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Digitized by the Internet Archive
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Microsoft Corporation
http://www.archive.org/details/flyfishersguideiOObainrich
THE
dPl£ $i£f)tx y & <&ttttre,
ILLUSTRATED BY
COLOURED PLATES,
REPRESENTING
UPWARDS OF FORTY OF THE MOST USEFUL
7M18 8
glccuratdg <£opub from Mature.
BY
GEO. C. BAINBRIDGE.
And lightly on the dimpling eddy fling
The hypocritic fly's unruffled wing.
THE ANGLERS, DU 3.
Sfberpool:
PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR
BY G. F. HARRIS'S WIDOW AND BROTHERS J
And Sold by Longman, Hurst, Rees, Ormc, and Brown, London ; and Wright and Cruickshant,
Liverpool.
1816.
PBSVAGl,
Custom having pronounced that a book is
incomplete without a prefatory introduction,
it might savour of arrogance if the tribute
were wit held in the present instance, although
to a novice the task of complying with this
injunction is not a little embarrassing.
In order to explain the motives which
directed the intrusion of the following pages
upon the public, it may be necessary to pre-
mise that desire of fame, or expectation of
profit, was not amo?igst the number. A wish
that every lover of the Angle should partici-
pate in the advantages to be derived from
M846468
IV
a constant reference to the representations of
the Insects, on which his diversion so mate-
rially depends; and, the hopt that from this
humble attempt the idea of a complete ivork
on Water Insects would suggest itself to
some person more capable of the undertaking,
induced the writer to publish his Observa-
tions on Angling, and Specimens of Flies,
which were originally only intended for
private inspection.
The insignificant light in which publica-
tions of this nature are generally held by the
Literati, and the indifference with which
they are so often treated by those who have
no inclination for rural sports, may probably
screen this treatise from the lash of the
critic. And as it is the wish of the Author
that it should be disseminated amongst
Friends only, (for as such he has been
accustomed to consider every brother of the
Angle) he throws himself upon their good
nature for lenity in criticism ivhere they
disapprove, and for candour in approbation
should any portion of the matter be in unison
with their own ideas, or contribute in any
wise to their success. Relying upon which,
he has the honour to subscribe himself
Their most obedient humble servant,
G. G. B.
Liverpool, 1st March, 1816*
^afik of Gtonttnts.
Page
Of the advantages of Fly Fishing 1
Of the Materials used in Fly Fishing 7
Of the Rod 13
Of Lines 21
Of Hooks 28
Of Gut and Weed 33
Of the Reel 36
Of the Pannier 39
Of Pocket Books 40
Description of the mode of Tying Flies 42
Rules to be observed in Angling 51
Proper Seasons and Times for Angling 60
Of the Salmon « % 64
Of the Trout 76
Of the Gravel Fry 80
Of the Grayling, or Umber 82
Of the Graining 85
Of the Gray Mullet 87
Of the Chuby Clievin, or Chavinder 89
Of the Bleak 90
Vlll
Of the Roach, and the Dace Dare or Showier ^
Description of Salmon Flies, in plate 3 .
— ■ Trout Flies, in plate 4 •
""— Ditto, in plate 5 •
' -Ditto, in plate 6 .
1 Ditto, in plate 7 •
" Ditto, in plate 8 •
Of the Moths, for Night Fishing
Method of preserving Gentles
Of Ground Fishing with a Running Line
Of Trolling, or Minnow Fishing
• 96
103
112
119
124
133
142
144
145
147
OF
IFJLY IF I S IH K H ®
AND ITS ADVANTAGES.
F the superiority
which this parti-
cular branch of
Angling possess-
es over every other
method, so many
persons have written at length, and its
merits have been so generally acknowledged
by ail who have had the opportunities of
discriminating, that to enter diffusively into
the particular advantages which distinguish
it would be superfluous, and by no means
in conformity with the intentions of the
compiler.
It may, however, be necessary to point
out a few of the leading characteristics
which combine to render this delightful re-
creation so pre-eminent amongst Rural
Sports ; and in the course of the work to
connect a few observations, in order to con-
fute the objections which prejudiced persons
are but too apt to bring forward in opposi-
tion to the gratifying pleasures which admi-
rers of this pursuit so justly exhibit in a
warm tone of colouring.
Without referring to the antiquity of
the art, as a recommendation, or enumerat-
ing the catalogue of virtuous qualities, such
as patience, perseverance, 8cc, of which
an Angler is supposed to be possessed,
it is simply necessary to observe, that many
very eminent and learned characters have
4
devoted much of their leisure time to this
agreeable recreation ; and it is a fact worthy
of notice, that although many persons
/
6-
have quitted other sports for the amuse-
ment of Fly Fishing, yet the memory of
the writer does not furnish a single instance
of a Fly Fisher deserting his occupation,
and transferring his preference to any other
of the list of Rural Sports : this observation
is very general, and is certainly a strong
argument in favour of the superior plea-
sure which Angling affords.
The peculiar and almost immediate relief
which this innocent pursuit yields to the dis-
tressed or uneasy mind, by calming the per-
turbations which misfortunes or other vexa-
tious circumstances may have excited, is to be
ranked amongst the first of its recommenda-
tions. But as this relief is also experienced in
some degree by the practiser of other modes of
Angling, it may not be considered precisely
correct to class it amongst the advantages
of Fly Fishing. To proceed therefore to
those observations, upon which the claim of
superiority is founded. The first which pre-
sents itself is exercise. The Fly Fisher
is in constant motion, and travels several
miles whilst practising his art : whereas the
ground Angler remains in a state of inac-
tivity, on the banks of some unwholesome
pool ; exposed to the damp air, and liable,
from the want of exertion, to the attacks of
ague and rheumatism, either of which will
disable him for a considerable time, if not
altogether, from pursuing his favourite
occupation.
The beautiful and varied scenery which
at each turn of the river is presented to the
eye of the Fly Fisher is an inducement
sufficiently attractive to make converts of the
most sceptical, if they be not wholly indif-
ferent to the beauties of nature. The course
of a river being generally through the most
romantic part of a country, the variety
which occurs in following the stream for
a few miles, aided by the diversion which
the rod affords, cannot fail to gratify the
admirer of fine scenery in the highest de-
gree. The dull monotony which attends the
ff round Angler, should his mind not be
constantly engaged by the avidity of the
finny tribe, is here avoided: whilst the Fly
Fisher will frequently return home, grati-
fied with the delights which his walk has
afforded ; even though he may not have
been so successful in storing his pannier as
he had anticipated.
The pleasure which the Angler derives
from collecting and arranging the various
materials necessary for the formation of the
artificial Fly, and from the endeavour! to
approach the form and colours of nature,
by the aid of these materials, is infinitely
ereater than can be conceived by an indif-
ferent observer, and offers a constant em-
ployment for those leisure hours, which in
unfavourable weather might otherwise hang
heavy, and by not being agreeably occupied
lead to the introduction of that most disa-
greeable companion — ennui.
Cheapness has been always urged in
favour of Angling ; and certain it is, that
no other amusement can be procured at such
an easy rate; for it is within the reach of
the humblest individual.
In addition to the foregoing advantages,
that of cleanliness must not be omitted.
How greatly preferable is the simple forma-
tion of an artificial fly of feathers and fur,
to the unpleasantness attendant upon baiting
a hook with worm, maggot or paste. The
one will last during the diversion of a whole
day, and with care much longer; whilst
the other requires adjusting or renewing,
after every trifling nibble ; to say nothing
of the cruelty which attaches to the intro-
duction of a hook into the worm whilst
living, or the extraction of a s;oro;ed hook
from the entrails of a ravenous fish.
Such indeed are the pleasures and advan-
tages derived from this mode of Angling,
that some of our best modern poets have
considered its praises as worthy "their talents
and attention. Vide Thomson, gay, arm-
strong, waller, Sec.
OF
USED IN
FLY FISHING.
Having set forth a few of the prominent
recommendations of the art, it remains to
conduct the reader, if an admirer of the
pursuit, to the practical system; which
having been founded upon the experience
8
and observation of several years, may not
be altogether uninstructive or uninterestino-.
The articles necessary for the Fly Fisher
to be furnished with consist of rods,
LINES, REELS Or WINCHES, SILK-WORM
gut, hooks; a variety of feathers of
every hue, from the most gaudy to the
most dusky tinge; silks of various shades;
hackles from the neck and back of the
domestic cock or hen; wings of many
birds, but most particularly of the Bittern,
Grouse, Woodcock, Partridge, Snipe, Land-
rail, Golden Plover, and Starling. Furs
of every colour; amongst the most useful
of which will be found the skins of
Squirrels, Moles, Water-rats, Hare's ears,
and fur from the neck of the same animal ;
Bear's hair, and Hog's down, (which will
take a dye of any shade.) The light yellow
fur from the neck of the Martin is also
very valuable, but not easily to be obtained
in the northern counties.
Camlets and mohair of every hue,
the latfcr being serviceable in almost all
ilics, inasmuch as it prevents the camlet
or fur. with which it is commonly mixed,
from imbibing so great a decree of mois-
ture as it would otherwise do; by which
means, also, the Hy becomes more durable ;
and the flossy shining qualities, which
mohair retains even in the water, will in
many instances approach nearer to the
appearance of the natural fly than any
other substitute.
