Seventeenth-century writer and fisherman Izaak Walton (1593–1683) is best known for his gentle masterpiece The Compleat Angler, a meditative book about fishing, friendship, and nature. His words still ripple with peace centuries later.

“God never did make a more calm, quiet, innocent recreation than angling,” he wrote, sounding like someone who listened to rivers and found poetry in silence.

Walton believed in the power of conversation and camaraderie, especially when paired with a walk through the woods or a lazy river. Life, in its simplest pleasures, shines best in good company.

Born in Stafford, England, Walton was a haberdasher by trade and a biographer by calling. He chronicled the lives of his friends with insight and warmth, including John Donne and George Herbert.

“God has two dwellings; one in heaven, and the other in a meek and thankful heart.” he wrote, reflecting his appreciation for nature, emphasis on integrity, and contemplative outlook on life.