"Game Birds and Game Fishes of the Pacific Coast" by Harry Thom Payne is a guide for hunters and anglers interested in the Pacific Coast's wildlife. Here's a breakdown of what the book likely covers:
Target Audience: Sportsmen, hunters, and anglers who fish and hunt along the Pacific Coast of North America.
Content:
- Focus on Species: The book likely focuses on popular game birds and game fish species found along the Pacific Coast. This could include:
- Game Birds: Ducks, geese, quail, pheasants, grouse, and possibly wild turkeys depending on the publication date.
- Game Fishes: Salmon, trout, bass, tuna, halibut, and other commercially or recreationally important fish species.
- Detailed Information: Payne likely provides detailed information on each species, including:
- Identification Tips: Descriptions of physical characteristics, plumage/scale patterns, and other features to aid in identification.
- Habitat Preferences: Where these birds and fish typically live and can be found.
- Behavior and Habits: Understanding their behavior patterns for successful hunting and fishing.
- Fishing/Hunting Techniques: Recommendations on appropriate methods and gear for catching specific fish or hunting specific birds. This might include discussions on lures, baits, firearms, and hunting strategies.
Additional Points:
- Historical Context: The book's publication date is unknown. However, depending on the era, it might reflect hunting and fishing regulations, equipment, and practices of that time. Modern regulations and practices might differ.
- Potential for Outdated Information: Since conservation practices and wildlife populations can change, some information on specific species or regulations might be outdated.
- Public Domain: Being freely available online through Project Gutenberg suggests it might be an older publication.
Overall, "Game Birds and Game Fishes of the Pacific Coast" serves as a historical resource for understanding past practices and perspectives on hunting and fishing along the Pacific Coast. However, for current information on regulations, techniques, and specific species populations, consulting modern fishing and hunting guides or official wildlife management websites is recommended.