184 BOOK OF THE BLACK BASS. 



It has, generally, been conceded that fish can hear 

 sounds or vibrations produced on, or in, the water, but 

 that they can hear sounds produced in the air is doubted 

 by many ; but every observant angler can recall instances 

 where this doubt has been refuted. 



It is well known to many, though still doubted by some, 

 that fish can be tamed and taught to come to the surface 

 of the w^ater to be fed, answering prom])tly to the sounds 

 of the voice, a bell, or a whistle. I have observed in- 

 stances of this kind, myself, and under such circumstances 

 as rendered it impossible for the fish to see the person 

 producing the sounds mentioned. 



I have frequently observed fish exhibit symptoms of 

 great fright or alarm at the report of fire-arms, or other 

 loud noises, and to be scared and dart away at the sound 

 of the human voice, or the barking of a clog, when the 

 fish could not see the ori2;inators of the noises. 



