Navigating the Waters: Al Brown and the Art of Fishing

An Unexpected Teacher

Seven minutes into the journey, my line is patiently tethered to the shimmering waters of Manukau Harbour, but all there’s to show for it is the rhythmic bobbing of my red-and-yellow float. Beside me is Al Brown, renowned chef, restaurateur, and television personality, known not just for his culinary prowess but now also for his newfound literary venture, Hooked: Learning to Fish. Unlike most authors who pen books driven by years of expertise, Brown had always engaged in fishing but had never contemplated sharing it in a book until now. Initially, the ambition was to provide a how-to guide for young anglers, but its scope has morphed to allure a broader audience—adults who may need an infusion of fishing wisdom.

Can Anyone Learn to Fish?

“Am I going to catch three fish?” I eagerly inquire, the optimism of the novice on display. Brown chuckles dryly. “No, I doubt you’re going to catch any.” That frank humor might be precisely what I need today. Fishing isn’t just about the catch; it’s a slow exercise in patience where what’s learned transcends the activity itself. As I cast my line, I feel the anticipation mingling with anxiety. If Brown can teach a kid to fish, I ponder, could he also impart wisdom to someone like me?

The Mindfulness of Fishing

“Fishing is about being aware of your surroundings,” Brown explains as we watch a blue heron glide low across the water. “You find yourself in nature, observing everything—a trout sipping mayflies or gannets diving for fish.” This awareness mirrors the mindfulness many seek in modern life, emphasizing observation and presence over the rush of contemporary existence. Brown believes that the lessons gleaned from fishing seep into daily life, offering skills in perseverance, focus, and a deep appreciation for nature’s gifts.

Life Lessons from the Water

As we snack on chicken sandwiches—a delightful offering from his restaurant, Fed Deli—I pivot the conversation toward mental health. Brown is candid, revealing that for nearly a decade, he has grappled with emotional health issues, trying to untangle feelings that stem from his early life. Adopted at four days old by a farming couple, he learned to build walls around himself, a kind of armor shaped by life’s earlier fears and uncertainties. Through fishing, he finds a sanctuary. “I used to fight my moods,” he reflects, “but now I’m more aware when they arise.” There’s irony in a modern chef feeling so at peace while fishing, away from the kitchen where he usually reigns supreme.

The Fish Whisperer

Brown has an infectious enthusiasm for fishing, eagerly sharing the terminology—“donkey” for large fish, “sprat” for small ones, and the term “skunked” which refers to returning empty-handed. His book is brimming with practical tips on gear lists, safety, sustainability, and even Māori fishing traditions. It’s accessible to novices and seasoned anglers alike, presenting fishing as a cultural, culinary, and environmental adventure.

But as I wait patiently for my first nibble, my line remains still. Brown is a seasoned fisherman, yet today his luck appears fleeting. Ultimately, fishing is not merely about the catch, but rather about the myriad experiences and reflections that come along the way.

A Dialogue with Nature

As we fish, I discover there’s much more happening than just waiting for a fish. It’s a seat in nature that invites reflection, a quiet setting where thoughts can roam freely. Brown acknowledges that while fishing, he often contemplates his business and personal life. The absence of distraction allows for deliberation—“There’s plenty of time to cover lots of topics,” he notes, revealing that life must include both successes and disappointments.

Fishing with Friends

Fishing with company, Brown believes, often enhances the experience. “There’s a lot of joy in watching your friends catch fish.” Yet he relishes solo trips too; they offer a chance to step away from responsibilities and just “be.” He references a day spent up a river, seeking trout, where the finer moments arise not just from the fish but from the shared experience with friends—laughing, talking, and even searching for heart-shaped rocks.

Sustainability Above All

As the fishing sessions unfold, the educational tone becomes clear: sustainability is paramount. “How much fish do I really need?” Brown muses, a crucial question for anyone looking to fish responsibly. He emphasizes the philosophy of enjoying what you catch but also respecting the ecosystem. If less fish are targeted, populations remain healthy, allowing future generations the same joy. It’s a mindset shift that connects anglers to their environment.

The Catch of the Day

Just as I finally reel in a tiny yellow-eyed mullet, celebrated by Brown as a “beautiful little sprat,” the triumph comes with mixed feelings and a reminder about the circle of life. If only it were larger, we’d celebrate with a shared meal. As we continue our efforts, I can only imagine the joy of bringing home a prize catch, fresh from the sea.

Sweet Treats After Fishing

After a long day, there’s nothing like a sweet treat to compliment the fishing journey. Brown shares his culinary prowess by discussing his Lucky Chocolate Fish Slice, a recipe designed to be simple, flavorful, and perfect for outdoor gatherings. As we focus on our catch, I can’t help but feel that there’s more to come, both in fish and friendship.

A Lasting Impact

Though our lines may not have yielded much today, the impact of fishing transcends the immediate. Fishing is a discipline rich with lessons, memories, and community. Armed with his insights, tips, and the spirit of adventure, even an amateur can find joy in the process and discover deeper connections.

Al Brown’s journey through fishing serves not only as a masterclass in technique but as a gentle reminder of life’s ebb and flow, resilience, and the simple pleasures of stepping outside to engage with nature.