150 HINTS ON ANGLING. 



dexterity ; but experienced anglers had rather decline the 

 acquaintance altogether. 



Perhaps a slight float is absolutely necessary in fishing 

 for bream, as his bite is extremely delicate, and he must 

 be attacked on the instant. 



23att for tfje 



This fish is called by Walton the " water- sheep " on 

 account of his " simplicity or foolishness." However this 

 may be thought applicable to the small fry of roach 

 during the summer, and in turbid and thick waters, the 

 larger fish are unquestionably timid, shy, cunning fellows, 

 undeserving of the reproach cast upon them by so high 

 an authority. It is indeed very difficult to catch a large 

 roach, in bright water, unless you use very fine tackle, 

 and carefully keep yourself out of his sight. 



The rod for this fishing should be light, supple, handy. 

 The line, as fine as you please. A line of three hairs, 

 with a fine gut bottom, is perhaps the best that can be 

 used, in all waters, and under all circumstances ; in fact 

 when the water is very clear and limpid, your tackle can 

 scarcely be too fine. 



The baits commonly recommended for roach-fishing, 

 are red worms, pastes of all kinds, flies, grubs, boiled corn, 

 cad-worms, and gentles. Early in the spring, roach will 

 take the small red- worm and paste, with great freedom. 

 At this time they must be fished for in deep water, close 

 under the bank, and close to the bottom. As the season 

 advances, he becomes less fastidious, and approaches 

 nearer the surface, until July and August; when he will 

 rush boldly at a fly, and afford some lively sport. 



The gentle is a very capital bait, during the finer parts 

 of the year; and in August, if the hooks, on which are 



