Thomas Skelton, a man attempting to escape a chaotic past, finds himself in a lethal confrontation with a seasoned fishing guide in the Florida Keys. Skelton seeks a new identity as a skiff guide, hoping the isolation of the water will provide a clean slate. However, his ambition clashes with the established hierarchy of local guides, specifically the volatile Nichol Dance. The narrative follows Skelton’s attempts to navigate the professional and physical dangers of the Keys, where the environment is as unforgiving as the social landscape. The prose utilizes a sharp, observational tone to detail the tension between the protagonist's idealism and the harsh reality of his chosen profession.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the novel's distinct, rhythmic prose and its ability to capture the specific atmosphere of Key West. Discussion often centers on the intense, almost nihilistic rivalry between Skelton and Dance, which serves as the primary engine for the plot. Many observers note the balance between the technical details of fishing and the deeper, philosophical questions regarding the protagonist's life choices. The work is often cited for its stylistic confidence and its unflinching look at characters operating on the fringes of society. Readers appreciate the way the environment functions as a central character, shaping the actions and motivations of those who inhabit it.