BIG PIKE. By Barrie Rickards.

1986 1st edition. 8vo (142 x 222mm). Pp144. B/w photographs and illustrations. Pictorial laminated boards.

"Pike angling has undergone revolutionary changes in recent times ...[This book] is a masterly study of these techniques - many of which Barrie Rickards pioneered himself - and of the philosophy behind them. ...Includes chapters on feeding patterns, distance casting and fishing, artificial baits, tackle, and pike ecology and conservation." Includes detailed discussion of deadbaits and the "lair theory". Chapters include: Pike on the feed; Scavengers supreme; The pike's natural food; Chasing pike; Tackles and techniques; Target horizon; Esox afloat; Pike on the bank; Surviving the elements; Pike location; Pike lairs; King pike; Pike Angler's Club of Great Britain. The foreword is by Martin Gay.