10 Best Fishing Books 2025 in the United States

The Florida Saltwater Fish Identification Book is an excellent resource for anglers and fishermen in Florida. One of its biggest strengths is the content focus. It includes more than 90 photographs of fish and sharks native to Atlantic waters, along with comprehensive rules, regulations, limits, and sizes. This makes it a practical tool for ensuring a legal and enjoyable fishing experience.

The author has created a waterproof and tear-resistant booklet, which is ideal for the often wet and rough conditions of saltwater fishing or even underwater use for divers. The vibrant and easy-to-identify photographs, combined with clear and concise information, make it very user-friendly for both amateur and experienced fishermen.

Additionally, the compact and portable design, thanks to its spiral-bound format, allows it to fit comfortably in a tacklebox, backpack, or boat glovebox. However, the limited page count of 40 pages may not provide as much detailed information as some users might need. As a product made in the USA, it supports local businesses, which may appeal to some users. This fishing guide is especially beneficial for those who fish in Florida's saltwater environments and need a reliable, durable reference that can stand up to the elements.

The Orvis Fly-Fishing Guide, Revised, is a comprehensive resource for fishing enthusiasts. Its 408 pages are packed with information that covers a wide range of fly-fishing topics, making it a valuable guide for both beginners and experienced anglers. The content focus is well-rounded, offering insights into various fishing techniques, equipment, and strategies, which is a significant strength for anyone looking to improve their skills or gain new knowledge in the field.

The author, Tom Rosenbauer, is a well-respected figure in the fly-fishing community, enhancing the book’s credibility and reliability. His expertise ensures that the advice and techniques shared are both practical and effective. Additionally, the guide includes numerous illustrations and diagrams, which help in visualizing the techniques and understanding the concepts better. This feature is especially beneficial for visual learners who can glean more from pictures than from text alone.

However, the book's size and weight (2.85 pounds) might be cumbersome for some readers, especially if they plan to carry it along on fishing trips. Despite this, the comprehensive nature and detailed illustrations might make it worth the extra effort. Another potential drawback is that while the book covers a broad range of topics, those looking for highly specialized or advanced techniques might find it less useful. In conclusion, The Orvis Fly-Fishing Guide, Revised, serves as an excellent resource for most fly-fishing enthusiasts, providing valuable insights and practical tips, despite its physical heft and potentially limited appeal for advanced specialists.

The Orvis Fly-Tying Guide is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in fly-tying, whether you're a beginner or an experienced enthusiast. The book is authored by Tom Rosenbauer, a highly respected figure in the fly-fishing community, which lends significant credibility and expertise to the content. The guide is well-organized and provides a detailed overview of various fly-tying techniques, making it a practical tool for learners.

One of the standout features of this guide is its rich collection of illustrations and diagrams, which are crucial for understanding the intricate steps involved in fly-tying. These visual aids make it easier to follow along and master different patterns. At 328 pages, the book covers a wide array of topics and techniques, ensuring depth and breadth in content. The book's size and weight (2.35 pounds) might make it less portable for on-the-go reading.

This guide is well-suited for dedicated fly fishers looking to enhance their skills, but those new to the hobby should be prepared for a steep learning curve. Published by Lyons Press in a revised edition in July 2019, the book maintains up-to-date practices and techniques in the fly-tying world.