The Compleat Angler (Barnes & Noble Digital Library)

Subtitled “A Contemplative Man’s Recreation.” In 1653 Izaak Walton first published this compendium of information, anecdotes, lore, song, quotations, and verse about fishing. Walton was then aided by his friend Charles Cotton in coming out with new editions over the next 25 years. Of course, this classic literary work includes plenty of tips on fishing, bait, lines, flies, and more.