After several months away from television, Bob Mortimer is set to return to BBC Two with Paul Whitehouse for a brand-new season of Gone Fishing — but this time, the atmosphere feels noticeably deeper and more heartfelt.
The humour, warmth, and unmistakable Northern charm are all still there, but the series takes on a gentler pace — carrying the weight, wisdom, and quiet gratitude of two men who’ve weathered life’s storms on and off the riverbank.
A Season Shaped by Healing and Heart
At 66, Bob admits he’s still rebuilding his strength after a challenging health setback, and that this upcoming season is the most emotional one yet.
“I’m still dealing with the aftermath of shingles,” he explained. “I lost quite a bit of muscle in my legs, so I’m working to get my strength back. I can’t really run anymore… not that I ever ran much before.”
There’s no frustration in his voice — just a gentle acceptance of where life has brought him.
“Paul and I talk a lot more about feeling our age this time,” Bob admitted. “We’re slower, we forget things, and we’ve definitely got a few more miles on the clock — just like our pal Ted the dog!” he joked.
Gone Fishing has always been loved for its mix of soft humour and honest conversations, but Bob says this season carries something extra — a blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and a quiet awareness that time is moving on.
“We’ve Changed… And So Has the Show”
For the new series, Bob and Paul decided to shift the focus. Instead of picking locations for the catch alone, they hand-selected each spot based on personal memories and emotional ties.
In one episode, the pair share a night in a touring caravan, reflecting on their youth, their decades-long friendship, and the simple joy of still being here to enjoy it all.
Bob shared that one of the most meaningful moments of the new series was a visit to Manchester.
“One trip took me back home,” he said. “I got to meet up with Paddy, one of my oldest friends. I hadn’t seen him in 25 years — maybe more. That alone made everything worthwhile.”
The fishing wasn’t always successful — “not as many as we hoped,” Bob laughed — but what they did catch were moments of calm, laughter, and a handful of memorable “Clonkers,” including a striking carp they landed in Wales.
🍽️ Fireside Food & Friendship That Never Fades
Cooking has long been one of the show’s most beloved traditions, and Bob says that hasn’t changed.
“As usual, I cooked for Paul,” he smiled. “He always says he enjoys it… but this time, I think he actually meant it. Best dish this season? Venison cooked on hot stones up in Findhorn. Although my Manchester fish and chips nearly took the crown.”
And in classic Mortimer fashion, he added with a grin:
“I even gave Paul a haircut this series — turns out I might be a better barber than a fisherman.”
Still Funny, Still Bob — But With a Deeper Heart
For many fans, Gone Fishing has never really been about the catch. It’s always been about friendship, resilience, and noticing the small but beautiful moments — themes that resonate even more strongly now.
“It’s not about fishing anymore,” one fan wrote. “It’s about life — slowing down, having a laugh, and remembering what matters.”
Bob couldn’t agree more.
“Every sunrise we capture feels like a gift,” he said quietly. “That’s really what this series is about — gratitude, laughter, and simply… being here.”
Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing airs Sunday at 9 PM on BBC Two — and early whispers suggest this season might be the show’s most moving and restorative chapter yet.