LIVE-BAITING. 173 



a broadish strip of the skin (only) from i^ inches to 2\ inches 

 broad, according to the size of the bait, bringing it out in the 

 direction of the tail. Then draw the gimp gently and carefully 

 through until the shank of the hook is hidden under the skin. 

 The loop of the gimp is then re-attached to the hook-swivel on 

 the trace and the tackle is complete. 



In performing this process the bait should be handled with 

 the utmost gentleness, not only to prevent causing any unavoid- 

 able pain, but also with the view to its longevity. The great 

 point in which care would be required is to avoid passing the 

 baiting-needle through the flesh as well as under the skin, and 

 in order to effect this the bait should be held perfectly flat. 



The disadvantage of this tackle, as in the case of all other 

 gorge-baits, is, of course, that the fish has an opportunity of 

 changing his mind if he thinks proper, and rejecting the bait 

 before swallowing. The hooks on the other hand are less con- 

 spicuous than those used in the snap-tackle, and the fish are 

 consequently less likely to be scared by them. 