The Hackles most in estimation are the
duns light and dark; both of which, but
particularly the former, are difficult to be
met with perfectly free from grizzle. The
red with black stripe down the middle is by
no means common: next to these, m point
of utility, is the red with black root, which
is generally substituted when the former
cannot be procured. Rhck hackles are of
10
late become more common than formerly,
by the introduction of a breed of Spanish
fowls, which are perfectly black, except
the topping of the head. The proper time
of the year for the selection and pluck-
ing of hackles is about Christmas ; as the
feathers are then perfect and free from that
disagreeable matter, which at other times
is generally found in the pen part of the
feather. Should the Angler be so fortunate
as to meet with a real dun bird, either
cock or hen, he ought to secure it at any
price, as he may be considered as possess-
ing a treasure ; for the same fowl will fur-
nish him with grizzled hackles about May,
and dun hackles at Christmas. The fea-
thers from young birds before they have
moulted are entirely useless, being too
soft to play properly in' the water. The
mottled bright feather from the back of a
well grown Grouse, and the Wren's tail, are
on no account to be neglected.
11
Of silks it will be necessary to have
three degrees of strength, and as many
varieties of shade as the fly dresser may
deem necessary for his purpose. The first,
which is commonly denominated strong
barber's silk, must be used double, for splice-
ing the tops of rods. The second of a
finer quality, for fastening the rings to the
rod, and other casualties. The third, for
whipping hooks and dressing flies, should
be the finest netting; silk : it is difficult to
meet with the latter of a sufficiently delicate
texture in any towns far distant from the
metropolis. Mr. Clark, of the Golden Leg,
Southampton-street, furnishes every shade
and colour which can possibly be required,
at a reasonable rate.
Ostrich and peacock harls are also
indispensable requisites : the former of every
possible colour is useful in flies for Salmon
fishing; and the latter is very frequently
12
used for Trout flies also, as in the Marlow
buzz, Oil fly, 8cc.
In addition to the foregoing, the following
articles are necessary for the completion of
the Angler's apparatus, A Landing Net,
having a ferrule at the lower end, in which a <
gaff or hook necessary for landing a large fish
may be fastened at pleasure : the net should
be from eighteen inches to two feet in diame-
ter, and fixed either to an ash, briar, or light
iron hoop. If the banks of the river be
steep, this article is very useful ; but when
gravel patches, or shelving shores are fre-
quent, it is seldom called into action. The
gaff or hook may be carried in the pocket
with safety, and the point preserved by
means of a cork.
A pair of small neat pliars is of great
assistance in dressing flies, and a pair of
fine pointed scissaus absolutely necessary;
13
needles for picking out the clubbing ; wax
for the silk; and a pannier with abroad
leather strap to fasten on the shoulder, so
that the fish may be carried with safety, and
free from injury, close the list of neces-
saries ; and as a few hints respecting the selec-
tion of the various articles may not be al-
together unacceptable, they will be severally
mentioned in regular order.
The rod first claims notice as occupvin^
the foremost place in the catalogue of
implements : in the choice of which every
care and attention must be exercised. Rods
are made up in various manners, and of
divers lengths and weights. Some prefer
them "of two pieces only, which are spliced
together about the middle. These certainlv
throw a fly in a neater manner than those
encumbered with ferrules can possibly do ;
as the spring from the hand is uninterrupted,
consequently more regular ; and they are
14
admirably adapted for the use of an Angler
whose residence is near the scene of his
diversion : but the awkwardness of length
renders them troublesome and unwieldy
companions, when a walk of some miles
intervenes between the river and the Angler's
dwelling. This description of rod is in
general use in the northern counties of Eng-
land, where ferrules are considered very
objectionable.
The length and weight of the rod depend
so much upon the fancy of the purchaser,
that no positive rules can be laid down to
guide him in these respects. The common
length of a Trout rod is from twelve to
fourteen feet ; some persons prefer them
even longer ; but for the generality of
streams the latter is quite sufficient, and
for small rivers and brooks the former
is much tKe most convenient and useful
size.
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15
For Salmon fishing a greater length, ex-
tending to seventeen or eighteen feet, and of
proportionate strength, will enable the lover
of this superior diversion to throw a greater
extent of strong tackle than the common
rods will admit of his doing.
The chief consideration in the choice of a
rod, for whatever purpose it may be in-
tended, is, that it be free from knots or
cracks, and that it be regularly taper and
pliant from the butt to the point ; for if the
spring be not regular from one extremity to
the other, the check which the defective part
causes will severely strain, if it do not actu-
ally break the piece. By the term pliant, it
is not meant that the rod should be as lim-
ber and flexible as a cart whip, which ex-
treme ouo;ht as carefully to be guarded
against as too great stubbornness ; but that it
should play easily, and that the bend be
slightly perceptible even in the bottom or
16
butt end. In this, however, as well as in
the number of joints of which he may wish
the rod to consist, the Angler will best
consult his own judgment and inclination,
which can hardly fail to be satisfied at some
of the tackle shops in the metropolis; where
an endless variety of every description,
which imagination or caprice may require,
will be offered to hisjnspection.
The best rods which the writer has hitherto
met with are manufactured and sold by
Henry Swann, of Langholm, North Bri-
tain. They consist of five pieces, and have
screw joints at each ferrule, which is particu-
larly desirable, as they always set true ; and
should the weather or accident wet them,
the difficulty of separating the joints, which
in common rods such a circumstance causes
to swell considerably, is avoided.
An improvement may nevertheless be
17
pointed out in these rods ; viz. to have the
top joint spliced to the fourth piece, with-
out any ferrule. A rod of this description
with two spare tops, which originally cost
only eighteen shillings, is, after the constant
use of nearly nine years, in every respect
as good as new, having in that interval been
merely varnished twice.
To those persons who reside at a distance
from the metropolis, or have no mechanic
at hand to repair the accidents which may
from time to time happen to these imple-
ments, a description of the materials and
manner of forming a rod may be useful ;
indeed, a true Angler ought to be able, if
not to manufacture, at least to repair his own
rods, lines, reels, 8cc. as he will otherwise be
frequently exposed to great inconvenience
from the numerous and unforeseen accidents
to which the practiser of this diversion is
constantly liable.
c
18
The best rods are made from ash, hickory,
and lancewood; ash for the bottom piece,
hickory for the middle, and lancewood for
the top joints : real bamboo is preferable to
lancewood, if it can be procured of good
quality, which is extremely difficult: log-
wood is sometimes used for the tops, and
answers extremely well for Salmon or trol-
ling * ods ; but this wood is not frequently
to be met with of straight grain in pieces of
sufficient length for rods; but if it should be,
it is not equal in elasticity to well seasoned
lancewood. Rose wood, and a wood from
the Brazils, called partridge wood, may also
be made use of for top pieces ; but yew and
briars do not answer the purpose, although
frequently recommended by experimenters.
Before wood of any description is cut into
lengths it should be perfectly seasoned ; and
whatever number of pieces the rod is to be
composed of between the butt and top piece
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19
they must all be cut from the same log ; and
not as is too frequently done, the second
part from one piece of wood, the third from
another, and so on ; which not having under-
gone the same degrees of seasoning, will
never play regularly in the hand.
The first proceeding towards the forma-
tion of a rod is to plane each length into a
four square ; afterwards, by means of a taper
wooden sett, into an octagon. They are
then to be rounded with a common smooth-
ing-plane, and finished with different sized
hollow planes. The ferrules are to be fitted
on whilst the joints are in the octagon form.
In the formation of a splice both pieces
should be fixed firmly parallel ; by which
means, if they be drawn steadily over the
plane together, the joint must prove true ;
they are then to be slightly rubbed with wax
or glue, and neatly fastened with silk, and
20
the waxed parts rubbed with a smooth
chisel, previously to being varnished.
The rings must be placed in a regular
line, and ought to diminish in size as gradu-
ally as the rod tapers : they are easily made
by twisting a piece of soft brass wire round a
tobacco pipe, and fastened together with
hard solder.
The extreme end of the top piece is com-
monly of whalebone ; and the error of
putting too great a length of this material is
but too frequent. A very short piece, say
of the length f four or five inches, is suffi-
cient; this is generally finished up with a
Jile, any sharp instrument being liable to
take it off in irregular flakes.
In this state it only remains to varnish the
rod, which is best effected by copal varnish,
or Indian rubber dissolved over a slow fire in
21
' linseed- oil. If a stain be required, nitric
acid, or oil of vitriol will produce a brown
colour, the acid being diluted according to
the shade required.
To preserve rods after use, let them be
well rubbed with salad oil or tallow, and kept
in a moderately dry place until the return
of the Angling season ; when, after being
carefully wiped, they will be found in excel-
lent order. If the bottom piece be bored
for the purpose of receiving a spare top,
the inside should be oiled by means of a
piece of rag fastened to the end of a stick.
©IP ILIM31§*
The lines for Reels are to be purchased
of every length from fifteen to one hundred
and twenty yards, or even longer, at the
tackle shops throughout the kingdom, and
22
at a much cheaper rate than a private indi-
vidual can manufacture them, if his time
and trouble are to be considered of any
value. But as motives of curiosity may
induce some of the readers of this treatise
to try their skill in this art, an explana-
tion of the necessary process will be here
attempted.
These lines are most generally composed
of a mixture of silk and hair, and as before
observed, are spun of various lengths.
For common Trout fishing in rivers, twenty
to twenty five yards are sufficient; for lakes
where the fish are large, and a boat is not
used, forty to fifty yards may be required;
and for Salmon in large rivers, eighty or
even a hundred will not be too great a
quantity.
Single handed rod fishers prefer their reel
lines to run taper to the point, so that they
23
may, by merely fixing their foot length of
gut to the line, wind it up close to their
hand ; and where the stream is narrow and
bushes frequent, this is certainly a good
plan. But, for bold streams, the reel line
should be of equal thickness throughout,
and not too fine, in order that a taper hair
line of ten yards in length may be attached
thereto.
