THE SALMON FAMILY. 247 



two species, the Bull-Trout possessing the longest and 

 strongest amongst the three fish, and the Salmon those of 

 medium size short, stout, and pointed. 



Thirdly, shape and size of the tail-fins. These are a less 

 certain test than the teeth and gill-covers, as they vary 

 much in different stages of growth ; and, with the diagrams 

 of the former already given, an appeal to them will be found 

 superfluous. They are usually, however, as follows: 



SALMON. BULL-TROUT. SEA-TROUT. 



Tail-fin deeply forked Becomes square at Less forked than in 

 when young, less so an earlier period Salmon of same 

 at 3rd year ; at 5th than in Salmon, age ; becomes ulti- 

 year nearly or quite and afterwards gra- mately square. Tail 

 square. dually convex. shorter and smaller 



than in Salmon. 



The shape and position of the other fins also vary, though 

 in a less degree ; and as they may be sometimes found 

 useful in deciding upon exceptional or doubtful specimens, 

 they are given under the " Characteristics" at the end of 

 the notice. 



By a little attention to the foregoing points, and by 

 comparing the gill- covers as shown in the engraving with 

 those of the specimens in his basket, the young Salmon- 

 fisher will speedily acquire a knowledge of the proper 

 names of the several species, and be able to distinguish 

 them at a glance *. 



* It is suggested to the inexperienced angler, before starting on his 



