WADING. 429 



finally ascertain that they will not give way ; then, and not until then, 

 you raise the hind foot. 



Always keep the legs fairly wide apart ; this will give you a 

 firmer balance ; and never on any consideration face or turn your 

 back directly up-stream, unless you are certain you can do so with 

 impunity. 



In getting back up-stream from deep water, take short steps side- 

 ways. Step over, or on one side of boulders, do not tread on them if 

 you can possibly avoid it. 



Constantly look up river in order to be prepared for any floating 

 debris. And remember the one great secret in the case of quick-sand or 

 gravel, namely, always to clear away the material with the gaff behindyou 

 and take your foot out heel first. 



It is generally believed that wading is injurious to health, but I am 

 convinced this depends upon circumstances. In my opinion, the early 

 spring is not detrimental to health, provided the Angler so dresses as not 

 to feel the cold water in the least degree. 



He may require, besides flannel drawers, long stockings reaching to 

 the thigh, and having straps at top and bottom. The upper straps button 

 to the trousers under the waistcoat ; the lower ones fixed on each side of 

 the stockings fit under the feet and so prevent any working up the leg. 

 No ; it is in the height of summer that a wader suffers, unless he con- 

 stantly takes the precaution of airing his waders. Too strict a regimen 

 would undoubtedly be wearisome ; but, in this case, if the damp, which 

 escapes freely from our bodies in warm weather, is forced back upon the 

 pores of the skin, it is far from pleasant, anything but wholesome, and 

 man be very injurious to health. 



^Vhile upon this subject, I may be allowed to add my experience 

 in regard to the Anglers fishing dress. I need not enter into 

 particulars for a complete outfit, but lightness for summer, and 

 warmth for spring and autumn, are the chief characteristics to be 

 studied. 



The proper get-up for fishing, nowadays, is very different from what 

 it was in times gone by, when any old morning coat was brought out for 

 the purpose. We were satisfied then by tucking the tails inside the 



