428 THE SALMON FLY. 



pointed, after the fashion of an ice nail. They screw into the sole with 

 nearly half-inch projecting. I used to make these myself, and found I 

 could stand firmly on almost any rock. 



Many prefer boots to shoes. I much prefer the latter, and get them 

 made with soles three-quarters of an inch thick by Cording, of Piccadilly. 

 The Norwegian " Kimagas " he makes are fashionable at the present 

 time. The forepart of these wading boots is constructed of one piece of 

 material, built so high that all pressure on the feet is avoided. 



To this must be added the farther consideration that from ill-health, 

 accident, or advance of years, many Anglers are incapacitated from 

 wading. A really comfortable leather boot, watertight, is such an indis- 

 pensable article that I never lose an opportunity of recommending the 

 " Wye Boot," which is made by Hatton Brothers, of Hereford. Mine 

 have been in wear since July, 1885 (nine seasons), and are still soft and 

 sound. I dress them with Griffin's Preservative (Beading) and use them 

 only when fishing from the bank. In dry, hot weather I wear the High- 

 land brogues, made at Aberdeen by Lorimer and Son. Nothing, in my 

 opinion, could be more comfortable. 



Not the least important item among other matters in wading is "to 

 keep ourselves dry," and so long as we do not trip or stoop, there is little 

 to fear on this score. Nor need the student be alarmed by the common 

 report which is current in regard to swimming in waders. I have been 

 out of my depth many a time, and, except that the pace was naturally 

 impeded, I have been fortunate enough never once to be troubled by the 

 sensation of my head going down and my legs coming up. 



In crossing a ford, the impetus of the water generally varies ; in one 

 moment it may be pressing us hard, while in the next, yet in the same 

 spot, it is comparatively easy to stand against. The directions here are 

 very simple to follow. You cannot take too short steps if the current 

 runs fast, and before each one, firmly plant the Alpenstock in front, 

 down-stream, somewhat in advance. A little presence of mind is worth 

 any amount of muscle. 



The next rule to be studied is to dig one foot in before moving the 

 other. Press the foot firmly down and force it as it were while so doing 

 to the right and then to the left to " dig " the nails in, when you will 



