XII 



THE MAKING OF AN ARTIFICIAL FLY 



The manipulation of a trout fly is a much more 

 simple undertaking than I had supposed. The 

 circumstances which, in a measure, forced me into 

 this most delightful art are noted in the chapter 

 on "Artificial Imitations." Not everybody is con- 

 stituted to make a fly; though the attributes of all 

 "born anglers" conduce toward the successful ac- 

 complishment of this fascinating work. These at- 

 tributes are patience, delicacy of touch, and a cer- 

 tain love for everything intimately connected with 

 our favorite recreation. 



Only the most salient points, condensed and 

 briefly told, will be required for the beginner to get 

 an insight of the art ; the method is best learned by 

 practice and experience. 



There are no laws or rules governing fly-tying; 

 the all-important thing is to get neatness, solidity, 



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