Home Water, Near and Far: A Fly Fisherman's Explorations

The true angler knows the mysterious bond with his or her own ``home water'' referred to in Tapply's title. Indeed, most have probably had (for better and for worse) days on a stream nearly identical to any of the 11 trips described here. Disappointments mingle with trophies and high angling adventure flows into tips on leader preparation. Although Tapply also writes the Brady Coyne mystery series, his hand with a fishing report is not the yarn-spinner's: the sudden pulls of real sentiment in this fine collection are tangible, unmistakable and on target. Like those in his 1989 collection, Opening Day , most of these 30 pieces first appeared in Field & Stream magazine; like native brookies, they shine up close and are well worth additional readings. (July)