DNA. His journey began the moment he took his first steps. Born to Hugh and Raewyn, owners of Blue Ocean Charters, Rusty spent his childhood surrounded by boats and the endless expanse of the Pacific. His father’s boats—Ratahi, Ohorere, and Te Kuia—were more than just vessels; they were schools of life, teaching Rusty and his siblings the ins and outs of charter fishing. From the time he was old enough to reach the wheel, Rusty was steering boats with confidence, learning the rhythms of the tides, and soaking up a wealth of knowledge from his father.

Growing up on the waters off Whangamata, Whakatane, and the nearby Mayor Island, Rusty, along with his brother Scotty and sister Sarah, spent their days mastering the art of fishing. Whether it was the shallows or the deep knolls, they learned to hunt for the prized bluenose and hapuka, using techniques passed down through generations. This rich heritage has shaped Rusty into the skilled skipper he is today, and his dedication to his craft is second to none.

But what truly sets Rusty apart is his passion for sharing the adventure. He’s not just a skipper; he’s a mentor, a coach, and a guide. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time fisher or a seasoned pro—Rusty has the patience, the knowledge, and the enthusiasm to help you land the fish of your dreams. His energy is contagious, and every trip is an adventure filled with laughter, excitement, and plenty of stories to share. Rusty’s mission is simple: to make sure every passenger, regardless of age or ability, has the best fishing experience possible. And when you land that big catch, you can be sure he’ll be celebrating just as much as you are.

For over 10 years, Rusty has built a loyal following of clients who return to fish with him year after year. Some even came aboard with his father, and they all share one thing in common: they know Rusty’s trips are nothing short of legendary. His experience in both commercial and charter fishing has earned him a reputation for success, and his clients keep coming back for more, eager to relive the adventure.

Rusty’s story is one of tradition, passion, and a deep connection to the sea. Whether you're chasing the big catch or simply soaking up the sun, Rusty the Pirate will make sure your time on the water is nothing short of unforgettable. So, grab your rod, set your sights on the horizon, and join Rusty for the fishing adventure of a lifetime.