2 THE ART OF FISHIXG. 



forbid the use of the " bow or hoop net " to catch 

 tench in the months of May and June the only 

 time of the year, perhaps, when they are on the 

 move ; because, in rivers especially, these choice 

 fish are seldom taken without some such process. 

 I say the same, again, of the " flew net," to be set 

 across the stream at the same time of the year, 

 and left to stand a few hours, to catch these fish. 

 I will now speak of the " casting net." 

 Its circumference should be from twelve to 

 fourteen yards ; not too heavily leaded, that you 

 may cast it the farther, if required ; and observe, 

 that the smaller or lighter the net, the longer 

 should be your line say, twenty yards at least. 



In catching baits, it often happens that you 

 must have strength of arm, and length of line, 

 sufficient (unless the river be very broad) to cast 

 your net to the centre of the stream ; as the baits 

 or small fry immediately rush towards the cur- 

 rent on your approach to the water, and will be 

 soon out of reach unless you be very quick and 

 adroit at this art, more especially if the water be 

 clear. From ten to fifteen yards from the bank 

 of the river you must have the net ready on your 

 arm ; and, if possible, the sun in front of you, 

 that your shadow may not frighten the fish when 

 you approach. In throwing, avoid casting your 



