Chapter XVIII -The Compleat Angler

In Chapter XVIII of “The Compleat Angler,” Piscator introduces Venator to some small, yet significant, freshwater fishes that, despite their size, offer great value for their taste and the role they play in the ecosystem. Among these are the Minnow, Loach, Miller’s-Thumb (also known as Bull-Head), and the Sticklebag. These creatures, described with enthusiasm for their unique characteristics and culinary potentials, reflect the anglers’ deep knowledge and appreciation of the natural world.

The Minnow, also known as Penk, is highlighted for its beautiful, panther-like dappled coloration and its spirited nature that makes it an appealing catch for amateur anglers and a delightful ingredient in Minnow-tansies, a dish described with a recipe that includes the fish, egg yolks, cowslip flowers, primroses, and tansy.

The Loach, praised for its delicate taste, thrives in swift, clear brooks, with a diet that keeps it near the gravelly bottom. Small in size, it is especially valued by sick individuals for its supposed health benefits, fished for with the finest of worms.

The Miller’s-Thumb, or Bull-Head, receives a less favorable aesthetic assessment, likened in appearance to the less attractive Sea-toad-fish. Despite its unconventional appearance, it is esteemed for its taste. The fish’s habitat in the clear waters among stones or in holes, alongside their breeding and hibernating habits, are detailed with practical advice on how to catch them, emphasizing their ease of capture even by the novice angler.

Lastly, the Sticklebag is mentioned briefly, noted primarily for its prickly defense mechanism rather than culinary uses, serving chiefly as entertainment for younger or less experienced anglers and as prey for more predatory fish like trout.

Through meticulous descriptions and practical advice, this chapter not only educates on these lesser-known fishes but also celebrates the simplicity and joy of angling, illustrating a deep bond between anglers and the aquatic world they cherish.