FISHING THE STREAM 169 



searched in this way can yield an astonishing 

 number of trout. 



The secrets of success are : Cast often and lightly, 

 allow the flies to float not more than two yards, 

 pick the line off the water with as much care as it 

 is laid on, beware of drag, have the rod always in 

 striking position, watch the flies, and strike at once 

 gently but quickly. 



One essential is that the line must be well smeared 

 with some agent whose purpose is to keep it on the 

 surface, and no matter what preparation is used 

 it will require frequent renewal. As the line must 

 be dried before it may be treated, and as a visit to 

 the bank is likewise required, the process necessitates 

 the expenditure of time and trouble, possibly too 

 when a healthy rise is in progress ; still it must be 

 attended to, for neglect of it will prevent a fish 

 taking the fly, or, if by some lucky chance an offer 

 is forthcoming, it will render all attempts at striking 

 entirely futile. 



The angler methodically fishing up such a stream, 

 and receiving little reward for his pains, may be 

 tempted to withdraw from the contest, but he 

 should on no account omit to fish the extreme top, 

 where the water breaks over the rocks or gravel. 

 Close into the edges of the rough water he should 

 place his fly, as there are invariably feeding trout 

 lying there ready to launch themselves without 

 hesitation upon anything in the least resembling 

 food. A short line, a quick eye, and a ready strike 

 are all called for, but it is well to remember that, 

 owing to the shortened line and the expected 

 offer, the strike is apt to be too vigorous. 



Let the angler fish the rise when he can, but in 



