Brilliant, witty, perceptive essays about fly-fishing, the natural world, and life in general by the acknowledged master of fishing writers. "Once an angler has become serious about the sport (and 'serious' is the word that's used), he'll never again have enough tackle or enough time to use it. And his nonangling friends and family may never again entirely recognize him, either." In other words, he (or she) will have entered Gierach territory. And fishermen who choose to brave the crowds at the big hold, commune with the buddies at the "family pool," or even wade into questionable waters in the dark of night are sure to recognize themselves in Even Brook Trout Get the Blues. Whether debating bamboo versus graphite rods, describing the pleasure of fishing in pocket waters or during a spring snow in the mountains, or recounting a trip in pursuit of the "fascinatingly ugly" longnose gar, Gierach understands that fly-fishing is more than a sport. It's a way of life in which patience is (mostly) rewarded, the rhythms of the natural world are appreciated, and the search for the perfect rod or ideal stream is never ending. It is not a life without risks, for as Gierach warns: "This perspective on things can change you irreparably. If it comes to you early enough in life, it can save you from ever becoming what they call 'normal.'" Even Brook Trout Get the Blues will convince you that "normal" is greatly overrated.
John's books are the best - it's hard to imagine how he does it - but we are all thankful that he does. 20 years of writing now - I own all his books but one hard (and expensive) copy...all are wonderful. I would never get rid of any of them and re-read them for 15 minutes or 2 days as needed when I can't get "out there" to restore my soul.
Love all his books and recommend them
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
This is a book that is about the authors different fishing memories about fishing different types of water, from farm ponds, rivers and streams, lakes and the types of fish one is apt to find in each locale.And I am a sucker for anyone who writes about fishing and hunting in Montana so this book didn't disappoint. Guess maybe someone has to either have experienced the small towns he speaks of or has to have a dream of wanting the experience. Again the book doesn't disappoint.Also liked his Chapter which the book is named after and as usual he taught me something I didn't know about Brook trout. Page 188 'Brookies were originally introduced into the Rocky Mountains back around the turn of the century on the premise that more fish would be better than fewer fish. That seemed reasonable at the time, but it turned out that brook trout out competed our native cutthroats for food and spawning habitat, and some biologists now trace the decline of many cutthroat fisheries to the introduction of brookie'. 'Brook trout also have loose spawning requirements so they tend to overpopulate, stretch the food supply and become stunted, sort of like bluegills in a pond with no bass to eat up most of the little ones'.Anyway, the book is a joy to read and I would highly recommend it for any serious or authentic fly fisherman's library.
A really good book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
The beginning was a little slow but it payed off. It ended up being the best book I ever read.
If you've ever trout fished, this is a must !
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
Gierach has a wit and a love for nature like no one I have ever read. Every story he tells is not only an incredible experience, but most of the time a lesson well learned. As I read along, I found myself wanting to be standing streamside with John,A.K.,and the rest of the boys. Although Gierach seems to have strong opinions, he doesn't come off as "I'm right cause I wrote the book." He is more of, "Here's what I think, you decide for yourself." Thanks John, keep em coming.
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