102 MINNOW TROLLING. 



one just before the trout's nose, who with no small wonder has 

 been viewing this extraordinary flight, must be quite sufficient to 

 lead him to suspect the whole as some device of the enemy to en- 

 trap him ; and, confident am I that as much depends upon exerci- 

 sing a proper judgment in casting in the bait, as in any other part 

 of this branch of fishing. This, if possible, should be done in 

 such a manner that the trout neither sees it flying through the air 

 or its fall into the water. I say if possible ; because I am aware 

 that the angler must often be compelled to take his stand or make 

 his cast in such a manner that the above effect cannot be alto- 

 gether accomplished ; but if it can, the opportunity of doing so 

 should never be neglected. 



As another necessary precaution ; before you attempt to make your 

 cast for a trout you should first ascertain that the minnow spins 

 properly; I myself have lost fish without number merely from 

 inattention to this matter. Where I have found beginners most 

 frequently err is, the too common practice of always hauling the 

 bait against stream, without making sufficient allowance for the 

 strength of the current ; the consequence of which is, up comes 

 the minnow flustering to the surface, bobbing about on the top, 

 and so exposing the whole trick of the machinery ; added to which, 

 if a fish should make a dash at it before it arrives to this most 

 unattractive position, he commonly obtains a view of the enemy, 

 upon whom he is pretty certain to turn tail without venturing to 

 assail the bait. 



If a trout runs and seizes the minnow boldly, he should be al- 

 lowed to turn with it before you strike ; as by this means your 

 chance will be considerably improved, as you will be less likely by 

 that means to draw the bait harmlessly out of his mouth. By 

 striking too suddenly also many persons who have been accustomed 

 to fish principally with an artificial fly, lose many runs. This 

 should be done pretty smartly, having due care not to endanger 

 your tackle, and the contrary way to that the fish is pursuing : the 

 line being all the time kept between the thumb and fore and mid- 

 dle finger of the right hand, and the reel all clear and ready to 

 let out the line if required, which, if the fish is a good one you are 

 frequently compelled to do, as on feeling the prick of the hook, a 

 trout usually darts off, and makes a desperate struggle, often 

 springing to a considerable height above water, doubtless with 

 mingled feelings of rage and astonishment at thus finding a little 



