448 . BOOK OF THE BLACK BASS. 



be kept in a cool room, of uniform temperature, and 

 never in a room heated by a furnace or a stove. A dry 

 atmosphere will cause the joints to shrink, and the ferrules 

 to become loose, while a damp, or constantly changing .at- 

 mosphere will cause them tot-wist and warp. The wrappings 

 of the guides, rings, or hand-piece should be frequently 

 looked to, when in use, and the rod should be varnished 

 once or twice during the season. Coach varnish is good, 

 but the best, perhaps, is a saturated solution of shellac in al- 

 cohol ; it should be put on quite thin and evenly, and one or 

 two coats applied as may be needed, using a soft rag or 

 sponge; it soon dries and is perfectly waterproof. In 

 Izaak Walton's day rods were painted, and he gives minute 

 directions for preparing the sizing, the paint, and the man- 

 ner of applying them. Wood, to preserve its elasticity, 

 must be protected from the changes of the atmosphere. 



CARE OF THE REEL. 



A fine reel should receive as much care as a watch, so 

 far as this can be done, consistently, with its use. It should 

 never be laid on the sand or bare ground, or exposed in 

 any way to favor the introduction of sand or grit into the 

 working parts. When not in use it should be kept in a 

 box, or in a buckskin or chamois bag. At the beginning 

 and end of each season it should be carefully taken apart, 

 cleaned and oiled. After use, it should be always wiped 

 clean, and rubbed with an oiled rag or chamois skin. 



A first-class reel will last an angler his life-time, with 

 proper care. Especially is a multiplying reel to be well 

 cared for, as it is more complicated, and has more gearing 

 than a click reel. The screw that holds the movable 



