This work investigates the pursuit of world-record game fish within the pristine, untamed waters of New Zealand during the early 20th century. Zane Grey, a prolific novelist turned dedicated sportsman, utilizes his personal logs and observational journals to document the technical challenges and environmental splendor of deep-sea and river angling. The text serves as both a technical manual for the serious angler and a travelogue detailing the geographical and ecological state of the region during his expedition.

This text is regarded as a foundational piece of angling literature that captures the transition of sport fishing from a localized hobby to an international pursuit. The writing style reflects the author's romanticized view of the wilderness, providing a dense, descriptive account that remains a staple for enthusiasts of historical outdoor literature.