The family of San Diego fisherman and YouTuber Mikey Rijavec confirmed through GoFundMe updates that his body was found off the coast of Baja California near San Cristobal. The discovery came one day after the family ended a four-day search that involved authorities from both the U.S. and Mexico.
What Happened During Mikey Rijavec’s Final Trip?
Rijavec, known for his YouTube channel SD Fish and Sips, sent out a mayday call on November 11 after experiencing engine trouble while on a solo fishing trip. According to the family’s GoFundMe page, the motor “dislodged,” causing the skiff to flip.
Although he managed to turn the skiff upright, the boat had already taken on water. The update added, “We know nothing about what happened to Mikey after that.”
Massive Search Effort Across U.S. and Mexico
The search for Mikey Rijavec included boats, aircraft, local fishermen, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Mexican Navy. Private planes were also hired by the family to widen the search area.
Rijavec’s boat was found during the mission, but initial attempts to locate him were unsuccessful. On November 15, his family announced they were ending the search, saying that “despite missing pieces and details to be confirmed,” everyone involved had “exhausted every effort.”
Family Confirms Recovery of His Body
On Sunday, Mikey’s brother Gregory announced on GoFundMe that his body had been found. He wrote, “As difficult as it is to accept this, we are grateful that it provides us some closure.”
He added that the overwhelming support in recent days showed the love surrounding Mikey:
“As we begin to process and reflect on what has happened over the last several days, it is clear what was at the core of the search for Mikey: love.”
Remembering Mikey Rijavec
The family described Rijavec as someone who lived with purpose and a deep appreciation for life.
“Mikey was mindful and present every day, and that allowed him to live a longer life than can be measured on a calendar… If we live by his example, we will not only be OK, we will be better.”
They thanked everyone who helped in the search and supported the family through the difficult days.
