Describes the different species of leeches, their physical characteristics, behavior, and life cycle.

Every kid who ever started fishing probably tried to catch a panfish with a worm. That setup has been the tried-and-true method for generations. There are other kinds of live bait that work just as well; maybe even better in some conditions and for certain fish. In addition to the chapter on Worms & Leeches, this book covers Baitfish, Insects, Salamanders & Frogs, Crustaceans and Other Natural Baits (such as salmon eggs and clams). Complete information on how to catch and keep these baits is followed by sections on how to actually use each live bait type. New on the freshwater-fishing scene in recent years is the use of dough baits and scents. Which one to choose, plus how and when to use each is fully explained. Equipment is discussed in detail: hooks, bobbers, sinkers, rods, and reels. The authors suggest many tips for using different kinds of equipment in various fishing locations and situations. The final chapter matches common freshwater fish species with the best kind of live bait to use, depending on where the fish are and what time of year it is.

Leeches (Hirudinea): Their Structure, Physiology, Ecology and Embryology presents a concise account of the vast knowledge, particularly in the realm of physiology of the Hirudinea. The text provides the various aspects of the life of leeches (Hirudenea). The first three chapters are devoted to the survey of the different families of leeches and the description of Hirudo medicinalis (Medicinal leech). The physiological aspects of leeches such as its circulatory and respiratory systems, muscles, nerves, sense organs, and reproductive processes are elaborated in detail in subsequent chapters. Leech nutrition, behavior, locomotion, and the ways in which the distribution and abundance of leeches is affected by factors of the environment, both living and non-living are elucidated as well. Zoologists will find the book very useful and informative.

Many different kinds of animals have adopted a parasitic life style on the skin and gills of marine and freshwater fishes, including protozoans, flatworms, leeches, a range of crustaceans and even some vertebrates (lampreys). There is a parasitic barnacle, described first in the 19th century by Charles Darwin, fish lice that change sex and bivalve molluscs parasitic only when young. This book explores for the first time in one volume, the remarkable biology of these little known and frequently bizarre animals. The following closely interwoven themes are considered for each group of parasites: how they find their hosts, how they attach, feed and reproduce, the damage they inflict and how the host’s immune system retaliates. Based on the British fauna, but extending where appropriate to examples from North America, Australia and elsewhere, the book is essential reading, not just for the professional parasitologist, but also for anyone interested in fishes and in this neglected field of British natural history. With the enquiring naturalist in mind, terms and concepts are explained as they arise, backed up by a glossary, and the text is liberally illustrated. An introductory chapter on fish biology sets the scene and common fish names are used throughout, as well as scientific names.

Young readers will be fascinating as they learn how leeches suck the blood of other animals for nourishment. This engrossing book explores the habitats, hunting patterns, life cycles, and varieties of leeches.

Describes in detail how to catch every kind of freshwater fish in almost any situation.