LOCH -FISHING. 173 



from the weeds : and when quite tired out, raise its head 

 above water, and tow it rapidly over them. If you can 

 reach beyond the weeds with your landing-net, the diffi- 

 culty in a great measure ceases. 



When salmon or trout spring out of the water, you may 

 be sure that neither will be so apt to rise to your fly, 

 whether in lochs or rivers. 



, THE MINNOW-TACKLE* 



In fishing for trout with the minnow, I also prefer a 

 moderate breeze, unless in bright sunshine, when more 

 wind is necessary. Your tackle should be the very best 

 single gut, dyed with strong tea, or anything to take the 

 shine off; a No. 13 hook and two No. 8's tied back to 

 back : two swivels are enough, and no lead on the line. 

 Any one with the least knowledge of angling knows how 

 to bait. The large hook enters the minnow's mouth and is 

 brought out near the tail, which is curved in order to make 

 it spin ; one of the others is passed through its lips. A fly- 

 top makes the minnow spin more lively, and is therefore 

 preferable to a bait one : the rod-makers will say the reverse. 

 In river-fishing, another branch and couple of small hooks 

 fastened to the gut, and fixed in the minnow's side, are 

 often used ; but I do not recommend them for the lochs. 



* It is very necessary to have wire-cages for par and minnow. By 

 sinking the cages in the nearest burn, leaving the tops above water for air, 

 and feeding the live bait with small worms, they will thrive for months. If 

 the cages are placed in a loch or any still water, they are apt to die. 



