THE TARPON 115 



and smoothly, so it will render easily and it should be stag- 

 gered slightly on the reel which facilitates its prompt flow 

 under severe strain. The careful and even winding of the 

 line upon the reel is indispensable to success for if the line 

 fails to render the fish usually breaks off. When a fish is on 

 glance at it occasionally to see that the line is being properly 

 reeled and use the left thumb to distribute it on the reel. 

 I cannot over-estimate the importance of these suggestions. 



If it is necessary to wear gloves to protect the hands from 

 blistering or sunburn, select the lightest pair possible for 

 delicacy of touch is essential. Sometimes the bottom is fished, 

 that is to say, the sinker is let down till it reaches the bottom 

 and then the line is reeled up three, four or five turns of the 

 reel. The angler should measure the amount of line retrieved 

 by one turn on his reel so he may know how far his bait is 

 above the bottom. As the depth of water changes the line is 

 given out or taken in accordingly. This requires promptness 

 and alertness on the part of the angler. When the hook 

 catches on the bottom as the boat drifts along, three or four 

 instant short sharp jerks will usually disengage it and save 

 not only the time and patience of the angler and his guide 

 but also the possible loss of the tackle. It is difficult to act 

 with the desired promptitude when thus entangled, or when 

 the hook is struck by a fish unless the hands instantly tele- 

 graph the tidings to the brain and the muscular reaction is 

 prompt. Heavy gloves are a handicap. 



It is a great convenience to have a mark placed upon the 

 line to indicate roughly the amount which should be paid out. 

 The guide will know the depth of the water to be fished and 

 he will tie a piece of yarn or string in the line to indicate 

 approximately how much should be let down. This is well- 

 nigh essential for the beginner, especially in night fishing. 

 It is a great convenience at all times both to the angler and 

 his guide. These marks are usually set at from 36 to 42 feet 

 at Boca Grande Pass. Unless care is exercised in putting the 



