HOOKED Learning To Fish

In HOOKED: Learning to Fish, well-known New Zealand chef, restaurateur, and storyteller Al Brown takes readers on a warm, nostalgic journey through his lifelong love of fishing. Rather than being a technical fishing manual, the book reads like a collection of memories, reflections, and hard-earned wisdom from a Kiwi who finds joy, identity, and connection in the outdoors.

Al Brown’s writing is relaxed, humorous, and deeply personal. He captures the feeling of early mornings on the water, the thrill of a first catch, and the quiet companionship that comes with spending time outside with friends and whānau. Readers get a sense not just of how he fishes, but why fishing matters to him — as a way to slow down, to appreciate nature, and to connect with the people you care about.

Visually, the book stands out. It includes beautiful photographs, illustrations, and layout choices that reflect New Zealand’s coastal landscapes and Brown’s down-to-earth style. The imagery enhances the storytelling and makes the book appealing even to those who aren’t into fishing themselves.

At its heart, HOOKED is about more than catching fish. It explores 'te hi ika', the 'lingo', what you need in a fishing kit, all the way through to cooking your catch. This will attract a wide range of readers.