336 BOOK OF THE BLACK BASS. 



weeds and other obstacles, and may be used in still-fishing, 

 where crawfish, frogs or helgramites are used as bait ; but, 

 when used, it should be as small as possible, consistent 

 with the weight of the sinker required, and should be em- 

 ployed for the sole purpose of keeping the hook away from 

 the bottom, and not as an object of intense and constant 

 observation to indicate a bite. 



An egg-shaped, oval, long or barrel-shaped cork-float 

 may be used : or, still better, perhaps, a swan-quill or por- 

 cupine-quill float may be employed with advantage, in sit- 

 uations referred to above. 



The best of all, however, and the only real improvement 

 ever made in fishing-floats, is the " Patent Adjustable En- 

 ameled Float." This handy article, instead of the usual 

 ring and quill slide, has spiral rings of wire at each end 

 of the float, for ready attachment or detachment to or from 

 the line without removing the bait or hook. The attach- 

 ment is made in a moment to any portion of the line; and, 

 when attached, can be moved up or down the line at will, 

 and will remain stationary wherever placed. These floats 

 are hollow, quite light, and well finished. To those an- 

 glers who are partial to the use of a float, it is an inven- 

 tion of great merit and advantage. 



THE SWIVEL. 



A brass box-swivel should always be employed in bait- 

 fishing for Black Bass. It prevents, in a great measure, 

 the twisting, kinking and snarling of the line, so annoying 

 to the angler. In rod-fishing, the smallest sizes Nos. 5 

 or 6 are large enough ; and, usually, no additional weight 

 or sinker will be required. The line should be made fast 



