78 



THE SMALL-MOUTHED BASS 



A general relation connecting the three quantities L, 

 G, W, may be constructed empirically by assuming that 



W = KG 2 L 

 which is in accordance with the ordinary laws of symmetry. 



As a matter of curiosity I computed the value of K from 

 a large number of observations extending over many years, 

 and found it to be given approximately by the fraction /j. 



Consequently one may, with small error, obtain the 

 weight of any small-mouthed bass by measuring the length 

 and girth, and then using the above law. 



Multiply the length in inches by the square of the girth in 

 inches and divide the result by 55. This will give the -weight in 

 ounces avoirdupois. 



For this one needs only a small tape line or measuring rod. 



This formula holds fairly well for bass which weigh three 

 pounds or less: the probable error being not more than one 

 ounce; but whenever fish weigh much over three pounds 

 the error becomes very great. 



Bull Frog 



