Fish-hooks. 27 



demonstration on the part of the angler which answers 

 a rise, leaves a wide margin of power to meet this de- 

 mand many times multiplied. 



Theoretically this shifting the barb end to one side 

 should prevent the fly from swimming on an even keel, 

 but I apprehend this evil may well be classed with the 

 " hog-back " of the Sproat and O'Shaugnessy, as of the- 

 oretical rather than practical importance. The form of 

 barb given to this hook is generally superior to the 

 Sproat, and if its point occupied the same relative po- 

 sition in reference to the " draft-line," I should prefer 

 it ; but always, be it understood, with the angle which 

 unites the bend to the shank somewhat softened off, as 

 indeed it now is in some, but not all, makes of this 

 hook. Omitting the " side rake," we should then have 

 Mr. Pennell's form. 



The O'Shaugnessy is also an excellent hook. While 

 the general form of the barb is such as to afford easy 

 penetration, its extreme point is given a slight bend out- 

 ward to insure prompt initial engagement. Many ex- 

 cellent American anglers consider this the best of all 

 hooks. 



The Barbless speaks for itself. It is quite prompt to 

 engage, requires less force than any other to imbed it, 

 and, as to holding power, is so dead sure that to my 

 mind it is almost unsportsmanlike to use it. 



Again, for the benefit of the novice we emphasize the 

 caution that he cannot be too particular as to this part 

 of his outfit. Remember it is always the best fish which 

 are lost, and absolutely eschew cheap hooks. 



During August, 1884, and since the foregoing was 

 written, a friend presented me with a couple of dozen 

 " Pennell " hooks adapted to the large flies used on the 