The most important consideration in the
making; of lines is the selection of the hair,
which must be round, even, and free from
scales. If plucked from the tail of a young
horse or mare, it is not so good as that which
is to be procured from a four or five year
old gelding ; but the best is to be had from
the tail of a well grown stallion, and those
hairs are generally most free from blemish
which grow from the middle of the tail.
Black, although t*he strongest, is the least
serviceable colour; brown, gray, and white,
24
are to be preferred, and ought to be picked
with care, and assorted according to theii
different degrees of length and thickness.
For common foot lines an engine is not
necessary, as they are easily made by separat-
ing the hairs with the fore finger and thumb
of the left hand, (having first fastened them
by a knot) and twisting them with the right,
occasionally drawing the hand downwards
to prevent the untwisted hairs from entang-
ling. Taper lines of any length or thick-
ness, from two hairs upwards, may be
thus put together, fastening each length
of hair to its companion by a water knot,
the ends of which should be cut close, and
secured by a little waxed silk. When a
very strong line is required, it may be
adviseable to make use of the twisting-engine,
which will enable the practitioner to com-
plete his purpose more readily and eflectu-
r
ally than with the fingers only.
25
The twisting engine which has been here
mentioned is used in making reel lines free
from knots, and may be had at almost
all the tackle shops; or may be easily made
by any ingenious watch-maker or white-smith
with very slight directions. It is a small
brass box containing four wheels, three of
which are of small dimensions; the other
is of larger size, and has a handle. The
axis of each of these wheels is protruded
from the plates of the box on both sides, and
is hollow. This instrument may be screwed
into the back of a chair or other substance,
in such a manner, that the operator may
employ his hands both before and behind
the engine, which bears a reduced resem-
blance to the w r heels used by rope-makers.
It is necessary then to procure three balls of
barber's yellow silk, somewhat longer than
the line is intended to be made ; and before
fastening them to the respective tubes, due
notice must be taken that the silk is so placed,
26
as to prevent its being untwisted by the
action of the instrument ; for should one of
the threads be improperly placed, it will
require an encreased degree of labour, and
a neat line can never be produced.
The hairs, in proportion to the thickness
of the line required, must next be intro-
duced by means of small quills into the
tubes, and twisted (perhaps two or more)
with each end of the silk ; when these
lengths are twisted in, the quills must be
taken out, and the tubes again fed with hair ;
and so on, until the whole of the silk be
unwound from the balls. It is necessary to
observe that the hairs should be of unequal
length when introduced ; otherwise, should
it, after the commencement, be necessary to
put in two hairs at one time, the line will
be clumsy and uneven.
By immersing the hair for about ten
27
minutes in water, before using, it will
spin much better than if used quite drv.
The mode of chusing it, by trying or pul-
ling, cannot be too much censured ; as the
hair will beyond a doubt resume its original
form, and thereby raise knots which will
render the line irregular, and liable to be
easily broken.
Besides the engine before described, there
is another of a simpler form, which answers
very well for short lengths when a knot is
used, and is much more easily managed, as
it merely requires the silk or hair to be fas-
tened to the iron hooks in front, and then
twisted together. The same recipes will
answer for staining hair which are used
for silk-worm gut ; but natural colours
always claim the preference, and care
must be taken not to allow cil to ap-
proach the hair, as it infallibly causes it
to rot.
28
©IF IH®®I£§*
Hooks are manufactured of different
forms, and are usually distinguished by
the names of
The Limerick, The Sneckbend,
The Kendal, The Kirby.
Of these varieties a representation has
been attempted. Vide plate h. fig. 1,
% 3, 4.
Although generally considered of minor
importance by a number of Anglers, who
are satisfied if they procure the size they
want, no part of their apparatus requires
more minute attention than these small
implements, on which success certainly, in
a great measure, depends. It is necessary to
have the hooks perfectly tempered ; that is,
of such a degree of firmness, that they will
29
not bend, and yet not so hard as to snap
readily. The best method of ascertaining
whether or not the hooks be properly tem-
pered, is to try them in a piece of cork ;
or for the points only, the thumb nail is
sufficient.
Most writers on the subject of Anglino-
mention a small whetstone as a necessary
appendage for sharpening the points of
the hooks ! but a fly ought never to be
dressed upon a hook which has not a good
point; and if upon fair trial the point fail,
the hooks are of bad quality, and should be
altogether rejected. Hooks for dressino-
flies upon are to be preferred, if the shank
taper towards the head, which adds greatly
to the neatness of the workmanship.
The limerick hooks are not usually
straight, but form a curve, like the division
of an intersected circle. This form is cer-
30
tainly objectionable, and will frequently, in
striking a fish, be drawn from its mouth
without fixing the barb, as may be readily
conceived by an inspection of the plate :
add to which, the barb projects from the
point too abruptly ; which, if the fish do
not rise very freely, will prove a source of
mortification to the Angler, as he will fre-
quently scratch their mouths, without
firmly hooking a single fin.
The common kendal hooks are of good
form, but the distance of the extreme point
from the barb is for the most part too great ;
neither do the barbs project sufficiently.
In many instances these hooks may be found
so nearly resembling a bent pin, that they
may be introduced into the fleshy part of the
hand, and drawn back, without inflicting
pain. How T then can they be expected
successfully to resist the active exertions of
an irritated Trout, struggling for liberty in its
31
own element, which the want of a proper
barb tends to render easily attainable
by enlarging the orifice, instead of securing
to the Angler the anticipated prize ?
The sneckbend, as it is commonly
called, diverges from the parallel lines from
the bend upwards, and the point is frequently
near an eighth of an inch to the right or left
of the shank of the hook.
By some persons this form is preferred,
but their judgment is certainly erroneous ;
for it frequently happens that the fish
discovers the deceit, or in rising short,
misses the artificial fly ; the Angler very
naturally strikes at that instant, and will
very often scratch the fish, owing entirely
to the lateral projection of the barb, which,
if it were level with the shank, would almost
invariably be avoided.
32
The straight kirby hooks approach
the desideratum, in shape and temper,
nearer than any other manufacture ; (vide
plate ii. fig. 4) unless the Kendal hooks
could be improved in the form of the
barb, and divested of the superfluous length
of point ; in which ease they would be
upon an equal footing.
These remarks will probably meet with
opposition from prejudiced Anglers, some
of whom may be deemed skilful in the art;
but, as they have not been hastily or par-
tially framed, it is hoped the beginner will
profit by adopting them, in preference to
the partialities which habit may have ren-
dered familiar to those who have practised
for years.
J
OF
©HJT AM® WEBBBB.
The directions which are necessary for
chusing these materials are very simple.
Those lengths are most to be preferred
which are bright, round, hard, white, and
even or of equal circumference.
For discoloured water it may be necessary
to stain the gut ; but in clear water, ocular
demonstration will prove that white is the
least perceptible colour: a few recipes for
staining different shades will, however, be
attached to this article.
For beginners, or where the fish are of
large size, gut is preferable to hair, as afford-
ing greater security; but in fine bright waters,
a good round single hair will manifest a
decided superiority in raising fish ; and the
.34
delicate skill required for the management
of them when hooked enhances the plea-
sure of the experienced practitioner.
Indian weed is sometimes recommended
to the Fly fisher; but its extreme brittleness
is a great objection, as it requires at least an
hour's soaking before it becomes sufficiently
elastic for use.
The following methods of staining gut
were given to the author as choice and valu-
able recipes, and their efficacy is indispu-
table ; but as they are to be found in
Taylor's Art of Angling, and the Driffield
Angler, their claim to originality falls to the
ground.
For a brown. — Boil pounded alum until it
dissolves, add a quantity of walnut tree bark
when the sap is up, or the nuts of the same
tree whilst in the green state ; boil them
**
v.
1~>
/**■ 7 / -
J~- *-:?-
Z^
**&^~&l'^ -'/ *-^-yzy&~*te*7^
'7
, ^^C -^V^w ^^f^c^L^^ .A:.
/ V X *C « '" r
4-?cy^ //St-^?— rz^fz-**- ^a,-~ /t-/^^
d
t^Juu^ out A^l* ^ ^ ^ <*
>
35
together for nearly an hour, and let the liquid
stand until nearly cool; skim it, and put in
the gut or hair for about a minute, until you
perceive that it has imbibed the colour
intended. If it remain lono- it will be
tinged too deeply, and the gut will become
rotten.
For a pale watery green. — To a pint of
strong ale add half a pound of soot, a
small quantity of walnut leaves, and a little
alum ; boil them together for about three
quarters of an hour, and when nearly cold
put in the gut or hair.
The following recipes have not been
made so generally public, but are much more
simple, and equally effectual with the fore-
going: viz.
Stain your gut in strong tea lukewarm,
with the addition of a small quantity of
36
logwood scrapings, for twenty- four hours,
and it will be an excellent colour ; or ano-
ther equally common beverage, Coffee will,
if made strong, by the assistance of a little
alum, impart a fine brown colour to the gut
or hair.
©IF MIE IB SIBIL.
Although the multiplying reel is now in
general use, the advantages which are set
forth in its favour are more than counter-
balanced by the frequent disappointment
which the Angler is liable to from its imper-
fections. The fact is that the power of the
wheels, as now arranged, is inadequate to
move a comparatively small weight at a tri-
fling distance. To be convinced of the truth
of this observation, it is simply necessary to
fasten a piece of wood of a couple of pounds
weight to the end of a reel line, and throw
37
it into the water, letting the line run out to
a distance of twenty yards down a stream.
On winding up the line, the person who
tries the experiment will be annoyed by the
Frequent stopping or catching of the wheels,
as if the cogs were choked up ; and it will
not be without considerable difficulty that
he succeeds in accomplishing his object.
