The Orvis Guide to Reading Trout Streams is the complete guide to finding where trout are located in a stream. It teaches the reader how to predict where trout will be, and how to cast effectively and wade confidently without spooking trout into cover. Chapters include information on currents, rocks, pools, riffles, flats, pocket water, seasonal and daily changes, differences among species and between big and little rivers, and more.
There is so much good information in here. Some which I learned for the first time some which I’ve learned in the past, but perhaps forgotten or didn’t realize how important it is. The only downside is the picture quality. Go get your fish on!
However, decent writing is hampered by poor quality black and white photographs and insipid illustrations. For example, the author writes a paragraph about finding trout under grassy cut-under hedges, and helpfully includes a photograph, but the picture is so grainy that while you have an idea of what this terrain feature looks like, it isn't terribly helpful. Not to mention, you can't see the trout that is hiding under the bank...I mean, come on, use a polarized lens on your camera so we can see a concrete example!
This is one of those books you will remember when you are standing on the bank of your favorite river. Tips, diagrams, and instructions help make this a great guide.