THE DRY-FLY SEASON 205 



well Quill, and that is bound from time to time 

 to excite sufficiently an expectant trout. 



When we are on the river in April, we always 

 hope to see the Iron Blue, for that hardy little 

 insect, which revels in cold, ungenial weather, 

 happens to be our first favourite. The expecta- 

 tion of its advent keeps us patient, and an hour 

 in its company is great reward. We willingly 

 wander miles in search of even the shortest stretch 

 where the wind will favour us, for when that fly 

 is up we want to give our undivided attention 

 to the rise, we object to be hampered with diffi- 

 culties of manipulation ; there must be no dis- 

 tractions, if we are to reap the full harvest of these 

 infrequent opportunities. 



However bright the prospect on the river, the 

 angler should not neglect the loch. There are 

 lochs which can almost be depended upon to fur- 

 nish sport on any April day, and there are others 

 which do well in favourable weather. The season 

 may be an early one, and that he cannot tell if he 

 remains in the city wishing his life away. Neither 

 should he await reports from exploring brother- 

 anglers, but should instead go to investigate for 

 himself. He may meet occasional failure ; he may, 

 quite as readily, find adequate recompense, and 

 be enabled to inform others as to where the happi- 

 ness they most desire is awaiting them. 



Reservoirs are now without exception in order 

 for fishing, and pleasant hours may be spent wan- 

 dering round the banks and casting a questing 

 fly across the waves. These enjoy a longer rest 

 than other waters, which fact cannot fail to be 

 reflected in the general well-being of the trout 