With respect to greater weights, when sup-
ported by animated resistance, it will be
found almost impossible to succeed ; and
should a Salmon of tolerable size be hooked,
and the line be attached to a multiplying
reel, it will require the utmost skill and
attention of the Angler, by occasionally
drawing up the line with his left hand, and
then winding it, to secure the fish ; and this
is the only remedy he has, for should he
rely upon his reel, and persist in forcing the
wheels round, the main pillar or support
of the engine will certainly break, and leave
him to ruminate upon his rashness.
3a
On the other hand, the common plain pillar
reels bear an even and steady pull upon
the extreme weight, and though more tedi-
ous, they are more to be depended upon
for certainty and security.
The multiplying reels possess the advan-
tage of winding up, and letting out the
line with greater despatch ; and where the
fish do not exceed half a pound in weight,
they may be preferable ; but a few seconds of
time are not an object of consideration to
the steady Angler, whose chief reliance is
on the firmness and correct formation of his
tackle.
An improvement in tiie principle of mul-
tiplying reels might be easily suggested,
which would negative the objections before
mentioned; and it is certainly surprising
that they have not hitherto claimed the
notice and attention of some ingenious me-
39
chanfc, as their defects are almost universally
complained of.
Some reels are fastened to the rods by
means of nails, which is the most secure
method ; hut, for the Angler who travels,
they are made with a long hollow groove,
which is fastened to the butt of the rod by
two pieces of leather, passing over both ends
of the brass groove : others have a rinse at-
tached to them, which is intended to be lined
with leather, and passed over the point to the
handle of the rod, where it is made fast by
means of a screw. This latter mode is the
least troublesome, and is perfectly secure.
OF
TEID PANNIER.
The Fishing Pannier should he of neat
light wicker work, broad at the bottom, and
40
narrowing towards the top, where the lid is
fastened by means of a padlock, or wooden
peg secured to the body of the basket by a
piece of tape : the aperture in the top o£
the basket ousht to be sufficiently laro;e to
admit, without the slightest decree of force or
pressure, a Trout of half a pound weight.
For Salmon fishers they are sometimes made
of a different form, with ends projecting from
the main body of the pannier, and so shaped
as to contain a tolerably well grown fish at
full length.
©IP !B®®IKS*
Every Angler ought to be furnished with
at least two pocket books. The one for con-
taining his flies is composed of parchment,
the leaves of which are separated at each
corner by pieces of cork, so that the flies
may be preserved from injury. The other
41
for holding an assortment of every material
necessary for dressing a fly is commonly
made to suit the fancy of the proprietor, but
should consist of numerous divisions ; so
that the hooks, hackles, furs, wings, and
dubbings may be kept asunder, and yet so
easily accessible, that the materials wanted
may be found without delay.
In addition to the books, an Angler
resident near a river, who has the opportu-
nity of gratifying his inclination for this
pursuit as often as he pleases, should have a
small cabinet of drawers in which he may
keep his furs, wings, 8cc. separate ; for the
constant additions which a provident fly
fisher is continually making to his stock will
soon render a book of little use. In one of
the drawers should be fixed neat wooden
rollers, for winding the various coloured
silks upon; another should have divisions
for hooks of different sizes; and the whole
42
ought to be formed of cedar wood, which,
aided by the introduction of camphire, all-
spice, alum, and tobacco leaves, will effec-
tually preserve the feathers and skins from
the injurious devastation of the moths ; for
without these precautions, the incessant at-
tacks of these destructive insects would soon
render the collection entirelv useless.
OF
TYING
OR
IBKIESSIHQ 1FM
Having enumerated and described the ma-
terials separately, the next object will be to
treat of them collectively, as applicable to
the purposes of the Angler, to whom nothing
is of more importance than correctness in
the size and colours, and neatness in the
^jl^vhtje 2-
43
formation of the artificial fly, which will
therefore first claim attention.
Whether a common hackle, or a clubbed
winged ily is to be manufactured, it is inva-
riably necessary to have the whole of the
materials which are to compose the imita-
tions properly adjusted previous to the com-
mencement of the operation. — 1st. The
Hackles stripped, or divested of the soft
downy feathers which grow nearest the root,
and turned back ready for twisting on the
hook; see plate 11. fig. 7 8c 8- — 2d, The
Gut carefully examined, and trjed by mode-
rately pulling it in proportion to the weight
expected to be held by it. This precaution
will frequently save the Angler much dis-
appointment,* by discovering defects not ap-
parent to the eye. — 3d. The I> o-
perly mixed to the exact colour of the body
of the natural fly, a small proportion of
which should be moistened, and held up to
44
the light ; for the camlets and furs, when
wet, generally become several shades darker
than when in a dry state, and in some in-
stances assume a totally different hue. — 4th.
The Silk well waxed with a colour lighter
than the body of the fly, and a hook cau-
tiously tried as to temper, and prudently
selected as to size. — 5th. The Winers must
be stripped from the feathers by an even but
sudden pull, and for the instruction of the
beginner representations are given in plate
ii. Jig. 5, 6, Sc 10, of the feathers before
stripping, and their appearance when pre-
pared for fastening on the hook.
Every thing being thus in a state of readi-
ness, the hook must be first fastened to the
finest end of the gut with waxed silk, begin-
ning (if for a hackle fly only) at the bend,
and working towards the head of the hook ;
when within about three turns of which, the
hackle must be fastened in, and the winding
■**.*r&r^# C ' £ /,/j%,/ r -y
«~/4>t> cn~^<^^? cA £+ far A** &?ls££*L~Z C+^r*^^^
4
e
of the silk continued, until it reaches the
end of the shank: having reached this
point, it must he turned again, as if to re-
trace the same ground for two turns, which
will form the head of the fly.
The dubbing, if of fur or camlet, must
now be twisted round the silk as in Jig. 13,
and wrapped on the hook for nearly half the
proposed length of the body, when it may
be fastened by a single loop, in order that
both hands may be at liberty for the better
management of the hackle. If the body is
to be composed of peacock or ostrich harl,
it ouo4it to be fastened on at the same time
with the hackle, so that it may be perfectly
secure. Should the hackle be of tolerable
size, there will be no difficulty in twisting it
firmly on the hook with the fingers only;
but if small, a pair of neat pliars which
close together by a spring will be found of
great utility in winding the turns of the
• 46
hackle close under each other; and, if
pliars be wanting, a piece of silk fastened to
the end of the feather will answer the
purpose.
When enough of the feather is wound
upon the hook, the remainder should be
pressed closely under the thumb of the left
hand, and the fibres which may be entan-
gled picked out by means of a needle. The
silk with the dubbing must now be twisted
over the end of the hackle, (which the left
thumb kept down) until the body of the fly
is of the length required, taking care that it
never proceeds beyond the bend of the
hook, which would give it an unnatural ap-
pearance. A single loop will keep the
whole together until the clubbing be picked .
out, and the hackle properly arranged, when
the fastening off mirst be effected, by mak-
ing three or four loose turns of the silk at
such a distance from the hook, as to admit
i / v .'.. AiC
^, , . • ?
/ ■ ' s
/ 'r
.'
/*
47
of the end being passed under them, as
shewn in plate it. fig. 9.
The loose turns must then be wrapped
closely on the hook, and the end drawn
tight, which will so completely secure the
fastening, that if neatly managed, it will be
difficult to discover where the fly has been
finished. This mode of fastening is called
the invisible knot.
In making a winged fly the same method
may be observed with respect to whipping
the hook to the gut, as far as the fastening
in the hackle ; after which, instead of re-
turning immediately with the silk in order
to form the head of the fly, the wings must
be fastened before the dubbing is wound.
Some persons fix the wings to the hook
with the root nearest the bend, and force the
points or narrow ends of the fibres back
afterwards, making use of the short remains
48
of the roots to effect the division of the
wings. This method is however tedious,
and difficult to be understood by a young
practitioner.
The most simple mode of proceeding is
to fix the wingis on the shank of the hook
lengthwise, with the narrowest ends nearest
the bend, fastening them by three or four
turns of the silk above or nearest the head
of the hook, and then cutting the root ends
close with a small pair of scissars ; after
which the silk must be brought below the
wings, and the body twisted for a short dis-
tance, as in the hackle fly.
The hackle must be wound once round
the hook at the head, which will conceal the
ends of the cut fibres, and add greatly to the
neatness of the fly. If the wings are to be
divided, they may be separated equally by a
needle, and the hackle brought down between
49
them, [vide Jig. ll) and wound again round
the hook for two turns below, where the
silk will be found in readiness to fasten it.
If it be not necessary to divide the wings,
after making one turn at the head with the
hackle, it should be brought immediately
below them and twisted as before. The fas-
tening off is to be managed in the same man-
ner as in the common hackle fly : but it is
almost impossible to convey clear instruc-
tions for the dressing of a fly, as particular
circumstances or materials may occasionally
require a different process, which the inven
tion of the operator will best suggest. It
is strongly recommended to the beginner
attentively to watch some skilful Fly maker,
and in the progress of his work make such
inquiries as he may deem requisite ; from
which greater facility and neatness are to be
acquired, than from any written description
whatsoever. The remarks upon tying flies
E
50
being thus concluded, the reader is referred
to plate ii. fig. 14 8c 15, which exhibit a
hackle and winged fly as they appear when
finished.
But before quitting the subject altogether,
the writer cannot avoid expressing a wish
that, for the benefit of those who are not dis-
posed to direct their attention to this branch
of the art, the makers of Artificial Flies for
sale would devote as much care to the firm-
ness and security, as they do to the neatness
of their workmanship, in which, (as exhibit-
ed at some of the tackle shops in London
and Dublin) it must be acknowledged, no
one can surpass them. It is however fre-
quently the case, that after a few throws of
the line, some part of the materials gives
way, and the bare hooks remain openly ex-
posed to the passing " inhabitants of the
liquid element," much to the mortification
of the person using them.
