182 MODERN PRACTICAL ANGLER. 
ROD, REEL, REEL LINE, &c. 
In the same chapters will be found a description of 
the rod, reel, running-line, and hooks suitable for Pike 
fishing. In the matter of Trolling rods tastes usually 
differ widely, but the rod contained in the “ general rod” 
described at page 51 is, I think, as perfect a spinning 
rod as can be used. If greater strength or stiffness 
is required, the butt may be made solid instead of bored, 
and one or two shorter tops may be added. My ex- 
perience leads me to give the preference to ash or 
hickory, and greenhart, for any Jack rod under thirteen 
feet in length. Beyond that, the difference in weight, 
slight as it is, tells decidedly in favour of bamboo. The 
rod suitable for spinning is also suitable for all kinds 
of Pike fishing. If very large live-baits are used, a some- 
what shorter top may be substituted for that described. 
How To SPIN, 
The rod and tackle being arranged as described, and 
the bait hanging about two yards from the top of the 
rod, the spinner unwinds from the reel as much line as 
he requires or thinks he can manage, allowing it to fall 
in loose coils at his feet; and then, giving the bait one 
or two pendulum-like movements, swings it vigorously 
out in the direction in which he wishes to cast, at the 
same time letting go the line altogether, and permitting 
the bait to run out to the full extent. After allowing a 
