HANDLING BARBEL. 6l 



rings, but too large to pass through those of the float, 

 is attached. At the right depth of the swim to be 

 fished the freedom thus accorded to the float works 

 admirably in fishing deep and difficult reaches, and 

 not only this, but the extra power possessed by the 

 user in fishing at greater distances is no despicable 

 advantage over the old stationary system. In 

 addition to the different methods of fishing for barbel, 

 these fish are to be taken by roach and dace tackle, 

 as also by spinning occasionally. 



To handle a barbel artistically, as we have previ- 

 ously stated, requires a certain amount of practice and 

 skill ; perfect presence of mind is essential to com- 

 mence with, and experience will do the rest. When- 

 ever a float is not used (as in ledgering), the line is 

 held between the fore-finger and thumb of the left 

 hand, the least movement of the bait at the other 

 extremity being then felt, when the line is preserved 

 straight, and with no loose links, ample time being 

 given to strike at once effectually. The extreme 

 sensitiveness of the touch in this respect, is often a 

 matter of surprise. The larger and more cunning of 

 the fish will often attempt, especially when the hook 

 is plainly visible, to head the bait from the hook, and 

 that, too, without seriously disturbing the line ; the 

 rodster, however, if at all on the alert, will not fail to 

 detect this dishonest attempt before the swindling act 

 can be fully effected. When there is circumstantial 

 evidence of an attempt at underhand dealing after 

 this fashion, a very fine tackle, with a strong hook of 

 fair size, should be mounted with a couple of medium- 



