48 THE FISHING-ROD ; 



Greaves are also an excellent ground-bait for 

 chub : but before casting them in, select some 

 of the whitest pieces with which to bait the 

 hook. In baiting with greaves, put three or 

 four small pieces on the hook so as to cover it 

 from the point to the bend : the pieces should 

 each be no larger than a small bean or marrow- 

 fat pea ; and each must be put on separately, 

 one after the other. When the hook is baited in 

 this manner, on striking a fish the pieces are 

 pushed up the shank : or they break away and 

 allow the hook to enter the fish in such a 

 manner that a firm hold is taken. But if the 

 bait is formed by doubling and folding one large 

 piece, the hook is prevented from taking firm 

 hold of the fish. It is a very good plan when 

 baiting the hook with greaves, to put a gentle 

 on the point and over the barb. 



The greaves should not be soaked in boiling 

 water; because it makes them too rotten for 

 baiting the hook. If soaked in cold water 

 they are much tougher ; though of course a 

 longer time is required in the soaking. 



When angling for chub, strike the moment 

 the fish bites ; and, having hooked it, allow the 

 line to run freely ; for the chub makes a bold 



