THE SECOND LESSON 



My son, it does not add to a fisherman's luck or 

 ability if he attires himself in a fishing suit, although 

 there are people who will tell you that clothing made 

 after the coloring of the rocks and trees is not liable 

 to attract the attention of the bass. The hunting 

 jacket, with pockets for everything, facilitates the 

 pleasure, but does not necessarily add to success. Those 

 who would, prefer knee breeches and stockings, and 

 for the feet have laced shoes with hobnails in the 

 soles, or cloth-topped shoes, which lace tightly, fitted 

 with rubber soles to prevent slipping. As to head gear, 

 a cap or felt hat is to be preferred, or for boat fishing 

 the best adapted is a cambric hat with broad brim, 

 green lined for protection to the eyes and which folds 

 up for the pocket. Woolen goods should be worn in 

 the shape of a shirt and a belt is preferable to sus- 

 penders, it allowing freedom of action and relief for 

 the shoulders. 



There are many kinds of rods, and while there are 

 those who will tell you of the wonderful catches made 

 by the plain country people on common poles cut for 

 the day, these fishermen lose as many bass as they 

 catch. The bass must have some leeway and elasticity 

 in order to turn and take the bait, therefore a rod 

 without guides and a line to run from a reel, is not 

 the most desirable. There are many varieties of rods 

 manufactured and there are fishermen who are adepts 

 in their construction. The bamboo is most generally 

 used. It is made short, long, stiff or elastic, and is 

 perhaps the most delicate in workmanship. It is 

 usually made of three joints, with a fourth or extra 

 tip for use in case a tip is broken. The lancewood 



26 



