l8 THE SONG OF THE REEL* 



up for by might of number, inasmuch as these fish, which range 

 from mere fingerlings to lusty half-pounders, thrive abundantly in 

 the moorland reaches of the various streams. The angler, notwith- 

 standing, must not expect to fill his basket to the brim ; nor may 

 the contents of his creel be counted always by the score, or even 

 dozen. For, although less sophisticated than their brethren of 

 other waters, these nimble troutlings, by many fishermen much 

 despised, are more difficult to catch than might be imagined : not 

 only are they surprisingly wary and perspicacious, but also, at 

 times, remarkably shy. Nevertheless, provided weather and water 

 are favourable, these vigorous little fish take the fly quite readily, 

 whilst after a freshet they rise boldly and often recklessly. 



A man who once has tasted the joys of this style of fishing 

 invariably thirsts for more. Previous exploits of the kind for ever 

 claim first place amongst the recollections of his happiest outings. 

 Their fascination is irresistible : he must return to the scenes which 

 haunt his memory so persistently. And why ? Is it not due to 

 the magnetism of the country wherein he needs must pursue his 

 quarry ? The moor the glorious, open moor ! How delightful is 

 the sight of it to the town-weary fisherman ! How pure and bracing 

 is the air which he draws into his lungs whilst standing amidst the 

 grandeur of desolation, thankful to be free, for the time being, 

 from every worldly care ! As headquarters he uses some quaint 

 old inn, about whose cosy, heavily-beamed rooms is an air of home- 

 liness, productive of comfort which, maybe, the exterior of the 

 house does not at first suggest. Some pleasant savour of old-time 

 romance still lingers about its mellow walls ; its very atmosphere 

 hints at associations with ages long since agone. At his hostel the 

 angler obtains a liberal supply of plain, wholesome food, and at 

 night, between lavender-scented sheets, enjoys his well-won repose. 

 Perhaps the inn is situated in some ancient village on the outskirts of 

 the moor, or perhaps it is isolated. In either case the sportsman 

 experiences a charming freedom from the conventionalities which to 

 many men are so burdensome when fishing some of the more 

 frequented waters. 



