WOOD FOR RODS 407 



have come to the conclusion that the most elastic and 

 enduring is ' Washaba.' It is a somewhat heavy wood, 

 but it will bear any amount of fining down, is never 

 injured by wet or sun, and retains its shape for all 

 time. It is by reason of the above good qualities 

 selected by the Canadian Indians for their bows. 



Greenheart when well seasoned is a good wood for 

 rods, though heavy, but far inferior to Washaba as 

 regards its retention of shape. 



Hickory soon loses its shape, even when ever so 

 well seasoned, its chief recommendation being its 

 lightness. 



The rods which I find the best for general handi- 

 ness and wearing qualities are made thus : The butt of 

 well-seasoned ash or, if this is not procurable, of hickory ; 

 the centre and top joints of Washaba. Such rods I 

 have used for years, and they have given me the 

 greatest possible satisfaction. 



The Castle Connell rods, which are made in two 

 pieces only and are spliced, are constructed of well- 

 seasoned greenheart. Such rods will last for a very 

 long time — and I may, indeed, say the same of Irish 

 rods generally. 



Rod-rings, if occasionally varnished, will last for an 

 indefinite period. 



I experience very much greater difficulty in obtaining 

 a trout rod to my satisfaction than one for salmon- 

 fishing. I may be, perhaps, somewhat difiicult to 

 please, but I consider that it is of greater consequence 

 that the spring, balance, and all that pertains to a good 

 rod should be even more perfect in a trout rod than in 

 any other description of rod, for the science requisite 

 for success in trout-fishing, especially on some rivers, is 



