Irish Tea and Soft Hackles

The Review Pages

River Journal - White River - by Danny Hicks Back to Index

This book is an excellent addition to an Arkansas fishing library. It is packed with color photos displaying the White River system, its people, and its fish. Danny includes a variety of stories about both the White River and the Little Red River, including the tale of Rip Collins' world record trout.

River Journal - White River is a great combination text to have along with Steve Wright's book. If you are like me, I will buy any book that details fishing in Arkansas, especially fly fishing. The goal of both works is to educate fishermen about the White River system. The authors accomplish this purpose, and both books are good to have!

This is one to buy!

Tailwater Trout in the South; An Angler's Guide - by Jimmy Jacobs Back to Index

Jimmy Jacobs has compiled an excellent guide to tailwater trout fishing in the southern states. I can imagine the great times he had if he actually was able to fish most of the places of which he wrote. Arkansas gets the attention as far as being a world class fishery, but some of the other states actually have more miles of trout water as he aptly states. He does a good job of making the reader aware of these areas. His intention is to cover only tailwaters, but he does mention some of the better natural spring fed fisheries.

This is another book that an Arkansas trout fisherman should be proud to have. It contains a lot of good information for anyone who may have the opportunity to be in an area where trout are stocked. I try to turn any trip, vacation, or family excursion in a fishing trip. This book is handy for such a situation. The first area he covers in Arkansas is the Little Missouri River!

Home Waters: Guide to Fishing Northern Arkansas, Southern Missouri and Western Tennessee Back to Index

Home Waters is a compilation created by the MidSouth Fly Fishers that includes a foreword by Dave Whitlock. It is a down-to-basics type of book that contains excellent removable maps, river access descriptions, and information related to fishing these areas. It is more of a handbook than the other reviewed Arkansas area specific books. It also includes excellent information on the Spring River, a place on my want-to-fish list!

I had already bought the books by Steve Wright and Danny Hicks before I purchased this one, but it was a great addition to my collection. You would be proud of it as well. The removable maps are a bonus!

Ozark Trout Tales - A Fishing Guide to the White River System - by Steve Wright Back to Index

This book is an excellent guide to trout fishing in Arkansas. Steve Wright has spent considerable time collecting data, and must have had wonderful days enjoying the fishing experiences that gave him the information necessary to write this book. He gives detailed information about the dams, hatcheries, guides, and flies that make the White River system, including the Little Red River, a world reknowned fishing area. The maps and detailed stream descriptions are certain to be an asset to both new and seasoned fishermen.

If a person only had the money to buy one book on fly fishing in Arkansas, Ozark Trout Tales would be a great choice!. It is full of interesting stories, such as the tale of Rip Collins and the world record brown. The book also has numerous fly patterns from masters of Arkansas trout fishing including Dave Whitlock, Duane Hada, Skip Halderman, and Fox Statler.

This book is out of print. Although some of the information is somewhat dated, in my mind, it is still the book to own about Arkansas trout fishing.

True Love and the Woolly Bugger - by Dave Ames Back to Index

Dave Ames is a fisherman, guide, outfitter, trout bum, and experienced writer. In this book, he looks at a lifetime of fly fishing with humor. His travels have given him a group of stories that are both entertaining and enlightening.

True Love and the Woolly Bugger is a fun book to read! It takes a slightly different approach to fishing than the usual match the hatch, chase the aesthetics style commonly seen. It is entertainment of a high quality!

After reading this book, his next, A Good Life Wasted, was a let down.

A Fool's Paradise - by John Gierach Back to Index

In a manner with which I relate, Gierach's latest writings reflect a mellowing that comes with age. For those of us who have spent years following his exploits while having our own parallel trout fishing life, this adds to the interest in his stories. For those new to fly fishing, no writer is better at creating the state of mind that embodies the ethical values and enjoyments that our hobby allows. He is a teacher who is not trying to teach. Simply stated, he is just trying to tell a story.

This book is excellent reading. Read once, I now have it out to read again. Then I will add to this review.

Another Lousy Day in Paradise - by John Gierach Back to Index

This one makes me laugh when I think of it! This, the first of my John Gierach readings, literally opened a new chapter in my fly fishing experience. Since then, I've purchased and read almost every book that John has written. I'll get them all!

The first time that I heard him compared to Mark Twain, it occured to me that he had boxed himself into the proverbial fly fishing corner, thereby restricting his books to a small percentage of the population. Then I realized that this is probably what Mr. Gierach wants!

