162 AUTUMNS IN ARGYLESHIBE 



as my light tackle would safely bear ; and the 

 longer your rod the more difficult it is to gaff 

 your own salmon. The pools were small and low, 

 and the fish hardly ever attempted to leave them ; 

 and as I said before, it was easy to follow them 

 along the banks, and unnecessary and inexpedient 

 to let them have a great deal of line out. Of 

 course it must also be remembered that the fish 

 were autumn fish in fair condition for the time 

 of year ; but not to compare with spring salmon. 

 Another advantage of a light rod is that you can 

 strike quick and sharply ; and although I agree 

 with those who hold that it is often a mistake 

 to strike salmon in rough water, this rule does not 

 apply to lochs or still, sluggish streams where it 

 is absolutely essential that eye and hand should 

 be quick, and act together. 



