PIKE. By Martin Gay and Barrie Rickards. Angling Library Volume 1.

1989 1st edition. 8vo (158 x 240mm). Ppxiv,238. B/w photographs, illustrations, bibliography. Blue cloth, spine titled in silver-gilt.

"This is the first book to make so broad a study of pike". The author's survey the evolution of the pike, its distribution, controlling factors in pike development and go into pike behaviour in much detail. This approach shows the specimen hunter where to look for his quarry and how best to go about catching it as well as many thoughts on the conservation of the species. Boydell's Angling Library was issued its own ISSN number (ISBN's for periodicals and magazines), 0955-3827 . Chapters include: Protohistory; History of pike and pike fishing; Esox lucius; Distribution of pike; Form and function of the lean hunter; Handling pike; Size of pike and factors affecting growth; Ecological role of the pike; Angling pressure and its impact; Main methods for their capture; Movement of pike when hunting and cruising; Problems with deep waters; Hotspots and holding areas: update; Feeding spells; Atmospheric conditions; Spawning; The deadbait trigger factor; Deadbaiting and angling pressure; Livebaiting; Artificial baits / lure fishing; Lure fishing afloat and other boating techniques.