62 THETARPON 



As it is impossible to lift twenty pounds with any 

 rod likely to be employed it will be found if one cares 

 to make a test, that such a leader will sustain many 

 times the maximum weight it will ever be subjected to. 

 A cod line will serve as a leader. 



Sinkers — The weight and style of the sinker depend 

 upon the waters where the fishing is done. They are 

 usually of the "bank" type weighing from four to 

 eight ounces. One may safely rely upon the guide for 

 instructions on this point and upon the local market to 

 produce the kind to be used. In using light tackle, light 

 sinkers should be tied on with very easily broken twine 

 so that they will be snapped off when the fish is struck 

 or when it first jumps. 



Hooks — ^We now approach the controversial subject 

 of hooks. The hooks of reputable dealers are strong 

 enough to withstand far more severe strains than the 

 tackle to which they are attached. It is the style and 

 size which occasion the controversies. Most anglers 

 prefer Nos. 8 or 10 hooks for general fishing and the 

 Van Vleck, Vom Hofe, Mills, Pflueger, Abbey and Im- 

 brie, and many other tarpon hooks all have their ad- 

 herents. The O'Shaugnessy type hooks from Nos. 6 to 

 10 are favorites. Usually tarpon hooks are mounted on 

 a link chain about four or five inches long so as to give 

 the hook free play on the leader. The point should be 

 kept very sharp by filing, for the mouth of the fish is 

 hard and difficult to penetrate. The same hooks should 

 be used on light as on standard tackle. 



Swivels — Common barrel swivels are usually em- 

 ployed on heavy tackle and the eyes should be well 



