126 MODERN PRACTICAL ANGLER. 



majority of cases, swept away by the stream, and car- 

 ried into unsuitable, perhaps Pikey, waters. I would 

 place in the gravelly streams and shallow waters below 

 the weirs a considerable number of blocks of stone or 

 bricks — say about a foot high ; and these blocks scattered 

 over the bottom would afford some protection to the 

 fish, and some inducement to them to remain where they 

 were placed, and where they could be found again. As 

 the weirs and the shallows below them are quite out of 

 the course of heavy navigation, no practical incon- 

 venience would be felt on that score. Another point is 

 to abolish entirely all " set" and night-lines. Under the 

 pretence of catching eels, these lines are now constantly 

 fishing some of the best spawning grounds in the Thames, 

 and there can be little doubt that Trout are frequently 

 killed by them. If simultaneously with this prohibition 

 the setting of eel-pots was sanctioned, the exchange 

 w^ould be hailed as a boon by the fishermen, the Trou^ 

 would be safe, and a quantity of useful food now lost to 

 every one secured. 



Whilot referring to the Thames and its regulations, 

 another point suggests itself, with regard to which 

 5ome steps will have to be taken before long. I allude 

 to the question of the supply of baits for Pike-fishing. 

 A very small ccfsting-net is now only allowed to be 

 used, and this, except in shallow water, is next to 

 useless. Baits, however, must be got if the fishermen 

 are to get their livelihood, or visitors their day's 



