The Fine Art Of Angling, by Diane K. Inman with introduction by Stephen O’Brien Jr, Di-Les Books, PO Box 6757 Incline Village, NV 89450; www.delisbooks.com; 2007, 205 pages, $75, hardbound.

The calming and breathtaking experience of fishing a remote pool on a secluded river is one that sportsmen and anglers live for. But for all but a few, it is a scenario that is played out all too few times in life. Thus, the appreciation amplifies, cherished to a far greater degree and sorely missed when reflecting back from our vocational positions in everyday life.

It is a pleasure that can rarely be quantified by mere words, although artwork from those who have experienced the same elation comes in a close second †and an artful book about that artwork a close third. Such is the case with this effort that, in its own way, pays homage to the sporting artists of the past while emphasizing the exceptional angling art of today.

Masters of the genre such as Chet Reneson, Brett Smith and John Swan are among ten featured artists that fill the pages of this book, along with informative chapters revealing Inman’s insight and a history about each of the painters. O’Brien’s introduction sets the tone for the beautiful edition that features more than 100 color illustrations, many of which will take your breath away.

Until the rod finds its way back into the angler’s hand, this book is as close as it gets to bliss. ⁄SS