A long-overdue interview with our Charter Fishing captain, Mitch Johnson. Interview by photographer Josh Bystrom.
Mitch Johnson hails from Esperance, a small coastal town in WA’s south known for white sand beaches, surf and fishing. Mitch first visited Namotu in 2022 as a volunteer fisherman but his ‘fisho’ stints quickly became longer and longer and by 2023 he was running Namotu’s expanding charter operations. Hosting guests, coordinating charter bookings, navigating Fijian culture & the endless servicing, repairs and replacements that come with managing a fleet of four fishing boats and seven surf boats. Mitch’s work ethic is unparalleled; he’s the sort of guy who’ll fish all day and re-spool reels, rig lures or re organise a fish-stacked freezer into the evenings.
As a photographer, Mitch would always keep me on my toes. I’d constantly have to rack my brains to think of different ways to photograph the great fish he was catching. Mitch has created a life for himself here in Fiji and these days his specialty lies in getting charter clients into quality fish. I sat down with him to discuss all things fishing.
When did you start fishing?
I started fishing when I was a when I was really young on the beach and gradually migrated to deeper water though my teens.
How did you first gain recognition fishing?
My social media accounts managed to get a bit of traction. I’d target specific fish around my home town area and head on different adventures with quality fisherman from around Australia to chase them.
Is there a big difference between fishing in Aus and Fiji?
Absolutely, where I grew up the fish species are completely different. Coming to Fiji was a challenge so I definitely had to learn and adjust some of my fishing techniques to suit the area.
Any mentors in Fiji that first helped you find your feet here?
For sure, I was lucky enough to fish with Mike Hennessy and Ben Wilson in the early days. Namotu has a great range of Fishos from around the world so it’s been great to pick up bits and pieces from them over the years too.
Any preferred methods for fishing in Fiji?
I’ll change certain fishing techniques during fish seasons and see what’s biting at the time. I love all kinds of fishing from down-rigging baits to deep-dropping, trawling or catching bait fish. But top water fishing would have to be my favourite. Nothing compares to the explosion and rush you get from hooking a really big fish topwater.
Tell us about your role on Namotu
I’m grateful to be able to look after the Namotu Marine and charter operations.
Any fish that you’ve got your clients onto recently that have stood out to you?
It’s funny you say that, last week we caught a really good ‘Doggie’ Dog Tooth Tuna that was nearly 100 pounds. If you’re into your fishing, dogtooth have to be pretty close to the pinnacle of sport fishing.
A few days later we had another incredible day of fishing which included a 120 pound Wahoo (pictured).
Any other things you enjoy outside of fishing?
Surfing is always fun but I’ve really taken to spearfishing lately. It’s such a different perspective being able to take a closer look at things underwater that I’d ordinarily see on a fish finder on the boat.
What Type of Boats do Namotu have in the fleet for hire?
We have a luxury 32ft World Cat entitled ‘Cobalt’. This vessel is often used for fishing but has all the creature comforts for day trips though Fiji’s incredible islands. Whether it’s diving, snorkelling or surfing or viewing Fiji’s premium waves. We also have a 28ft centre console called Obsession which is purpose built for fishing.
Both are fitted with all the electronics and gear you can imagine to get you into the best possible fish or an enjoyable day on the water.
Where to from here?
I want to continue giving fishing my everything. It’s given me so much and I find it so fulfilling being able to see others have the same enjoyment and satisfaction that I do catching fish with me.
Any fish goals?
We’ve just surpassed our goal of a 100 pound Wahoo! I think the next goals probably a 200 pound yellow fin or Dog Tooth Tuna.
Who can hire Namotu vessels and what’s the best way to get in touch?
The boats cater to both Namotu Island Resort guests and also the general public. We charter anywhere between the Mamanuca Island Group and Mainland Nadi. You can contact us via the Namotu Fishing socials Instagram or alternatively via email at charters@namotuisland.com