There are fly fishing writers and then there are great fly fishing writers—those that manage to capture the moment, emotion, and fleeting feelings we experience on the water. One of those greats is Peter Kaminsky, a New York Times bestselling author. His most recent work, The Zen of Flyfishing, sets out to do just that. I had the opportunity to read this piece and was not disappointed.
Kaminsky’s newest piece is a collection of thoughts, anecdotes, and experiences that, while specific to Kaminsky, are relatable to all fly anglers. The first thing that stands out is the unconventional layout. This book is equal parts art and literature. Flipping through the pages, you’ll immediately notice the compelling imagery Kaminsky curated. The imagery, along with powerful quotes, drives home the lessons, sights, and emotions synonymous with fly fishing. It feels almost like a miniature coffee table book, but that is where the similarities end.
As you dive into Kaminsky’s literary prowess, it becomes apparent why he is regarded as one of the great fly fishing writers of today. While the stories he shares are personal, he’s able to translate them into lessons or, in some cases, experiences every angler has. A prime example of this is when Kaminsky recounts the act of hooking and landing a trout. “In other words, there is no such thing as good enough. Carrying a no-hitter into the ninth inning and then giving up the victory on a solo home run is not a semi-no-hitter. A fish is well caught, or it isn’t,” writes Kaminsky. I can remember a few times and hours arguing with friends on the river whether or not a fish was “caught,” and in two sentences, Kaminsky answered that.
There is no doubt that Kaminsky has lived a full life of fly fishing. And while some of these stories and destinations are far off, he never fails to return to his roots. From a small trout stream in New York to striped bass fishing in the city, this book is relatable to any angler. If you’re looking for a new book to read, the lessons, imagery, and writing of Peter Kaminsky solidify The Zen of Flyfishing as my top choice.
