FISHING-RODS. 199 



all that can be desired, but it needs to be handled with the 

 skill of a master, and by one who loves his rod next to his 

 wife, de facto, or intended. 



Hickory. — This wood was formerly much used, espe- 

 cially in the construction of certain parts of Salmon-rods, 

 but its use has been entirely discontinued, in this country, 

 at least. It is, of course, the toughest of woods, but lacks 

 spring and elasticity, having a tendency to warp and be- 

 come permanently bent, by the continual strain to which 

 a rod is subjected. 



HoRXBEAM has been used to some extent in the manu- 

 facture of rods, and is well spoken of by those who have 

 used it. It is very difficult, however, to procure it straight- 

 grained, which it should be to make it available for fishing- 

 rods. It is quite tough, but pretty heavy, and is in no 

 way equal to lancewood for tips or second joints, for which 

 purposes it has been mostly used, though there have been 

 a few fly-rods constructed entirely of this wood. If per- 

 fectly straight-grained, it no doubt answers a good purpose. 



Mahoe is a foreign wood now coming into vogue for rods, 

 and more especially for fly-rods. It resembles ash some- 

 what in its qualities, being not very heavy, and quite 

 springy and elastic. It is much used in Havana for springs 

 of that queer looking, high-wheeled vehicle, the volanfe. 

 It is much praised by some for producing rods of a su- 

 perior action, but as I have had no personal experience 

 with them, I am unable to say any thing for or against 

 them, 



^NIaple and Basswood are used only in the construc- 

 tion of cheap and common rods, and need no further 

 mention here, exce[)t that curly maple is sometimes used 

 for short and ornamental butts, or hand-pieces. 



