286 Book of the Black Bass. 



Minnow-Buckets. 



To the Tjait-fisher for black bass, the proper form of bait- 

 can is quite an important item. There are two general 

 styles, one for boat-fishing, and one for stream-fishing. 



The best plan for a minnow-bucket for boat-fishing, and 

 where a large pail can be utilized, is to have two pails, one 

 fitting within the other. This form of pail is generally 

 and conveniently made as follows : 



The outer bucket is of heavy tin, and made round, with 

 a capacity of from two to five gallons ; a stout wire bail or 

 handle is attached, with a wooden or tin hand-piece. The 

 inner bucket is also made of tin, to fit somewhat loosely 

 in the outer one; but the top of this bucket should be an 

 inch below the top of the outer pail. It has an opening, 

 fitted with a lid on top, through which the hand can be 

 readily inserted ; and has a tin-hasp and loop for fastening 

 securely. In addition, there is a flat tin-handle, in the 

 form of an arch, on the top of the lid, by which the inner 

 pail can be easily lifted out. 



The inner pail is freely perforated on the top, bottom 

 and sides, so that, upon raising it, the water leaves it 

 rapidly, and a minnow can thus be readily selected. When- 

 ever necessary, the inner pail can be taken out, the top 

 securely fastened by the hasp and loop, and the pail sunk 

 in the water to revive the minnows, while the angler is 

 taking his lunch or siesta. Both pails should be well 

 painted, inside and out. A better plan is to have the inner 

 pail formed of copper or galvanized iron wire-cloth. 



For fishing in a stream, where the angler is a-foot, a 

 much smaller and lighter bucket must be used, on the score 

 of portability and general convenience. In this' case, the 

 bucket is made single, usually, and of an oblong or oval 

 shape, to admit of its being more readily carried. It is 

 fitted with a handle or bail, and the top is soldered in, an 



