Trevor Bailey can't remember what a nibble on the end of a fishing line feels like; it's been that long since he's been fishing.
It's only been since Easter really, but the seasoned fisherman can't wait to get out on his boat again.
But first he will spent a few days preparing.
Today is the last day of Safer Boating Week and Mr Bailey said preparing for a summer of fishing was important.
Mr Bailey has been fishing off Wanganui for about 20 years and looks for snapper, blue cod and gurnard - "good table fish".
He has plenty of tips about making sure his boat is seaworthy as the long weekend looms.
"When you're out at sea mate, you've got to take it seriously. The sea can turn to s**t within a second."
Checking batteries, oil, fuel, steering and having a first-aid kit were vital, he said.
Thanks to preparation he has never found himself in trouble but has had to tow out those who have. Safer Boating Week runs aims to focus boaties' attention on ensuring they are ready to safely enjoy the summer boating season.
"We know that on average two-thirds of the people who die in boating accidents could have been saved if they wore a lifejacket. In New Zealand, where on average 15 people die in boating accidents every year, this translates to 10 people a year whose lives could have been saved," Maritime New Zealand director Keith Manch said.
"New Zealanders love the water and the number of boaties has increased with around a third of us going out on boats - so we all need to take boating safety seriously."
Senior Sergeant Dave Houston from the Wellington Police Maritime Unit said during the summer they responded to numerous incidents involving those who were simply unprepared.
"All too often police are called out to help those who have not taken basic precautions to keep themselves safe on the water."