32 SCIENCE OF FISHING. 



In weight the bait-casting rod should not exceed eight 

 ounces, and should be lighter, but, of course, there is a 

 limit in this direction. Split bamboo rods may be lighter 

 than any others, and a rod of five and a half or six feet 

 should weigh just that many ounces. A solid wood rod 

 would be somewhat heavier, perhaps an ounce average, and a 

 steel rod is even heavier than one of wood. 



The action of a bait-casting rod at the best is nothing to 

 speak of, but where there is a difference choose the one that 

 has the most life and snap to it. One could not expect 

 much action in a five and a half foot rod, however, and for 



Fly Rod (upper) and Bait Rod (lower). 



that reason many of the old-time anglers who are accustomed 

 to the longer bait rod do not take kindly to the newer, 

 short, stiff affair now so much used. It is certain that there 

 is less pleasure in playing and handling a fish with a bait- 

 casting rod, but longer and more accurate casts can be 

 made with it. 



Bait-casting rods vary in price, naturally, and one can 

 pay just about what he can afford, or what he chooses. Of 

 course the more you pay the better the article you get. A 

 bait-casting rod may be secured for the sum of one dollar 

 that will give good service, but the best cost from twenty to 

 thirty dollars. Very good wood rods may be purchased at 



