LovelyMay

    Stories 93
    Chapters 1,516
    Words 6.7 M
    Comments 0
    Reading 23 days, 5 hours23 d, 5 h
    • Chapter VIII — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter VIII – The Compleat Angler begins with a lively discussion between Piscator and Venator about the Pike, a fish considered both fearsome and fascinating. This predatory creature is likened to a tyrant ruling the still waters, a stark contrast to the noble and widely admired Salmon. Unlike many other fish, the Pike leads a solitary existence, preferring isolation over company, and exhibits a brutal hunger that knows few limits. It devours not only smaller fish but also those of its own kind,…
    • Chapter IX — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter IX – The Compleat Angler opens with a reflection on the reputation of the carp, long considered among anglers as the most cunning and elusive fish. Their high intelligence and ability to evade even the most skillful baiting efforts have earned them both admiration and frustration. Originally introduced to English waters by Mr. Mascal of Sussex, the carp was once a foreigner but has since flourished in selective regions. This fish, along with other newcomers such as turkeys and hops, marks a time…
    • Chapter X — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter X – The Compleat Angler opens with Piscator exploring the intriguing nature of the bream, a fish noted for its breadth and gentleness, often seen in still ponds where it can grow remarkably fat and large. Its wide body and slow movements make it less challenging to catch, yet its appearance in large numbers brings an added thrill to the angler’s experience. Though not praised for flavor, its role in pond ecosystems and its visual elegance are highlighted. A remarkable anecdote from Gesner…
    • Chapter XI — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XI – The Compleat Angler introduces the Tench, a fish regarded not for its flavor but for its long-standing reputation as a natural healer. Piscator observes that Tench thrive in calm, still waters such as ponds and quiet ditches, rather than fast-flowing rivers. Though some exceptions exist—like certain parts of Dorsetshire where Tench are found in streams—this preference for stillness aligns with their healing symbolism. The fish is described with care: smooth, soft scales, red-ringed…
    • Chapter XII — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XII – The Compleat Angler begins with a vibrant conversation between Piscator and Venator, who shift their attention to the perch, a fish admired for its distinctive behavior and aggressive spirit. Piscator presents the perch as a striking and energetic fish, armed with bristled fins and armored scales, making it not only a lively catch but a creature well-suited to survive in competitive waters. He highlights its predatory instincts, noting that perch will attack smaller fish—including their…
    • Chapter XIII — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XIII – The Compleat Angler begins with Piscator’s thoughtful reflections on the eel, a fish both admired and misunderstood. With genuine curiosity, he recounts the many theories about how eels reproduce, a mystery that has puzzled naturalists for generations. Some have claimed that eels are born from mud, others from dew, while more grounded observers like Rondeletius propose subtle anatomical evidence suggesting they breed in ways not yet fully grasped. This blend of folklore and evolving…
    • Chapter XIV — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XIV – The Compleat Angler opens with an exchange that gently shifts from instruction to fellowship, set against a peaceful riverside scene. Piscator, seasoned and thoughtful, introduces the barbel—an often-overlooked but strong and enduring fish. Its name comes from the small whisker-like barbels under its mouth, a unique trait among river fish. Though prized for the fight it offers, the barbel is not favored for the table. Its flesh can be bland, and its spawn is said to be dangerous,…
    • Chapter XV — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XV – The Compleat Angler opens with a focus on simpler quarry, perfect for novice anglers who seek enjoyment without elaborate skills. Piscator begins by describing the gudgeon, a modest fish praised not just for its flavor but also its healthful qualities. Its silver skin and spotted sides make it easy to recognize, and it favors swift, shallow streams where the current keeps the gravel clean. These fish do not chase flies like trout but feed from the bottom, nibbling on red worms that drift…
    • Chapter XVI — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XVI – The Compleat Angler invites readers into an intimate gathering where the line between nature and friendship gently fades. After a day spent by rivers and streams, Piscator, Venator, Peter, and Coridon return not merely with fish but with renewed spirits. Their meeting at the doorway of a humble lodging signals a pause—not of effort, but of the body yearning for food, drink, and companionship. Though Piscator initially aims to teach more about angling techniques for roach and dace, the…
    • Chapter XVII — The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter XVII – The Compleat Angler brings attention to an overlooked but deeply effective method of freshwater angling using natural baits, particularly different types of cadis-worms. These aquatic larvae, especially favored by Trout and Grayling, offer anglers a more dynamic and productive approach than the traditional fly. By alternating the bait’s position—sometimes near the riverbed and other times near the surface—the fisherman can mimic the natural movements of prey, triggering eager bites.…
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