Fishing Through the Lens: Top 5 Gadgets

There’s a certain magic to being out on the bank at dawn, with mist rolling off the water and the world still quiet. Capturing that feeling, along with the explosive energy of a fish taking the bait, is what I strive to do in every video. It’s about sharing the entire experience, from the peaceful waits to the heart-pounding battles. Many of you have asked what goes into my setup, so I thought it was time to take you behind the scenes. This is my guide to fishing through the lens, where I’ll break down the five essential gadgets I never leave home without.

1773529087888 oa8d7 — All the bits I need to shoot but travel light

The Backbone of the Operation: Action Cameras

The heart of my filming kit is a reliable action camera. They are small, rugged, and can be mounted almost anywhere, giving me the flexibility to get creative with my shots. Whether it’s clamped to my chest for a first-person view or mounted on a tripod for a wide shot of the swim, these little cameras are indispensable.

My Go-To: The GoPro HERO12 Black

I currently use the GoPro HERO12 Black, and it’s a powerhouse. The video stabilization is so good that even the most chaotic moments—like netting a lively carp—look smooth and cinematic. Its waterproofing means I don’t have to panic if it takes a splash, and the battery life has seen significant improvements over previous models. Capturing high-quality, stable footage is a cornerstone of filming your sessions effectively, and this camera delivers.

1773528376481 close up of a gopro hero12 on a white ba — Go Pro Hero 12

Gaining a New Perspective: Drones

If you want to elevate your content (quite literally), a drone is a game-changer. Those sweeping aerial shots you see in my videos on the watch page? That’s all thanks to my trusty drone. It allows me to showcase the stunning landscapes we fish in, track a fight from above, and provide a sense of scale that you just can’t get from the ground. It adds a professional, cinematic quality that makes the final cut so much more dynamic.

My Aerial Companion: DJI Mini 4 Pro

For me, the DJI Mini 4 Pro strikes the perfect balance between portability and quality. It’s incredibly compact and lightweight, which is crucial when you’re already loaded down with fishing gear. The image quality is exceptional, and its intelligent flight features make it easy to get smooth, compelling shots without needing to be an expert pilot. It’s a key part of my strategy for fishing through the lens with a grander scope.

1773528438494 a dji mini 4 pro on a white background

Powering Through the Day: Portable Power Banks

There is nothing worse than being in the middle of a great session, with the fish biting, only to see the dreaded low-battery warning on your camera. Filming, especially at high resolutions, drains batteries fast. That’s why a high-capacity, reliable power bank isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s an absolute essential. A dead camera means missed opportunities and lost content.

I carry a couple of Anker PowerCore banks, each with at least a 20,000mAh capacity. This is enough to recharge my cameras, drone batteries, and phone multiple times over, ensuring I can keep rolling from sunup to sundown.

Cutting the Glare: Polarized Lens Filters

This is a small gadget that makes a huge difference. Water is highly reflective, and that glare can ruin what would otherwise be a perfect shot, obscuring the view of the fish in the water. A circular polarizing lens (CPL) filter works just like your favorite pair of polarized sunglasses. It screws onto the front of the camera lens and, when rotated correctly, cuts through the surface glare, allowing the camera to see straight into the water. This is the secret to those crystal-clear underwater shots of fish approaching the bait. It’s a non-negotiable part of my filming gear.

1773528491501 close up of a camera nd filter on a whit — Camera ND filters

1773529156992 7my15 — The edit is important - don't ignore decent audio!

Fishing Tips

Master Your Batteries: Always start with fully charged batteries for all your devices. Turn off cameras when not actively recording to conserve power, even with a power bank handy.
Audio is Half the Story: Don’t neglect sound. While a GoPro’s internal mic is decent, an external microphone or a separate audio recorder will capture your commentary and the sounds of nature much more clearly.
Plan Your Shots: Before you even cast a line, think about the story you want to tell. Set up a wide shot, a close-up on your reel, and have your POV camera ready. A little planning goes a long way.
Keep it Clean: A single drop of water or a smudge on the lens can ruin a shot. Always carry a small microfibre cloth with you and check your lenses frequently throughout the day.

Tight Lines and Great Content

Filming your fishing adventures adds a wonderful new layer to the hobby. It pushes you to think more creatively about your time on the water and allows you to share your passion with a wider community. It doesn’t matter if you’re using the latest flagship gear or just your smartphone; the most important thing is to get out there and start creating.

I hope this look at my gear helps you on your own journey of fishing through the lens. Stay creative, be respectful of the environment and your fellow anglers, and most importantly, enjoy every moment.