CHAPTER XVI 



CONCERNING THE WIND 



HOW is the fly-fisher's sport affected by the 

 wind, its strength, direction, and tem- 

 perature ? That question has exercised 

 the minds of anglers of all times and probably it 

 will form a subject for discussion and debate as 

 long as there remain rivers to fish and fish to catch. 



Some anglers profess a strong preference for a 

 complete absence of wind. Such a declaration 

 must have rather a disquieting effect on great 

 numbers, who, while able to capture many trout 

 in the course of a season, find it impossible to extend 

 a line at all, unless they are assisted by a friendly 

 breeze. It need not occasion surprise to anyone to 

 learn that what he considers a magnificent oppor- 

 tunity another looks upon as a hopeless condition. 

 Many have formed the opinion that trout are not 

 to be caught unless the surface is ruffled, and there- 

 fore they see no necessity for practising the art of 

 casting in a calm, an art not difficult to acquire, but 

 still one demanding training. Beliefs firmly estab- 

 lished are not readily eradicated. 



The smooth, brilliant mirror of the loch has a 

 depressing rather than an uplifting effect on the 

 angler. While he proceeds towards the scene of his 

 day's pleasure, on the road or across the moor, he 



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