51
The young angler being now furnished
with every requisite as enumerated in the
foregoing pages, will anxiously proceed to
the banks of some river in order to try his
success.
His rod must be so fixed, that the rings
may remain in a straight line from the handle
to the point. The reel, with the line wound
upon it, of such length as the breadth of the
water may require, must be fastened firmly
tinder the butt of the rod, so that the handle
may be on the right side ; for, if it be above,
the rod will never play correctly. The line
being passed through the rings, a loop should
be fixed to the end, and the taper foot line
of twisted hair attached thereto, to which the
gut, which ought to be at least three yards in
length, is to be fastened.
An experienced Fly-fisher will use three,
or even a greater number of flies at one time.
52
The point fly, which should be fastened to
the foot line by a water knot in preference to
a loop, must invariably be the largest, or the
line cannot be thrown neatly. The first
dropper should be placed at the distance of
a yard from the point fly, and fastened by a
loop close to a knot in the gut line : the
length of this dropper may be about three
inches.
The second dropper, which should be
smaller than the first is to be fastened within
eighteen inches from it — length of the gut
about four inches and a half; and if a third
be required, the distance should not exceed
a foot from the second, and the gut on which
the fly is whipped should be longer than
either of the other droppers, in order that
they may all play upon the water together,
without sinking; the main line. It will how-
ever be generally found that three flies are
amply sufficient, and most frequently it is
53
best to have the point fly winged, and the
droppers hackles.
When a novice first attempts to throw a
line, he must beojn with a short length,
which can be encreased as he finds the ma-
nagement of it become easy to him. Care
must be taken that in passing the line behind
the back, it be permitted to attain the full
extent before any attempt is made to return
it ; for if this point be not strictly attended
to, the end fly will crack off at every throw r :
to avoid which, it is recommended to begin
by throwing the line without any fly for a
short space of time, until the proper manage-
ment of the rod is acquired ; and afterwards
to angle with the point fly only, until such
proficiency be attained as may authorize the
addition of the droppers.
In Fly-fishing the person who is most ex-
pert in throwing a considerable length of
54
line, and has a quick sight, and obedient
hand for striking, will be the most successful.
To keep as far from the bank as possible
is particularly desirable; and if the wind be
at the back of the Angler, and his shadow
prevented from appearing upon the water,
so much the better.
The principal object in throwing the line
is, that it may be extended in such a manner,
that the point fly may first lightly touch the
water, without disturbing it in a greater
degree than the actual alighting of the natu-
ral fly. Throwing the fly directly opposite,
or rather above the Angler, and playing it
gently across the stream as it floats down-
wards, is most to be recommended ; for to
force it against the current is unnatural, in-
dependent of the ruffling of the water
which such a bad practice occasions ; and
which, instead of alluring, will infallibly
frighten the fish.
- Z*fc • , /l S/^ fit s/ 6£ t^e- l^u '*' &-** C4 ' «
4
69
caught in almost all our streams which are
near the sea.
The time of spawning varies in different
rivers. At Newcastle-upon-Tyne, these fish
are in season at Christmas ; whereas in the
Welsh rivers, they do not begin to run until
May or June. After they have been for a
few days in the fresh water, they are for the
most part in high season, and a well grown
fish at this time is a valuable prize to the
Angler who may be so fortunate as to secure
him.
When on feed the Salmon generally takes
up a position at the foot of a- strong stream
which terminates in a whirlpool or eddy, and
the most successful bait which can be used is
the artificial fly. Those made in imitation of
the Dragon flies are the most to be depended
upon, as these insects are constantly hover-
ing over the water, consequently are more
70
familiar to the view of the fish. They are
however so capricious, that they will not
unfrequently rise at an extremely gaudy
fly, which bears no resemblance to nature,
in preference even to a real wasp or Dra-
gon fly ; and it will sometimes happen that
a Trout-fisher with small flies, will succeed
in raising the fish immediately after an An-
gler prepared for Salmon-fishing has thrown
over the spot a dozen varieties of large flies.
The best hours of the day for this diversion
are from eight to eleven in the morning, and
from three until six in the evening. For
specimens of Salmon flies, see plate hi.
In Trout fishing when Salmon frequent
the streams, it is necessary to use stronger
tackle than might otherwise be advisable.
An instance of the utility of this precaution
occurred to the author. In one morning's
fishing, five Salmon rose at his Trout flies,
two of which he succeeded in taking: the
71
largest weighed sixteen pounds and three
quarters, and measured two feet nine inches
in length. It is true the gut of which the
line was composed was choice, but it was sin-
gle, and not of that description which from
its extreme thickness is called Salmon gut.
The time occupied in playing this fish was
about an hour and three quarters ; and never
did a General derive greater satisfaction
from a victory than was felt on that
occasion.
If the multiplying reel be reprehensible
in Trout fishing, it is absolutely useless
where Salmon is the object, as the exertions
and activity of this fish will try the strength
of the tackle in all its points. When hook-
ed, the Salmon generally darts with violence
up the stream, and with extreme velocity :
at this time it is not advisable to let much of
the reel line out, but if possible, by forcing
the rod well back, to keep with the fish by
72
running: alone; the side of the river. On
reaching the head of a current, it will proba-
bly throw itself out of the water several
times, apparently with an intent to break the
line with its tail. It may now be necessary
to humour the efforts of the fish by giving
a little additional line, to ease the strain
which this repeated violence may occasion,
but as soon as opportunity offers, it must be
wound again upon the reel. Disappointed in
these fruitless efforts, and maddened by the
disappointments, it may probably return
with encreased velocity to the spot in which
it was hooked, having reliance on some
strong hold or secret haunt in the vicinity of
its feeding ground. To prevent this, it now
requires all the Angler's skill and attention,
by endeavouring to turn the struggler as fre-
quently as possible, which will fatigue it
more than any other expedient. If the
tackle will not admit of his bearing upon the
fish, a few small pebbles thrown before its
73
head, so as not to endanger the line, will
generally produce the desired effect ; and if
it so happen that it becomes sulky, and sinks
without motion to the bottom, this is the
only method to be employed to rouse it
into action ; for a fish should never be per-
mitted to remain quiet after being hooked.
As it becomes exhausted, it may be easily
drawn by degrees on to a gravel bank, or
within reach of the gaff, when the anxiously
earned prize is made secure. If when taken
out of the water the colour of the back be
blue or inclining; to black, the fish is in high
season — if reddish, approaching to brown, it
is kipper and good for nothing.
The male fish is frequently found with a
horny proboscis projecting from the under
jaw, with which he roots in the gravel in
order to form a bed for the spawn of the
female. This being deposited, they both
proceed to cover' it with the loose gravel, to
74
secure it from the voracity of the Trout and
other fish, which are particularly fond of this
food, and follow the Salmon in shoals, in the
expectation of partaking of it.
The young salmon fry, or samlets, are
generally first animated in February, when
they direct their course towards the sea, occa-
sionally halting in favourite spots. On
reaching the brackish or salt water, they stay
for about a fortnight, in which short space of
time their growth is very rapid.
They are extremely voracious, and afford
excellent diversion to the young Angler, as
he will not unfrequently have a fish at every
fly at the same moment. Although they are
a delicious fish, a moment's reflection of the
injury done to the river by the destruction
of so many young fry, which in a year or
two would be so much better worth taking,
after having multiplied their species in an
75
extraordinary degree, ought to deter the
Angler from continuing his sport when he
finds a shoal of them.
But the injury which is occasioned by the
rod and line is insignificant when compared
with the wilful slaughter caused by mill weirs,
where in one night a cart load of these little
fry may be taken. The gentlemen through
whose estates the river winds ought to be
particularly attentive to those most to be
dreaded ravagers, occupiers of mills;
who in a flood, (at which time the fry run
in shoals) under the pretence of setting bas-
kets for eels, fix them in such a manner as
not to admit the possibility of a single fish
of any description escaping, however small it
may be ; and they have been known to catcli
such immense numbers of samlets, that for
want of knowing what to do with them, they
have been under the necessity of throwino;
fchem to the pigs.
76
OF
TJHK TEdDUT
■-*
Of all fresh water fish this is the most beau-
tiful, and, next to the Salmon, is most
esteemed by the Angler for the diversion it
affords. The form of the Trout is Ions: in
proportion to its breadth ; having the head
round, and sharp teeth in the tongue as well
as in the jaws. When in perfect season it is
thickly studded with red and black spots,
which relieved by the dark olive of the back
gradually mixing with the rich yellow of the
sides and belly, produce a fine effect. At
this time it is hog backed like most other
fish.
The variety in the shape and colour of
Trouts which are taken in different rivers
and pools, has induced some persons to ima-
gine that there are three distinct kinds of this
77
fish; viz. the red, the yellow, and the
white, the former of which ranks highest
in estimation ; but the more generally receiv-
ed and most probable opinion is, that this
difference arises from the quality of the
food, or from the water which they inhabit
being impregnated with some substance ca-
pable of producing this effect. Certain it is,
that their haunts, voracity, and modes of
feeding, are every where alike.
They spawn about the latter end of Octo-
ber or beo-innins; of November, at which
time they are unwholesome and not worth
eating. At this season they constantly work
up the stream in order to find proper situa-
tions for spawning, for which purpose they
generally prefer brooks, wdiere gravel or
sand mixed with small stones abounds, in
which they root a bed for this deposit. This
being effected they appear quite exhausted,
and wasting away become soft and lean. In
78
this state they are attacked by a worm, vul-
garly called the water louse, which they have
not strength to rid themselves of until re-in-
vigorated by the genial warmth of the suns
rays, on the approach of spring, when they
quit the still deep water where they have re-
mained inactive during the winter months,
and revisit the strong streams, the force of
which soon frees them from this disagreeable
insect ; which being accomplished, they spee-
dily regain their activity and vigour, and
in the month of May are in high season.
