THE UNDERHAND. 327 



unsuited for the " Overhand," as the all-powerful " Traherne " is for the 

 Spey cast, or for killing fish in low, bright water with fine gut. 



THE UNDERHAND CAST. 



It seems but yesterday that I w r as reading, I forget where, of the folly 

 of using more than five and twenty yards of line. But I believe the writer 

 was no approved authority ; at least, his reasoning appeared to me as 

 remarkably suggestive of the fellow who would attempt to describe 

 the habits and customs of mankind with only a knowledge of those of 

 one nation. 



Five and twenty yards by the " Underhand," is, without doubt, a 

 pretty little length to get out fair and square ; but I have been, I am and 

 always shall be, of the opinion that a long line in Salmon-fishing is often 

 as necessary as a short one. The question seems to be disputed only by 

 those who, from some fault in method or tackle, are unable to cover or 

 control a fish in the distance. To propel a really long line by the 

 " Underhand " is, however, impossible, yet the cast is as popular 

 in places as the "Overhand" is worshipped. This may be accounted 

 for by the fact that it frequently satisfies the requirements of men 

 getting on in years who seek entertainment with the smallest degree of 

 exertion. 



The " Underhand " is far less tiring than other methods, and will 

 exact from the novice a minimum of intellectual effort for its com- 

 prehension. 



The leading features will be brought before the eye and mind of the. 

 student, by a mere casual study of the accompanying illustration. With 

 the picture before him he will comprehend, without verbal instruction, 

 the simple method that dominates the cast. Perhaps a little explanation 

 in regard to certain details may be of service, but I fail to see the 

 written description that would answer the purpose so well as the picture. 



Let us first take the way in which the Angler should stand to fish ; 

 for whilst the " Underha.nd " demands from its devotees a good attitude, 

 they are, at any rate, released from the duty of "fiddling" the line as 

 they proceed. 



