FISHING-RODS 15 



wide streams, or on lakes in open boats. In such cases, 

 we would recommend a good double-handed rod, from 

 sixteen to eighteen feet in length, as the best that could 

 be made for salmon-fishing, in such kinds of water as 

 we have just noticed. A rod of this size, and for this 

 specific purpose, ought to have a free and equal spring 

 in it, from the butt-end to the top. This is of vital 

 importance in dealing with large fish, whether hooked 

 and run in rivers or in lakes. 



A single-handed fiy-rod ought to be from twelve to 

 fifteen feet in length. It should be as elastic as possible, 

 and constructed of such materials as will unite lightness 

 and elasticity with durability and strength. An ex- 

 perienced fly-fisher can never get hold of a rod that is 

 too light and springy, although a rather stiffish weapon 

 is better for a beginner. The most beautifully elastic 

 rods we have ever seen were those made of ash and 

 lance-wood. All rods with metallic root-pieces must 

 necessarily be of uneven suppleness, although of late 

 years the manufacture of this description of rod has 

 very materially improved with reference to this radical 

 defect. 



There are many expert anglers, particularly those who 

 have been constantly resident in the vicinity of narrow 

 and thickly wooded streams, who can use no other but 

 a single-handed fly-rod. The mode of fishing in such 

 limited, and often very clear waters, is quite different 

 from that which a man has to practise in more spacious 

 and stronger rivers. But a good lengthy rod, where it 

 is not too heavy for the single hand, gives the angler a 

 greater command over the water, and enables him, not 

 only to throw his flies more lightly, but often to reach 

 distant spots, where fine fish are lying, without either 

 overreaching himself or having recourse to wading. 



Accidents to rods should be always calculated upon, 

 whenever we go to the waters. They often arise from 

 the simplest circumstances or casualties. The sahnon 

 and trout fisher, especially, ought always to be provided 

 with two or three spare top-pieces, in case of any mishap 

 from loss or breakage. 



