The points of issue
First edition, London, 1653, small octavo; imprint 'Printed by T. Maxey for Rich. Marriot' (Maxey of Paul's Wharf). Engraved title within a piscatorial cartouche; small copperplate engravings of fish within the text; two engraved pages of Henry Lawes music. Reported counts of the in-text fish engravings vary across sources (commonly given as around six, occasionally more), so confirm against the specific copy.
Is this the true first?
True first (1653) is among the most coveted English-language books. The text was substantially revised and expanded through five lifetime editions, notably the fifth (1676), which added Charles Cotton's second part. All later editions are textually distinct from the 1653.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Centuries of reprints, facsimiles, and illustrated gift editions exist; only the 1653 Marriot imprint is the true first. Any added Cotton 'Part II' marks a 1676-or-later text.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Compleat Angler, or the Contemplative Man's Recreation a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, London, 1653, small octavo; imprint 'Printed by T. Maxey for Rich. Marriot' (Maxey of Paul's Wharf). Engraved title within a piscatorial cartouche; small copperplate engravings of fish within the text; two engraved pages of Henry Lawes music. Reported counts of the in-text fish engravings vary across sources (commonly given as around six, occasionally more), so confirm against the specific copy.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. True first (1653) is among the most coveted English-language books. The text was substantially revised and expanded through five lifetime editions, notably the fifth (1676), which added Charles Cotton's second part. All later editions are textually distinct from the 1653.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Centuries of reprints, facsimiles, and illustrated gift editions exist; only the 1653 Marriot imprint is the true first. Any added Cotton 'Part II' marks a 1676-or-later text.
I have a first edition of The Compleat Angler, or the Contemplative Man's Recreation — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.