THE TARPON 107 



reel and lines were not anything to brag about. But the 

 hooks — none would hold — either bend or break, so back 

 to Punta Rassa where I wired for some large cod hooks. 

 As soon as these arrived, I took them to Fort Myers 

 and found an old blacksmith shop where I forged out 

 one dozen hooks. My brother came down to Punta Rassa 

 and together we took a tent and camp outfit for Captiva 

 and with these dozen hooks, killed seventy-two tarpon 

 trolling. During the summer of 1894, I fashioned a hook 

 and we sent it to Allcock of Redditch, England and had 

 500 made. In the Spring of '95, we had the best tackle 

 that could be had at that time and had unusually good 

 sport. ' ' 

 This hook here described has been a favorite ever since it 

 was first devised by Mr. Van Vleck. No. 9 hooks have given 

 me the best results. 



Swivels — Barrel swivels are usually employed and the eyes 

 should revolve freely. I have used Catalina swivels with 

 success and thus avoided the knot, which so seriously weakens 

 the line but the leather attachment is better. A swivel rarely 

 fails. 



Gaf — There is no restriction on the size of this part of 

 the equipment. It should be strong and mounted on a long 

 handle so as to make its use effective. A gaff rarely is used. 

 The guide will carry a landing hook, which is a barbless hook 

 on a stout looped line, which he attaches to his wrist. This 

 hook is inserted in the mouth of the tarpon and the line hook 

 is released. He then withdraws the landing hook and the fish 

 swims away to be caught again some other day. I ^ear that the 

 sharks capture many released tarpon if they are spent or 

 roughly handled. The fish should not be permitted to come in 

 contact with the side of the boat when it is released. 



Miscellaneous Equipment — Metallic articles should be 

 rolled up in a piece of oiled cloth to prevent rust. A cheap 

 fiber suitcase, or, better still, a canvas bag such as plumbers 



