I have said in the first paragraph of this book that a preface is a sort of apology, and viewing it in that light, my apology for writing this, is to explain that the demand for a new edition seems to be so large that I ought to comply with it. In doing so, a great deal of fresh matter has been added to the original text, and the information and directions have been brought down to the present time. The portion relating to the propagation of fish has been entirely remodelled and rewritten, so that nothing of the original matter has been left. That was composed before the art of fish-culture had been developed, and before a single fishery commission had been appointed in this country. Considerable advance has also been made in the matter of tackle, rods, and reels, all of which are far better manufactured now in this country, than in any other part of the world, even in that birth-place of the fishing art, England herself.

Having always been an enthusiast with rod and gun, attributing to the sports of the field and stream the retention of good health amid confining and sedentary occupations, I made the preparation of this work a labor of love, and have with time come to be more than ever impressed with the importance of out-door recreations. Inspiration acquired from the woods and streams, and vigor earned by exercise in the pure air of heaven are good for the soul as well as for the body.

Take sportsmen all in all, and there is not only a better physical condition noticeable in their muscles, but they bear a more universal humanity in their hearts than is to be found with mere business men or even among the literary or learned. A sympathy exists between them not often to be found in other classes of the community. Their grasp of welcome seems more hearty, and their expressions of interest more sincere. Certainly I have received more cordial kindness from them than from any other people whom I have ever met.

I was one of the first to press on the State and National Governments the importance of establishing fishery commissions, and being myself appointed on that of the State of New York when it was created, in the year 1867, and having remained on it ever since, I have necessarily kept up with the times, and all improvements which have been made either in the science of fish-culture or in the tools and methods of fishing.

Looking back, and still more I may say, looking forward to what the future will bring forth, I have a right to claim that in aiding the cultivation and protection of the objects of the sportsman’s pursuit, and the means of his pleasure, in protesting against their unreasonable and improper slaughter, and in describing the most legitimate and scientific methods, and taking them, I have conferred some advantage upon mankind as well as amused some idle hours.

The Author.

March, 1884.