Hook Up!: A Book About Offshore Fishing (But Not Like The Rest) Paperback – February 7, 2026

HOOK UP! is not just another fishing book it is the distilled knowledge of more than eight decades spent mastering offshore angling. Drawing from a lifetime of real-world experience across Southern California, Mexico, Costa Rica, the Bahamas, and Australia, Ed Martin explains what truly works when targeting billfish and other pelagic species. Instead of overwhelming readers with endless knots, rigs, and theories, this book focuses on simplified, proven techniques that consistently increase hook-up rates and success on the water. It is offshore fishing explained clearly, practically, and honestly not like the rest.The book’s first section serves as a hands-on guide to becoming a competent and confident offshore angler. Topics include boats and their setup, rods and reels, lines, tackle rigging, lures, natural baits, finding bait and predators, trolling strategies, and fighting big fish effectively. These methods are backed by extraordinary results, including responsibility for the capture of thousands of billfish and years of refinement through trial, error, and success. Whether you are a beginner looking to avoid years of frustration or an experienced angler seeking to sharpen your skills, the techniques in this book are designed to deliver real, measurable improvement.What sets HOOK UP! apart is its heart and storytelling. Alongside technical instruction, readers are taken through diary-style reflections of a young angler, unforgettable fishing stories, lifelong friendships, and hard-earned lessons learned on the ocean. At times a fishing seminar, at times a memoir, this book captures the adventure, discipline, and passion that define offshore fishing. Even non-anglers will find themselves drawn into its history, experiences, and wisdom. HOOK UP! is a celebration of fishing, learning, and a life well lived on the water. Read more