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This book was written for the experienced and passionate fly fishing practitioner. It also addresses the longing to fly fish of enthusiasts whose ill health prevents them from doing so. Here are fourteen reasons to fly fish, each detailed in its own brief chapter. Whether one initially got the urge to fly fish simply because it looked fun or wanted to catch a wider variety of fish, this book offers advice about how to fly fish to achieve that goal. For those who may have wondered, line casting and fly-tying competitions do exist. Fly fishing involves taking from nature, but it is not an entirely selfish sport. Members of fly fishing clubs have hosted events to share their love of the pastime with those less fortunate or people with disabilities.
Oldham's passion for fly fishing began when he took up the sport at age thirteen. This heavily pictorial hybrid memoir and how-to showcases the author's keen interest in photography. His brief volume concludes with a piece of original poetry about the joys of fly fishing. It also helpfully includes several blank pages where the reader can record one's own fly fishing experiences. The author presents the pastime as a holistic endeavor, benefitting both the mind and body of those who undertake it, giving a sense of achievement with every successful catch, and providing philanthropy and community outreach opportunities. It also allows for family bonding. Even loved ones not personally keen on the pursuit can enjoy watching their enthusiastic family members in action. Oldham's book is a worthy addition to the canon of books dedicated to the subject.