Sam Nathan was born and raised in the Far North of New Zealand, specfically Mātauri Bay. He spent all his spare time when he was growing up chasing some illusive aquatic animals both above and below the water on Northland’s east coast. During his teen years, Snapper and Kingfish just didn’t quite scratch the itch and progressed to being proficient in offshore recreational fishing in a 650 Surtees targeting big Bass, Bluenose, Hāpuka, Swordfish and Marlin.
After moving into the charter side of fishing world, it certainly helped enhance the love for the ocean even further. His main aspiration behind charter fishing is to help people experience the thrill that New Zealand’s off shore fishery has to offer.
A third-generation West Coast cray fisherman hailing from the sea side settlement of Ahipara, Far North. Carrying through over 50 years of family involvement in the fishing industry with the main areas of experience on Northland’s west coast as well as the Three King’s. Alongside Leighton’s commercial cray fishing career, he has over 25 years of marlin fishing experience, including work on three previous charter boats.
Leighton has spent 15 years targeting Kingfish through the methods of live baiting and jigging as well as Hāpuka in the depths of Northland’s coastal waters. Over the last 9 years Leighton has a new found passion for targeting the infamous Broadbill sword fish.
21 year old Dylan spent his free time delving into the coastal fishing whether it be land based or on a boat after growing up in Ahipara in the Far North, loving every minute of it as it went by.
Over the last two years he has developed a new found love for big game fishing and proved himself proficient in it to say the least. Dylan says his main drive behind his love of fishing is to help others make memories on the water as well as general enjoyment.
Adventure North is proudly owned and operated by the Tubbs family, a Northland whānau with deep ties to the sea and the local community. What began as a shared love for fishing and exploring the Far North has grown into a passion for showcasing these waters to others.
The Tubbs family built Adventure North around one simple idea — to give every guest the kind of experience they’d want for themselves: genuine hospitality, world-class fishing, and a sense of connection to the place and the people who call it home. Their hands-on approach and pride in the Young Guns ensure that every trip feels personal, safe, and unforgettable.
Most trips depart from Mangōnui Harbour in Doubtless Bay, the gateway to Northland’s offshore fishing grounds. It’s a scenic, well-equipped port and the perfect place to begin your Adventure North experience.
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