Discovering North America’s Aquatic Treasures: The 1936 Big Game Fish Map
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Step back in time to 1936 and dive into a fascinating piece of cartographic history – the Big Game Fish Map of North America created by Joe Godfrey Jr. This isn’t your typical map of North America; it’s a vibrant celebration of the continent’s diverse aquatic life, featuring an impressive 56 species of fish.
Picture this: across the map, illustrations of anglers dot the landscape, proudly displaying their prized catches in various U.S. states. It’s a snapshot of a bygone era, though modern eyes might notice the absence of women among the fishers depicted.
But there’s more to this map than just fish and fishermen. Godfrey’s creation is a treasure trove of information for fishing enthusiasts. It includes records for different fish species, giving you a glimpse into the impressive catches of the time.
The map doesn’t limit itself to the continental United States either. In the lower-left corner, you’ll find four circular inset maps showcasing Panama, the Hawaiian Islands, New Zealand, and Tahiti. Each of these mini-maps comes complete with a list of fish species you might encounter in those exotic locales.
For those planning their next big fishing adventure, the map offers three invaluable text blocks:
- “Famous Fishing Tournaments” – perfect for competitive anglers
- “Famous Big Game Fishing Clubs” – ideal for networking with fellow fishing enthusiasts
- “Twenty-two World-famous Places to Go Fishing” – a bucket list for any serious angler
This 1936 Big Game Fish Map is more than just a map of North America – it’s a window into the rich fishing culture of the early 20th century. Whether you’re an avid angler, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates unique cartography, this map offers a captivating look at North America’s aquatic wonders.
Interested in exploring more maps of North America? Check out these modern options available on Amazon:
- North America Wall Map
- North America Wall Map GeoPolitical Edition by Swiftmaps
- CoolOwlMaps North America Continent Wall Map Poster
These contemporary maps offer a fascinating contrast to the 1936 Big Game Fish Map, showing how cartography and our understanding of North America have evolved over the decades.
