"A handy guide to the freshwater fishes of California designed for amateur naturalists and anglers. Alcorn's illustrations are excellent."—Peter Moyle, author of Inland Fishes of California "Freshwater Fishes of California contributes to the better understanding of the past and present history and biology of native and non-native freshwater fishes of California. It also provides practical information on how to sample, care for and/or utilize these fishes. Moreover, it reads like a good novel that piques your interest on fish natural history and identification. It should be of value to anglers, environmentalists concerned with protection of our aquatic habitats and resource, natural history buffs, and governmental biologists and administrators."—Theodore W. Wooster, Environmental Specialist, retired, California Department of Fish and Game

This popular book is the only field guide to all of California's 130 freshwater fish species, both native and introduced. Revised and updated throughout, the guide now features the only complete collection of color illustrations of California freshwater fishes available anywhere. These color illustrations, coupled with a set of highly detailed black-and-white drawings, provide a quick and easy method for identifying fish in the field. Detailed natural history accounts for each species give a wealth of information, including the current endangered or threatened status of many native species. Includes angling tips for each sport fish species, Features an expanded section on cooking freshwater fish, Gives helpful hints on fish watching, fish photography, fish collecting, establishing a wild fish aquarium, and the technique of fish printing. Book jacket.

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The answers to these questions and many others, can be found in A Guide to California's Freshwater Fishes by Bob Madgic. This book offers students, anglers, and all others interested in the natural world comprehensive and detailed information on the fish species inhabiting the Golden State's rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. Color illustrations of each fish species by artist William L. Crary accompany the text. Other illustrations include color photos of significant fish habitat throughout the state, and important maps and diagrams.This guidebook presents ways that fish can be grouped for identification and study purposes, a rationale on the ecological importance of native fish species and an identification of habitat conditions necessary for maintaining healthy fisheries. It contains a brief history of California fishes, beginning with the once abundant coldwater fishery native to the state, to the many introduced species brought to California. The impact of dams, reservoirs, and hatcheries is discussed, as well as the significance of governmental legislation such as the Federal Endangered Species Act. Information of recent activities and reports of fish biologists and governmental agencies can be found throughout this book. By way of summary, the author presents a stewardship agenda for preserving California's rich fish heritage.Bob Madgic received a BA from Amherst College, and MA and PhD degrees from Stanford University. After a career in education, he is now devoting his time to conservation issues and writing about his lifelong passions -- fishing and the outdoors. His first book, Pursuing Wild Trout, was published in 1998 (River Bend Books), and his articles appearregularly in California Fly Fisher as well as other magazines. This most resent book, . A Guide to California's Freshwater Fishes, represents his ongoing commitment to informing the public on issues relating to native creatures, environmental preservation, and the world of nature.