94 CASTING TACKLE AND METHODS 



per cent, are of this shape. Furthermore, almost as 

 large a per cent, are of the distinct minnow type, 

 with glass eyes to add naturalness; while numbers 

 have fins, either of metal or painted on the body. 

 Regarding the importance of eyes and fins, I am not 

 altogether sure though I have carried on careful ex- 

 periments for a number of years. To date my con- 

 clusion is that they are of little value. The long 

 body will give better action in the water and lends 

 itself admirably to hook attachment, and is hereby 

 recommended. 



In the matter of hook attachment there is a 

 unanimity of opinion among those at all acquainted 

 with the habits of the fish sought. Always the bass 

 strikes from the side, retires to turn the minnow 

 head foremost before swallowing. Never will he 

 sneak up from behind after the manner of pike or 

 pike-perch. The rear hooks are almost useless so 

 far as bass are concerned. Striking from the side, 

 if not impaled at the instant of impact, he goes free. 

 At least one manufacturer has demonstrated the 

 feasibility of a single hook, placing one upon either 

 side the body of his lure. It is a success. There is 

 no excuse or reason for the multiplicity of hooks one 

 sometimes sees attached to a lure. I have several 

 in my collection with five trebles; think of it, fifteen 

 single hooks when two would serve every required 

 purpose. More and more makers are coming to 



