Most know Burton Spiller as a grouse hunter, and the foremost writer of grouse hunting stories in the 20th century. Less known, however, is that Spiller was a fisherman as well. Sure, his fishing excursions were undoubtedly fewer than his grouse hunts, and he wrote fewer stories of them, but a quick glance at “Fishin’ Around” reveals that fishing was an important part of Spiller’s life experience, especially since it brought him close to the many qualities of nature that he enjoyed.
“Fishin’ Around” is a book of fishing stories by Burton Spiller published in 1974, shortly after his death in 1973. It is a summation of numerous fishing stories written and compiled by Spiller in his later years. While he may not have been an angler equal to his grouse hunting skills, Spiller certainly enjoyed fishing, which is obvious in the pages of this book.
The foreword of the book is written by renowned outdoor writer H.G. Tapply, and is a moving recollection of Spiller’s accomplishments and his career as a fisherman.
There is no question that “Fishin’ Around” does not totally encompass Burton Spiller’s career as an angler, but it certainly touches on the highlights. The book is separated into three parts, each of which reflects a geographic area in which Spiller experienced fly angling at its finest: Nova Scotia, Maine and Quebec. It’s apparent that some of these excursions were sponsored by government tourism officials, hoping to capitalize on Spiller’s success as a writer to promote fishing in their regions. Still others (particularly the ones based in Maine) represent fishing experiences that are sought by the average Joe throughout the angling season.
Here’s a short recap:
In Nova Scotia, Spiller seeks large brook trout in the province’s Tobeatic Park. With a park game warden as his guide, he has the experience of a lifetime: a mulit-week canoe trip absolutely filled with trout fishing. It proves to be a memorable trip. It also turns out Spiller has a family history that traces back to Nova Scotia. Like in other parts of the book, it’s amazing how much time Spiller spends describing the area’s wildlife and habitat. In some cases he spends more time on it than he does on the fish. The man was a true naturalist.
In Maine, Spiller recalls some of his best fishing experiences close to home. It’s interesting that he weaves his theories on fishing into captivating stories, some of which you may not believe! He talks of Lake Megunticook, the Kennebago River, Rangeley Lakes, Parlin Lake and many other spots Maine natives have fished for years.
Quebec is the setting of the last part of the book. In the wake of devastating forest fires, Spiller and his friend convinced officials in the province to allow them passage to fish some of the area’s most remote waters. While it’s really just another excuse to go fishing, the trip’s other purpose is to document landlocked salmon and lake trout populations for an upcoming fishing book. Spiller and his friend Ernie have a blast catching and measuring numerous trout and salmon throughout the territory. They even get a chance to have some fast fishing for native brook trout. In between stories of fishing, Spiller recalls tales of Indians, superstition and experiences with guides.
Overall, I believe that “Fishin’ Around” is not the most complete book on fishing. It’s also not a source for the best fishing stories out there. If you want classic fishing stories, read Arthur MacDougall’s Dud Dean stories, or Raymond Camp’s “Fireside Book of Fishing”. But if you’re a Burton Spiller fan, or want to read a collection of reflective stories surrounding the sport of fishing, “Fishin’ Around” is a must have. It’s the last legacy Spiller left to his beloved fans, and reading it brought a smile to my face.
“Fishin’ Around” was published in a limited edition of 1,000 copies in 1974. My copy is number 119, and is signed by Jim Rikhoff, then-president of the National Sporting Fraternity Limited. Copies are readily available at a reasonable price.
Andy Wayment of the Upland Equations blog also posted a review of “Fishin’ Around”. Click here to read Andy’s review.
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