40 THE HABITS AND HAUNTS OF FISH. 



gish running waters often contain vast quantities 

 of them. It is inferior to the perch, both as regards 

 size and the quality of its flesh. It is an equally 

 voracious feeder, and affords good sport to the 

 youthful fisherman where it abounds, it being readily 

 taken with the coarsest tackle. Ruffe spawn 

 in April, and, like perch, multiply rapidly. Pike 

 and other large fish feed upon them. Both the 

 form and the habits of this fish are similar to those 

 of the perch. Its average length is four inches, 

 and it very seldom exceeds six. For live bait 

 for pike it is often in great request, on account 

 of its hardiness and attractive colour. 



