Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, reading about fishing can provide inspiration and education to improve your skills and knowledge. In this article, we will explore some of the best fishing books to read in 2023.
“The River Why” by David James Duncan
“The River Why” is a captivating coming-of-age novel that follows Gus Orviston, a young fly fisherman on a quest for the meaning of life. The book combines humor, philosophy, and fishing to create a unique narrative that captures the essence of fishing as a way of life.
“A River Runs Through It” by Norman Maclean
“A River Runs Through It” is a timeless classic that has inspired generations of anglers. The book is a collection of three stories that follow the Maclean family’s life in Montana and their love for fly fishing. The prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the beauty and serenity of fishing in the wild.
“Trout Bum” by John Gierach
“Trout Bum” is a collection of essays that explores the joys and frustrations of fly fishing. The book covers a range of topics, from the thrill of catching a big trout to the Zen-like calm of being alone on the water. Gierach’s writing style is witty and insightful, making this book a must-read for any angler.
“The Orvis Guide to Fly Fishing” by Tom Rosenbauer
“The Orvis Guide to Fly Fishing” is an excellent resource for beginners and experienced anglers alike. The book covers all aspects of fly fishing, from casting techniques to fly selection and stream ecology. The book also includes detailed illustrations and photographs that make it easy to understand and follow.
“The Compleat Angler” by Izaak Walton
“The Compleat Angler” is a classic fishing book that was first published in 1653. The book is a combination of a fishing manual and a literary work, featuring dialogues between the author and his friends on the subject of fishing. The book covers everything from fly fishing to bait fishing and is an excellent read for anyone interested in the history of fishing.
“The Fly-Tying Bible” by Peter Gathercole
“The Fly-Tying Bible” is an essential guide for anyone interested in tying their own flies. The book covers a range of fly patterns and includes detailed instructions and photographs that make it easy to follow. The book also covers the materials and tools needed to tie flies, making it a comprehensive resource for any fly tyer.
“Fifty Places to Fly Fish Before You Die” by Chris Santella
“Fifty Places to Fly Fish Before You Die” is a bucket list for any angler. The book features fifty destinations around the world that offer some of the best fly fishing experiences. Each chapter includes information on the location, the fish species found there, and the best time to visit. The book is an excellent source of inspiration for any angler looking to plan their next fishing trip.
“Strip-Set: Fly-Fishing Techniques, Tactics, & Patterns for Streamers” by George Daniel
“Strip-Set” is a comprehensive guide to streamer fishing, a technique that is becoming increasingly popular among fly fishermen. The book covers everything from gear selection to presentation techniques and fly patterns. The book also includes detailed illustrations and photographs that make it easy to understand and follow.
“The Fisherman’s Tomb” by John O’Neill
“The Fisherman’s Tomb” is a fascinating non-fiction book that tells the story of the discovery of the tomb of St. Peter in Rome. The book combines history, archaeology, and fishing, making it an interesting read for any angler who is also interested in the intersection of religion and fishing. The author, John O’Neill, was a longtime journalist and avid fisherman who stumbled upon the story of the discovery of the tomb while on a fishing trip in Rome. The book is a captivating read that explores the history of Christianity and the role of fishing in religion.
“The Little Red Book of Fly Fishing” by Kirk Deeter and Charlie Meyers
“The Little Red Book of Fly Fishing” is a compact but comprehensive guide to fly fishing. The book covers all aspects of the sport, from casting to reading water to fly selection. The book is filled with tips and tricks from some of the top anglers in the world, making it an excellent resource for anyone looking to improve their skills.
“The Seasons of the Big Horn” by Steve Raymond
“The Seasons of the Big Horn” is a beautiful tribute to the Big Horn River, a world-renowned fly fishing destination in Montana. The book follows the author’s experiences fishing the river throughout the year, capturing the changing seasons and the different challenges and rewards that come with them.
“The Art of Fly Fishing” by Tony Lolli
“The Art of Fly Fishing” is a visually stunning book that showcases the artistry and beauty of fly fishing. The book features photographs of fly fishing in stunning natural settings around the world, accompanied by insightful essays and quotes from famous anglers and writers.
“The Complete Book of Fishing Knots, Leaders, and Lines” by Lindsey Philpott
“The Complete Book of Fishing Knots, Leaders, and Lines” is a must-have reference book for any angler. The book covers over 50 knots for all types of fishing, from fly fishing to saltwater fishing. The book also includes detailed instructions and illustrations for tying each knot, as well as tips on choosing the right leader and line for different fishing situations.
The Longest Silence” by Thomas McGuane
“The Longest Silence” is a collection of essays that explore the author’s love for fly fishing and the natural world. The essays cover a range of topics, from the joy of catching a trout to the environmental threats facing our rivers and streams. McGuane’s writing is poetic and insightful, making this book a literary masterpiece.
“Fishing Bamboo: An Angler’s Passion for the Traditional Fly Rod” by John Gierach
“Fishing Bamboo” is a love letter to bamboo fly rods, a classic and traditional type of fly fishing rod. The book covers the history and construction of bamboo rods, as well as the author’s experiences fishing with them. The book is filled with beautiful photographs and illustrations, making it a must-read for any angler interested in the art and tradition of fly fishing.
Conclusion
Fishing is a timeless pastime that has inspired countless books over the years. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, education, or just a good read, there’s a fishing book out there for you. The books on this list cover a range of topics, from classic literature to practical guides, and are sure to provide hours of entertainment and insight into the world of fishing. Happy reading, and tight lines!
