Tom Stienstra exemplifies the meaning of "comprehensive" with his complete guide to more than 400 lakes, rivers, and marinas in California. From Crescent City in the northwest to Yuma in the southeast, Stienstra is there with the skinny on directions, fees, what the boat ramp situation is, who to contact, and whether its charms include swimming, fishing, canoeing, pristine solitude, houseboat heaven, or rambunctious crowd-watching fun. Chapters on California boating law and required equipment are excellent, and the author"s chapter of favorites is a timesaving addition.