268 Bass, Pike, and Perch 



both eyes are on the upper side, as the result 

 of a twisting of the bones of the head. The 

 right side, being constantly exposed to the 

 light, becomes darker or colored, while the 

 left side, being deprived of light, becomes pure 

 white. 



It is an excellent food-fish, its flesh being firm, 

 white, and of good flavor ; and as it is easily pro- 

 cured in winter when other fishes are compara- 

 tively scarce, it is a favorite at that season. It 

 rarely grows to more than a foot in length or a 

 pound in weight. As it can be caught in early 

 spring, late fall, and winter, when other fishes are 

 absent or not inclined to bite, the angler with 

 light tackle may obtain considerable sport with 

 this fish, as it will eagerly take almost any kind of 

 natural bait. A bait-rod used for trout or black- 

 bass or a light cane rod can be utilized, with very 

 fine linen line, a three-foot leader, and hooks 

 Nos. 7 or 8, on gut snells ; a reel is not necessary, 

 but is convenient. Using as light a sinker as pos- 

 sible, with clam or sandworm bait, the angler may 

 be assured of success. The fishing may be done 

 from a boat anchored at low tide on muddy or 

 grassy flats, or from wharves or piers favorably 

 located. 



