The Science of Fly-Fishing

by Ulanski, Stan L.

• ISBN13: 9780813922102
• ISBN10: 0813922100
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2003-08-01
• Publisher: Univ of Virginia Pr

Summary

The foundations of fly-fishing history, literature, and mechanics are firmly anchored in the disciplines of science, yet until now there has been no comprehensive work that integrates scientific components into the sport of angling for trout and other game fish. The Science of Fly-Fishing fills that void. Stan L. Ulanksi presents the basic elements of the physical and biological sciences in a way that helps the reader see their practical application to fishing.The Science of Fly-Fishing is designed for anglers -- whether they have any formal background in science or not -- who are curious about the relevance of science to their sport. The angling-related scientific concepts revealed in the book require no more of the reader than a good dose of common sense and a willingness to expand his or her fly-fishing knowledge. Ulanski's thoughtful explorations of topics such as the physics of fly casting, the angler's environment, the diet of trout, and the role of lake geology and biology will help anglers reach a greater understanding of and appreciation for the natural aquatic home of their quarry.

Author Biography

Stan L. Ulanski is Professor of Geology and Environmental Science at James Madison University.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations	vii
Preface	ix
Acknowledgments	xii
1. The Mystique and History of Fly-Fishing: Angling through the Ages	1	(19)
2. Fly Rods: Types and Mechanical Properties	20	(18)
3. The Physics of Fly Casting	38	(15)
4. The Fly Angler's Environment	53	(16)
5. Streams: Characteristics and Morphology	69	(17)
6. Survival in a Fluid Environment	86	(16)
7. What Fish Eat: The Diet of Trout	102	(14)
8. The Role of Lake Geology and Ecology in Fly-Fishing	116	(18)
9. Aquatic Optics: From the Perspective of the Angler and Fish	134	(19)
10. Salmonids: Their History, Life Cycle, and Characteristics	153	(19)
11. Threats to the Survival of the Salmonids	172	(19)
Sources	191	(8)
Index	199