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A Fly Rod of Your Own
“After five decades, twenty books, and countless columns, [John Gierach] is still a master,” ( Forbes ) and his newest book only confirms this assessment, along with his recent induction into the Flyfishing Hall of Fame. In A Fly Rod of Your Own , Gierach brings his ever-sharp sense of humor and keen eye for observation to the fishing life and, for that matter, life in general.
Known for his witty, trenchant observations about fly-fishing, Gierach’s “deceptively laconic prose masks an accomplished storyteller…his alert and slightly off-kilter observations place him in the general neighborhood of Mark Twain and James Thurber” ( Publishers Weekly ). A Fly Rod of Your Own transports readers to streams and rivers from Maine to Montana, and as always, Gierach’s fishing trips become the inspiration for his pointed observations on everything from the psychology of fishing (“Fishing is still an oddly passive-aggressive business that depends on the prey being the aggressor”); why even the most veteran fisherman will muff his cast whenever he’s being filmed or photographed; the inevitable accumulation of more gear than one could ever need (“Nature abhors an empty pocket. So does the tackle industry”); or the qualities shared by the best guides (“the generosity of a teacher, the craftiness of a psychiatrist, and the enthusiasm of a cheerleader with a kind of Vulcan detachment”).
As Gierach likes to say, “fly-fishing is a continuous process that you learn to love for its own sake. Those who fish already get it, and those who don’t couldn’t care less, so don’t waste your breath on someone who doesn’t fish.” A Fly Rod of Your Own is an ode to those who fish that “brings a skeptical, wry voice to the peril and promise of twenty-first-century fishing” ( Booklist ).
Known for his witty, trenchant observations about fly-fishing, Gierach’s “deceptively laconic prose masks an accomplished storyteller…his alert and slightly off-kilter observations place him in the general neighborhood of Mark Twain and James Thurber” ( Publishers Weekly ). A Fly Rod of Your Own transports readers to streams and rivers from Maine to Montana, and as always, Gierach’s fishing trips become the inspiration for his pointed observations on everything from the psychology of fishing (“Fishing is still an oddly passive-aggressive business that depends on the prey being the aggressor”); why even the most veteran fisherman will muff his cast whenever he’s being filmed or photographed; the inevitable accumulation of more gear than one could ever need (“Nature abhors an empty pocket. So does the tackle industry”); or the qualities shared by the best guides (“the generosity of a teacher, the craftiness of a psychiatrist, and the enthusiasm of a cheerleader with a kind of Vulcan detachment”).
As Gierach likes to say, “fly-fishing is a continuous process that you learn to love for its own sake. Those who fish already get it, and those who don’t couldn’t care less, so don’t waste your breath on someone who doesn’t fish.” A Fly Rod of Your Own is an ode to those who fish that “brings a skeptical, wry voice to the peril and promise of twenty-first-century fishing” ( Booklist ).
224 pages, Paperback
First published April 4, 2017
133 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
John Gierach
40 books234 followersJohn Gierach was an American author and freelance writer who lived in Larimer County, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 22, 2017
Once again, John Gierach takes the reader to different freshwater places to fish in North America while occasionally mulling over the questions of life. Gierach is wonderful with his descriptions of places - whether a remote fishing camp in Labrador or the Rocky Mountains close to home. That said, maybe I've been reading Gierach for too many years. I felt this most recent series of essays came up a bit short from some of his previous books. Gierach has had an enviable life of fisherman and successful writer, but he seems to be growing a bit weary of it all. I certainly got that feeling reading some of these stories. Perhaps he needs a fresh approach, a new start, instead of the same old story of writer goes fishing, rubs shoulders with some pals and the locals, and hooks a few lunkers. How about a novel Mr. Gierach?
June 7, 2022
Cool stories from a seasoned fly bum. Have it on audiobook and will definitely be listening through this one again, which I never do.
January 22, 2025
Full of truth about fishing, camping, travel, and, well, just life. And so it goes, you will be missed John Gierach.
July 8, 2018
This month I stepped way beyond my comfort zone and read a book on fly-fishing. Now I have fished before, and will never forget the little five pound bass I hooked on a worm, or staring for hours at one of those white and red fish bobbers floating in the water. It was exhilarating! That however, was the extent of my fishing experience. Fortunately, author John Gierach has plenty of fishing experience, and has written and produced videos extensively on the subject. This is his latest book.
Wading through fast running water is not for everyone and most people automatically think about the time invested in the sport. There are also costs involved, but for the one-timer there are usually outlets to rent your equipment. In Gierach’s latest novel, he talks about the different kinds of fly-fishing and the lure of ‘the fly’ and one’s quest to create or own the best fishing decoy. Gierach says these ‘flies’ tell a story of the fish and the waters they swim. Why does he fish? Gierach fishes to acuminate his skills. Please enjoy his latest book of fish stories. Oh, yes the book weighs less than a pound.
