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Episode Show Notes
Peter Kaminski is a prolific writer who has authored 18 cookbooks and numerous fishing books, served as managing editor of National Lampoon magazine working alongside John Belushi and Bill Murray in the 1970s, and wrote as a New York Times Outdoors columnist for 35 years. In this conversation, he shares the unexpected story of how a $54 grouper prize on a party boat launched his fishing writing career, the moment Doug Swisher's casting clinic changed his life at Beaver Kill, and why Carl Hiaasen and Rachel Maddow both contributed to his latest book. Peter reveals what it takes to get writers who've never met you to share their most intimate fishing memories, the connection between fly fishing and prayer, and why after decades of traveling the world, he no longer has a bucket list.
What is The Catch of a Lifetime: Moments of Fly Fishing Glory?
The Catch of a Lifetime is Peter Kaminski's anthology that collects fishing memories from writers including Carl Hiaasen, Rachel Maddow, John McPhee, Nick Lyons, and Katie Khan. Each contributor wrote 500 to 1000 words about a single fishing memory, capturing specific details like the height of the sun, temperature, wind, and place. The book was created during COVID when people were locked in their houses, and includes photography from Andy Anderson and Valentine Atkinson.
Who is Peter Kaminski?
Peter Kaminski is a writer who served as managing editor of National Lampoon magazine in the 1970s working with John Belushi, Bill Murray, Brian Murray, Gilda Radner, and Alice Clayton. He transitioned to outdoor journalism in 1978, writing for Outdoor Life and Field and Stream, and wrote as a New York Times Outdoors columnist for 35 years. He has authored 18 cookbooks and numerous fishing books, and resides in Brooklyn where he fishes for striped bass.
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