6 MODERN PRACTICAL ANGLER. 
the Pike, how great is the difference in the penetrating 
powers of different bends. Between the two extremes 
it amounts to no less than cent. per cent.; and yet even 
the best of these fall below the point of efficiency which 
ought to be attainable. Another obvious fault is over- 
fineness in the wire, from which it results that when the 
point comes sharply in contact with a bone or other 
hard portion of a fish’s mouth, or even on the sudden 
jerk occasioned by striking softer material, it “springs” 
—that is, yields by a widening of the bend outwards— 
and so fails to penetrate. On the form of the shank 
of the hook, again, depends to a considerable extent in 
fly-fishing, the proper and even swim of the lure; and 
whilst the point and barb are the first portions of the 
hook to be brought into requisition in practice, it would 
seem that they are the last on which any theoretical 
consideration has been bestowed. 
The theory of hooks, as based simply on mechanical 
principles, should probably run somewhat as follows :— 
1. What are the objects to be aimed at in a perfect 
hook ? 
a. Penetration. 
6. Holding power. 
c. Strength. 
d. Lightness and neatness. 
2. How are these to be attained and combined ? 
Penetration.—Cateris paribus, the penetrating power of any hook 
will be greater in proportion as the angle of impact—the angle, that 