Wading through fast running water is not for everyone and most people automatically think about the time invested in the sport. There are also costs involved, but for the one-timer there are usually outlets to rent your equipment. In Gierach’s latest novel, he talks about the different kinds of fly-fishing and the lure of ‘the fly’ and one’s quest to create or own the best fishing decoy. Gierach says these ‘flies’ tell a story of the fish and the waters they swim. Why does he fish? Gierach fishes to acuminate his skills. Please enjoy his latest book of fish stories. Oh, yes the book weighs less than a pound.
July 17, 2018
Another great collection of fly fishing essays from the master of the form. While not ‘literary’ like Tom McGuane’s, Gierach’s stories capture the experience and feel of the fishing life while allowing the reader to travel vicariously to bucket list waters. I especially liked the chapters “Floatplanes” and “The West Branch”, the former read after being flown in to a Maine sport in camp on a 1968 Cessna floatplane.
July 13, 2017
Loved it. Reminded me of all my fishing adventures with my grandpa.
August 21, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A Fly Rod of Your Own”" is a masterful blend of wit, wisdom, and the kind of storytelling that makes you feel you’re right there on the riverbank, sharing a laugh and a cast with an old friend. Gierach’s ability to capture the quirky, often absurd realities of fly-fishing is unparalleled. Whether he’s humorously dissecting the reasons why a fishing day might go awry (because, of course, you didn’t check your horoscope) or detailing the frustrations of an all-too-familiar scene where a cast goes wrong the moment the camera is rolling, he keeps you hooked from start to finish.
The book’s anecdotes, like the tale of fishermen stranded in the woods who resort to firing their guns in the air to gain attention of passeres by—only to be ignored—strike a chord, highlighting the desperation and camaraderie that often accompanies the sport. When they finally shoot the boat to ensure rescue, you can’t help but feel their frustration, yet admire their resolve. Gierach’s narrative is a testament to the unpredictable, sometimes maddening, but always rewarding nature of fly-fishing.
From his vivid descriptions of remote fishing locations with airports the size of garages to his praises of skilled pilots navigating treacherous terrains, Gierach’s prose transports you to the rugged, beautiful landscapes he so deeply loves. His musings on why we fishermen collect more rods and flies than we’ll ever need resonate deeply with anyone who’s felt the thrill of adding just one more to the collection.
This isn’t just a book; it’s a journey through the heart and soul of fly-fishing, delivered with the perfect blend of humor, insight, and reverence for the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this book is a must-read that will leave you longing for your next adventure on the water.
Get it at…
📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo
Amazon Canada
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo
Kindle - Available on Kindle Unlimited
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible - Available on with Audible Subscription
Libro.FM
“A Fly Rod of Your Own”" is a masterful blend of wit, wisdom, and the kind of storytelling that makes you feel you’re right there on the riverbank, sharing a laugh and a cast with an old friend. Gierach’s ability to capture the quirky, often absurd realities of fly-fishing is unparalleled. Whether he’s humorously dissecting the reasons why a fishing day might go awry (because, of course, you didn’t check your horoscope) or detailing the frustrations of an all-too-familiar scene where a cast goes wrong the moment the camera is rolling, he keeps you hooked from start to finish.
The book’s anecdotes, like the tale of fishermen stranded in the woods who resort to firing their guns in the air to gain attention of passeres by—only to be ignored—strike a chord, highlighting the desperation and camaraderie that often accompanies the sport. When they finally shoot the boat to ensure rescue, you can’t help but feel their frustration, yet admire their resolve. Gierach’s narrative is a testament to the unpredictable, sometimes maddening, but always rewarding nature of fly-fishing.
From his vivid descriptions of remote fishing locations with airports the size of garages to his praises of skilled pilots navigating treacherous terrains, Gierach’s prose transports you to the rugged, beautiful landscapes he so deeply loves. His musings on why we fishermen collect more rods and flies than we’ll ever need resonate deeply with anyone who’s felt the thrill of adding just one more to the collection.
This isn’t just a book; it’s a journey through the heart and soul of fly-fishing, delivered with the perfect blend of humor, insight, and reverence for the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this book is a must-read that will leave you longing for your next adventure on the water.
Get it at…
📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo
Amazon Canada
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo
Kindle - Available on Kindle Unlimited
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible - Available on with Audible Subscription
Libro.FM
August 6, 2025
I’ve always appreciated John Gierach’s ability to turn a quiet day on the water into something almost meditative. His writing is rich with detail, and once again, I found myself easily slipping into each setting—whether it was a remote stream or a simple conversation at a fly shop. The sense of place and pace is something he does better than just about anyone.
That said, A Fly Rod of Your Own didn’t pull me in quite as much as some of his earlier collections. The stories were still warm, reflective, and well-crafted, but they felt a bit more like re-reads. I missed that extra layer of insight or surprise I’ve come to expect from him.
It’s a solid read, especially for longtime fans, but for me, it fell a touch short of his best work.
