This is the fascinating history of the river pioneers who designed, built, and used the early river dories and their successive incarnations. Author Roger Fletcher has collected stories, diaries, and photographs and recovered and recorded the lines and plans of these early boats before they were irretrievably lost. With marine artist Sam Manning's drawings, the book documents the traditional free-form method of drift-boat construction. Whether you are a fly fisherman who appreciates the gentle lapping of water on wood or a boat builder who wants to recreate a piece of history, Drift Boats and River Dories is sure to satisfy.