FOREST, LAKE, AND RIVER 



ments and habits of salmon vary, and the points of 

 view must accord with conditions existing on the 

 rivers fished. Success on the water mentioned, de- 

 pends largely upon the knowledge of the ground 

 and currents, and also of the characteristics, in- 

 stincts, and movements of the fish coming fresh 

 from the sea. 



The equipment required will not be described, 

 as that is a question for experts to discuss. With 

 them opinions vary, as the size and resistance of 

 salmon are by no means the same in all waters. 

 Veteran sportsmen have individual preferences 

 and conceits as to the length, weight, material, 

 and construction of the rod ; the make of reel ; 

 the dressing of an artificial fly ; the length and 

 texture of line ; the kind of leader, and the shape 

 and size of gaff. The novice will be safe, 

 however, in purchasing an outfit recommended 

 by any responsible dealer. Presuming then that 

 such a one, before reaching the St. Croix to 

 essay his first salmon, has acquired, by brief prac- 

 tice on snow, lawn, or water, sufficient skill in 

 casting with a two-handed rod, let him try his 

 luck in some pool, after he has been coached 

 on a few points that have met with acceptance 

 from the many rodsmen who have killed salmon 

 successfully. 



48 



