Wade's interest in fishing began when he was a child living in East Anglia, on the banks of Suffolk's River Stour. In 1982, Wade made his first overseas trip to India's mountain rivers. He has since made trips around the world in search of elusive fish species. He has taken many trips to the Congo and Amazon rain forests. With the aid of local fishermen, Wade travels the world to catch various fish. Wade is also a published author. With joint-author Paul Boote, in 1992 Wade published his first book, Somewhere Down the Crazy River.[7] Wade has also written River Monsters,[7] which details his hunts and journeys around the world.