The first thing I noticed when reviewing this book was the photography. Books with lots of quality pictures are a good thing. But with all that has been written on this subject do we really need another book on nymph fishing? Read on and we'll try to answer this question.

First the author starts out by giving the reader a short history on where nymph fishing started; it proves to be informative without boring the reader. He quickly moves on to our quarry (trout). This is where the book really gets interesting. Remember, Mr. Hafele is a trained aquatic entomologist and his expertise really starts to show. The author’s text on trout behavior and habitat requirements is fully enhanced and made easier to understand by the quality illustrations and photographs. Areas that stand out include where trout live and feed, cover, runs, riffles, eddies, boulders, etc. Large, medium, small and spring creeks are all examined. The trout feeding behavior section is especially informative. Insect drift activity, food abundance, light conditions, weather and water temperature are all valuable lessons.

Tackle is comprehensively covered, delving into issues such as rods, reels, lines, leaders, indicators, etc. Pattern selection covers when to use specific nymphs and where, insect collection and identification. Remember this is the author’s expertise as an entomologist and he covers this area as only he can.

The chapter on Nymph Fishing Tactic's covers everything you need to know about nymph fishing in streams and rivers. Mr. Hafele thoroughly covers techniques using the indicator, high stick, hinged leader (3 best for winter Steelheading), and the new Czech method, which is dominating the World Flyfishing Championships. Older but tried and true methods of the Masters like the Brooks, Sawyer, Leisenring, Skues, Hewitt and the wet fly swing are also covered.

The last chapter covers naturals and their imitations. Again, this is where the author exhibits his expertise. It's highly interesting and informative. When reading this book and observing the pictures I was able to identify a number of our local rivers and streams. Waters like the Deschutes, Crooked, Metolius, Fall, McKenzie, and possibly the Malheur are all recognizable. Knowing that the techniques being taught are on waters you already know helps to reinforce the importance and relevance of the lessons. It should provide you with added confidence.

In summary, the quality illustrations and photography enhances your ability to interpret what the author is trying to convey in his writing. This book does exactly that, but did I mention the 72 minute video that comes with the book? It's very well done and helps further reinforce the lessons presented in the book. I found this book to be one of the best instructional fishing books I've had the pleasure of reading. Yes, we needed another book on nymph fishing. It deserves a spot in your library.