The family of Mikey Rijavec, a San Diego fisherman and YouTube personality known for his channel SD Fish and Sips, announced that his body has been discovered in the waters off the coast of Mexico. His family shared this unfortunate update on a GoFundMe page dedicated to supporting search efforts.
Rijavec was reported missing after a fishing trip in Baja California on November 11, during which he made a distress call from his boat. According to the GoFundMe update, he encountered mechanical issues with his skiff. While trying to rectify the problem, the engine became dislodged, causing the vessel to capsize. Rijavec managed to right the boat, but it had already taken on a significant amount of water. The GoFundMe post noted, “We know nothing about what happened to Mikey after that.”
In response to the emergency, both U.S. and Mexican authorities launched extensive search operations, deploying boats and aircraft. The local community also participated, funding private boats and planes to assist in the search. However, after several days, the U.S. Coast Guard transferred the case to the Mexican Navy, which did not provide immediate updates on the situation.
The search concluded on November 15, as Rijavec’s family announced the difficult decision to stop looking for him. His brother mentioned that while there were many unanswered questions regarding Rijavec’s disappearance, search teams had utilized all available resources and information during their efforts. Although Rijavec’s boat was recovered during the search, locating his body initially proved to be challenging.
Tragically, Rijavec’s body was ultimately found on November 19, near San Cristobal, just a day after the family officially ended their search. In a heartfelt message on GoFundMe, his family reflected on his life, stating, “Mikey was mindful and present every day, and that allowed him to live a longer life than can be measured on a calendar. Mikey prepared us to deal with this, and if we live by his example, we will not only be OK, we will be better.” This sentiment highlights how Rijavec’s legacy will continue to inspire his loved ones.