Even if WC weren’t a serious fly fisherman, he’d still be a fan of Ray Troll. It’s not just the horrible puns (“The Fin Art of Ray Troll,” “Kvetch and Release”) or his ability to turn a platitude on its head (“If you must smoke, smoke salmon”). The man is also a fine artist, with a distinct style that manages to accurately illustrate a Ling Cod wearing over-the-top jewelry (“Bling Cod”).
Consider this gem:
Cardsharks © Ray Troll
Not only are the sharks accurately drawn, anatomically correct, with several species shown; he’s managed to draw a pretty decent card game, too. And make one of his lamentable puns.
WC isn’t the only one who thinks Troll’s illustrations are excellent. His work hangs in an amazing number of scientific institutions, and he has had art shows in most of the national venues.
Troll has a new book out, Something Fishy This Way Comes, the Artwork of Ray Troll. It’s mostly the fish-focused drawings, but it is excellent, and kudos to Sasquatch Books for a high-quality job.
Work like Troll’s needs to be rewarded. Visit his terrific website and groan over his terrible word play. Buy one of his terrific t-shirts. Purchase one of his books. And if you are ever in Ketchikan, stop by the Soho Coho Gallery and see the Man himself. To quote a better reviewer, “Ray brings a street-smart sensibility to the worlds of ichthyology & paleontology.” And a lot of fun.
Ray Troll is on the short list of Alaska’s State Treasures. If you haven’t sampled his work, start the New Year right with a visit.
Wickersham's Conscience 
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