412 BOOK OF THE BLACK BASS. 



material for a rod of this character is an ash butt and 

 lancewood second and third pieces, the latter being usually 

 known as the tip. The reel-seat should be from six to 

 eight inches from the extreme butt, and no more, for this 

 rod must be used with the hand alone, and should not ex- 

 tend under the elbow for support, like the old-fashioned 

 long and heavy rods. It should have light standing guides 

 instead of rings. 



The Reel. — The multiplying reel is the only one 

 adapted to casting the minnow, and it should be the very 

 best one made. It should run as rapidly and smoothly as 

 possible, and multiply from two to four times. The best 

 is the "Frankfort" reel — sometimes variously styled 

 " Meek," " Milam," or " Kentucky " reel — though the 

 very best of other good makers will answer well. 



The improved Black Bass reels of Abbey & Imbrie, and 

 Conroy, Bissett & Malleson, referred to in the chapter on 

 reels, are excellent implements. 



The Reel Line. — First and foremost among the suit- 

 able lines is the smallest size, G, or No. 5, plaited raw silk 

 line. It should be braided hard and close, and tinted or 

 parti-colored. Where the Bass are exceptionally large, 

 size F, or No. 4, may be used, though the smaller or finer 

 the line the better, for a gut leader can not be used in 

 casting the minnow, and longer casts can be made with 

 the finest lines. The proper length for a reel-line is fifty 

 yards. 



The boiled silk braided line is next best, but it is not so 

 closely plaited, usually, as the raw silk-line, and conse- 

 quently absorbs more water, which is detrimental to casting. 

 When it is as hard braided as the raw silk-line it is about 

 as good. 



