Somehow the idea of any writer passing judgement on the work of another writer is either the height of arrogance or stupidity: possibly both. Since the majority of writers have not written a book (much less several,) we can be accused of not knowing the subject matter - or not liking the methods used.

As a reviewer on this page, I will attempt to be neither arrogant nor stupid. Instead I will recommend those books which make sense, are fun and interesting to read, and enrich us as fly fishers. ~DB
Sept. 1, 1997

Terrestrials
 by Harrison R. Steeves III and Ed Koch,
published by Stackpole Books, 1994.
(Excerpts used with permission.)

This is a delight! A short history of fishing these summer and fall insects by both Harrison and Ed brings the reader to a logical beginning. Where did terrestrial flies spring from?

Who is responsible for making the knowledge available? What terrestrials are important? How do you tell one kind from another? At what times of the years are which ones most effective?

How do you design a fly - much less a terrestrial? What materials are used? And why?

Woven through each section are wonderfully colorful personal stories of "Harry" as Ed calls Harrison, and Ed fishing their way to a particular understanding of terrestrials.

Top that with superb line drawings and instructions for tying the flies, (and specific directions for fishing them,) for an unbeatable book. A listing of shops carrying materials mentioned in the book is also provided.

Terrestrials is highly recommended reading for both the fly tier and fly fisher who doesn't want to hang up his rod in the heat of summer, or the low water of fall. You certainly don't want to miss what might be your very best fishing! ~ DB

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