New fly fishing book a great source of information

Tom Zacoi, a Pittsburgh fly-fishing expert and writer, has released a new book, "Flies, Ties & Lies" just in time for the trout fishing season.

Zacoi has hit the nail on the head with the book that covers everything from fly-fishing equipment and lines, to casting, reading water, understanding fish behavior and habitats, and easy-to-tie fly patterns that will catch more trout.

There are a lot of fly-fishing books available -- and I have read most of them -- but Zacoi's 186-page book is probably the most comprehensive guide to fly fishing I have seen.

Interesting is the fact that the book is equally valuable to novice and seasoned fly anglers.

Always an avid fly fisherman, Zacoi, 53, became more intensely involved in the sport as an instructor in the early 1980s after a career as a professional musician -- including his work as the bass player for the Pittsburgh group, the Vogues.

Zacoi is a merit badge counselor for the Pittsburgh Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and he also conducts fly-fishing seminars for schools, clubs and organizations.

A Federation of Fly Fishers certified casting instructor as well as a Wulff Instructors School graduate, Zacoi passes on his passion to teach people the right way to fly fish in his new book.

Excellent artwork illustrations by Hopewell Township artist Jeff Wynn add to the book's appeal and educational value. Zacoi also provides the readers with interesting and humorous quotes and anecdotes about his fly-fishing trips with friends -- all written in a style that puts you on the waters beside him.

"Flies, Ties & Lies" sells for $17.95 in paperback and $27.95 in hardcover.

Books are available by mail at International Angler, 501 Freeport Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15215; or telephone, 800-782-4222 or 412-782-2222.

The book also can be ordered online by e-mailing angler@sgi.net or over the counter at Borders Books and Music and Dick's Sporting Goods.