The favourite haunts in which the Trout
delights, and where the Angler is most likely
to meet with diversion, are the junction of
two streams — the tails of currents — below
bridges — near old weirs or pieces of rock —
where the roots of trees are exposed by the
bank having fallen in — uKder hollow banks ;
and an excellent mode of enticing a good
fish is to throw the fly against the opposite
fit^U-^ **** L: *s y^ -
79
bank, so that it may drop gently from
thence to the water ; also, wherever there is
a fall of water, or a whirlpool ; as, when on
the watch for food, they take post at the foot
or sides of agitated waters, lying in wait for
such flies. k.c. as the motion of the element
may drive before it.
In bright weather, when the water is low,
another very successful method of taking
Trout is, by means of a line of about a
yard in length affixed to a short stiff rod,
which will facilitate the dropping of the fly
between bushes, and under the roots of
trees. The best baits are the stone-fly,
green or gray drake, and the down-looker or
oak fly, in their natural states ; by means of
which, if due caution be exercised as to
keeping from the view of the fish, the
Angler will hardly ever fail to reap the
reward of a handsome catch.
80
OF THE
The history of this little fish, which is
also distinguished by a great variety of other
names, as the fingering, pink, gravling,
LAST - SPRING, SKIRLING, FORK -TAIL,
BRANDLING, SHEDDER, SAMPSON, and PAR,
has not been hitherto explained in a satisfac-
tory manner.
They are only to be found in rivers fre-
quented by Salmon, and many are of
opinion that they are all males, and are the
dwarf or unnatural produce of the mixed
spawn of the Salmon and the Trout ; others
that they are produced from the spawn of
those Salmon, which being prevented from
regaining the sea, become sick and incapable
of the regular functions of nature.
81
On the sides of this fish are dark marks
or streaks, such as would be left by the hand
if immersed in colour, whence it derives the
name of Fingering. Some contend that they
never exceed in length eight inches, or in
weight a quarter of a pound ; whilst others
assert that, on visiting the sea, they change
their form in some points, lose the dark marks
on their sides, and return to the rivers seve-
ral pounds in weight. In corroboration of
their growth, a gentleman of the greatest
respectability assured the compiler that he
has frequently taken them from the river by
means of a casting net, and turned them into
a pool, through which the stream of a moun-
tain rivulet passed, and that they throve
wonderfully, and exceeded the weight of a
pound in a short space of time. As opinions
respecting this fish are so various, it is sur-
prising that some experienced naturalist has
not directed his attention to the observation
G
82
of its haunts and habits, to settle the points
in dispute.
These fish afford the Angler great diver-
sion, as they will rise at the fly at almost all
times ; and even when the water is become
extremely low by long droughts, or when
the sun is shining in all his splendour, they
may be taken in considerable quantities.
They are of exquisite flavour, and if pro-
perly potted, the Char of our northern lakes
is not to be preferred as a delicate morcjeau
for the palate of an epicure.
THE
©3BAYIL2N®
OR
ranis,
like the Trout, delights in the streams of
mountainous countries, but is by no means
v .A,
1^7 C— L-^r
/rc^t^cc- c- <£>^fc- U^jL- ^*~ ^/^y^,/-^
\&,JL u^jL -A^^ ^ Us^^l X^? . JL?£.
'fe^CtS-j^/? &* *-$<*. A?A*~ t£^-~ <5^^ ^r^e^^r-s/^r
jy »- - \/^
As they rise freely at the fly they afford
87
good sport to the Angler, and when in the
humour it is not difficult to fill a pannier
with them. They sometimes, though not
commonly, exceed half a pound in weight,
and are much better eating than the Dace.
A small feather from the starling's wing, or
a bright hackle from a golden plover dress-
ed upon small hooks, will generally prove
successful. Another very killing method is
the sandy feather of a landrail dressed as
for the w T ings of a fly, and a well cleansed
maggot or gentle, as before mentioned for
Trout. In the early part of the Spring
they prefer worms, of which a small Brand-
ling and Gilt-tail are most to be depended
upon.
THE
BMAY SiHff IL L DB T
is by no means common in the northern
counties, and but rarely to be found in Scot-
land ; whereas on the southern coasts it is
88
tolerably abundant. They frequently leave
the salt water, and will rise freely at the
same flies as are used for Trout fishing, but
if made rather larger the success of the An-
gler will be more certain: the writer hav-
ing thus occasionally taken them near Rhydd-
lan Castle, where the rivers Ciwydd and
Elwy meet the salt water, whilst Angling
for Salmon. These fish are strong in the water,
and require care in the management of them,
as they plunge violently.
The best time for Angling for them is
when the tide is coming in, as when it ebbs
they return to the salt water. The head of
this fish is of a depressed form, having the
nose sharp ; and the body oblong and com-
pressed, on each side of the head below the
nostrils there stands a little bone which is
serrated on its lower part : the eyes are not
covered with a skin ; and there are teeth on
the tongue and palate, but none upon the
jaws.
89
OF THE
CffliffiBa ©I3IEV3M
OR
O-BA'lPtlfDIB-.
This is a leather-mouthed fish, like the
Carp ; has a big head; and the body, which
is long and rather round, is covered with
large scales. They sometimes attain to the
weight of four or five pounds, are a greedy
fish, and will take all sorts of baits, but are
sulky and inactive when hooked. The best
mode of fishing for them is dibbing with a
natural fly under trees or bushes, as they are
fond of shady places.
The Chub delights in large rivers with
sandy bottoms, and will frequently annoy
the Trout fisher by rising at his flies ; for as
\
90
they make no play, and are good for nothing
when caught, it must be considered mortify-
ing to be plagued by them when in expecta-
tion of nobler game : in fact, in so little es-
timation is this fish held, that the French call
it " Le vilain." To a young Angler they
may nevertheless afford diversion ; and being
generally to be found of good size, they
may be serviceable in preparing him for the
better management of the more active objects,
Trout and Salmon.
Tffil 3BILEAK
is a small delicate fish, scarcely ever attaining
to six inches in length. The body is cover*
ed with thi i silver scales, and the back is of
a greenish colour. On account of their dex-
terity in catching flies, they are frequently
called the water swallow. They are in sea-
son all the year except the month of May,
91
which is the time for their spawning. As
they are to be found in almost all our inland
rivers, and as they are passionately fond of
the small red and black ants, they are a
good fish for initiating the young Angler in
the art of Fly-fishing.
THE
3B®A(01H
AND THE
1A®I S BARKa
or as is sometimes called the showler, will
also rise at the fly greedily ; but as they are
so very generally known, a separate descrip-
tion of them is deemed unnecessary. By
sinking his flies a little under the w T ater, the
Angler will find his advantage when fishing
for ROACH.
92
This fish spawns in Mai/, and it is easy to
distinguish whether it be in season or other-
wise ; for if the scales upon the back be
rough to the touch, it is out of season ; if
they lie flat and smooth, the reverse.
The dace is a longer and narrower fish,
and has smaller scales than the Roach, and
spawns in March, which constitute the prin-
cipal differences between them; as their
haunts and manners are the same, and they
are generally found together, each delighting
in the deepest part of rivers where there is
gravel or sand. Both afford sport to the
Fly-fisher by their avidity in taking the
bait ; but as they do not require much skill
to secure them, and are of so little esteem
when taken, any person who has once parti-
cipated in the pleasures of Salmon or Trout
Angling would feel dissatisfied with this
diversion.
93
The fish thus described are believed to be
all (worthy the Angler's notice) that are ac-
customed to take the fly as their natural
food. It is true, instances have occurred of
the Pearch, Pike,and even Eels^ beingtaken
with the artificial fly; but as such occurrences
are uncommon, it would be inconsistent to
class them with the fish mentioned in the pre-
ceding pages. It remains therefore to proceed
to the description of the materials necessary
to be used in the formation of the flies repre-
sented in the plates which accompany this
treatise.
The author is aware that they can by no
means be considered fine specimens of the
art of representing nature ; but as they will
convey some idea of the size and form of the
natural fly, and may prove a more correct
criterion for the imitator to adopt as to the
colours of his materials than any written
description, it is hoped that they will in
94
some degree prove useful and advantageous
to such brethren of the Angle as may deem
them worthy their inspection.
It may possibly be remarked that the
number of flies selected is insufficient. Cer-
tain it is, that the ephemeral aquatic insects
which the sun's genial rays animate in suc-
cession, are as endless in variety as they are
incalculable in numbers, and may possibly
all at one time or other serve as food for the
Trout, 8cc. Yet to compile a treatise of this
description would require the observation
and deep attention of a Linnaeus. Such
therefore only as practical experience has
pointed out to be worthy of selection are re-
presented, and it is presumed they will be
found sufficient to answer the purposes, and
meet the wishes of the reasonable Angler.
Whilst upon this subject it may not be al-
together irrelative to remark, that a good
95
treatise on the English water insects is much
wanted ; as most of the collectors of this
hranch of natural history, who have spared
no trouble or expence in procuring foreign
insects, are lamentably deficient in specimens
of the description herein mentioned.
Accurately to enumerate the different
names by which the several flies are distin-
guished would be impossible, as the neigh-
bouring inhabitants of almost every river
have different titles for the same insect.
