Even after centuries of observation, anglers are trying to solve the mysteries of that magical instant when a trout takes a fly. Based on scientific research into trout feeding behaviour and the author's photographic studies, this work provides different clues. It reveals the subtleties of insights into the lessons of rejection.

Distills five centuries' worth of angling lore and wisdom about trout feeding behavior. Photographic sequence shows in detail how trout take a fly. Examination of flies includes the importance of wings and what they are made of, hooks, soft-hackled flies, and skipping, dapping, and dry-fly techniques.