American FisJicries Society 253 



would be in a position to nialvc representations to any govorn- 

 meiit. with a view to reform and introduetion of measure's ealeu- 

 lated to further the interests of all. It would not only be able to 

 make use of the results of the work of others^ but it would l)e a 

 capable and influential body in itself, liolding meetings period- 

 ieallv and issuing literature. It shoubl prosecute with energy 

 the study of all matters prctaining to iish life l)efore capture, 

 and after capture to study the best means of converting it to the 

 pul)lic use, at all times by means of its literature acquainting 

 its memljers with its proceeelings. To ludetly summarise I would 

 give a few heads which would be dealt with advantageously: — 



(1.) The natural history of fishes; their use as lunnan 



food, their migrations and habits. 

 ('I.) The means of catcliing, preserving and transporting 



fish. 

 (3.) Oceanography; the physical condition of the sea; tidal 



effects; fish hatching, 

 (d. ) Fishery laws; deterndning tlu' nationality of fishing 



vessels at sea. 

 (5.) Fishing vessels and their a])pliances. 

 (C.) The qualifications of skippers and mates of fishing 



vessels, and their examination for certificate of 



competency. 

 (7.) Territorial limitations. 



These headings, of course, could l)e extended inelefinitely as 

 requirements demanded. Fishing as a sport might be included 

 with a view to the l)etter accommodation of anglers in countries 

 otlier than their own, M'orking in conjunction with the clul)s 

 and societies already in existence for this purpose. 



Such a society, with an influential and enthusiastic pres- 

 ident, a council composed of men l)ent on the advancement of 

 the lislu ries. and a l)ody of mend)ers eager to help one another 

 (and incidentally to help themselves), cannot fail to accomplish 

 its purpose. It would be supported l)y the subscriptions of \U 

 members, and issue its literature in English, French and Ger- 

 man. The meetings could l)c held in several countries in jota- 

 tion. 



Further evidence of the demand for such a Society is not 



