l6 ALL ABOUT TROUT FISHING. 



that I refrain from any definite recom- 

 mendation apart from cautioning my 

 readers against the purchase of cheap rods. 

 On one point, however, there can be no 

 two opinions, that is, in selecting a rod 

 take extreme care to guard against getting 

 one in the slightest degree too heavy, as 

 this effectually prevents the skilful manipu- 

 lation of the rod that is necessary in up- 

 stream casting. Casting is done chiefly 

 from the wrist ; and if the rod is too 

 heavily balanced it is bound to lead 

 to slovenly and unsatisfactory fishing. 

 Lightness with free action are desirable. 



THE REEL. 



It is also necessary to see that your 

 reel corresponds in w r eight to balance the 

 rod properly. The ratchet should not be 

 at all stiff, otherwise you are certain of 

 being broken by the first run of a fish. 

 Have the drum well filled up with backing, 



