DACE. 69 



in deep still water, that has gravel or sand upon 

 the bottom, but not in shaded places. Its iesh 

 is coarse and soft, and full of bones, yet it is 

 considered palatable and nourishing. It sel- 

 'dpm grows to be a pound in weight. 



The Dace is a very simple fish, and therefore 

 easily taken. It spawns at the end of March or 

 beginning of April ; previous to which they ap- 

 pear on the shallows in great numbers, rubbing 

 themselves on the bottom, feeding on small worms 

 and insects until they deposit their spawn, 

 which they generally do in loose light gravel. 

 At this season the Dace will take a small red 

 worm freely; maggots, wasp-grubs, greaves, 

 and paste made of cheese and honey, are also 

 very good baits ; it bites well all day, and, after 

 the river has been disturbed by rain, and is a- 

 gain falling fine, great quantities may be taken 

 with the maggot. The line for either purpose 

 cannot be too fine ; the bottom to be at least 

 two yards of gut or single hair; the hook for 

 maggots No. 9, but for any other bait a little 

 larger ; using a very small quill float. By bait- 

 ing several places before you begin, with what- 

 ever bait you intend to angle, good sport may 

 be depended upon. When the river is low and 

 fine, it may be taken with any of the small ar- 

 tificial flies, particularly the Black Gnat, the 

 Red and Black Ants, Whirling Blue, Willow, &c. 



