Ask any saltwater fisherman on the Atlantic coast which fish he's looking for, and the answer will nearly always be one of the saltwater "big four": stripped bass, weakfish, bluefish and fluke.

Here a seasoned fisherman presents the tackle, techniques, lures, baits and strategies to be successful at catching all the big four, from the surf, in bays, and on ocean-going boats.

Beginning with a practical discussion of the natural history and habits of these species, the book offers in-depth coverage of proven fish-catching methods such as trolling, jigging, and drift-fishing from boats, using artificials and natural baits from shore, and fishing from bridges and piers. A host of highly effective rigs are all described and illustrated in detail, as are useful fishing knots. Chapters on saltwater fly-fishing, cleaning and preparing the catch, and delicious recipes round out this essential guide for any saltwater fisherman.