Two friends, stunning locations, and plenty of good conversation, discover what’s in store in the new series.
Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing is back for its eighth series, airing from 9pm on Sunday 26 October on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
This new season of the award-winning show takes on a more personal tone, with each fishing spot selected for its special connection to Paul or Bob and the paths their lives have taken.
Interview with Bob Mortimer
Interview with Bob Mortimer on the new series of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing
The new series feels a little different – what’s changed?
This time, Paul and I wanted to take a slightly new approach. Instead of choosing our fishing spots based on the fish we wanted to catch, we picked places that held personal meaning for us locations tied to our pasts and memories. For example, in one episode we stayed in a 1970s-style caravan in Wales, where Paul used to fish with his dad and friends. My own nostalgia trip took me back to Manchester, where I reconnected with one of my oldest friends, Paddy, after more than 25 years.
It turned out to be one of our toughest fishing series we didn’t catch as many fish as we’d hoped, but we did land some real beauties, including a stunning carp in Wales. As always, I cooked for Paul he’s very kind about my efforts though his favourite meal this time was venison cooked on hot stones in Findhorn, Scotland. Personally, my best moment might have been cutting Paul’s hair; I think I might be a better barber than fisherman!
There are some new fishing experiences this time, right?
Yes we went night fishing in Wales, which I’d never done before. Fishing in total darkness was strange and a bit eerie, with all the sounds of the river around you, but it really focuses the mind. I even caught a sea trout at night my first one. It’s the same species as in the daytime, but there’s something magical about catching one when you can’t even see your line.
We also had another go at catching a decent perch at Burley Lake and the River Wye and once again, we failed! That’s seven series now without success. It’s strange because perch are supposed to be easier to catch, but somehow, they always escape us. Maybe it’s because we’re too busy chatting, cooking, or heading to the pub instead of fishing like professionals!
What makes fishing special for you?
Fishing isn’t just about the catch. It’s about being outdoors exploring miles of riverbank, discovering local towns, having a good meal, maybe a drink. It’s about the whole experience. You can’t exactly set up a barbecue on a squash court, can you?
How do you choose your fishing spots?
Many of the places this year were chosen for personal reasons. I wanted to return to Manchester, a city I have fond memories of. Paul wanted to take me to the River Itchen in Hampshire, and we both wanted to fish the Findhorn in Scotland. That episode ended up being my favourite the scenery was breathtaking, like being in Canada. The fishing wasn’t great, but I did get to cut Paul’s hair again!
What was your cooking highlight this series?
Without doubt, the venison burgers I cooked on hot rocks in Scotland. They were served in slightly burnt black buns a simple but very memorable meal.
And how’s Ted doing?
Ted’s slowed down a little with age. He still enjoys himself, though sometimes we have to pop him in his little pram if there’s a lot of walking. He still seems to love being with us you can see it in his eyes.
How’s your health been lately?
I’m still recovering from shingles, which left me with a lot of muscle loss in my legs. I’m working hard to build strength back up. It hasn’t really changed my life I just can’t run much, but that’s fine. Both Paul and I talk in the series about feeling our age we’re slower, more forgetful, and definitely look older than in the early days of Gone Fishing! And Ted’s aged with us, of course.
You still love fishing together, though?
Absolutely. Paul’s much more travelled than I am, so through the series I’ve discovered parts of the country I’d never otherwise have seen like the Findhorn in Scotland. I’m grateful to Paul for that, and to the fish too, for keeping going despite the state of our rivers.
And finally, how do you pick the music for the show?
Our brilliant editor, Doug, usually chooses the music for each episode. When we see the first cut, most of his choices are spot on. Then Paul and I sometimes make a few suggestions maybe a bit of Bryan Ferry here or something else there. It’s a team effort, but Doug deserves most of the credit.
Interview with Paul Whitehouse
Paul Whitehouse on what makes Series Eight of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing so special
This new series of Gone Fishing feels particularly heartfelt. Paul Whitehouse explains that this time, each location holds personal significance places he and Bob have either visited before or that carry emotional meaning from their pasts. “There’s a real poignancy to this series,” Paul says. “I take Bob to a spot I used to fish with my dad. Fishing always reminds me of him. Even though I’ve fished many times without him, that connection is still strong. It makes me wonder if I’d have loved fishing at all without him.”
