The Georgia-born president and humanitarian Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday this year, making him the oldest former President in US History. This year has seen a flood of memories and tributes from his friends and fans worldwide.
But a new book, just released by the Bitter Southerner, explores a lesser-known personal passion of both Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter: fly fishing, an activity that cemented decades of friendships for the Carters and inspired many meaningful adventures. “Jimmy Carter: Rivers and Dreams” collects stories of the Carters fly fishing from the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains to Mongolia, told by co-authors Jim Barger Jr. and Dr. Carlton Hicks.
Jim Barger recently joined “City Lights” Managing Producer Kim Drobes to discuss the book.
“No single activity in his life was more important to him than fly fishing as a personal pursuit,” said Barger, recounting how the activity shaped decades-long friendships for the Carters. Trips like their quest to catch the elusive taimen in Mongolia reflect their adventurous spirit and dedication to preserving aquatic habitats.
The book also underscores Carter’s lifelong commitment to environmental conservation; “Fishing has proven to be one of the greatest tools for protecting aquatic species,” Barger explained, noting how anglers bring attention to ecosystems in need of protection.
