The Compleat Angler

First published in 1653, this book presents fishing as both craft and quiet philosophy through conversations along English rivers. Piscator, an experienced angler, meets Venator and Auceps, compares their field sports, then leads the huntsman through days of baiting, fly-making, and talk of particular fish. They stay at alehouses, sing, and eat what they catch. Instruction in tackle and season is mixed with verses and with a defense of the angler's temper. Later editions grew by chapters. The work is a country dialogue and practical guide, not a memoir of a single expedition.

Bound in brown cloth with a design in gold. Pale brown endleaves. Transparent plastic dust-jacket. Variant dust-jackets; one with and one without text printed on the inner flaps. Folio Press and J.M. Dent.