98 THE TROUPER'S GUIDE. 



CHAP. XII. 



Observations and remarks on laying 

 lines for Eels ; also on Baits, Hooks, 

 and the proper time to lay and take 

 them up, to dry, cleanse them, Sfc. 



In directing the angler to fasten his chain line to bricks, 

 stones or clumps of earth, it applies chiefly to rivers and 

 other waters that are public or much attended by anglers, 

 boat fishermen, bargemen, &c. because in such waters he 

 is likely to have his lines discovered if they are fastened to 

 piles, branches of trees, or stakes ; therefore the fastening 

 to bricks, &c. is the safest way; but in waters where the 

 angler feels confidence all will be secure, he can often 

 lay to more advantage with the assistance of a second 

 person in a boat, in laying of bricks, stories, &c. If the 

 baits are well taken by good Eels, they will often drag 

 the line, bricks and all, a considerable distance from 

 the place they were cast in, and if they do not tear or 

 twist themselves off, they will often entangle the line, 

 hooks, and themselves among heavy beds of weeds, and 

 give infinite trouble to the angler in recovering and fitting 

 his line for another night's fishing. 



Those who live near where they lay chain lines, had 

 better begin to take them up soon after twelve at night : 



