PIKE. 37 



The next is the Spring Snap: 



which is baited in the following manner : the small hook is 

 inserted under the back fin of the bait, and the large hooks 

 hang at the side. When the Pike seizes the bait, strike 

 sharply and the large hooks fly out in contrary directions, 

 the shanks being flattened for the purpose. 



The Saddle Snap is a very effective tackle, a sketch is 

 annexed of one ready-baited, the bait hangs on the small hook, 

 which is inserted under the back fin, and a triangle is sus- 

 pended on either side. 



To hold the flights, traces, snap-hooks, &c., the angler 

 should be provided with a proper Tin Case about six or seven 

 inches long, by three or four wide ; deep in proportion ; with 

 divisions, so as to keep the tackle separate as much as possible ; 

 the cover of the one I use is the form of a box, divided to 

 hold traces, extra weights, &c. 



Always make it a rule to bait your hook the last thing 

 after you have made all complete, as regard line, float, &c., 

 and on hooking a Pike, do not strain on him too hard ; for 

 although I never play a fish longer than I can help, yet when 

 he plays well there is really no necessity to strain the tackle 

 merely for the sake of landing him a minute or two sooner. 



And, lastly, remember when Jack-fishing in a place very- 

 likely for them to lay, not to leave after a throw or two only, 

 but let the bait work the place well, especially if you have 

 seen a fish move there before. Try well every foot of likely 

 water, and if not successful try again as you return. Nil 

 desperandum. 



