FISH : THEIR HABITS AND HAUNTS. 49 



stand amongst the most accomplished adepts 

 of this interesting craft. 



The salmon spawns generally in the 

 months of September and October, but there 

 is some difference in different rivers. It is 

 at this season that it is seen passing up the 

 river in enormous shoals, and leaping over 

 every obstacle which lies in its way. When 

 the salmon takes the fly the angler must 

 immediately give him time, and must particu- 

 larly bear in mind that the slightest rash- 

 ness at this crisis will set him at liberty 

 again. No matter how well-seasoned or 

 strong the tackle may be, no one can suc- 

 ceed in turning a salmon when he is first 

 hooked. It is only by giving comparatively 

 gentle tugs, or letting him feel the weight 

 and pressure of the rod and line at short 

 intervals, that you can make him rush about 

 backwards and forwards so as to exhaust his 

 strength. The greatest patience and cool- 

 ness are therefore indispensable. Many fish 



