158 DRY-FLY FISHING 



any natural bait. That is our belief, formed after 

 an experience of all methods of catching trout, 

 but we see no reason why the artificial should not 

 bear the closest possible resemblance to a living 

 insect. Hence it is that we advocate the use of 

 a dry-fly. With the natural fly as lure we should 

 be almost certain to catch more fish than with the 

 dry-fly, but it is more certain that we would not 

 derive so much pleasure. Dapping with an arti- 

 ficial fly is quite a legitimate method of fishing, 

 provided that it is resorted to only when neces- 

 sary, viz. in places where casting is not merely 

 difficult but entirely beyond the angler's powers, 

 and where drag is impossible to overcome. It can 

 be used with great effect anywhere that provides 

 sufficient cover, but it is allowable only in these 

 special circumstances, or under conditions such as 

 we are about to discuss. 



There are days on the breezy Uplands when the 

 wind is so strong that it is almost impossible to cast. 

 The line stretches out horizontally before the rod, 

 and sometimes the light cast is whirled vertically 

 away, refusing to go on the water. Dapping being 

 the only method practicable, the angler has to choose 

 between it and an immediate return homeward. 

 We have been treated to these conditions quite 

 frequently, and we have never had any hesitation 

 in making our decision. We fish, and that without 

 any qualms, though with regrets. 



Ephemeridce may be absent ; but if the sunlight 

 is strong, as it is usually on such a day, there are 

 other flies about to arouse the trout. If we are on 

 the Daer, we walk along the high bank, crouching 

 if it seems advisable crawling on these days is 



