The Fisherman’s Boat

Fishing boats, says Vic McCristal, are not necessarily built for fishermen—in most cases the fisherman must adapt himself to his boat, whereas the reverse should apply.

The Fisherman’s Boat is about the different ways in which a fisherman can make the fullest use of his boat and therefore get the greatest possible enjoyment from fishing.

The book is divided into three parts. In the first section, the author looks at some of the basic practical issues involved in fishing, from navigation and the best sort of companion to take on a trip, to boat camping, what clothes to take, and cooking.

The second part discusses the different kinds of fishing boats available and how they should be used. Craft from canoes to power boats are described, with advice on how to keep them running as efficiently as possible, under what circumstances they are most (and least) effective, and how to cast from them.

In the final section, the author enumerates and discusses basic fishing techniques, including trolling, drifting, casting, bottom fishing and jigging. He also gives practical tips on how best to avoid some of the commonest problems that fishermen face.

Above all, the author says, this book is about self-reliance and responsibility in fishing. Only by coming to terms with the sea and its demands can the fisherman gain the maximum amount of pleasure in using his boat.