He is an excellent writer. You do not have to fully agree with him to enjoy the essence of his words. He is the true Trout Bum! In many ways, his life is the one of which we dream, even though in reality we realize we are happier with ours.

At times, John will spend time philosophizing on certain concepts, and then bring you back to earth with the realization that maybe we fish just to catch fish! What a deep thought!

Fishing Bamboo - by John Gierach Back to Index

I've lost count, but I believe the last time I read the book was the sixth. Reading it is short work, so I'll go through it again soon!

This book is about one man's fascinination with fishing bamboo rods. If one seeks a general overview of bamboo rods and the tradition associated with them, this is an excellent book. As usual, John Gierach displays his ability to captivate the reader who may or may not agree with him on many points. His explanations on the values of rods, methods of production, and general history of rodbuilding is fine reading.

John Gierach is the master of casual reading for fly fishing. I am not suggesting that his books lack depth, but just the opposite. He is extremely informative but has the ability to be so in a quite comfortable way. If you can pick up one of his books, enjoy it! I've read just about all of them, some several times. Another Lousy Day in Paradise stays in my car in case I get caught waiting somewhere!

John Gierach's Best! Back to Index

For reading entertainment, Another Lousy Day in Paradise, Dances with Trout, Sex, Death and Fly Fishing, Standing in a River Waving a Stick, and Trout Bum are as good as it gets. If I made a list, these books would all be in my top ten fly fishing books, probably five of the top seven or eight. John has been called the Mark Twain of fly fishing, and rightly so. All of his books are well written and worth your time for reading.

I would reccomend starting with one of these five, then read all his books in whatever order you then decide. I find that his last couple of books and what I call his 'how-to' books are not quite as humorous or entertaining as the ones before. You may feel completely different about them.

I started with Another Lousy Day in Paradise. It began a reading experience that became a hobby within a hobby. Treat yourself to these books. You won't regret it!

Still Life with Brook Trout - by John Gierach Back to Index

In all fairness to J. G., I have reread his book. The previous ranking that wasn't so good may have shown the mood of the reader instead of the writer. John Gierach's books are quite pleasant reading, and this one is no exception.

He has shown a maturity in his work from the starving fisherman to one of the icons of the sport. Still, there is no more ego showing in the newer books than that displayed in early works. He is a man who knows a few things he loves and does not seem to worry about the rest. He is living the fantasy many of us dream for. In his books we can hold a part of that world. This is a good one. I'll read it again!

Taking Trout - by Dave Hughes Back to Index

Whether he has ever managed a classroom or not, Dave Hughes is a teacher! In this book, he covers a complete spectrum of ideas for taking trout. Each chapter, usually with a length of 4 to 5 pages, is a primer in one select area of fly fishing, whether it be upstream casting, stillwater fishing, or rod selection. His ideas spring from the practical and are easy to learn.

This is a book for fishermen of any proficiency, whether master or apprentice. Each chapter, and there are over 30, taught me something I did not know about the subject material.

If you are looking for books of practical instruction on fly fishing or tying, Dave Hughes has some good ones. This is definitely one of them!

Trout Flies: The Tier's Reference - by Dave Hughes Back to Index

This book is the definitive work for trout flies. With step-by-step instructions and images, Dave Hughes gives the reader examples for tying over 500 flies. He also offers insights throughout the book in the uses of various flies. His instructions are clear, and his purpose is is simple. As he says, “The most beautiful fly is the one that catches trout.”

This book is large and slightly costly. However, it can replace any number of books that would be a far more expensive investment for the user. If a tier has this book, the only other fly tying books needed would probably be those for tying specialty flies.

If you ever look at this book, you very likely will feel your library is incomplete without it!

Pavlov's Trout - by Paul Quinnett Back to Index

There are a few books that I know I can pick up, open to any page, and immediately enjoy the reading. This is one of them. No book on fly fishing that I've read has been more interesting or entertaining. That says a lot when you consider how I enjoy the writings of John Gierach!

Paul Quinnett, a clinical psychologist, explains the psychology of fishing in a delightfully humorous way! He explains in an understandable manner some of the traditional traits found in fishermen, such as the tendancy to lie, superstitions, and the largest antler complex.

Mr. Quinnett gives humorous examples along the way, making the reader aware of the similar tendencies in his or her life. Pavlov's Trout, I hope the name rings a bell or makes you salivate! Sorry about that!