That said, A Fly Rod of Your Own didn’t pull me in quite as much as some of his earlier collections. The stories were still warm, reflective, and well-crafted, but they felt a bit more like re-reads. I missed that extra layer of insight or surprise I’ve come to expect from him.
It’s a solid read, especially for longtime fans, but for me, it fell a touch short of his best work.
January 29, 2024
an excellent book except where it isn’t
John Gierach is a gifted author and by all accounts a talented angler…his stories about the places he has fished and people he has fished with are wonderful.Its when he starts talking about politics (something he claims to stay out of ) and science (something someone with a degree in philosophy from the 1960’s knows next to nothing about) or worse the unholy and ill conceived combination of the two that it makes you want to at least skip ahead if not put the book down or send it back all together (i have read all but 3 of his books available on kindle so far and truly enjoy 98% of what he writes )
John Gierach is a gifted author and by all accounts a talented angler…his stories about the places he has fished and people he has fished with are wonderful.Its when he starts talking about politics (something he claims to stay out of ) and science (something someone with a degree in philosophy from the 1960’s knows next to nothing about) or worse the unholy and ill conceived combination of the two that it makes you want to at least skip ahead if not put the book down or send it back all together (i have read all but 3 of his books available on kindle so far and truly enjoy 98% of what he writes )
August 3, 2020
John Gierach writes in a very casual manner that makes for an easy read. His stories are very descriptive and when reading them, I could imagine standing in the river beside him or bouncing down the rutted dirt road to a secret fishing spot. Perhaps that was just my own longing to go on these same types of trips. Either way, I enjoyed this book and would definitely read more by him. If you aren't a fisherman, especially one that has never tried flyfishing, this book probably won't be for you, but I doubt those people would have picked this book up in the first place.
September 24, 2019
I really enjoy John Gierach's books. As a fly fisher (who doesn't get out on the stream nearly enough) I get voyeuristic pleasure in reading about his exploits -- especially to some of the places (Alaska, Labrador) where I am unlikely ever able to go. I WOULD love to catch a 6 pound Brookie, however!
September 18, 2022
A real strong piece by Gierach, a little on the slower side in my opinion, but it seemed to offer a lot more in terms of topics. The best piece for me was “Fireproof” where he discussed the camp my family used to go to in Maine and the kind of fly that was developed there: the Gray Ghost, which is the same location and fly I caught my first fish on fly rod.
May 30, 2017
Like going fishing with a fishing buddy, smart, funny, you learn some new stuff. If you like hearing about a variety of different types of fishing in places all over the world this is for you. Starting on another book of his today. Easy fun read.
June 18, 2019
Always enjoyable to read John's short fishing stories and adventures in places we can only dream of going. But also enjoying the familiar descriptions of rivers and fishing holes that are actually not too far away.
Read
April 7, 2020Classic geirach but too much time in one location --- still a lot of pleasure and enjoyment to read
If you're a geirach disciple then read on ! I miss some if his old buddies from previous books !
If you're a geirach disciple then read on ! I miss some if his old buddies from previous books !
April 23, 2021
Another great read about fly fishing. The only negative, and I will allow it this time, was there seemed to be a lot of fishing in Canada and Labrador. But since there was many chapters about using floatplanes - my favorite type of plane - I will excuse it.
Just about his best writing this time.
Just about his best writing this time.
March 11, 2023
It is not Chaucer. If you are a fisherman who fishes not for the sport, but for the serenity, or if like me, you just catch a lot less fish than your friends this is a book that will make you smile and laugh and recall all of the fishing trips of your past.
May 9, 2017
this was an easy but boring book
July 19, 2017
Wonderful as always, the best fly fishing and outdoor writer in the US.
March 27, 2018
Great read
Must read for any outdoors men, fishermen or adventurous type. John has a great way of telling stories while also teaching those who want to fish.
Must read for any outdoors men, fishermen or adventurous type. John has a great way of telling stories while also teaching those who want to fish.
April 3, 2018
Gierach is the best story teller when it comes to fly fishing/traveling.
June 11, 2018
Great book of fly-fishing and stories about life from one of my favorite authors
February 28, 2019
Another excellent collection of essays from John Gierach, who remains one of my favorite essay writers!
March 8, 2019
I hadn't read Gierach in about two years. It's good to be back.
January 9, 2020
Gierach is a joy to read, it's not about the fishing
it's about the stories
it's about the stories
March 3, 2020
John is a good guy to have along when angling or just to read when you have a moment. His texts are thoughtful and enjoyable. I have read all his books and many magazine articles as well.
August 21, 2020
Great, short collection of fly fishing-related essays. Gierach has a terrific, dry sense of humor.
April 12, 2021
You know what Gierach is going to write about, but it never gets old and never becomes uninteresting.
April 20, 2021
I enjoy JG's book, but I also enjoy flyfishing, so I can relate.
August 9, 2021
My first read by Gierach. A bit slow to start and about half way I wondered if I should continue. I did, and it was worth it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews