Andre Peppercorn, a Dutch ex-pat, loves his blue cod. So boat owning son-in-law Brian Scott, and the rest of the family, help make sure there’s regularly one on his plate. Brian’s wife Jackie, who is also keen on fishing, then cooks them to perfection, baked in a light crumb.

Brian, who is well-known in motor racing circles in New Zealand and a three-times South Island title winner, says his boat and, fishing, are all about spending family time together. While he loves collecting cars and racing he says it can be a “bit selfish”. On the other hand, he says, when he suggests taking the boat out; “They’re queuing up!”

Brian’s home is close to the Otago Harbour and it takes just half an hour from hooking up his 4 Winns Vista boat to having it out on the water. Beautiful, nearby Deborah Bay is a favourite area to visit and fish. “We can be out on the water all afternoon.”

The Vista is a relatively new purchase. Brian had been looking for a larger boat than his previous seven and a half metre Cresta because he wanted something with a cabin. “The Vista can sleep four, if we wanted.”

He admits that if he lived somewhere like the Bay of Islands he’d buy an even bigger boat but the more exposed boating conditions on Otago Harbour make the Vista more practical. It also allows the family to enjoy the fantastic lakes in the Otago region.

A suitable tender was required as the Vista needs to remain in at least 2 metres of water. (It’s definitely not something Brian wants to be running onto the gravel.

Brian did his research online and settled on an inflatable from Rockboat Marine, and davits to lift it. It’s a choice he’s more than satisfied with. “It’s good quality, good value and perfect for us as a small tender.”

Importantly, it was also exactly the right size. Brian says once he’d done the measuring, the davits were easy to fit, with a bit of a hand from his son-in-law. Brian says they’ll be using the inflatable regularly when the boat is moored and they want to hop ashore to visit the shops, or the pub.

He appreciated Rockboat’s service and flexibility. “I was originally intending to pick it up – then I asked if it could be sent down instead. No problem. They were very helpful.”

Becoming involved in boating was almost inescapable for Brian who can trace the naval tradition in his family back to the 1700s. Most recently, his late father served in the New Zealand Navy, as did his uncle on frigates during World War 2, while Brian, served in the reserves for a short time.

And, if you’re looking for a movie with a naval theme, Brian thoroughly recommends “Greyhound”, a 2020 film starring Tom Hanks, which centres around The Battle of the Atlantic and is available on Netflix. “I’ve seen it three times!”

If there’s a fishing or boating TV show, or movie you’d like to recommend – please, get in touch!