23 



OF FLY-RODS AND HOOKS. 



Now as to FLY RODS IN GENERAL let me pre- 

 mise, that in them particularly, the strength of 

 every inch is put to the test more or less on each 

 cast of the line, and therefore will they require 

 the best workmanship and most careful selection. 

 In choice of them, it will be necessary very 

 minutely to examine the grain of the wood of which 

 each piece is formed, observing that it should 

 run, as nearly as possible, straight from end to 

 end up each joint ; if it crosses, or if you find any 

 knots, or the slightest appearance of crack, or 

 other blemish, it should be at once condemned. 

 Moreover never be beguiled into trying a rod 

 inside a confined shop ; rather carry it into the 

 open air, where you can freely prove its elasticity, 

 and other qualities. In Liverpool and elsewhere, 

 they make salmon rods of East India bamboOj of 

 which I cannot approve, though they are certainly 

 lighter and very strong ; yet they are mostly too 

 stiff, and can never be made to play and work so 



