148 Natural-Fly Fishing. 



inch from it, a No. 5 reversed, and placed under- 

 neath the wings. 



This imitation is used in precisely the same 

 conditions of water and weather as are necessary 

 for dibbing with the live fly. It is occasionally 

 successful, especially on a breezy day. 



In the absence of the natural insect I prefer 

 dibbing with the artificial fly to casting with it ; 

 but sometimes when the former method fails, the 

 latter succeeds. 



The Black Ant. 



This insect, although neither so attractive in 

 appearance, nor so well known to the average 

 angler, as the May-fly or the green drake, deserves 

 to take rank with them among the best lures in 

 natural-fly fishing. It is a great favourite with 

 the trout, and on that account alone should be 

 prized by the angler ; but it derives an additional 

 value for him from the time of its advent, and thus 



" by season seasoned is 

 To its right praise and true perfection." 



It comes to his aid in August, when the May-fly 

 and the drake have passed away, and when artificial- 

 fly fishing is at its very worst. This species of ant 



