TO CATCH A FISH with author Mark Kurlansky
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In this episode of The Brian D. O'Leary Show, host Brian D. O'Leary welcomes acclaimed author Mark Kurlansky to discuss his newly released book, *To Catch a Fish*, published by Story Publishing on March 31, 2026. Kurlansky, a lifelong angler and former commercial fisherman, reflects on his deep connection to fly fishing, its history, and its cultural significance across the globe. The conversation spans personal anecdotes, the evolution of fly fishing techniques, the influence of iconic works like *A River Runs Through It*, and the surprising role of dance in mastering the cast. Kurlansky also explores the literary and cultural roots of fishing in Ireland, the impact of women in shaping modern fly fishing gear, and the philosophical underpinnings of fishing as therapy and art. The episode concludes with a powerful endorsement of writing about what you love, drawing from Kurlansky’s own journey and the upcoming 30-year anniversary edition of his seminal work, *Cod*.
Fishing, especially fly fishing, is as much about philosophy and culture as it is about technique.
The movie *A River Runs Through It* inspires passion but misrepresents fly fishing—real casting is about efficiency, not performance.
Women have profoundly influenced fly fishing by advocating for comfort and innovation in gear, like cork grips and lighter rods.
Fishing can serve as therapeutic healing, particularly for veterans, echoing the emotional journey of Hemingway’s characters.
Writing about your passions—like Kurlansky’s love for fish, baseball, and the sea—leads to deeply authentic and impactful work.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to the World of *To Catch a Fish*
“It's great talking to you. It's always great talking about fishing, isn't it?”
From Worms to Fly Fishing: A Personal Journey
Kurlansky traces his evolution from childhood fishing with worms to becoming a dedicated fly fisher. He reflects on his early days as a surfcaster in New England and how fly fishing eventually consumed him, becoming a lifelong passion.
The Myth of the Smart Fish and the Reality of the Catch
“When trout start jumping up like that, I think they're making fun of me. Yeah, yeah. They're just laughing at me.”
Debunking the Hollywood Myth: *A River Runs Through It* and Real Fly Fishing
“You just want your fly in the water as much as possible to catch fish. The trout is looking up at the sky to watch the flight patterns.”
The Women Who Revolutionized Fly Fishing
Kurlansky highlights the overlooked contributions of women in fly fishing, particularly Joan Wolf and Lila Foggia. He discusses how their influence led to more ergonomic gear, such as cork grips and lighter rods, making the sport more accessible.
“The poets are to Ireland, but cheese is to France.”
“I had a great time writing it, I have to tell you. You know, it's something about just writing about things you love.”
“When trout start jumping up like that, I think they're making fun of me. Yeah, yeah. They're just laughing at me.”
Host
Guest
To Catch a Fish
book
Mark Kurlansky
person
Brian D. O'Leary
person
Cod
book
A River Runs Through It
book
Robert Redford
person
Morris Walsh
person
Joan Wolf
person
Gary Borger
person
Brad Pitt
person
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