180 FAMILIAR FISH, THEIR HABITS AND CAPTURE 



off readily, thus leaving many spots open to attack. 

 Absolutely the best protection is afforded by tar and 

 vaseline. The proper proportions are two thirds 

 pure tar and one third vaseline, which should be 

 thoroughly mixed. This must be kept in large- 

 mouthed bottles for convenient use. A single thor- 

 ough application a day, unless one perspires freely, is 

 sufficient, and it washes off easily with cold water and 

 soap, leaving no stain. A few moments after appli- 

 cation it becomes tacky, and in ten minutes hardens 

 so that nothing can rub it off. It will keep all 

 winged pests at a distance. 



In regard to artificial baits, such as imitation min- 

 nows, frogs, crabs, dobsons, etc., they are not to be 

 recommended. While at times they may attract an 

 occasional fish, they will not bring sufficient return 

 to pay for the expense of purchasing them. If nat- 

 ural bait does not succeed, imitations will certainly 

 fail. They are very good in theory, but very poor 

 in practical results. 



A great fault with fishermen, even those of much 

 experience, is the lack of care given to tackle, no 

 matter how expensive it may be. Rods, especially, 

 should receive close attention. When fishing is 

 finished for the season, they should be taken from 

 their cases, and, if sprung out of shape, jointed and 

 hung up by the end of the tip for the winter. Their 



