THE CARE OF FISHING-LINES. 



It is strongly recommended to test the strength of all 

 lines before purchasing, and always to have a spare 

 line or two in reserve, in case of accidents. 



Also besides the superior class of lines used in rod 

 fishing, it is desirable to have some good strong cod lines, 

 such as are used at sea. They are most useful adjuncts 

 to a traveller's outfit and come in for many purposes, 

 such as hand-lines, night-lines, long-lines, as well as 

 for presents, and form a valuable species of trade goods 

 among people living in the vicinity of great waters. 



A few words as regards the care of lines will not 

 be superfluous. Lines left damp for any length of time 

 are sure to become unsound and rotten, especially in 

 the tropics. Therefore, the moment you return from 

 fishing, see that they are thoroughly dried. It should 

 be a rule, always to draw off every part of a line 

 wound upon a reel, that has been exposed to damp, 

 so as to get it all perfectly dried, before it is wound 

 on again. When first winding it on, see that the end is 

 well secured to the reel. Otherwise, should a large fish 

 run it all out, he may break away and carry off the 

 whole line. Make a practice also of occasionally ex- 

 amining into the general condition of every part of a 

 line exposed to wear and tear, and to the action of 

 the water, and as bits at the end next the hook become 

 frayed or unsound, cut them off. Old lines may be 

 made serviceable for some time longer by reversing 

 them upon the reel and so bringing up the unused 

 end into use. 



It is desirable to have at least one or two large-sized 

 ones which will hold a line of great length. In rapid 

 waters a large fish, running furiously off downstream, 

 will often carry out a lot of line before he can be 



