FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT. 79 



no way compensates fear the trouble they cause. The first, 

 and worst, of these nuisances is water milfoil (Myriophyllum) 

 and the other is a gfif t from our American cousins, and known 

 in this country as the American, weed (Anacharig alsinastrum). 

 I have heard of cases in which waters have benefited by th# 

 introduction of either or both of these, but in the whole course 

 of my travels I have never met with one. On the other hand, 

 I have seen scores of waters literally choked by their rank 

 growth, and it would appear to me that where they get the 

 upper hand and this is pretty well alwaysi the case there is 

 . no remedy but running the pond dry and letting it remain so 

 for two,' or even more years, during which time grass may be 

 established on the bottom, of the pond, and this, together with 

 the establishment of some of the plants recommended, should 

 benefit the water considerably and most probably get rid of 

 the nuisance. But prevention is better than cure. So do not 

 be tempted to introduce either of the plants condemned. 

 Should they exist already in a fishery, make it your business 

 to get rid of them without delay. 



If it is most inconvenient perhaps impossible to empty 

 the ponds, then uproot as much as you can of the plaguey stuff 

 before it starts seeding, and take great care that the weed so 

 uprooted is carted away and either buried or burnt. In this 

 way you may manage to keep it under control, but you will 

 not get rid of it entirely. 



There is a, useful weed, which requires cautious handling; 

 that is, the common pond weed (Potaniogeton) ; and, from an 

 angler's point of view, this weed is a capital addition to a 

 sporting water. It must, however, be kept under control and 

 not permitted to seed. And in. this case you are well re- 

 warded for your trouble, for big fish delight in the cover pro- 

 vided for them after this manner. 



The usefulness of the common reed (Arundo phragmitis) 

 .needs only passing reference. And now for a few general re- 

 marks in connection with the establishment of aquatic plants 

 in angling and fish-rearing waters. 



It must not be forgotten that the great object of weed 



