ON TROUT1NG WITH THE FLY. 



The first subject which naturally suggests itself 

 is the rod and tackle most suitable for fly-fishing. 

 The two great requisites in a rod are stiffness and 

 lightness, qualities exceedingly difficult to com- 

 bine. Great difference of opinion exists as to how 

 a rod should be put together ; but the tie system 

 is by far the best. A tied rc;d is not so apt to 

 break as one with brass joints, and tlso bends 

 more equally throughout, and is therefore the 

 must agreeable one to use. A rod of eleven feet 

 is about the best lergth for fly-fishing : rnd when 

 put up should yield slightly from a little above 

 the hand to the top, and balance about a foot 

 from above the hand. 



With regard to the wheel line, go* d chestnut 

 coloured hair is best. After the wheel line, there 

 should be a casting line composed of six lengths 

 of triple gut, twisted together. This can only be 

 properly made by a machine for the purpose. 

 Only the longest threads should be used, and as 

 nearly as possible of one thickness. Before 

 attaching them to the machine, they should be 

 soaked in cold water for half an hour, or they will 



