FLY-FISHING POR PIKE. 87 



the same as that used for salmon-fishing, but 

 rather more than ordinarily stiff. Fine gimp must 

 be attached in lieu of the gut casting-line, or the 

 fish will nip it in twain with his sharp teeth, as a 

 sempstress bites her thread. 



The pike is classed by Yarrell as the chief of 

 the family of " Esocida" which numbers among 

 its members the flying-fish. It is the " Esox 

 Lucius" of Linnaeus, the "picked!!" of ancient 

 writers. The family is tolerably old, being noticed 

 by various writers as early as the reign of Richard 

 II. When in condition, the pike may be con- 

 sidered a handsome fish; and being bold and fear- 

 less of close examination, is liked in ornamental 

 waters; but there is something savage and un- 

 pleasing in its aspect. The single dorsal fin is 

 placed very far back, near the tail, and is of large 

 size and immense power. To their united action 

 is due the wonderful rapidity with which the fish 

 moves through the water when in pursuit of its 

 prey or escaping from danger. 



