There is a very good chance that the first four or five fishing books you’ll name fall into one of the main literary sub-genres: memoirs, novels, techniques, or guides. And although there are enough quality entries in those categories to keep you going for quite a while, perhaps you’re looking to switch things up.
How about a massive tome of artifacts?
What about a fly shop owner’s stream side meditations?
Have you ever read a fishing horror story?
The tried and true types are worth reading and rereading. But there is something to be said for seeking out a different kind of fly fishing book every once in a while.
Here are three book suggestions that aren’t your normal fly fishing reading fare:
While not a fly fishing book, Langan’s horror novel about a widower who becomes obsessed by chasing trout is a compelling read for a few reasons. First, it is a wonderful study in grief. In this day and age most of us aren’t concerned with grief until it comes at us hard. Second, he writes about fishing as someone who truly gets fishing. If you don’t mind the fantastical, this is a work of fiction you’ll probably enjoy.
Fly Fishing Treasures: The World of Fly Fishers and Collecting, by Steve Woit
This might be the most exciting coffee table book in fly fishing. While there aren’t two-page spreads of giant trout or breathtaking Patagonian vistas, there are beautifully photographed flies, reels, and tying tools. I can not overstate it: the pictures are wonderful and the details given are fascinating. Although it is a large and relatively expensive volume, it stands alone in the fly fishing library today. If you are a student of the sport’s history, or if you appreciate the aesthetics of angling, Woit’s book is a must have.
His Blessings Through Angling, by Harry Murray
Along with a number of books detailing the fishing opportunities and approaches for Virginia, Murray wrote one of the best books on fly fishing for smallmouth bass there is. This entry is quite different. It is a contemplative, brief, image-heavy series of reflections on the deeper “why” of fly fishing. A staple of the Shenandoah scene, Murray communicates truths even more rock solid than those mountains he calls home.
Looking for something less different? Browse dozens of other recommendations in the Casting Across Fly Fishing Library.
We are giving “Healing Waters” by Beau Beasley to our Sr. Pastor for Pastor Appreciation Month. He’s an Army National Guard Chaplain. I gave my wife (the Associate Pr.) “Cast, Cast, Release” by English fly-fishing innovator Marina Gibson for the same occasion. My wife gave me “A Cast Away in Montana” By Tim Schultz for my birthday last month, but I haven’t started it or “Calling After Water: Dispatches from a Fishing Life” by Dave Karczynski yet. With trout season closed until January here in MN and WI (At least on the waters I fish.) It is officially “read about fly-fishing season” now.
I need to read before I post. Marina’s book is, “Cast, Catch, Release.”
Beau’s book is excellent.
I also enjoyed the book by Gibson.
(You can find reviews for both on the site!)
The other two are new to me. Thanks!