|
Frank Flowers reviews
Smallmouth Strategies for the Fly Rod (2004) by
Will Ryan
In New England, we are blessed with both a variety of fish species and waters. Sometimes for us trout anglers, trout waters are neither nearby nor available. Sometimes we look for fishing alternatives in warmer waters or perhaps waters that contain not only trout, but warm water species as well. Such is the nature of smallmouth bass fishing. Smallmouth Strategies for the Fly Rod introduces the reader to the interesting and challenging world of the smallmouth bass. Will Ryan takes us through the historical beginning of smallmouth fishing, a long and revered sport in New England, especially Maine. Ryan then covers the sport's early origins, including rods, reels, flies and methods. Traditionally, anglers used bait casting or spinning rods for this species, but in the past few decades many anglers are discovering the excitement of this fish with fly tackle. Topics in the book include an introduction to the biology and life cycle of the fish, their behavior, where to find them and ultimately how to catch them on a fly rod. Ryan discusses equipment in detail. He covers rods, reels, lines, leaders, flies and the methods used to go after this fine sporting fish. Other topics include pre-spawn, beds in May and June, fall fishing and what the fish are feeding on when and why. Ryan includes a lengthy chapter on imitating aquatic insects, dry flies, caddis flies, leeches, sculpin, minnow and crayfish. Many patterns of effective flies for smallmouth appear in the back of the book. Then he includes chapters on where the fish hold in streams, what to look for, how to fish the structure and how it differs from largemouth bass habitat. Ryan also discusses methods for great success in lakes. The book covers seasons and the methods and characteristics of each season. There are four color plates of appropriate flies for the angler to tie. Finally if you are a traveler, Ryan discusses each region of the country: where to fish, how to get there and tips for each region. This book is a worthwhile addition to any angler's library.. -- FF Statistics About This Book Click here to go back to Book Reviews. |
