86 HINTS ON ANGLING. 



lakes in open boats. In such cases we would recom- 

 mend a good double-handed rod, from sixteen to eighteen 

 feet in length, as the best that could be made for salmon- 

 fishing. A rod of this size, and for this specific purpose, 

 ought to have a free and equal spring in it, from the 

 but to the top. This is of vital importance in dealing 

 with large fish. 



A single-handed fly rod ought to be from twelve to 

 fifteen feet in length. It should be as elastic as possible, 

 and constructed of such materials as will unite lightness 

 and elasticity with durability and strength. An expe- 

 perienced dexterous fly-fisher can never get hold of a rod 

 which is too light and springy; although a rather stiffish 

 weapon is better for a beginner. The most beauti- 

 fully elastic rods we have ever seen were made of ash 

 and lance wood. All rods with metallic root-pieces must 

 necessarily be of uneven suppleness, although of late 

 years the manufacture of this description of rod has 

 very materially improved, with reference to this radical 

 defect. 



The salmon and trout fly-fisher, ought always to be 

 provided with two or three spare top-pieces, in case of 

 accident from loss or breakage. 



A trout-rod for trolling with minnow should be from 

 twelve to fourteen, or even sixteen feet in length, of a 

 good firm build, not by any means so elastic as a fly-rod. 

 A rod for worm-fishing ought to be firmly constructed, 

 of the same length as a fly, and pretty stiff in the hand. 

 For what is called " bush -fishing" with the worm, a 

 much shorter rod will answer the purpose; and the stifier 

 it is the better. 



A pike rod ought to be very strong and stiff, and as 

 straight as an arrow. The length should not be more 



