FISHING FROM PIERS AND HARBOURS. 139 
bottom, whence it is slowly withdrawn, the smelts 
following the bait through the clear water, and one 
or more of them making a determined rush at it 
just before it reaches the surface, when the angler, 
having regard for its tender mouth, brings each 
one hooked to bag as quickly as possible. In this 
way, when the water is sufficiently clear, it is no 
difficult matter to catch a hundred or so before 
breakfast, and a very first-rate dish they make for 
that meal. Moreover, the sand-smelt is a bait 
second to none for turbot and dory. 
This large and important fish is caught from 
Deal pier between October and Christmas, 
when, unless the water is too thick, anglers 
are to be seen almost any fine day either at the end 
or half way along, their rods projecting from the 
upper deck. The favourite tackle is the 
paternoster, some local fishermen being in 
favour of a light lead only, which drags on the 
sand. I believe this is a method much used by 
Mr. Sachs, the veteran of Deal pier. Lug-worm or 
mussel are always good baits, but sprat or fresh 
herring will answer as well, indeed few fish are 
more catholic in their tastes. Cod show but little 
fight. There is a stately assertion of strength in 
any fish over 5 lbs., but after this first move, the cod 
soon turns up the game, coming to the gaff like a 
lost anchor. 
Codling and silver whiting are also caught on the 
same tackle and baits and at the same season, but 
the hooks may be a size smaller. 
Deal 
* * * * * * 
I have dwelt on pier-fishing at some length be- 
cause it seems to me to offer, if not the best of 
