62 BAITS. 



and it is amusing to observe the rapidity with 

 which they thrust their hands into the mud, turn 

 over the mass, and extract the worm without 

 injuring it, placing it in any old tin pot or 

 earthenware basin; but as soon as the tide re turns, 

 and they have done digging, they at once wash 

 them perfectly clean and put them in a broad flat 

 box, known by the name of the "bait box" 

 (Plate IV, No. 3) . A little fresh sea water must 

 be put to them each day, the dirt removed, and 

 the stale water poured away ; the box should be 

 kept in a cool place, and, if carefully attended to, 

 the worms will keep for a long time. In baiting 

 with the pollock-worm it is usual to place a couple 

 on the lid of the bait box and then run the hook 

 through the necks just at the back of the head, 

 letting the worm dangle at its full length from the 

 hook. This bait can be used in any way, either at 

 anchor or whiffing. The worms are generally sold 

 by the diggers at from 3d. to 6d. per pint, which 

 is usually enough for one or two days' fishing. 



