The Dawn Patrol Diaries

“An immersive firsthand account of the enigma that is angling in South Korea, rich with insights into the country’s complicated history, fascinating culture, and resilient nature.”—Stephen Sautner, author of Fish On, Fish Off

“In this book James Card puts his passion, curiosity, and tenacity as an explorer (and fishing fanatic) on full display. It is equal parts natural and cultural history, fly-fishing diary, and homage to his adopted home. Card writes with depth, wit, and deep reverence, and anyone who reads this book will be inspired to visit this paradoxical land of dense humanity and rugged nature, probably packing a fishing rod when they do.”—Steve Hemkens, vice president of global brand strategy for Orvis

“James Card has written a marvelous book, a classic travel-adventure tale that takes readers on a fascinating journey into the rugged mountains of South Korea in search of exotic fish. He finds his fish, but even more, the expatriate Card discovers a rapidly modernizing country whose people and steadily shrinking natural landscapes he learns to love. With his lean, powerful prose, his keen appreciation of nature, and his embrace of risk in the wild, Card is reminiscent of a young Hemingway. Both armchair travelers and lovers of the outdoors will find much to treasure in The Dawn Patrol Diaries.”—Fen Montaigne, author of Reeling in Russia

“James Card may not be the first young American to fall in love with Korea and its people while teaching English there—but he’s certainly unique in turning the experience into a years-long fishing adventure. From spearfishing saltwater fish on Korea’s southern islands to fly-fishing the streams on the edge of the demilitarized zone, Card’s angling memoir brings to life the history, culture, and landscapes of Korea. This is a fishing story like none other.”—Jason Mark, author of Satellites in the High Country and editor in chief of Sierra