"Funny, wistful, and wonderful." --Carl Hiaasen "You will love this book." --Michael Keaton "The writing is breathtaking...a masterpiece." --Wright Thompson "The most compelling non-fiction book I've read in years." --Randy Wayne White From the bestselling author of Saban, 4th and Goal, and Sowbelly comes the thrilling, untold story of the quest for the world record tarpon on a fly rod—a tale that reveals as much about Man as it does about the fish.In the late 1970s and early 1980s, something unique happened in the quiet little town on the west coast of Florida known as Homosassa. The best fly anglers in the world—Lefty Kreh, Stu Apte, Ted Williams, Tom Evans, Billy Pate, and others—all gathered together to chase the same Holy Grail: The world record for the world's most glamorous and sought-after fly rod species, the tarpon.The anglers would meet each morning for breakfast. They would compete out on the water during the day, eat dinner together at night, socialize, and party. Some harder than others. The world record fell nearly every year. But records weren't the only things that were broken. Hooks, lines, rods, reels, hearts, and marriages didn't survive, either. The egos involved made the atmosphere electric. The difficulty of the quest made it legitimate. The drugs and romantic entanglements that were swept in with the tide would finally make it all veer out of control.It was a confluence of people and place that had never happened before in the world of fishing and will never happen again. It was a collision of the top anglers and the top species of fish which would lead to smashed lives for nearly all involved, man and fish alike.In Lords of the Fly, Burke, an obsessed tarpon fly angler himself, delves into this incredible moment. He examines the growing popularity of the tarpon, an amazing fish has been around for 50 million years, can live to 80 years old and can grow to 300 pounds in weight. It is a massive, leaping, bullet train of a fish. When hooked in shallow water, it produces "immediate unreality," as the late poet and tarpon obsessive, Richard Brautigan, once described it.Burke also chronicles the heartbreaking destruction that exists as a result—brought on by greed, environmental degradation, and the shenanigans of a notorious Miami gangster—and how all of it has shaped our contemporary fishery.Filled with larger-than-life characters and vivid prose, Lords of the Fly is not only a must read for anglers of all stripes, but also for those interested in the desperate yearning of the human condition.
✔ Author(s): Monte Burke
✔ Title: Lords of the Fly: Madness, Obsession, and the Hunt for the World Record Tarpon
✔ Rating : 4.8 out of 5 base on (715 reviews)
✔ ISBN-10: 1643138553
✔ Language: English
✔ Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
✔ Device compatibles: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
Readers' opinions about Lords of the Fly by Monte Burke
Jazlynn Daniels
Experience the inspiring journey of an individual overcoming incredible odds in this powerful memoir. The author's candid and heartfelt writing brings their story to life. Each chapter reveals the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The narrative is both informative and deeply moving, offering valuable life lessons. It's a story that motivates and inspires, making it a must-read. Perfect for those seeking inspiration and personal growth.
Molly Adams
Embark on a journey through time with a historical novel that spans generations. The author's meticulous research and engaging prose create a vivid and immersive experience. Each character's story is intricately woven into the fabric of history. The narrative explores themes of legacy, identity, and change with depth and insight. It's a captivating blend of personal and historical drama. Perfect for fans of multi-generational sagas.
Perri Jarvis
Follow the heartwarming journey of a group of friends navigating life's challenges together. The author's empathetic writing and well-developed characters create a deeply emotional experience. Each chapter explores themes of friendship, love, and resilience with sensitivity. The plot's twists and turns keep you engaged throughout. It's a story that celebrates the bonds that connect us. Perfect for readers who enjoy stories about friendship and community.
