QUEST FOR BARBEL. By Tony Miles and Trefor West.

1991 1st edition. 4to (195 x 252mm). Pp190,ad. Colour and b/w photographs, line drawings by Mick Nicholls. Black boards, spine titled in gilt.

Still widely regarded as the best all-round guide to modern barbel fishing techniques. Chapters include: Tackle and baits; Location and swim selection; Swim preparation and prebaiting; Summer fishing techniques; Fishing in winter; A month on the Cherwell; A Royalty dream; Floodwater fishing; A Stour double; The importance of recognising individual fish; Final success on the Wensum; Snags, hazards and other distractions; The phenomenon of the extra barbule; Double top; Barbel river round-up; Hurricane barbel; Conclusion.