Trout Fishing in America by Richard Brautigan isn't really about fishing. Richard Brautigan was a "counterculture" writer that was very popular with young people back in the 60's and 70's. A bit like Samuel Clemens after a few bong hits. Long ago, in high school, and even while in the service. I enjoyed writers like him and Herman Hesse.
I guess the joke is on me and I should be embarrassed! I remember reading "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" perhaps 30 years. I would like to continue this dialogue, but "Stop! I must have drugs!"