Such however as are known to be standard
flies are given with references to their num-
bers, and the number of the plate. The re-
mainder are no doubt well known to the
experienced Angler by some denomination
or other ; but as name can add little to his
information or success, when he has the
representation before him, they will be des-
cribed in the order in which they appear on
the plates, as follows :
96
PLATE III.
contains specimens of five flies which will
be found very successful in raising Salmon.
No. 1. is recommended as a spring fly, and
is to be composed of the following materials :
Wings, of the dark mottled brown or black-
ish feather of a turkey ; body, of orange cam-
let mixed with a little mohair; and a di sky
red, or bright brown cock's hackle, plucked
from the back where the fibres are longest,
for legs; hook, same size as represented in the
plate : and it is to be observed, that all large
Salmon flies should be dressed upon two or
three lengths of gut twisted together, and
that the silk in dressing be brought beyond
the shank of the hook, and wrapped four or
five times round the gut, so that the sharp-
ness of the steel may not speedily cut it.
\\ Let . . c~/tt7--y ' ^fere/% /? t 3
~--Ia . . .
105
persons, and will certainly kill fish when the
water is low and fine, to have omitted the
description would have. been censurable.
No. 3. Z\)t J&ard) Proton or 30tm ^rafcc.
This very excellent fly generally appears
about the middle of March, and is strongly
recommended as a good killer from eleven
o'clock until tfyree. Large quantities of
these beautiful insects sail down the streams
in succession, and invite the Trout to action.
Their wings are upright on the body as
shewn in the plate, and whilst they are on
the water, it is almost in vain to attempt the
use of any other fly ; therefore as they vary
in the shade of the body, it is advised to
use three flies of this form, but of different
sizes and colours at the same time, which
will ensure success to the Angler.
The winors are made from the dark mot-
tied feather from the tail of a partridge;
106
the body of the fur from the hare's ear,
intermixed with a small portion of yellow
worsted, well dubbed together ; a grizzled
hackle for legs ; and if the imitator chuse to
be exact, two fibres from the same feather
which composed the wings will enable him
to form the tail. This appendage to the
files in their natural state need not be at-
tended to in the artificial formation, as it is
of little importance in aictyig the success of
the Angler ; although, if flies are dressed for
sale, it improves their appearance, and ren-
ders them more showy and attractive. It
may also be dressed as a hackle by means of
the spotted feather from a partridge's back,
using the same mixture for the body as
before described.
«
is of a round form, and rather difficult to
be imitated with success. It is to be used in
May and June, and is very destructive
£& htt- & *-■<&■ ^'S A*% <^f-h*. <*- t*
Sthtt
Csot-Jz-f Jie-t-AsC*— fez- £-*-2s* - c ' vz
\fc-^r^yv
/
107
where bushes abound. By some this is
improperly called the Marlow Buzz. The
body is made of ostrich harl of two colours,
viz. black and purple, which must be
twisted very thick : the wings of the sandv
coloured feather from under the wings of a
throstle, or from the red feather of a part-
ridge's tail, provided it be not too dark :
a bluish hackle twisted tolerably full will
answer for the under wing, as well as for
the legs. The Cow-lady flies are also made
in this manner, substituting a red or black
hackle for the dun, and reducing the size
of the fly very considerably.
No, 5, Zty <5mt Saiclt Utm
is one of the earliest flies which appear
upon the water, and may be used in Febru-
ary, if the weather be mild. It has four
wings, which are to be imitated by the dun
feathers from the wing of a wild mallard
108
which have a brownish tinge : the body of
dark fur from the mole, mixed with a little
dark brown mohair; and a dark grizzled
hackle for legs.
This fly may be used during the whole
year early in the morning, if the wind be
high, and is often successful in raising
Salmon.
No. 6. Z%t j&tone Jflg
is found near the edge of shallow stony
streams, and is a favourite article of food to
the Trout, so long as it continues in season.
It is hatched from a cadis, and issues from
the shell before it has completely gained the
use of wings. The usual time of the Stone
fly's appearance is in April; but Salter, in
his excellent little work on Angling, gives
the following account of his success with
this fly at a much earlier period :
r
/f&±j JSfrt* yi^y ^ faP^
^_ / / / *~
c7Z*
*
&f£A£,: r tfocL fur ciA/L &-<&,/. U
4 £^^J^C^ ^£/^ «-*
HI
natural state by dibbing under bushes ; and
must, in common with all large flies, be in-
variably used at the point.
"No, 7. 'ftty J&calg 38rofon or $ttti jpb
appears in May, and is an excellent fly for
Grayling. It has four wings, which are
made from the under part of a throstle or
fieldfare's wing : those feathers should be
selected which have the yellowest tinge.
The common hen is sometimes to be met
with of this shade, in which case her feathery
may be used. The body is of dusky orange,
which the light brown fur from a fox's breast
will furnish ; and a pale dun hackle for legs.
Attention must be given to the division of
the wings, which should stand as shown in
the plate.
No. 8. Z\)z 33lue 39un
is, in appearance, one of the most delicate
insects which frequent the water ; it is there-
112
fore extraordinary that it is to be found in
the greatest quantities on cold windy days,
being hardly ever to be seen in mild warm
weather. It is an early fly, making its appear-
ance about the first week in March, at which
time it remains on the water during the
whole of the morning. It is extremely dif-
ficult to meet with a feather of the exact
shade, or sufficiently delicate in the fibre for
the wings of this fly ; it is therefore better
to make it of a pale blue dun hackle, and
use it as a dropper. The body is composed
of the blue fur from a water rat, mixed with
a small proportion of lemon coloured mo-
hair. As the wings of this fly stand erect
on the body, a cock's hackle is preferable to
that of a hen, not being so liable to yield to
the action of the water.
PLATE V.
No. 9. is the representation of another
variety of the Duns, being somewhat smaller
, *\
SS
jjflr~fe~$ s y ^^ ^^ ^^ !
fa Lrr L.^* ***** <*<-** **4%
^c^C- £4cO<*. ^-4~ fl~&>c£*- f~ £<^& y&-^
i/c^/eJ - OX- ^/ctrz^r
Although this is not an aquatic insect,
being most commonly found amongst the
excrement of animals, it is nevertheless a fa-
vourite of the Trout ; and when high winds
have blown these flies upon the water, the
Angler may calculate upon good diversion if
he make trial of them.
They appear in March, and will raise fish
until September. The body is made of yel-
low camlet or mohair, mixed with a little
brown bear's fur, which gives the whole a
dusky appearance ; the feather from the
wing of the landrail for wings ; and a ginger
hackle for the legs. The wings are to be
dressed flat on the back, and the body made
full.
W/2e^ ' .
l^tfh^r i^JL ufU A*-*/ - dyy/ c~
i^-f-j {JU^^- c£*^
is an excellent bait for Grayling, and may be
used from May until the end of August.
The wings stand upright, and are to be made
of a hen's feather which approaches to the
colour of yeast; body dark blue fur ; and a
pale ginger hackle for legs ; jor it may be
116
dressed with a cream-coloured hen's hackle
over a blue body.
Ho. 14. &f)e ?|arrg %on% 2?gg
is a Summer fly ; and although its merits have
been underrated by many Anglers, it is an
excellent killer on a cloudy day, when there
is a good breeze. The body is dressed of
brown bear's fur, mixed with the dark dun
from a mole's skin ; the dark mottled fea-
ther of a partridge for wings ; and a brown
cock's hackle of good length for the legs :
wings upright and body taper.
Ho. 1*. ETx> Uttle faoiufclue dFlg.
These flies are rarely to be seen in mild
weather ; but during the month of May they
frequent the water in considerable numbers
on cold windy days. They may be ranked
amongst the smallest of the insects necessarv
UrC-j-^f fz^oTf-^ t-rzmrb Cc<- fi^, £^^ a~c Ac
ui^*r^ Qfic*- - <&*&? y^i^m
*j 0U*A *>£»/ 7i£y * 3**^ fa^
ffl&%^ Aadt/e. - wl* £i/fU ^*^
J <^
\
\
.s ; • >n o W y - v \
Foil the Angler's imitation, and can scarcely
be dressed too fine. The wings are upright, \ ' >
and best made of a feather from under the
cormorant's wing ; as however it may not
be an easy matter to procure one of these
birds, and as one bird affords only about a
dozen of the feathers requisite, a substitute
is recommended in the tail of the tom-tit,
which is nearly of the same shade. The
body pale blue fur warped with purple silk,
a small portion of which should be neatly
picked out to represent the legs of the fly, as
the use of a hackle for this purpose in
minute flies is incorrect.
ttfo. 16. Z\)z (Srabcl or j&pitier 4Fls
is first seen about the middle of April, at
which time the gravel in which these insects
are bred is literally covered by incalculable
numbers of them. They are extremely deli-
cate, and not often visible on cold days; on
118
which however success is more probable with
this fly, than when they are to be found in
such large quantities. They may be used
from morning until evening; ; and the Trout
are so passionately fond of them, that they
gorge themselves with their favourite food,
and retire to their secret haunts, thereby dis-
appointing the most skilful endeavours of the
Angler.
It is probably owing to the short duration
of these ilies that the fish are so greedy in $ >
devouring them, as they are seldom to be
found at the expiration of about.three weeks ^
from their first appearance. The wings are
made of the feather from the wing of the
cuckoo's mate, the goat sucker, or in the
absence of the preceding two, from the * v#
woodcock: the body of lead coloured silk
for the lower and middle parts, and a strip
of black ostrich hail for the thick.part near
the shoulders; round which a Small dark
If
7L ~fcr / 7 '
v
■\
V
TPIL^TCTB 6
**m>
119
grizzled hackle should be twisted twice, and
the fly is completed.
PLATE VI.
