DEPLETED LAKES 243 



the principle of using this valuable human food as 

 manure upon the farm. The quantity of whitefish 

 and other fish then in Lake Ontario we have no 

 record of, but that it was immense there can be no 

 gainsaying." 



The " immense " quantity of fish in Lake Ontario 

 is now almost exhausted. I did not fish it, as I was 

 informed that it was practically worthless. Going 

 further afield to Huntsville, there is evidence that 

 decline has taken place there in both bass and trout. 

 The lakes near Huntsville are played out, and to 

 obtain good sport one must go to less frequented 

 water beyond Dorset. To find a remedy for the 

 depletion is a necessity. It is quite evident that the 

 Government are aware of the facts. Mr. Evans, their 

 commissioner, has not failed to report to them that 

 Canada "is face to face with absolute depletion." 



How could it be otherwise, when we are informed 

 that the Great Lakes are swept by the aid of steam 

 trawlers with nets five miles long ? 



From the angling point of view, the remedy must 

 be sought in greater conservancy, a longer close 

 season and the restriction of angling to more scien- 

 tific methods. It must sooner or later come to that. 

 Where trout can be taken with the fly, no other lure 

 should be permitted. There are plenty of lakes 

 where trolling and and bait fishing may be pursued. 

 All hand lines should be tabooed by legitimate 

 anglers. It is not only a pot-boiling method, but it 



