Realtree.com Editor Will Brantley will release his new book, Skinning Catfish in Mary's Kitchen: Tales of Hunting, Fishing, Trapping, and Life in the Woods, on May 5. The book is being published by Lyons Press, in partnership with Field & Stream, where Brantley has also worked as a columnist and hunting editor since 2015. The cover was illustrated by renowned wildlife artist Ryan Kirby. Many of the stories in the book were originally published in Field & Stream, although a number of others, including "20 Summers of Blood Sport," "BB Gun Safaris," and "The Bird Hunter's Club," were originally published on Realtree.com. There are a number of new, never-before-seen stories in the collection as well.
Brantley's stories are full of good-old-days nostalgia, Southern charm, and backwoods antics. Most of them take place in his native western Kentucky, where he and his wife, Michelle, and their son, Anse, chase big bucks and bass, noodle for catfish, and run trap lines for varmints. Their adventures, as well as those shared with friends and family members, both at home and in exotic places around the world, are narrated in gritty detail throughout the book.
Stephanie Mallory, who has worked with Brantley since he joined Realtree 15 years ago, said his talent was obvious from the start. "I could tell from the first day we met that Brantley was a captivating storyteller with a wit as sharp as his Kentucky twang," Mallory said.
Mallory added that Brantley has a rare ability to turn ordinary outdoor moments into unforgettable stories. "Will is the kind of writer who can turn a muddy pair of boots and a hung-up gobbler into a story you want to read twice and even tell your friends about later." She also said the new book will resonate with readers who appreciate genuine hunting and fishing storytelling. "For those of us who love hunting and fishing stories and who appreciate a bit of rural authenticity, Skinning Catfish in Mary's Kitchen is a must-read," Mallory said.
Brantley's stories range from laugh-out-loud misadventures to deeply personal reflections, all told in a voice that blends Southern charm, backwoods humor, and a deep appreciation for life outdoors.
"Over the years, I've gotten to hear several of these stories straight from Will's mouth, including the time he accidentally splashed his future wife in the face with deer urine (before they even went on their first date), and the time that he shot his neighbor's pet pheasant, believing it was a wild bird," Mallory said. She added, "Some of the stories made me cringe, and some made me cackle, but each of them made me appreciate that there are storytellers like Will who can draw you into their adventures and leave you wishing for an invitation to the next one."
Skinning Catfish in Mary's Kitchen will be available in bookstores beginning May 5. Readers can pre-order the book now on Amazon or email Brantley at books@brantleyoutdoors.com to be added to the list for a signed copy.
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