1>0 WHEN TO STRIKE IN WORM-FISHING. 



prove to be a snag, a submerged furze-bush, or a dead 

 dog ; but this will be readily ascertained on tightening 

 the line, as those species of game are not in the habit 

 of gyrating about in the water, in the same lively manner 

 as an offended trout, but doggedly and stubbornly per- 

 sist in retaining their position at the bottom, in spite of 

 impatient tugs and sinister blessings. These mulish 

 fraternity, too, take an especial delight in smashing the 

 rods and tackle of all gentlemen of sanguine tempera- 

 ment, who assail them too rudely. Civility is said to 

 be due to every one, and my sporting friends will agree 

 with me, that the more gently even a sunken log is dealt 

 with the better. 



On the other hand, in fishing a still pool the pre- 

 sence of a fish will be indicated by the line being once 

 or twice sharply tugged, and then probably being run 

 off with across the water for some distance. In this 

 case, always wait until the second or third tug is given 

 before striking, as the bait will be several times mouthed 

 before it is gorged, as already explained, and it will 

 even be the safer practice to delay striking until the 

 line decidedly begins to be drawn steadily away, when 

 the fatal twitch may be given, and the fish will be yours. 

 More fish are lost in still pools by fiery-tempered 

 young men than is generally known ! In much-fished 

 rivers, where the trout are unusually wary and suspicious, 

 the above directions must be strictly followed, if the 

 sportsman desires success. I have seen many otherwise 

 good worm-fishers lose dozens of fish for every one they 

 succeeded in landing, by striking the moment they per- 



