SSI 



to possess, of shortening that line at pleasure : under 

 other circumstances, he is proceeding in a gross, and con- 

 tradictory error ! 



Every one who tuhips with the fly, ought to have a 

 good reel, and his rod ought to be ringed in a proper 

 manner. This line should be of WOVEN HAIR, tapering 

 to a point, not exceeding three, or at the utmost four 

 hairs, where the loop should be made, with exquisite 

 neatness, for fastening on the gut foot length; which 

 should also be taper, by means of the thicker: lengths of 

 gut being uppermost. All the knots on the gut should 

 be fastened down in the best manner. 



This hair line should increase gradually, from three 

 (or four) hairs, to any number the circumstances may 

 demand j but in general, about twelve or sixteen hairs 

 will be found ample. The line ought to be at least thirty 

 yards long ; and where the fishes run large, fifty yards 

 may be requisite ; especially in broad waters. Where a 

 very long line is used, a multiplying reel is indispensable j 

 both on account of its size, and to wind up, or let out, with 

 rapidity. In very extensive waters, use the double-mul- 

 tiplier. 



I have before stated, that hair lines, in particular, must 

 never be put by damp : it is better to leave your rod 

 standing outside your house, let it rain ever so hard, 

 than to bring your reel-line in wet. It may dry in your 

 $oom, in time 5 but if there is much warmth, the hair 

 will snarl. 



Where the waters lay fairly open, there will seldom be 

 much difficulty in throwing the line to such places, within 

 your reach, as may offer the lure fairly to fishes rising at 

 flies. In judging of that circumstance, however, the 



young 



