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THE COMPLETE ANGLER. 



for a river-carp, and not have a bite. And you are to note, that 

 in some ponds, it is as hard to catch a carp as in a river ; that is 

 to say, where they have store of feed, and the water is of a clayish 

 color : but you are to remember, that I have told you there is no 

 rule without an exception ; and therefore being possessed with 

 that hope and patience which I wish to all fishers, especially to 

 the carp-angler, I shall tell you with what bait to fish for him. 

 But first you are to know, that it must be either early or late ; 

 and let me tell you, that in hot weather, for he will seldom bite 

 in cold, you cannot be too early or too late at it, and some have 

 been so curious as to say, the tenth of April is a fatal day for 

 Carps. 



The carp bites either at worms or at paste ; and of worms I 

 think the bluish marsh or meadow-worm is best ; but possibly 

 another worm, not too big, may do as well, and so may a green 

 gentle : and as for paste, there are almost as many sorts as there 

 are medicines for the toothache, but doubtless sweet pastes are 

 best ; I mean, pastes made with honey or with sugar ; which, 

 that you may the better beguile this crafty fish, should be thrown 

 into the pond or place in which you fish for him, some hours or 

 longer before you undertake your trial of skill with the angle- 

 rod : and doubtless if it be thrown into the water a day or two 

 before, at several times and in small pellets, you are the likelier 

 when you fish for the carp to obtain your desired sport : or in a 

 large pond, to draw them to any certain place, that they may the 