Fly Fishing through the Midlife Crisis - by Howell Raines Back to Index

This one made me mad! While apparently trying to vindicate his Southern raising, Mr. Raines made comments that I felt were inappropriate and offensive. I was looking for a book with which I could relate, but was disappointed.

While agreeing with some of his political remarks, I found them antagonistic to what I perceived as the purpose of the book. Maybe I was looking for the wrong thing!

The Complete Angler - by Sir Izaak Walton and Charles Cotton Back to Index

Every library needs a copy of this book! The first edition was published in 1653. It is one of the more famous fishing books ever written.

When you have finished your copy of The Compleat Angler, tell me what it was about. I found it somewhat tedious and never finished it. There were other books I wanted to read!

A Guide to Aquatic Trout Foods - by Dave Whitlock Back to Index

The writer of this book is one of the truly impressive fishermen of our time. With this book, Dave Whitlock, an artist, writer, and innovator, has created a guide to the various categories of foods on which trout feed. He relates his material in an understandable manner, avoiding scientific names, yet explaining the various developmental stages of certain flies, aquatic bugs, and other aquatic food sources in detail.

Viewing the table of contents will show the reader that ample time is given to various fly types, crustaceans, forage fish, leeches, and more. Mr. Whitlock includes information on matching each stage and food type with the proper fly construction. There is also a section on equipping an effective fly box.

This is a book that a fly fisherman should have. I have two copies! I wish that made me twice the fisherman.

Pocket Water: Confessions of a Restless Angler - by William Tapply Back to Index

The apple did not fall far from the tree! Bill Tapply, son of 'Tap' Tapply of "Tap's Tips" fame, is an accomplished writer. In this book, he provides us with a series of stories that cover a wide range of fishing adventures. He manages to do it in a manner that leaves the reader wishing for more.

A good book, like good music, can spur emotions. Easy listening relaxes, as should easy reading. Picture yourself leaning back in your recliner on a snowy day, a cup of coffee or chocolate in one hand, and this book in the other. That's the feeling it left with me. Enjoy it!

No Hatch to Match - by Rich Osthoff Back to Index

Subtitled Agressive Strategies for Fly-Fishing Between Hatches, this book is quite informative. If a reader is wanting to pursue fly fishing in a more detailed manner, this book can help. Chapters concerning things such as water temperatures, water conditions, escaping crowds, micronymphing, and seasonal trout movement are included. Education in any of these areas could make better fishing and a more educated fisherman.

All Fishermen Are Liars...Believe It! - by Dave Reifsnyder Back to Index

Dave Reifsnyder has a hit with this book! It is difficult to write in a conversational mode and have the product come across well. Dave has managed to accomplish this. The book is pleasant reading from a writer who manages to maintain a balance between being a regular fly fisherman with the associated ups and downs and having a degree in biology, which many of us non-biology types covet.

I especially enjoyed his chapters on "All Fishermen are Liars" and "Fly Fishing with my Grandfather -- revisited". There was a lot of me in what he said. It's good to realize that the same feelings occur in Pennsylvania as here in southwest Arkansas!

Let's hope that Dave has more fishing stories left after this book. I'm waiting for the next one!

River's Edge - A Fly-Fishing Realm - by Walt Franklin Back to Index

Walt Franklin has written an excellent book on fishing the New York/Pennsylvania area. His writing style slips back and forth from detailed architectural prose to words that flow like gentle poetry. One such example is his description of brook trout on Hammersly Run. He writes with a passion that easily translates to the reader. After reading his book, I am looking forward to a planned summer trip to the area to fish! Good work, Walt!

Nymph Fishing - Rivers & Streams - by Rick Hafele Back to Index

Every once in a while a book comes along that excites me so much I can't wait to get my own copy. This book is one of those! I first had a copy loaned to me by a Pennsylvania fishing friend. When my copy arrived by mail, I was like a kid at Christmas.

A big part of my attraction to this book is that it is not an all inclusive book on trout foods. It instead covers the primary foods of trout in rivers and streams, and explains a variety of methods of nymph fishing. The author gives information by region and season on which bugs (mayflies, caddis flies, scuds, sowbugs, etc.) are more prevalent and likely to be used for food. He includes a good number of excellent charts and pictures.

This is an extremely informative book!

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thoughts by Johnny McJunkins

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