The View from Rat Lake

For devotees of fly fishing, this collection of 13 congenial essays takes readers to prime locations for the sport in the western U.S., including lesser-known streams and lakes. Gierach (Trout Bum) introduces certain innovations like the ""fishing car,'' used only to transport anglers to their quarry, and with wit assesses the snobbery of ``purist'' fly-fishers. Along with relating his personal fishing successes, he explains differing practices in the sport occasioned by seasonal changesfor example, ice fishingand defines what constitutes a ``big catch,'' be it trout or bass. Beyond Gierach's evocative descriptions of the angler's anticipation when on the water, the book is flavored by arch humor that suggests the author doesn't take fishing as seriously as he pretends. But he is clearly having a good time here, and readers are likely to share his enjoyment. (March)