A FISHERMAN has managed to land a second series of his television show.

Ali Hamidi, who also presents fishing shows on Sky Sports and Discovery, is one of the presenters of ITV4’s celebrity challenge show, the Big Fish Off, an extreme fishing show.

In each episode, Ali and former Essex Olympic decathlete Dean Macey coach two celebrities before they go fishing.

The first series saw a range of guests appear on the show, including former England goalkeeper David Seaman and pop star Dappy, take on challenges, including float fishing and who could catch the biggest carp or catfish.

Ali, 35, from Lexden, has reeled in a second series to be screened on ITV4 in February.

The new series will feature appearances by athlete Sally Gunnell, actor and comedian Bobby Davro, former Eastenders star Ricky Groves and former England player Neil “Razor” Ruddock.

Filming has already started, including at Wivenhoe pit and quay, Layer pit, West Mersea Oyster Bar and off Clacton seafront.

Ali said: “I didn’t expect it to do as well as it did. The impact was pretty huge, it went down a storm.

“I always said it was a show not just for fishermen, it was for everyone to enjoy – a bit like Top Gear.”

The first series was shortlisted for a gong in the Broadcast Digital Awards.

Ali has been a fishing fanatic since he was a young boy and is a carp fishing specialist.