The more than 1,000 species descriptions in this guide include information on range and habitat such as depths, bottom types, water temperatures, and salinity. The almost 1,100 illustrations use the Peterson Identification System for quick, accurate field identification.

“These attractive, pocket-sized guides for fish watchers have been carefully written by Goodson and profusely illustrated in striking water colors by Phillip Weisgerber. Although designed for divers, fishers, aquarists and other nonprofessionals, these little books will undoubtedly find their way on to the shelves of many ichthyologists who will value them as quick references and for providing life-like, color renditions of many fish species found in American coastal waters.”—Copeia “Goodson’s guidebook is designed for the fishwatcher—whether skin or scuba diver, fisherman, aquarist, schoolchild or casual tourist exploring the shore—who seeks to know more about our marine life.”—Palos Verdes Peninsula News

"These laminated, fold-up identification guides-- FoldingGuides¿-- speak for themselves. Written and illustrated by local experts who know their stuff, waterproof and indestructible, they¿re the perfect choice for beginners and intermediates who want to know what they¿ll encounter in their particular locale. This guide includes 61 marine fish species, both common and exotic, found on the Southeast Atlantic Coast from Jacksonville, Florida up to Cape Hatteras. Includes Groupers, Snappers, Jacks, Drums, Porgies, Grunts, as well as Rays and Sharks. Typical size, both length and weight, as well as edibility index are included for each fish. Species selection and text by Dr. Robert Shipp, head of the Marine Science Dept. of the University of S. Alabama. Illustrations by Diane Rome Peebes, noted illustrator and naturalist."

This guidebook, with its brief, informative text and 408 color illustrations, is designed for the fishwatcher, that inquisitive person—whether swimmer, tidepool watcher, skin or scuba diver, or fisherman—who wants to know something about the beautiful and abundant marine life from Labrador to Trinidad. The 378 fish species that are described in words and pictures have been chosen as those most commonly sighted by divers or shoreline visitors, taken by fishermen or collectors, or found in the marketplace. Two maps assist the reader in locating the range of particular fishes, and there is a section on diving timps for beginners.