32 HIXTS FOR SOUTHERN HUNTING. 



bottom lands. The trout of these rivers is a black bass, 

 and when gar-fish, cat-fish and other heavy-mouthed 

 fellows try physical force with the angler, artful devices 

 are not called for ; but one or two stiff boat rods, all 

 the better if in pairs with all the joints interchangeable, 

 and some large lines, gimp and wire-mounted hooks, 

 strong spoons, a gaff and one or two spears for torch 

 fishing, and some ponderous sinkers for tide-ways, will 

 fit the fisherman for all ordinary work. If he wishes a 

 new sensation, it may be obtained at the end of a half- 

 inch rope, with shark hook and chain, but beware of 

 any coil about the legs, and get up anchor for a tow 

 seaward, if a large shark or swordfish accepts the 

 challenge. 



About Anastasia Island, St. Augustine, the Minor- 

 cans capture huge swordfish and sharks by fastening 

 the rope to a post, and carrying the hook out in a boat, 

 leave it, and retire to conduct their share of the conflict 

 on terra firma. A boat is as needful in Florida as a 

 horse on the plains. For short trips from the settle 

 ments, nothing will be more convenient, and render the 

 sportsman more independent, than a flat-bottomed boat, 

 with small sail, centre board, and a water-tight end with 

 tight trap to carry dry clothing, tea, sugar, etc., to 

 protect from the frequent showers. Floating quietly 

 with the current or tide, a patient hunter may surprise 

 almost all the game birds and animals, and he will see 

 more of interest in the little streams than in miles of 

 the frequented channels. For exploration and travel a 

 boat eighteen to twenty-two feet long, four and a-half 

 or five feet beam, with the full width carried to the 

 stern, built with a flat keel, and broad bearings to 

 insure light draft, fitted with centre-board and sail, the 



