SPINNING FOR TROUT. 87 



of the minnow. When this arrangement of hooks is 

 correctly inserted the bait is more secure, and will be 

 found to last longer than when mounted in the older and 

 general style. 



The most objectionable "flights" are those consisting 

 of a number of small hooks, whether triangular or other- 

 wise; the ease with which they are broken renders them 

 an abomination when used amongst weighty fish. An- 

 other arrangement, which is also very good, whilst being 

 very simple to fit up for use, is the old leaded wire tackle, 

 which, in lieu of the two side flanges, is fitted with a tiny 

 " Fishing Gazette" spinner, plate III., fig. 3. The bait 

 is mounted merely by thrusting the weighted wire down 

 the mouth, the position being rendered secure by means 

 of the side hooks, which are to be partly hidden in the 

 minnow. For strong currents this tackle is well adapted, 

 its action in the water being perfectly straight and nat- 

 ural; for more open streams the first referred to is recom- 

 mended, as being all that can be reasonably desired. In 

 most waters the natural minnow is preferable, when pro- 

 curable. In some streams the skillfully used artificial 

 will, how r ever, not only turn over as many fish, but will 

 kill even more than the natural, the hooks upon it hav- 

 ing greater play, while being hid iii a measure by better 

 spinning action. Amongst the many " artificials " now 

 in use, we may mention a few of those that are most dis- 

 tinguished for deadly qualities. The "Devon" or "Totnes" 

 (improved pattern), the "Derby Trout Killer," the "Uni- 

 versal Killer, " and ' ' Foster's Excelsior. " The first named 

 is an old reliable bait, originally introduced by a clever 

 Devonshire fisherman. Improvements have lately been 

 made in its construction, which renders it perhaps one of 

 the most effective baits for " all round " fishing that has 

 hitherto appeared. The bait is heavier metalled, German 

 silver being substituted for the plated brass formerly 

 used. The side flanges are larger and heavier, which 



