The Complete Illustrated Directory of Salmon Flies

publication date: Oct 2, 2008

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author/source: Simon Young/Fish & Fly

Review by Simon young

The author Chris Mann has been studying salmon flies and their inventors for 30 years. This book, "The Complete Illustrated Directory of Salmon Flies" is the fourth in his salmon fly series, it contains over 1800 salmon and steelhead flies ,all illustrated in full colour complete with the appropriate dressing materials listing.

As in Chris’s previous books, the flies are computer generated illustrations which have a greater consistency of colour and less imperfections that can be inherent with photographs.

The book is split into two main sections, firstly Atlantic Salmon Flies, secondly Steelhead Flies. One very simple but effective idea in this volume is to have three separate index’s, one each for flydressers, fly types and lastly the main index which lists all of the flies in alphabetical order.

The index of fly types lists seventeen different styles excluding standard hair wing and feather wing dressings. Some flies do appear twice in the index but it's not a problem, in fact it's quite useful if you only know one part of the flies name i.e. the colour.

Within the book each fly as well as having a good clear picture has a brief description of its origin. Even if you don’t fish for salmon but instead enjoy tying flies this book would certainly make a great reference addition to your library.

Publishers Notes

This is the most comprehensive directory of salmon flies ever published. It is the fruit of 30 years’ research by renowned international flytying author, Chris Mann. He has corresponded with countless expert salmon fly tyers throughout the world – seeking out all their most popular and enduring salmon flies, adding these to all the classic patterns. Now his research is complete.

Over 1800 salmon and steelhead flies – each one illustrated in colour and with its full dressing provided – make this the definitive reference, the all-in-one volume for salmon anglers and flytyers throughout the world. Chris Mann’s vibrant illustrations of the flies show them with a clarity, accuracy and consistency seldom achieved through photographs.

The flies are ordered alphabetically, making it easy for the reader to find the exact fly and to check the precise dressing. Mann gives a brief introduction to each fly, noting its originator when known and the reputation it has achieved. A full, cross-referencing Index is included.

So, when you next find yourself wondering what exactly a Cascade looks like, and whether there is something similar in your own box which will help you catch a salmon – then you will reach for this indispensible book. 

* Gold blocking on front jacket panel and spine
* Spine width: 4cm/1½"

Author: Chris Mann
Illustrator: Chris Mann
ISBN: 978 1 906122 01 0
Published: October 2008
Format: 276 x 210 mm
Binding: Hardback
No. of pages: 480
1800 colour illustrations
RRP Price: £35.00