CHAPTER V 



THE APPARATUS 



The Rod 



THE most serviceable rod for all-round dry- 

 fly fishing in burns, waters, rivers, and 

 lochs is one of ten feet. It should be 

 light on the wrist, because much casting is neces- 

 sary, somewhat stiff because it is required to lift 

 a heavy line neatly off the water, to deliver a fly 

 lightly and accurately to any desired spot in calm 

 and gale alike, and to stand well up to a breeze. 

 Provided that it answers these requirements, it 

 may either be of greenheart or split-bamboo, and 

 rods specially designed for the work are readily 

 obtainable. 



After the beginner has made an attempt with 

 the rod he already possesses, and has satisfied 

 himself that dry-fly fishing is both within his powers 

 and capable of great results these facts will be 

 apparent after a very short trial- he should pro- 

 cure the best weapon his means will allow. It is 

 a sound investment. Our own particular favour- 

 ite is of built-bamboo, ten feet in length, and with 

 it we have killed thousands of trout up to 3^- Ib. 

 in weight. It shows not a flaw, does not deviate 

 to the extent of a millimetre from the straight 

 path, and appears fit for many more years of 



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