Authorities Search for Missing Fishing Influencer 3 Days After He Issues Mayday Call

Authorities are continuing their search for well-known fishing creator Mikey Rijavec, who was reported missing days ago off the coast of Baja California, the region of Mexico bordering the United States.

Rijavec — the creator behind the YouTube channel SD Fish and Sips — was fishing about eight miles offshore on Tuesday, Nov. 11, when he sent a mayday call about engine issues before the transmission abruptly stopped, according to NBC News. His 14-foot skiff was later discovered five miles from shore, though the six-horsepower outboard motor was missing, the outlet reported.

Rijavec posts weekly videos centered on his love of fishing to nearly 20,000 subscribers on YouTube, with his most recent upload on Nov. 3.

A GoFundMe campaign created by his brother, Gregory Rijavec, says dozens of local boats and private aircraft have joined ground crews supporting the Mexican Navy and U.S. Coast Guard in the ongoing search for Mikey.

In a recent update, Gregory wrote that new information shared by the Mexican Navy shifted search efforts toward examining local beaches.

Phil Friedman, a podcaster and close friend of Rijavec’s, told NBC 7 that many scenarios are being considered. “It could be foul play. You never know, it’s something that happens at sea sometimes. It could be a whale. It could be a shark,” he said, calling Rijavec an “adventurer” known for pushing boundaries.

Gregory also shared his gratitude on GoFundMe. “The outpouring of support really says a lot about Mikey and his impact,” he wrote. “Thank you for all the love and support. Today and everyday [sic], stay positive.”