Mike Smylie Livres

An important record of ancient fishing traditions along Britain's coastal fringes, now rapidly dying out

Exploring the craft of flat-bottom boatbuilding, this book delves into the traditional techniques used in the Somerset Levels and Moors, as well as in rivers and coastal waters. It highlights the unique characteristics of these boats, their historical significance, and the skills required for their construction. Through detailed descriptions, it offers insights into the materials, designs, and craftsmanship that define this regional maritime tradition, making it a valuable resource for enthusiasts and builders alike.

The book presents a captivating collection of photographs that document the evolution of the fishing industry along the coastline from North Foreland to the Tweed over the past century. It highlights various changes and developments within this vital sector, showcasing the rich history and transformation of fishing practices in the region.

The definitive volume on Britains traditional fishing boats, by the author of Herring: A History of the Silver Darlings.

The first history of traditional fishing boats of Europe.

The first of six volumes covering the fishing industry of the UK and Ireland. This fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which the fishing industry from the Tweed to the Northern Isles has changed and developed over the last century.

For centuries Britain's commercial fishermen have ventured out into the ravages of the surrounding seas to bring fi sh back both to supply a home market and for export around the world. Today, commercial fishing remains one of the most perilous occupations and still claims the lives of fishermen each year, leaving their families behind.

Britain has a history of a wonderful array of sailing fishing boats, some of which still sail under private ownership. These older vessels developed in their own unique ways which were dependent on local traditions, the type of fishing, their place of operation and, lastly, innovation from fishermen and boatbuilders alike. With motorisation they changed dramatically through the steam era until the advent of the internal combustion engine. In time they became known as the motorised fishing vessel (MFV) and today some of these still work. Today fishing boats still attract all sorts of people to fishing harbours everywhere and many are drawn to the new breed of ubiquitous boats that compete for ever decreasing stocks of fish.

The first history of a well-known and prolific Scottish boatbuilder

Gives a general overview of commercial fisheries, including British landings.