DRY FLY TACKLE-THE ROD 



Casting the Fly is so Extremely Delicate 



The method of fishing with dry flies is so extremely deli- 

 cate, artistic and precise, that it is almost compulsory to 

 use the special tools now made for it. These special tools 

 rod, reel, line and leader are somewhat more expensive 

 than what is used for wet fishing, yet, if reasonable care is 

 bestowed on them, they will last so much longer as to be 

 cheapest in the end. 



When you buy a new rod, have it made to fit yourself. 

 The length and weight all depends upon a man's physical 

 power and build. Generally speaking, the short man re- 

 quires a three to four ounce, eight and a half foot rod. 

 Medium size man fits to a four ounce, nine foot rod. The 

 large, heavy man can use if so desired a heavier weight, 

 but anglers, big and little, buy their rods no longer than 

 nine feet, four and a half to five and a half in weight. You 

 cannot cast the dry fly accurately, or far, or properly handle 

 a heavy fish with a very limber rod along with a heavy 

 weight line. 



It is conceded by many experts that Leonard rods are 

 unapproached for dry fly fishing. They have no com- 

 petitors in lightness, strength, or flexibility, and regular pat- 

 terns of any weight or length are made suitable for both 

 dry and wet fishing. If the amateur buys a Leonard, he 

 should order the mountings oxidized and an additional agate 

 guide in place of bottom guide on the butt of rod, and also 

 agate guides on the two tips which greatly facilitates cast- 

 ing. The price of these rods is about fifty dollars. 



SOME "DON'TS" REGARDING RODS 



Never lay your expensive rod on the ground while ex- 

 changing leader or flies; if you don't step on it, an obliging 

 companion will. Place the rod upright against bush or tree. 



Always keep joints well oiled at end of season; if they 

 stick, pull out without twisting. 



8 



