io8 FISHING KITS AND EQUIPMENT 



servedly that they are the finest casting rods in the 

 market; that is, in solid wood. Bethabara comes next 

 and is hard to find in the tackle stores. I know of only 

 one tackle maker who regularly furnishes bethabara 

 rods. Rods of greenheart and lancewood are furnished 

 by all the dealers in the most desirable lengths and 

 styles. 



As a general utility rod for bait-casting probably 

 nothing is better than a steel rod of the best grade 

 and there are many poor grades. They are furnished 

 in different styles and in all lengths. The best rods are 

 made with solid-cork hand-grasp and independent butt. 

 They are guaranteed for three years. Any number of 

 agates may be fitted, and German silver trumpet guides 

 are furnished regularly on some of them. Provided the 

 rod is wiped dry after using, to avoid rust, it is always 

 ready for use no frayed windings, warped joints and 

 the like. Of course, considering a rod as merely a cast- 

 ing machine, the steel rod is not the equal of the good 

 split-bamboo and solid wood rods. The steel rod is, 

 however, about four times better than a split-bamboo of 

 equal price. The steel rod is a good one to learn the 

 game with and, also, a very handy tool at any time. 

 Do not, on a trip which will take you out of striking 

 distance of the tackle shops, depend solely on a steel 

 rod. It cannot be spliced. 



The history of the bait-casting rod begins with the 

 rod known as the " Henshall," made to the specifica- 

 tions of Dr. James A. Henshall, whose work in the 



