The Compleat Schwiebert

Schwiebert, author of the definitive two-volume Trout , has contributed to sporting magazines for more than 20 years. In this anthology, a selection of his writings during that period, he offers advice on technique and tactics, a short course in aquatic entomology and other fishing lore. He introduces favorite trout streams from the Catskills to the North Umpqua in Oregon and tells how to ``read'' unfamiliar waters. There is a brief history of the introduction of brown trout to America, a comparison of the virtues of steelhead and Atlantic salmon. Schwiebert discourses on the seasons, on trout habitat, on bamboo rods. While all of this is meat and drink to flyfishermen (and -women), there is also plenty to attract non-anglers: superb descriptive writing, good company and the vicarious pleasure of flyfishing with the preeminent Schwiebert. (Sept.)