SELECTION, CARE, AND RIGGING 



for either bait-fishing or the casting of the 

 wooden minnow and other lures of that class. 

 But we would not want a novice to begin his 

 fly-casting lessons equipped with a steel fly- 

 rod, nor have we ever met with a veteran rodster 

 who preferred this style for fishing with the 

 fly. 



While the split-bamboo rod is a wonderful 

 instrument capable of withstanding marvelous 

 strains, and will serve you efficiently during 

 years of repeated strenuous use if properly cared 

 for, the best of the kind that was ever put up 

 may be irreparably damaged by carelessness or 

 rank abuse. Surely such an enduring companion 

 is worthy of all proper respect and consideration. 

 The writer has a five-ounce rod of his own man- 

 ufacture, made over fifteen years ago and in use 

 nearly every season since then, which today is 

 in perfect condition; and he expects it to be 

 the same fifteen years hence. 



Never leave your rod lying on the ground for 

 any length of time, and never leave it in the 

 bottom of a boat, an invitation for it to be 

 stepped on. Above all do not leave it lying out 

 over-night, or standing up against a tree or the 

 side of the tent in camp. Do not leave it out 

 over-night at all take it indoors; and keep it 

 out of the water when fishing. After use, care- 

 fully straighten out any joints that may have 

 become bent from unusual stress, dry it with a 

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