WIRING. 119 



be in effect a prolongation of the fine end of the 

 stick, and the noose should be of larger or 

 smaller diameter, according to the size of the 

 pike, and should run freely. A stick for the 

 purpose can often be cut from the nearest 

 hedge, and as every keeper carries a few wires 

 in his pocket, he can always, at an emergency, 

 rig up the gear in this way. A bamboo cane of 

 1 6ft. to 20ft. in length is far more handy, and 

 can be recommended for permanent use. It 

 tapers naturally, balances to the hand, costs 

 the merest trifle, and with ordinary care will 

 last for years. 



The keeper, with the fine end of the bamboo Use of the 

 in his hand and the heavy end trailing on the 

 ground behind him, should go out preferably on 

 calm, sunny days in the morning, and, walking 

 gently up the stream or carrier, keep a sharp 

 look-out for any pike lying basking in the sun. 

 As soon as he catches sight of one, having 

 adjusted the size of the noose and seen that it 

 runs freely, he should approach the water with 

 slow and wary footsteps, taking care that his 

 shadow does not fall on the water, noting 

 exactly where the pike lies and in which direc- 

 tion its head is pointing. Placing himself in 

 position, if possible at right angles to his quarry,, 

 and, keeping his eyes fixed on the pike, he 

 should, with his hand quite low down, quietly 



wire. 



