126 MODERN PRACTICAL ANGLER. 
majority of cases, swept away by the stream, and car- 
ried into unsuitable, perhaps Pikey, waters. I would 
place in the gravelly streams and shallow waters below 
the weirs a considerable number of blocks of stone or 
bricks—say about a foot high; and these blocks scattered 
over the bottom would afford some protection to the 
fish, and some inducement to them to remain where they 
were placed, and where they could be found again. As 
the weirs and the shallows below them are quite out of 
the course of heavy navigation, no practical inco. - 
venience would be felt on that score. Another point is 
to abolish entirely all “set” and night-lines. Under the 
pretence of catching eels, these lines are now constantly 
fishing some of the best spawning grounds in the Thames, 
and there can be little doubt that Trout are frequently 
killed by them. If simultaneously with this prohibition 
the setting of eel-pots was sanctioned, the exchange 
would be hailed as a boon by the fishermen, the Trout 
would be safe, and a quantity of useful food now lost to 
every one secured. 
Whilst referring to the Thames and its regulations, 
another point suggests itself, w'th regard to which 
some steps will have to be tak efore long. I allude 
to the question of the supply of baits for Pike-fishing. 
A very small casting-net is now only allowed to be 
used, and this, except in shallow water, is next to 
useless. Baits, however, must be got if the fishermen 
are to get their livelihood, or visitors their day’s 
