The Founding Fish

In The Founding Fish, John McPhee shares his deep passion for the American shad, a fish that migrates upstream in the spring to spawn. Through his engaging narrative, McPhee intertwines natural and American history, highlighting the shad's connections to notable figures like Washington and Jefferson. He immerses himself in the world of shad fishing, collaborating with ichthyologists and mastering the art of crafting shad darts, all while exploring various culinary delights featuring this revered fish. The result is a lively and expert account of both the fish and the unique experiences surrounding its annual run.