TROUT OF THE SPRINGS 119 



where they get their food, if not from the air, is 

 something of a puzzle. One naturally would ex- 

 pect them to be insect feeders, but such has not 

 been my experience. Surely the trout of the 

 streams find more worms and food of that sort 

 than do the fish of which I write. Well, I am 

 not dealing in theories ; I am only reporting my 

 own findings. I have found worms and even a 

 bit of chub flesh very enticing. The eye of a fish 

 is not to be passed lightly by. 



As to tackle, that can be passed with but a 

 word. I would use the regulation fly-rod, with 

 reel below the hand, whether fishing with flies or 

 worms: such a rod is always more satisfactory 

 and sportsmanlike. The reel should be of the 

 multiplying variety, preferably one without the 

 offset balance handle. Standard enameled line, 

 with small hooks. As to flies, when I have suc- 

 ceeded in inducing the trout to rise to them at 

 all it has been to rather sober colors: Stone, 

 Willow, the gray and brown Hackles, etc. Do 

 not think that under the circumstances a large 

 fly will prove attractive; the reverse is true. A 

 small trolling-spoon, just a wee glint of silver, 

 will sometimes stir the fellows that lie on the 

 bottom. As to methods, the angler will need to 

 employ all the skill and stealth of which he is 



