Mates, Mission & the Sea: The Story of The Lateral Line & Wise Angler
In the world of recreational fishing, few names strike the perfect balance between credibility and charisma like Milan Radonich and Nathan O’Hearn — the duo behind The Lateral Line. But what makes them stand out isn’t just their fishing expertise or former television fame. It’s their way of life.
They live it, breathe it, and now, they’re fishing with purpose — thanks to a partnership with Wise Angler, New Zealand’s first fishing tackle brand committed to compostable, plastic-free packaging and sustainable performance.
Who Are Milan & Nathan?
Milan and Nathan aren’t just co-hosts — they’re best mates with a bond forged through over 15 years of fishing in some of New Zealand’s most rugged and remote waters.
You may remember them from the hit TV series Big Angry Fish. Today, they’ve redefined fishing media with The Lateral Line — a raw, unscripted, and real-time adventure series that takes viewers on unforgettable missions across Aotearoa. No production crew. No fluff. Just two mates doing what they love with the land and sea at their side.
They fish where few dare to cast, from backcountry rivers to isolated offshore reefs, often launching boats from paddocks or hiking gear through forest to reach uncharted waters.
A Lifestyle of Simplicity and Sustainability
Milan and Nathan live in rhythm with nature. They eat what they catch. They build what they need. They create content from the bush, the beach, or the bow of a boat.
Their lifestyle is defined by:
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Living off the land
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Respect for every fish caught
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Minimal impact, maximum appreciation
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Community sharing of fishing knowledge, tips, and failures alike
They’re not just making content — they’re living a life many dream of and showing that it’s possible to do so with integrity, joy, and a deep connection to the environment.
Why Wise Angler?
When we first spoke with Milan and Nathan, it was clear we shared the same vision. Wise Angler’s mission is to equip anglers with high-performance fishing gear that protects the very environments we love.
Our hooks and tackle are:
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Packaged in certified compostable materials (AS 5810, NF T51-800, DIN CERTCO)
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Designed with sustainability and strength in mind
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Built for performance, trusted by professionals
For Milan and Nathan, it wasn’t just about sharp hooks — it was about what those hooks represent. They wanted gear that reflects their values. Now they’ve found it.
“We’ve always wanted gear we can trust — now we’re using hooks we can feel proud of.”
— Milan Radonich
Watch The Lateral Line in Action
See how Milan and Nathan use Wise Angler gear across New Zealand’s most remote and challenging locations.
Fish Like The Lateral Line
Want to use the same gear Milan and Nathan rely on?
Wise Angler hooks are available now at retailers across New Zealand.
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Marine-grade high-carbon steel
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Super needlepoint
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Plastic-free, compostable packaging
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Trusted by the best in the business
Find your nearest store:
wiseangler.co.nz/pages/store-finder
Support the Movement
Every time you fish with Wise Angler gear, you’re supporting a shift toward:
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Responsible fishing
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Plastic-free coastlines
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High-performance gear made with purpose
Whether you’re casting off a jetty, chasing Kingfish, or teaching your kids to fish, you can now do it with tackle that matches your values.
Become a Retailer
Interested in stocking Wise Angler products in your store?
We’re growing fast and working with like-minded retailers across New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.
Learn more or apply:
wiseangler.co.nz/pages/become-a-retailer
The Final Word
Milan and Nathan are showing us how fishing can look when it's lived, not just filmed. Wise Angler is proud to be part of their story — and proud to invite you into it.
Because fishing can be better. Cleaner. Smarter.
And when it is, it’s not just good for the catch — it’s good for the future.