Artist and Angler Peter Gough
The 2020 fishing season is postponed. It is one of a long, long list of pastimes that are on hold as we stay home to keep each other safe. It seems a small sacrifice, but it doesn’t mean the die-hard anglers aren’t feeling the loss keenly. Canada has a very long winter.
Canadian artist Peter Gough is a lifelong fly fisherman, born into the sport. His father, Cecil, was an avid angler and guide. Gough senior is featured prominently in the photographs of Wallace R. MacAskill, one of Nova Scotia's best-known photographers. The photographs were used in the 1920’s and 30’s to promote tourism in Nova Scotia and can be found in the Nova Scotia archives. Peter shared some of his favourites with me.
"My father on the right having lunch with his fishing buddy George Clark senior."
My father is in one of the canoes going down the Tusket River.
"My father with a salmon on. Mersey River, 1928. He was 31 years old. Photographed by W.R. MacAskill"
Comments on this post (2)
So honoured to also have been Peter’s first cousin, and bro of Doug. He was truly a magician on canvas and I was constantly amazed at the beauty he created. We talked for hours re our family history, Cecil and Austen and our love of the military and British heritage.
Peter was unique, a treasure, a fine Dad & artist and a true Nova Scotian & Canadian. Miss him dearly and I’m sure he has already painted Alfred and the family many times.
DCG
— David Gough
I’m a first cousin to Peter. Many fond memories of Cecil, one of my father’s older brothers. Been to Peter’s home in Liverpool – it truly is a museum! I have one of Peter’s art pieces on my wall – look at it every day – couldn’t be more proud and honoured.
— Doug Gough