No* 17. %ty (Sranam or <£mn Eatl
is to be found on the water at the same time
of the year as the spider fly, and is used
with success early in the morning and late in
the evening, whilst it is in season, which is
rarely for a longer period than ten days. It is
also a delicate fly, and not often out on cold
days. It derives the name of Green Tail
from a bunch of eggs of a green colour,
which drop on the water at the moment of
the fly's touching that element. The wings
lie flat on the back, and are made of the
shaded feather from the wing of a partridge
or hen pheasant ; the body of the dark fur
from a hare's ear, mixed with a little blue
fur; and for the tail the green harl from
■■"*
120
the eye of a peacock's tail is the most showy
material, although a small quantity of bright
green wax (about the size of a pin's head)
attached to the hook is the best representa-
tion of nature ; a yellow grizzled hackle
should be used for the legs ; or it may be
dressed as a hackle, with the shaded feather
from under a woodcock's wing over the same
body.
No. 18. is a representation of the Green
Tail as it appears when on the water ; the pre-
ceding fly having been drawn with the wings
expanded for the purpose of shewing the
colour of the body.
Jto. 19. t\)t P^afotfjow jFlg
is so called from being usually found near'
the shrub of that name. It is a good killer,
and may be used from the middle of April
to the end of May, from ten o'clock until
V • » ^
V'
Z/l T*L /Z~ fa*-
r^^*~-/x~- yi^t^y
/
121
three. The wings are transparent, and may-
be made from the palest feather of a snipe or
mallard's wing : some use horn shavings, or
the hard substance which is found in the
core of an apple, for this purpose : the
body of black ostrich harl ; and a black
hackle for leo;s.
jlo. 20. flTJje JSummer Sun
is thicker in form than the o-eneralitv of the
dun flies, and is to be dressed upon a hook
with a short shank. The body of the fur
from a mole ribbed w T ith ash-coloured silk ;
the wings from a wood-pigeon ; and an ash-
coloured hackle for legs. A good fly dur-
ing the Summer months, in large waters.
iio. 21. Ifyt ^tacfe ©arl §\%
is also a Summer fly, and is a good killer in
warm weather early in the morning. The
122
body is of ostrich harl dressed thin, and
cut close; the wings, which are four in num-
ber, from the pale feather of the starling's
wing.
Mo. 22. TEfyt To. 23. fcjjc little ^clloto ittag or Mllofo Jfto
resembles the green drake in form, and is
composed of nearly the same materials, but
on a much smaller scale. The body of yel-
low fur from the martin's neck ; or yellow
worsted unravelled, and mixed with a very
small quantity of the fur from, the hare's ear,
so arranged that the yellow shall predomi-
nate as the colour of the belly ; wings of the
mallard's feather dyed yellow ; or it may be
made as a hackle fly, with a white cock's
feather dyed of the same shade of yellow.
This fly comes on early in May, and is the
precursor of the green drake ; until the ap-
pearance of which it may be used with
success.
124
No. 24. a little brown fly which appears
in June, and continues until September,
is a good fly before sunset in a warm even-
ing. The body of dark brown fur ribbed
with orange silk ; and a hackle of a greenish
tinge from the back of a woodpecker, or
dusky green parrot.
PLATE VII.
No. 25. is a brown winged fly, which is fre-
quently seen during the months of June,
July, and August. The body is of dark
blue fur mixed with a portion of black sheep's
wool ; the wings from the brown feather of
a grouse ; and a dark cock's hackle for legs.
It is a good fly in still water, where it play-
fully skims the surface, somewhat in the
manner of the Harry Long Legs.
125
No. 26. Ifyt ttvofon 33un.
The form of this fly resembles the blue
dun, but it is rather less in size. The body is
made of otter's fur mixed with lemon-colour
mohair ; a ginger hackle for legs ; and the
wings from a fieldfare. This, as well as all
the dun flies of the same form, is a great
favourite of the Trout ; and is taken princi-
pally in the evening towards the approach of
dusk.
No. 27. Zty <&xm\ Dtafee or i&ag d?lg
is one of the most beautiful of our English
insects, and is taken with avidity by the
Trout and Chub, being a bait that they are
remarkably fond of. These flies are to be
found in the greatest plenty on sandy gra-
velly rivulets or brooks, and also on some
large rivers ; but their favourite haunts are
126
most commonly the smaller streams, where
they are to be used with the best success.
They appear about the twentieth of May,
and continue for nearly a month. The
wings stand erect upon the back, and vary
in the tints of yellow in different flies. The
body is long, slender, and taper towards the
tail, from the end of which spring the fork-
ed whisks, which turning up towards the
back, give the name of Green Drake to this
fly. The body is made of hog's down, or
light bear's hair, intermixed with yellow mo-
hair; or of barber's yellow silk only, warped
with pale flos silk, and a small strip of pea-
cock's harl for the head ; a bittern's hackle is
acknowledged to be the best imitation of the
legs and dark stripes of the body ; and for
the tail the long hairs of sable or fitchet are
most appropriate.
As no natural feather approaches the re-
semblance of the wings of this fly, it is neces-
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126
most commonly the smaller streams, where
they are to be used with the best success.
They appear about the twentieth of May,
and continue for nearly a month. The
wings stand erect upon the back, and vary
in the tints of yellow in different flies. The
body is long, slender, and taper towards the
tail, from the end of which spring the fork-
ed whisks, which turning up towards the
back, give the name of Green Drake to this
fly. The body is made of hog's down, or
light bear's hair, intermixed with yellow mo-
hair; or of barber's yellow silk only, warped
with pale flos silk, and a small strip of pea-
cock's harl for the head ; a bittern's hackle is
acknowledged to be the best imitation of the
legs and dark stripes of the body ; and for
the tail the long hairs of sable or fitchet are
most appropriate.
As no natural feather approaches the re-
semblance of the wings of this fly, it is neces-
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127
sary to have recourse to art for the imitation,
which may he successfully produced by dy-
ing the spotted feathers of a wild mallard
yellow, for which purpose a variety of recipes
have been given. This fly kills extremely
well at all hours of the day, particularly in
still water.
Recipe for staining the Mallard's feather yellow, from
" Walton and Cotton's Complete Angler," Edit. 1808.
Take the root of a Barberry tree and shave
it, and put to it woody viss, with as much
alum as walnut, and boil your feathers in it
with rain water, and they will be of a very
fine yellow.
Recipe for staining the same colour , from " Salter's
Modern Angler" page 61.
Scrape a small quantity of the bark of the
Barberry tree, or bruise in a mortar the root ;
add to it a lump of alum, and one or two
dozen gray feathers of a mallard ; boil them
128
in a pint of rain water in an earthen pitcher
about an hour, and you will find them the
colour you wish.
Another from the same Treatise.
When the Barberry cannot be readily
procured, take of Turmeric one ounce, Alum
half ditto, Stone Blue quarter ditto, each
pounded fine ; boil them with the gray fea-
thers above described, and it will produce
the same colour. It may prevent a mistake
if you frequently take out a feather and dip
it in clean water ; you will then observe the
progress of the dye.
Another from " Taylor's Angling in all its branches.*-'
The best dye for all yellow materials for
artificial flies is the bark from the branches
of a Crab tree, taken in the Spring when the
sap is up. Before you use it put any quan-
tity that you want into a vessel, just cover it
129
With a mixture of one half hard water and
the other half urine, and let it stand twenty-
four hours ; then put it into a proper vessel,
with some alum according to judgment, so
that it simmer over a slow fire about two
hours ; stir up all well together, and take out
the bark : then put in your feathers and
other materials, and stir them round till the
liquor just begins to boil ; then take them
out, and instantly throw them into some hard
cold water with a little alum dissolved in it,
wash them out and dry them for use : you
may make the shades of this colour vary by
dissolving more or less of the bark according
to judgment, or letting the materials be in
the dye a longer or shorter time.
Another.
Gumboge dissolved in spirits of wine will
impart a fine yellow to the feathers, if they
be first boiled in strong alum water.
K
130
No. 28. Z\)t ftlue $lofo
is one of the smallest flies worthy the An-
gler's notice ; nevertheless it must claim his
particular attention, as when the water is
low it is an excellent killer, and when these
insects appear in large quantities the Trout
are extremely active in devouring them. It
is hardly possible to dress this fly upon too
small a hook : the body should be made of
any very dark blue fur, or of a peewit's top-
ping, as its appearance on the water exactly
resembles a lump of soot ; the wings may be,
made of thistle down, or a bluish white hac-
kle. It is a Summer fly, but is most abundant
during the first fortnight in August, when
at about one o'clock in the day the water is
covered with them.
ilo. 29. t\)t 23lacfe J&tose
is another very minute fly, and is dressed
with brownish black silk for the body, and a
131
blue cock's hackle over it It is chiefly to
be used as a dropper when the water is fine,
and is taken freely after a shower of rain in
the evening during the Summer months.
ilo. 30. Z\)t ©rag Brake
generally succeeds the o-reen drake, although
they are sometimes to be seen together in
equal quantities. Its duration is about a fort-
night ; and it is to be found on almost all
waters, whether large or small, rapid or
otherwise. It is an excellent fly for attracting
large fish, 'and may be used from three
o'clock in the afternoon until dusk. In form
and size it resembles the May Fly ; but in
colour it is very different. The body is to be
made of dirty white ostrich harl, or cream
coloured crewel, dressed with flesh colour-
ed silk, and ribbed with a dark grizzled
cock's hackle'; the head to be formed of
peacock's harl, in the same manner as the
132
green drake ; the wings of the mottled feather
of the mallard, or mallard teal, provided it
be not very dark ; and the tail of the hair of
sable, or fitchet's tail. This fly should be
thrown directly over the fish, and so manag-
ed, if possible, that the wings may not touch
the water.
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