118 MODERN PRACTICAL ANGLER. 
hooks in the natural Minnow tackle figured in this 
chapter, is, both practically and theoretically, nearly 
perfect. Therefore, my advice is always to use the 
natural Minnow when obtainable. 
But although the fish killed thus will be both more nu- 
merous and larger than with the arti- 
ficial Minnow, it frequently happens 
that natural bait isnot to be procured ; 
and when this is the case an artificial 
bait may be advantageously used. 
Up to the present time no arti- 
ficial bait has been brought out 
equal to the simple brass Minnow 
of Mr. Wheatley. The best of these 
I have adopted as a basis for the 
Minnow figured in the engraving : 
the latter has, however, been altered, 
and as I think considerably im- 
proved in several important respects 
both as to shape and “rig.” It is 
made hexagonal oroctagonal instead 
of round, so that the sides and angles catching the light 
gain an additional brilliancy and glitter in the water ; 
and one-half of the Minnow is coloured a bright metallic 
green, to represent the back of the Minnow. This 
Minnow is also made in white metal as well as in 
brass, so as to give a more perfect imitation of the white 
belly of a real fish. The round protuberance at the 
