A Gentle Escape with Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse, and the Essential Role of Sunglasses

The BBC series Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing has become one of the most beloved shows on British television, celebrated for its mix of gentle humour, meditative moments, and profound reflections on friendship, mortality, and life’s simple pleasures.


At the heart of the show are Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse, two comedians and lifelong friends who, after major health scares, took to the British countryside to fish and reflect on life. The show, praised for its mellow, almost “anti-TV” feel, resonates with viewers looking for something that’s neither high-stakes nor overproduced.

Part of what makes Gone Fishing special is the authenticity of Bob and Paul’s interactions. They navigate the English rivers, tackle the art of angling, and share moments of quiet contemplation, punctuated by humorous exchanges.

But an interesting element viewers may notice throughout their fishing expeditions is the ever-present sunglasses on both men. Beyond being a fashion accessory, their sunglasses serve an essential function, enhancing their fishing experience and, by extension, the relaxed tone of the show.

The Concept of Gone Fishing: A Journey in Slowness

Gone Fishing started as an unassuming show. Its appeal lies in its simplicity: two men fishing, cooking riverside meals, discussing health and life, and immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the British landscape. In contrast to the high-energy demands of typical reality TV, this show has no frenetic editing or explosive drama. Instead, it’s a slow-paced journey that lets viewers “breathe,” almost as if they’re right there on the riverbank, soaking in the peace.

As Joel Golby wrote in The Guardian, the show’s charm is in its meandering nature, where nothing much “really happens.” It’s the anti-thesis to fast-paced shows that beg for attention. Paul, the more experienced angler, guides Bob, who humorously struggles with the fishing aspect. But through their banter and occasional fish catch, they reveal reflections on ageing, health, and the importance of friendship, themes seldom explored with such tenderness in mainstream television.

Sunglasses: More Than Just Fashion on the Riverbank

A subtle but integral part of Bob and Paul’s setup is their choice of sunglasses, which serve practical purposes in addition to being stylish. Fishing is an activity that requires patience, and visibility is crucial in spotting fish beneath the water's surface. Sunglasses are indispensable for reducing glare, improving contrast, and enhancing the visibility of underwater life. These practical benefits make sunglasses essential for any angler—beginner or experienced.

For Bob and Paul, who often find themselves fishing under varying light conditions, sunglasses shield their eyes from the harsh reflection of sunlight on the water, reducing eye strain. Polarized sunglasses, which both are often seen wearing, are particularly useful as they minimize the reflection and glare on the water’s surface. By filtering out specific light waves, polarized lenses allow them to see into the water more clearly, giving them an edge in spotting fish.

Exploring Bob and Paul’s Sunglasses Choices

They often sport high-quality, polarized sunglasses that not only enhance their performance but also contribute to the show’s aesthetic. While the specific brands aren’t always highlighted in the series, they appear to favour classic, durable frames suitable for outdoor activities like Maui Jim.

Paul is seen with rimless wraparound frames, which provide ample coverage and add a retro charm fitting his more seasoned angler persona. Sunglasses with polarized lenses reduce the risk of eye strain and allow him to scan the river’s surface with ease. Bob, on the other hand, is often spotted in bolder square-style frames that give him a laid-back, casual look, perfectly complementing his less serious approach to fishing. His sunglasses not only protect his eyes but also serve as a reminder that he’s there to enjoy the experience rather than master it…

These sunglasses add to the characters of Bob and Paul on the show—practical yet stylish, laid-back but purpose-driven. Just as their conversations flow effortlessly from banter to deep reflections on life, their sunglasses are a seamless blend of form and function, adding a layer of relatability to their angling adventures.

The Importance of Sunglasses in Fishing Performance

The choice to wear polarized sunglasses is essential for anglers, especially in sunny conditions where water surfaces can become mirrors. Glare on the water can make it nearly impossible to see fish or assess water depth, which is crucial for successful fishing. For both Bob and Paul, having sunglasses enhances their ability to enjoy the experience while also allowing them to engage with their environment more fully. The polarization of their lenses cuts through the surface reflection, giving them a clearer view and, ultimately, increasing the chances of spotting fish.


Paul Whitehouse can be seen wearing grey Maui Jim Kanaha 409-02 Sunglasses

Paul Whitehouse can be seen wearing grey Maui Jim Kona 451-02 Sunglasses

Beyond function, sunglasses contribute to the relaxation and contemplative nature of the series. Shielded from harsh sunlight, Bob and Paul are able to sit back and enjoy each other’s company and the beauty around them, which aligns with the show’s unhurried, reflective style. Their sunglasses act as subtle symbols of the show’s commitment to comfort and ease, as they allow the duo to face the elements without distraction or discomfort.

A New Take on Male Friendship and Health

Another unique aspect of Gone Fishing is its exploration of male friendship and health. Both Bob and Paul have faced significant health challenges, including heart conditions, which is partly why they started the show. As they sit together on the riverbank, discussing everything from mortality to diet changes, their conversations feel genuine and unforced. They touch on topics that men, particularly those of their generation, might traditionally avoid, making the show as much about mental health as it is about fishing.


Black Acetate Maui Jim Wassup 123-02W Sunglasses Similar to Bob Mortimer's Sunglasses


Black Acetate Maui Jim Big Wave 440-2M Sunglasses Similar to Bob Mortimer's Sunglasses

The sunglasses they wear become part of this meditative experience. In the quiet moments where they sit side by side, sometimes in silence, they look out onto the river through their tinted lenses, protected from the harshness of the world outside. The sunglasses, in a way, become symbolic of the way they’ve adapted to life post-health-scare. They’re more careful, and more deliberate, and they know that it’s okay to seek comfort and protection—whether it’s through a polarized lens or through the support of a close friend.

The Heart of Gone Fishing

Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing isn’t just a show about angling; it’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the importance of friendship, especially as one grows older. The series invites viewers to take a pause, just as Bob and Paul do, and appreciate the quiet moments in life.