THE HABITS OF THE SALMON. 6i 



haps with those of many other proprietors either below 

 or above them. It is only natural that each member 

 should vote for any scheme that would most benefit 

 himself. Proprietors of net fishings are not unfre- 

 quently in a majority at Board meetings ; therefore 

 it is nearly impossible that even-handed justice should 

 be meted out to all when the Board assembles. The 

 consequence is that the upper proprietors on all those 

 rivers which are netted above the tideway are the 

 greatest sufferers. 



Moreover, even should it so happen that a really 

 good and just arrangement was made as regards 

 close time, Boards of Conservators have no power to 

 put any new rule in force, without the approval and 

 consent of a higher tribunal whose function it is to care- 

 fully consider such matters before confirming them. 



It is quite certain that the Board of Trade 

 takes a great interest in the prosperity of our 

 salmon fisheries, and may be well up in the sub- 

 ject ; but the staff really ought to be increased by 

 practical anglers of varied experience. At present it 

 is impossible for the Board, in addition to its other 



