94 THE SCIENTIFIC ANGLER. 



gently dropped in a tiny eddy, its circulating motions 

 are not to be hampered and foiled by the line creating a 

 ripple and disturbance in the immediate proximity of the 

 fish upon the look-out for food. It is seldom advisable 

 to cast more than once in the same place ; when neatly 

 and carefully done, the bait will be readily seized if 

 at all. 



The tackle requisite for worm fishing in clear water, 

 differs considerably from that used in what is discolored, 

 no float being used, and except in rapid torrents, "sink- 

 ers" of any description are not necessary. About a 

 yard-and-a-half of moderately thick gut is generally em- 

 ployed, at the extremity of which is placed one or more 

 Kendal or Carlisle hooks, (size, six in single, seven or 

 eight if double or treble). These should be attached to 

 the gut with cerise or rose-colored silk, so as to match 

 the bait in point of color. The hooks should be white, 

 to prevent them from shining plainly through the bait, 

 which latter should be small, lively, and of good color, 

 no matter whether it be a brandling or cockspur, or even 

 a small lob-worm, so long as it is lively and vigorous, in- 

 stead of being limp, pale, and apparently lifeless. An 

 excellent way of making really durable bottom tackle is 

 to whip a minute scrap of roach, or any other fine line, 

 upon the bare shank of the end hook, so as to form a 

 small and well-nigh invisible loop, which will be found 

 of great utility in general bottom fishing. The very finest 

 gut may be attached by means of a slip knot, without 

 even a chance of its "knocking off" at the head, as is 

 the usual result of a small amount of heavy wear. When 

 baiting, the worm should be carefully threaded up the 

 gut, a small portion of each extremity of the bait being 

 left free, to have as natural an effect as possible. When- 

 ever a small or a solitary hook is employed, the rodster 

 will allow a moment's breathing time ere he gently strikes. 

 By this means it is more than probable that he will sue- 