He recalls how, growing up, nearly every boy went fishing. “All my friends did it it was just what we did. I even show Bob a photo of me fishing on a bridge as a kid; I remember that day so clearly. Fishing was my dad’s passion, and sharing that meant I spent more time with him than most kids do with their parents.”
The joy of fishing
For Paul, fishing is deeply nostalgic. “It’s a direct link to the past to your younger self, to your friends, your childhood,” he says. “That fascination and excitement never goes away. Bob says I act a bit blasé when I catch a small fish, but that’s not true. I still find them beautiful sometimes even more so than big ones.”
He believes Gone Fishing captures that rare connection. “It’s a gift, really, that Bob and I still have something that instantly takes us back to childhood. That magic never fades.”
Friendship and spontaneity
The show’s warmth and humour come naturally. “Most of what you see between us is completely spontaneous,” Paul says. “We might have to plan small things like mentioning where we’re staying or the significance of a river but the rest just happens. Our humour is unscripted. And sometimes, when we’re quiet, that’s just as lovely.”
The beauty of the countryside
Part of Gone Fishing’s charm lies in its breathtaking settings. “We get to show viewers things they’d never normally see,” Paul explains. “On the River Itchen, the light was dancing off the trees something you only notice when you’re down at water level looking up. It was like a private light show. Moments like that are extraordinary, and even we find them mesmerizing.”
Ted’s adventures
Paul affectionately admits that their beloved dog, Ted, is slowing down. “He still enjoys himself, but we sometimes have to carry him or put him in his little pram,” he laughs. “He doesn’t always hear us anymore he just toddles off on his own. When he lies down, his legs splay out like a frog! He’s like a cartoon character.”
Fishing highlights
Paul is especially proud of catching a beautiful grayling on the River Itchen. “We were actually after trout, so it was a surprise. Grayling are stunning fish iridescent when young and silvery as they grow. They’re a sign of a healthy river, which is reassuring given how many of our rivers are struggling.”
He also celebrates Bob’s nighttime sea trout catch. “That was a real victory. I get as much joy from seeing Bob catch something as I do from landing one myself.”
Birthdays, rivalry, and friendship
The first episode coincides with Paul’s birthday. “I’d like to say I’d rather be with family and friends,” he smiles, “but spending it fishing with Bob was a pretty good second.”
As for the playful rivalry, he laughs it off. “I’ve caught enough fish in my life; I don’t need to prove anything to Bob. But to be fair, his fly-fishing has come on brilliantly. He’s cleverer than he lets on he thinks like a fish! He once said that the best angler is the happiest angler. I thought that was rather wise.”
Favourite moments
Paul’s highlight of the series was visiting the River Findhorn in Scotland. “It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever fished. We didn’t catch anything, but it didn’t matter the scenery was breathtaking.”
Music and teamwork
The show’s music choices are, like everything else, a group effort. “Bob, me, our editor Doug Bryson, and our executive producer Lisa all suggest tracks,” Paul says. “We whittle it down to the ones that feel right. But honestly, the whole series is a team effort. The camera crew, the production team they’ve been with us since the beginning. That consistency makes Gone Fishing really special.”
Interview with Ted
Ted on Life, Fame, and Fishing with Bob and Paul
Do you still enjoy your fishing trips with Bob and Paul?
Well, it’s a job of sorts though I don’t get paid, just the occasional bit of pocket meat. I’m not overly bothered about the fishing, to be honest, but I do love exploring the countryside and finding a good patch of mud to roll in along the riverbanks.
What’s been the highlight of this series for you?
That’s easy the incredible canine massage I had in Herefordshire. A lovely lady named Ruth came to our accommodation and gave me the best treatment of my life. She managed to reach places I didn’t even know existed. Pure bliss!
This series has a nostalgic feel if you could revisit anywhere, where would it be?
I’d head back to the rescue centre where I spent the first few months of my life. I was top dog there and threw some legendary parties. I’d love to return and give all the kind staff who looked after me a good lick of thanks not that I really needed much rehabilitating, of course.
Where would your dream fishing trip be?
France, without a doubt. We went there last year, and the food was out of this world. They even serve meat for breakfast! Plus, dogs are treated like royalty in restaurants a place after my own heart.
Who would play you in a film about your life?
Daniel Craig, naturally. We’ve got a lot in common both ruggedly handsome, both cool under pressure, and both partial to a dirty martini. He was homeless once too, so we share that underdog spirit.
How do you cope with fame?
Fame? Never heard of it.
And what’s next for you?
I’ll think about that after my next nap.