I came across drones that are supposed to assist with fishing. Has anyone here tried using them? I’m curious to know how well they work and what exactly they can do.
These drones are mainly used for dropping bait when fishing from the shore. It’s difficult to throw bait far enough into deep water, but the drone can fly it out and drop it there. They’re not really used for catching fish directly.
I’ve been wanting one of these! The idea that it can carry up to 8 pounds is pretty exciting. Also, yes, I’ve got my Part 107 license.
The drone drops the bait and then disconnects. Simple.
I haven’t seen these over here in the UK. To my knowledge, it’s illegal to drop anything from a drone because of CAA regulations. 
Sidney said:
I haven’t seen these over here in the UK. To my knowledge, it’s illegal to drop anything from a drone because of CAA regulations.
You’re right. It’s completely illegal to drop anything from a drone in the UK.
You should probably check the laws with your local fish and game department first. I know drones are banned for hunting, not sure about fishing though.
Sky said:
You should probably check the laws with your local fish and game department first. I know drones are banned for hunting, not sure about fishing though.
I’m not a hunter, but could a drone be used to track wounded prey? It’s like using a dog for tracking.
@Harlow
I think the concern is more about using drones to spot game, which is why it’s illegal for hunting. Not saying it’s illegal for fishing, but OP should check the laws first before they get into trouble.
@Harlow
Some places do ban drones for tracking wounded animals. The idea is that drones might encourage unethical shots, so they’re not allowed in some states.
Zaid said:
@Harlow
Some places do ban drones for tracking wounded animals. The idea is that drones might encourage unethical shots, so they’re not allowed in some states.
That makes sense. Unfortunately, it affects the responsible people too, but you always have to plan for those who misuse things.
So how exactly do drones assist with fishing? Can they actually pull fish out of the water?
I have a release mechanism on my DJI Air 2S to cast my line really far, but there’s no way it would be able to carry a fish back.
@Ren
In the US, it’s actually illegal in most places to use a drone to pull fish out of the water. You can only use it for casting your line.
@Ren
I’m not sure yet, but I’ll check with the company and see if they can actually help with that. I’ll let you know.
Graydon said:
@Ren
I’m not sure yet, but I’ll check with the company and see if they can actually help with that. I’ll let you know.
It’s mostly for casting. There are loads of YouTube videos about it.
With hunting, there are regulations to keep it fair, like not taking game from the road or using trackers on arrows to track wounded prey. It’s all about preserving the hunt and keeping it ethical, not turning it into something like slaughtering animals.