126 ON TROUTING WITH THE FLY. 



flies used this month, as well as in the end of 

 August, should be a size or two larger than those 

 used during summer approaching in size to a spring 

 fly. After a flood capital sport may be had ; the 

 trout will rise almost as freely as in the month of 

 May, and though in general out of condition, the 

 angler will still meet with some that will test 

 freely both his skill and tackle. They will con- 

 tinue taking through October, but excepting the 

 small ones, are in such poor condition, as to be 

 totally unfit for use. 



The sizes of flies we have indicated are those 

 suitable for southern streams. In highland rivers, 

 where the trout are not so numerous or wary, flies 

 considerably larger than those we have mentioned 

 will frequently secure the best trout. 



Fly-fishing in streams inhabited by cunning, 

 cautious trout, when the water is- low and clear, is 

 undoubtedly the kind of fishing which requires 

 most science. And for our own part we would 

 rather capture ten pounds weight of trout in some 

 much-fished southern stream open to the public, 

 than twice that quantity in some preserved water, 

 or remote highland stream, where the trout seldom 

 see an artificial fly, and are ready to seize anything 

 that presents itself in the shape of food. Fishing 

 in preserved water loses a great part of its pleasure. 

 We like to be free to seek trout where we like, and 

 take them where we can ; and as there is more merit, 

 there is more pleasure, in filling a basket where all 



