FISHING-REELS. 251 



POSITION OF THE REEL ON THE ROD. 



In order to allow the thumb to be used in controlling 

 the cast, a multiplying reel should never be placed less 

 than six inches from the extreme butt of the rod, and 

 should be so placed as to be underneath when reeling up 

 the line. I am aware that some prefer it on top, but the 

 former mode is preferable for the following reasons : The 

 weight of the reel naturally takes it under the rod, enabling 

 the rod to be held steadier when reeling the line, or play- 

 ing the fish ; the strain of the line falls upon the guides, 

 causing a uniform working of the rod; the line is more 

 easily reeled up, and it was intended to be used in this 

 manner. 



The left hand should grasp the rod immediately over the 

 reel, the thumb and forefinger embracing the rod above 

 the reel and as close to it as possible, the ring and little 

 fingers clasping the under surface of the reel, while the 

 middle finger is left free to guide the line on the spool, and 

 prevent bunching. I have noticed that all anglers who 

 prefer to have the butt of the rod extending a foot or more 

 below the reel, always use the reel on top, and when reel- 

 ing in a fish, they invariably rest the butt against the 

 stomach. 



