Smallmouth Strategies for the Fly Rod

I have been reading Will Ryan's work for a number of years. His bass book is entertaining and helpful, precisely the kind of writing which I have come to expect from this author. I am a fly fisher, not a bait and bullets guy, and for me learning the techniques described in the book where very helpful. However, I also appreciate Ryan's non-pretentious attitude regarding certain fishing technique inclinations.I also appreciate the anecdotes which are sprinked throughout the book. If one wants a stict how-to book go read your chain saw manuel. I prefer a bit of whimsy thrown in.In short this is a must-have in your library if you consider yourself a serious fisherman and wish to add bass on the fly to your routine.

Mr. Ryan's remarkable knowledge of smallmouth bass and how to catch them on a fly set the stage for this quick read. I enjoyed his down to earth writing style and instructional prose.

Mr Ryan mixes in just enough of his interesting experiences with his valuable info on Smallmouth. His writing is down-to-earth, kind of like learning from a buddy. He includes several comparisons with baitcasting that I (a recent convert to the Fly) can relate to, just to keep things in perspective. Plenty of tips on locating fish, retrieve techniques, fly info etc. Also a nice summary chart of all the main points in the back of the book.

WHILE THERE ARE COLOUR PLATES IN THE BOOK, ITWOULD HAVE BEEN NICE IF THE FLIES WERE PICTUREDNEXT TO THEIR DISCRIPTIONS. ALSO IT WOULD HAVE BEEN NICE TO SEE AT LEAST DISCRIPTIONS OF THE HOOKS AND THEIR SIZES AS NOT ALL OF US ARE ADVANCED OR MASTER TYERS.

What makes this book so good is that it provides outstanding technical information while not being dry for a moment. Mr. Ryan's writing style is most pleasing. This is the first fishing book that I could not put down. I highly recommend this book to any flyfisher who is interested in smallmouth bass fishing