TIPS. 



which case all comment would be superfluous, nay ridiculous. 



Whether the injurious influence of the steel core in a small rod 

 can be detected while making a moderate cast, is a question upon 

 which expert opinion is uncertain. The subject is, however, of such 

 far-readiing importance, that all those who want to realise the 

 mischievous effect of a steel centre should consider this : Bend a cane 

 rod and it will fly back, while a length of this wire would unquestion- 

 ably fall the other way. Should not this fact of itself go far to help 

 all who are in doubt? In short, no better proof of the deadening 

 qualities of this core could be given than the fact that a much longer 

 line can be cast with the full-sized rods in the absence of it. 



No body of responsible manufacturers, whose services are of any 

 value, will be likely to contest these statements. And yet in spite of 

 their discriminating judgment, they are compelled to supply customers 

 upon demand with this undesirable and messy mixture. 



With reference to the remark on making a long cast, whatever 

 arguments may be held for and against the practice, there is but one 

 solution. A man who can cast forty yards can fish thirty-six. 

 Therefore, another getting out only thirty yards loses ten yards of 

 water — and his sovereign, if he backs himself to kill as many salmon 

 as his companion. 



No, there are places, many places, where a long line is most 

 essential ; and no greater mistake is made than to fancy that the fly 

 under control thirty-five yards away misses more fish than the one 

 roving within twenty yards of the rod. What we have a low opinion 

 of is the practice of using more line than is really required. The 

 angler should not attempt to use a longer line or a longer rod than 

 he can master, since it is prejudicial to the interests of others as well 



