THE BRITISH ANGLER'S LEXICON. 



living insect and the artificial imitation of the same ; then 

 with worms of sorts ; maggots, gentles, and paste ; live 

 and dead minnows ; artificial representations of these, and 

 spoons. Angling is divided into three branches the 

 surface angling, in which the natural and artificial fly 

 come into play ; that of the mid-water, where the various 

 spinning and trolling baits are used ; and, lastly, the bottom 

 fishing, with worms or bait. All of these modes are adopted 

 as occasion or the state of the river requires, and it is well 

 when going on a fishing excursion to be provided with the 

 necessary adjuncts to carry out any or all of these methods. 

 Approach to the Water. This term applies to 

 the manner in which the angler gets safely and success- 

 fully to the scene of his labours. Should the stream or river 

 be a deep, heavy, dark-coloured one, it is not of so much 

 importance how the angler "approaches" and works 

 it. Still it is a safe and good practice to keep as well out 

 of sight of the fish as possible. Should the water be low 

 and clear, greater precaution must be observed if the angler 

 desires to be successful in his sport. Before reaching the 

 edge of water that is to be fished, the angler should cast 

 his eye around him, and note particularly all the bearings 

 of the spot, see if a friendly tree will offer a sure hiding 

 place, or if a bunch of rushes, or tall grass or weeds, will 

 serve as a cover, and decide how best to get close to the 

 water, without showing his person to the quick-sighted fish. 

 When you are going to fish a pool, get to the lower end of it at 

 first ; if this be too deep to wade, crouch below the bank if 

 there be a footing. If the banks are high and afford no cover, 

 the only chance is to lie down on the top of the bank, 

 showing but the arm and head, and as little of these as 

 possible, and thus a few of the finny tribe may be captured. 



