First published in 1977 and unavailable for several years, Indian
Fishing is more than a sterile account of the technology of fishing; it
considers the momentous role of fish and fishing in the lives of the
Northwest Coast peoples. A classic, thoroughly researched and
informative text, it examines fishing techniques of the peoples who have
lived on the coast for over nine thousand years, revealing their rich
and complex culture.
Hilary Stewart gathered material from museum archives, fish camps, and
coastal village elders to document the Native heritage of handmade
hooks, lines, sinkers, lures, floats, clubs, spears, harpoons, nets,
traps, rakes, gaffs, and more. With more than 300 clear and detailed
drawings, she illustrated how these tools were made and used. She
twisted cedar bark and nettle fibers into cod fishing lines, and
steam-bent a stem of yew into a halibut hook. Here, reprinted in full,
is her original work, covering everything from how the catch was
butchered, cooked, and preserved, to the prayers and ceremonies in
gratitude to the fish, as well as customs and taboos that demonstrated
the peoples' respect for this life-giving resource. Though there have
been transformations in knowledge and scholarship since its first
publication, Stewart's benchmark work, with its usefulness, artistry,
and appreciation of Native culture, will be welcomed back into print.
