Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing Returns for Eighth Series

By Jon Donnis

Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse are back for another series of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, returning Sunday 26 October at 9pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. Series eight promises more gentle humour, stunning scenery and the reflective conversations that have made the show a favourite with viewers.

This time around, both men take a slightly different approach, choosing locations that carry personal meaning rather than focusing solely on fishing specific species. Paul revisits waters connected to his childhood, including trips that evoke memories of fishing with his father, while Bob heads back to Manchester, catching up with old friends and revisiting familiar haunts. Nostalgia underpins the series, from 1970s-style caravans in Wales to the quiet beauty of the Findhorn in Scotland.

Fishing remains at the heart of the show, but the duo admit it has been one of their most challenging series yet. They encountered new experiences, such as night fishing in Wales, with Bob landing a rare sea trout in total darkness. The elusive perch continues to evade them despite repeated attempts over seven series, while grayling provide unexpected rewards. For both, the joy comes as much from the experience, the chats and the food, as from the fish themselves.

Cooking and camaraderie continue to play a key role. Highlights include venison cooked on stones in Scotland and the simple pleasure of a fish and chips meal in Manchester. Bob also indulges his newfound hairdressing skills, cutting Paul's hair on location. Even their canine companion, Ted, who sometimes struggles with longer walks, remains a constant presence, adding charm and occasional comic relief.

The series balances humour and reflection, capturing the duo noticing the passage of time. Both men discuss feeling their age, but also the joy of discovering new places and revisiting old ones together. Paul calls the Findhorn in Scotland the visual highlight of the series, praising its scenery even when the fishing proved difficult.

Music and editing remain collaborative efforts, with editor Doug Bryson and the production team helping select tracks that complement the tone of each episode. Together, they maintain the warmth and intimacy that has become the signature of Gone Fishing.

Series eight of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing premieres Sunday 26 October at 9pm on BBC Two, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer.