TROUT FLY-MAKING. 



59 



of practical results. The reader must imagine the 

 interest it has aroused in order to fill the interregnum, 

 and permit me to now plunge in medias res of the 

 subject of its manufacture as it now is. 



The first consideration in reference to fly-making is the 

 selection of a hook, and it is necessary to remind the 



Fig. 30. AUTHOR'S IDEAL OF HOOK. 



reader of the unavoidable principles which should guide 

 the angler in this selection. First, and chief, is strength ; 

 second, penetration ; third, fouling or hooking power ; 

 fourth, holding power. Strength is a matter pertaining 

 to the maker, and a good maker is not likely to sell a 

 weak article. Hence, deal with a respectable firm and pay 



