38 ()F FISHING FOR 



two of which are generally sufficient. The first 

 dropper is placed at about one yard distant from 

 the stretcher, the second about three quarters of a 

 yard from the first, each upon a piece of gut 

 about four inches long. And the knots used for 

 this purpose are so contrived, that they can be 

 detached and resumed at pleasure. 



Throwing. 



In order to acquire the art of throwing a fly, it 

 may be advisable to practise, previously to visiting 

 the stream, in an open space free from trees, where 

 a piece of paper may represent the spot required 

 to be thrown to. Taking the wind in his back, 

 the tyro, with a short line at first, may attempt to 

 cast within an inch or two of the paper, and after- 

 wards by degrees lengthen his line as his improve- 

 ment proceeds ; he may then try to throw in such 

 a direction that the wind may in some measure 

 oppose the line and rod ; and lastly, he may practise 

 throwing against the wind. In this way any per- 

 son may become an adept in throwing a fly, much 

 sooner than by trusting solely to the experience 

 which he may get when at the water-side ; for his 

 attention being then wholly engrossed by the hopes 

 of a rise, &c. a bad habit may be very easily en- 

 gendered, which will not be as easily got rid of. 



He should endeavour to impart to the line a 

 good uniform sweep or curve round the head ; for 



