302 



BLACK BASSE ANGLING IN MICHIGAN. 



bank, he should not go straight to the place, splashing the water 

 with his oars, but make a circuit above, and drop down with 

 the current, keeping his anchor overboard till he reaches the 

 proper spot, then let it go with as little noise as possible. Cast 

 the bait well out into the stream, and let it swing round into 

 the eddy, keeping it in motion by drawing it towards him a 

 yard or two at a time, and letting it run out again with the 

 stream. My word for it, if he is on Basse ground, he'll soon 

 have a lusty pull. Now care is necessary. Cool now ! Don't 

 strike too quick, for the scaly rascals like to mouthe the tempt- 

 ing, struggling morsel a bit (and they have to swallow it head 

 first, you know). So wait, my friend, till he gives another 

 strong decided pull, then "have at him." Now caution and 

 steadiness are required if he make a burst, keep your drag 

 upon him, but not too strongly, or he'll spring from the water 

 and shake the hook out if it has merely gone through the 

 membrane which lines the tough cartilage of the nose, but 

 steadily, and he'll give you fine play, for he is full of vigor. Reel 

 him in gently, but be careful he don't run under your boat, and 

 foul your line or leader ; there he is, within reach ! Now the 

 landing net and voila ! the stout rogue, flapping in the bottom 

 of your boat, with his capacious jaws wide spread, and the 

 morning sun gilding his emerald side. 



The sportsman on a western angling tour will find Basse 

 ground in the Niagara river, at and near Black Rock, a few 

 miles from Buffalo ; at the islands near the head of Lake Erie ; 

 at many points in the Detroit river ; on the St. Clair flats, or 

 western " overslaugh," at the upper end of Lake St. Clair ; and 

 at Fort Gratiot near the entrance to Lake Huron. 



