140 MOOSE-HUNTING, SALMON-FISHING, ETC 



season that they have been represented as 

 having been captured in cart-loads. In late 

 years, owing to hindrances to the direct ap- 

 proach to their spawning-grounds, together 

 with the drag-nets of the night-prowlers, 

 salmon have become so scarce that in some 

 seasons scarcely any are taken. The close 

 season for salmon rod-fishing ends February 1, 

 when, if that day be mild, some are almost 

 sure to be taken. This run of fish is small in 

 numbers and size, not more than fifteen being 

 captured in February, any season, varying in 

 size from 6 to 8 Ibs., a 10-pounder being a 

 rarity. The rods have to be specially prepared 

 for winter fishing, with permanent wire rings, 

 through which the icy lines move without 

 clogging. Apart from the money inducement, 

 from 50 to 75 cents per lb., there is no actual 

 sport in this fishing. He will take the fly as 

 well as in May, but rarely runs or jumps, and if 

 fairly well hooked the fisherman is almost sure 

 of him. After the run is over no others come 

 to the river until April 20, when the regular 

 spring fish put in an appearance, and continue 

 coming till the 20th of June, when they are 

 followed by the grilse. 



