58 
THE SALMON. 
from sixteen to twenty feet long, with a gradual taper, and 
uniform from the end of the first or butt joint to the end of 
the top, which latter should be of the most elastic substance, 
and brought almost to a point : in fact the proper form of a 
fly rod, is a perfectly whip taper. The rings should be of the 
lightest kind, and wound on with thread or silk, and the 
whole apparatus as light as the necessary strength will allow. 
In some instances they are provided with a spike or spear, 
which screws into the butt, and which is found very useful 
to the Angler on many occasions, for sticking the rod in an 
upright position, for the purpose of altering or arranging the 
line or other tackle. The same arrangement of tackle is re- 
quired for the fly rod as for the bait rod, with tho exception 
of substituting a swivel and small shot, instead of a swivel 
sinker. 
Worm fishing for Salmon. For worm bait, usea Salmon 
Limerick honk, from No. 0 to 4, as the size of tho game may 
indiente. Attach the worms according to the method de- 
scribed in Chapter II. j throw them gently in the current; 
let them flow easily down a few yards ; then draw them 
back ; then to the right and left ; keeping up a continual 
motion of the bait. By this method, if you are cautious, and 
keep out of sight— and if there be fish, as Walton would say 
—you will be sure to have your share of good luck. In bright 
clear weather, a hook of either No. 3, 4, or 5, will be large 
enough. It will also be necessary, if the stream be clear, on 
some occasions to use only one large worm. 
When the bail is taken, the premonitory symptoms are a 
distended line, and sometimes a sudden jerk. In cither case 
keep a tight line .* the former admonition generally promises 
success, and when it is well understood, will give the most 
pleasure. After allowing a short time for gorging, you should 
give a sharp strike, and if done with precision, and not too 
