THE WIND CAST. 357 



results in a corresponding downward strain set up voluntarily ; or, in 

 other words, the rod bends back so far that, in propelling the line, its 

 action reduces the strain on the muscles of the Angler. 



And what is the meaning of " nipping " ? It means checking with a 

 vengeance. Nipping expresses that almost indescribable action of checking 

 the rod violently, which is often but very inadequately expressed by the 

 unbearable word " jerking." 



For the behoof of novices I feel obliged to travel over old paths once 

 again ; and let it be understood at the onset that the words " tug " and 

 "counter-influence " are synonymous terms. 



Now it is a fact that the full power of the tug's real influence can be, 

 and is, engendered in the lifting of the line. It, of course, varies according 

 to the degree of strength used. The tug is less felt in the " Overhand " 

 than in the " Underhand," because the strength used is greater. In any 

 ordinary cast the Angler feels the tug, and delights in it when making the 

 " thrash-down " at the right moment, though, if too late, he feels nothing 

 of it at all. Lose any of this influence and the loss, in most cases, is 

 detected at once ; but not in the Wind Cast at any time, or, at all events 

 until too late. 



So entirely does the issue in the Wind Cast depend upon this counter 

 influence that, were it dissevered or dispelled, the most dexterous man 

 alive could not possibly get the line out. But above all it must be repeated 

 that any such disseveratioii brings in its wake a far more serious trouble ; 

 for that nip without that identical tug, and the rod is doomed to all intents 

 and purposes. 



For all its difficulties the judicious beginner will not hurriedly 

 condemn the Wind Cast, nor hesitate to try to master the method. 

 For me, many fond memories surround it, and I believe it destined 

 to the honour of circumventing fish, when all other known methods are 

 impracticable. 



The cast is, in short, a triumph of ingenuity and skill and high-spirited 

 endeavour following the dictates of much thought and consideration. 

 And, judging from what I have myself seen hastily done by novices, I 

 would say, " search slowly into it ; for, as experience teaches, those who 

 are quick in searching, seldom search to the quick. 



