Best Biology of Fishes & Sharks Books of 2025

Why Fish Don't Exist is a unique memoir by Lulu Miller that explores the life of David Starr Jordan, a taxonomist who discovered almost a fifth of the fish known to humans in his time. Miller uses Jordan's story to reflect on her own struggles and the chaos of the world. The book is a fascinating blend of biography, memoir, and scientific adventure that will leave readers pondering about history, morality, and the natural world. Miller's writing style is engaging and beautiful, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in science, nature, and the human condition.

Ocean Anatomy by Julia Rothman is a beautifully illustrated compendium of curiosities that explores the wonders of the sea. The book takes the reader on an artistic journey across the open ocean, along shorelines, and below the waves, examining the formation of the world’s oceans, the salty sea, and oceanic phenomena. Rothman’s colorful anatomical profiles of sea creatures, surveys of seafaring vessels and lighthouses, and discussions on the impact of plastic and warming water temperatures make this book a fascinating read for all ages. The book is a must-have for anyone who loves art, science, and the ocean.

All the Time in the World is a delightful addition to John Gierach's fly-fishing library. In this book, he reflects on the joys and frustrations of fly-fishing, taking readers on a journey from his home waters in Colorado to fishing destinations across North America. With his trademark wit and humor, Gierach reminds us of the importance of the natural world around us. Any fan of fly-fishing will appreciate this shrewd, perceptive, and inviting work. Overall, this book is a must-read for those who love the sport and appreciate great writing.

The "I Spy Ocean Animals" book is a fantastic picture puzzle book for kids aged 2-5 that offers hours of fun entertainment. With over 100 colorful images of ocean animals, the book teaches the ABCs with letters arranged in alphabetical order to help children recognize letters and relate them to an ocean animal they know. The book includes 20 puzzles from A to Z, making it an excellent gift idea for toddlers, pre-Ks, and preschoolers. The full-color interior and glossy cover make the book even more attractive. Overall, this book is an excellent choice for parents looking to engage their children in a fun and educational activity.

The Life & Love of the Sea is a stunning photography book that showcases the ocean's beauty and diversity. From dramatic coastlines to barrier reefs and island chains, readers will be taken on a visual journey through the depths of the sea. The book features amazing images of various marine creatures, from whales and manta rays to seals and schools of fish. The bonus footage available through a QR code adds to the experience, making it even more engaging. Overall, this book is a must-read for landscape photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the wonders of the ocean.

Aquascaping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Planting, Styling, and Maintaining Beautiful Aquariums is an excellent resource for anyone looking to create and maintain their own underwater ecosystem. The author, George Farmer, is an internationally renowned aquascaper and co-founder of the UK Aquatic Plant Society. The book includes step-by-step instructions on setting up your tank, different styling suggestions, and how to pick plants, rocks, driftwood, substrate, and aquatic life. Additionally, it covers the chemistry and biology involved in keeping a healthy aquarium, maintenance, and upkeep. The full-color photographs make it easy to follow along. Overall, this book is a valuable tool for novice aquarists and seasoned aquascapers alike.

The Reef Fish Identification - Florida Caribbean Bahamas - 4th Edition (Reef Set) is a comprehensive guide for fish watchers, featuring stunning photographs of 683 species of marine life. It provides the latest information on taxonomy and distribution of Caribbean reef fishes, making it easy to identify hundreds of fishes found in the reefs, sand flats, grass beds, surf zones, and walls of Florida, the Caribbean, and Bahamas. The book's quick reference format makes it a go-to guide for fish enthusiasts. Overall, the book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in marine life, and its unique features make it a must-have for fish watchers and researchers alike.

The Little Red Book of Fly Fishing is a comprehensive guidebook, written by Kirk Deeter and Charlie Meyers, that offers expert advice on all aspects of fly fishing. From casting techniques to selecting the right fly, this book provides a simple and digestible primer on the basic elements of fly fishing. With 240 tips, this book is insightful, plainly spoken, and entertaining, making it suitable for both novices and experts alike. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to hone their skills in fly fishing.

The Orvis Guide to Beginning Fly Fishing by Tom Rosenbauer, with the support of The Orvis Company, is a comprehensive guide for those who want to learn the fundamentals of fly fishing. This book provides step-by-step instructions, illustrations, and photographs to help new fly fishers select the right tackle, cast a line with accuracy, choose the correct fly, tie fishing knots, and much more. It also contains helpful safety advice and basic angling terms. The book is a perfect guide for anyone who wants to start catching trout, bass, and other fish today. Overall, The Orvis Guide to Beginning Fly Fishing is a must-read for beginners who want to learn fly-fishing techniques and gain skill and finesse in this sport.

Basic Fishing: A Beginner's Guide is an excellent resource for those who want to learn how to fish. Written by expert angler Wade Bourne, the book provides step-by-step guidance on different types of fishing equipment, selecting bait and tackle, identifying good fishing spots, and more. The book also covers fishing safety and cooking and cleaning fish. With diagrams, vivid photographs, and lessons, this book is perfect for families who want to bond in the great outdoors. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone who wants to learn the art of fishing and pass it down to future generations.