The Dargville Boy!
Mathew Hewetson, the founder and director of Marlin Marketing, is deeply rooted in New Zealand’s fishing community. Born and raised in Dargaville, Mat established his advertising and publishing company in 2014 after a decade in media and marketing. He is also the driving force behind the online fishing hub and magazine, Fishing in Godzone, your go-to resource for fishing advice, reviews, techniques, and more!
Q1: Matt, growing up in Dargaville, how did you get into fishing?
I wear my Northland badge with pride! The Dargaville coast is an angler’s paradise. My grandad’s bach out west was my summer getaway in the ’80s, where I learned surfcasting. With my Land Rover, I explored remote beaches, and today’s fishing is even better than I remember. I still visit regularly to surfcast or hit the Kaipara in my boat.
Q2: How did you enter the fishing industry? What have you learned?
I left Dargaville for Auckland in ’93 and first landed in banking, financing boats. After working as an account manager in an ad agency, I aimed for the fishing industry. After reaching out to the team behind NZ Fishing World magazine, I got my dream role as their sales manager and later associate publisher. I learned the importance of relationships and flexibility in media as the industry shifted online and into social.
Q3: What’s your favorite target species and technique?
Surfcasting for snapper is still my top choice. It’s simple and exhilarating, with no need for boats. I tie my own ledger rigs and rely on Black Magic 60lb Pink Leader with KLT 6/0 hooks—they’re perfect for snapper and trevs. I also use Bait Buddy elastic cotton to keep softer baits secure while casting.
Q4: Share a standout fishing adventure.
Once, while fishing off Ripiro Beach, our borrowed boat lost power on a stormy day. We struggled to return in rough seas, and just as we hit a sandbank, giant waves crashed into us, flipping the boat. Miraculously, I emerged unscathed, thanks to my padded life jacket and soft sand. It was a wild lesson in respecting the west coast!
Q5: If you could fish with anyone, who would it be?
I’d love to fish with Ernest Hemingway. His classic “The Old Man and the Sea” perfectly captures the passion of fishing, and I admire his adventurous spirit.
Q7: What advice do you have for young people entering the fishing industry?
Many young anglers dream of being influencers for free gear, but the reality involves hard work—whether in the office, retail, or events. Commit to building trust and strong relationships and deliver on your promises.
Q8: What changes would you like to see for future anglers?
I founded Fishing in Godzone to highlight our country’s incredible fishing opportunities. However, I worry about our seafood being exported for profit. Fish should be for Kiwis first, allowing our kids to cast from beaches and rocks. We support LegaSea to educate Kiwis about vital issues and ensure our voices are heard.
For the latest fishing content, check out Fishing in Godzone and become a member today: www.fishingingodzone.co.nz
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