RODS AND ROD MAKING, 47 
longer without coming off or getting broken. In all 
general rods rings of the ordinary diameter, but made of 
steel wire, in the form shown in the engraving, will be 
found most convenient. Rings of this shape will not 
answer, however, for the bottom ring of 
all, as the line has a constant tendency to () 
be catching round that ring in making a 
cast. The bottom ring should, therefore, be made in 
the form that is called “pronged,” out of iron wire, 
twisted into a ring, in the form and of about the size 
shown in the woodcut annexed, 
with separate side-pieces brazed 
on. The perpendicular  sup- 
ports or arms being a good deal 
wider apart at the base than at 
the apex, throw off instantly any curls of the line 
which may be inclined to twist round them. This 
will be found a really great practical advantage 
in every description of fishing, and especially in 
spinning. 
Of even greater importance, however, is the form of 
the top ring, as this is both more liable to catch in the 
line, and proportionately more difficult to clear at the 
distance of from 12 to 20 feet from the fisherman ; (the 
material, as in the case of the lowest ring, should be of 
steel wire). In order to remedy this catching of the line 
over the top ring, the great point is the avoidance of all 
projections over which the line can possibly hitch itself ; 
