12 THE FISHING-ROD; 



inches above the hook. It is necessary for the 

 double purpose of sinking the bait, and causing 

 the float to swim at its proper bearings. The 

 shot used for this purpose should be split open 

 half way through, and then carefully nipped on 

 to the line with a pair of pliers. The young 

 angler must be cautious not to nip them too 

 tightly, or he will cut or injure the gut or hair. 

 It is indispensably necessary that the angler 

 should at all times be provided with split-shot 

 of various sizes. 



THE WINCH OB REEL. 



WINCHES are made of various sizes according to 

 the length of line for which they are required. 

 The use of the winch is for the purpose of con- 

 taining a running line of twenty or more yards ; 

 so that with fine tackle a heavy fish may be 

 brought to land, by first playing and tiring it in 

 the water, by letting it swim and plunge about ; 

 and at favourable moments turning and check- 

 ing it in its course ; by which proceeding the 

 fish, in time, tires, becomes exhausted, and falls 

 on its side resigned to fate. 



