Tight Lines and Tall Tales: Stories of Southern Appalachian Fly Fishing - Softcover

Neil Norman

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1469693321 ISBN 13: 9781469693323

Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press, 2026

Synopsis

Southern Appalachia has its own vibrant and dynamic fishing culture, distinct from other regions of the United States—one that combines the contemplative nature of fly fishing with a focus on Southern Appalachian ecology, folklore, and storytelling. For the first time, Neil Norman uncovers the hidden history of Southern Appalachian fly fishing that stretches back generations. Drawing on archival research, his own memories of fishing, and personally collected oral histories, Norman offers a fascinating history of the sport, beginning with Mark Cathey, a renowned North Carolinian angler active in the early twentieth century, and ending in the present day in the age of Trout Unlimited.

In recounting the history of Southern Appalachian fly fishing, Norman tells the story of the land itself—its streams, rivers, mountains, and valleys—while also challenging the idea that Southern Appalachia is an insular backwater or simply a tourist destination. He shows us that, as with any angling tradition, understanding where we are is key to understanding who we are.

About this title

About the Author

Neil Norman is an angler, writer, and teacher based in Tennessee. Ian Rutter is an artist and professional fly fishing guide.

Edition details

• Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1469693321
• ISBN 13: 9781469693323
• Binding: Paperback
• Illustrator: Ian Rutter
• Number of pages: 232