HOW TO CAST THE BAIT. 187 



thus applied retains its natural shape in the water, and is 

 free to writhe and twist about, as if it had no connection 

 whatever with either gut or steel, and will be found to 

 throw the most wary fish off their guard. 



CASTING. 



Having now got all the tackle arranged, and the 

 hooks baited according to one or other of the methods 

 described, the next thing that requires attention will be 

 the proper method of using them. 



On arriving at the scene of action, draw out as much 

 line as will extend a yard or so beyond the length of 

 the rod in fact such a length of line as can be con- 

 veniently cast and managed with ease. Having next 

 adjusted the sinkers, and put on the bait, proceed to 

 the top of the shallow above the stream (I always fish 

 down the stream, and would recommend every sane 

 man to do the same), and, using every precaution to 

 keep as far from the water and as perfectly concealed 

 from view as possible, cast or rather swing the bait up 

 and obliquely across the river, endeavouring to make 

 it alight quietly in the water. Then following it down 

 stream a few yards or so, until it has swept its allotted 

 space of water, draw it close to the edge before lifting 

 it out, so as to cause no disturbance. Again stepping 

 a few yards upwards, repeat the cast ; each time com- 

 mencing a few paces lower down than the beginning of 

 the previous one. Endeavour also to guide the bait into 

 all the eddies and shallows by the sides of the stream, 



