The BBC has confirmed that Gone Christmas Fishing will return this Christmas. The 2025 festive special will air on Wednesday 24 December at 9 pm on BBC Two. Bob Mortimer, Paul Whitehouse and terrier Ted will feature once again in a gentle hour of winter fishing.
This year’s trip takes the trio to Devon and Cornwall. Their journey begins with a steam train ride into Devon, which has become a familiar opening in the Christmas editions. They then visit the rivers Lyd and Camel. Both rivers offer quiet surroundings and clear winter water, which suits the relaxed pace of the programme.
The programme then continues in Cornwall, where Bob and Paul head out to sea on a traditional fishing boat. Their coastal trips often provide some of the most memorable scenes in the Christmas specials. Dawn French joins them for a festive chat about Christmas and life in Cornwall. Dr Anand Patel also appears on the bank for another conversation.
Later, the pair visit Padstow. Chef Paul Ainsworth welcomes them into his restaurant No6 for a Christmas meal. The special closes in Mousehole, the small harbour village known for its Christmas lights and maritime history. The final moments include a visit to the Penlee Lifeboat Station and a choir performance under the harbour lights.
Gone Christmas Fishing remains a steady part of the BBC Two Christmas lineup. The programme continues to deliver simple fishing, gentle humour and thoughtful moments in scenic settings. It has grown into one of the calmest choices on Christmas Eve.
