ld stormy days), and
the Grannam, or Green Tail, are frequently on at the same time, and it
is a pleasant sight to anglers to see thousands of these flies settling
on the water, and the fish rising at them in all directions. During
these feeds I venture to predict that any person who has suitable
flies, and who can manage to make a tolerable light cast, cannot well
miss taking some fish. With respect to the Grannams, you may on bright
mornings begin to fish with them as early as six o'clock, and again
after the large Browns have disappeared, I mean for that day. If you
commence fishing, say any time between six and eleven a.m., use the
small flies, viz., the Grannam or Green Tail, the small Blue Dun, and
Black Flies, dressed on No. 2. hooks.--During this month (April) it is
frequently so cold that to dress a fly by the water side is almost an
impossibility, or at least a matter of some difficulty, therefore,
always be provided with a supply, ready for use when wanted. I also
strongly recommend fine round Gut in preference to Hair at this season,
on account of the size and weight of the large hooks on which the Brown
Drake requires to be dressed; and which Hair will not retain so safely
as Gut; and also, though you may probably rise more fish with Hair, yet
taking the breakages you are liable to by using it, and the loss and
hinderance you suffer thereby, especially if broken in the midst of a
feed, which perhaps does not last above a quarter of an hour, taking
these matters into consideration, I have long since arrived at the
conclusion that Gut is much better for Spring fishing than Hair. But in
the long Summer day, when your fingers are not benumbed with the cold,
and you can dress flies or repair and arrange your tackle at your
pleasure or convenience, then, when the water is low and fine, there is
nothing comparable to strong, fine round Hair, it falls much lighter
than Gut on the water, and therefore, for log or still water is much
superior. But really good Hair for angling purposes is exceedingly
difficult to meet with, and if you use inferior, many losses and
disappointments are sure to occur. Good Hair has the advantage over Gut
in these respects,--it is sooner wet, falls lighter on the water, and
is free from that glistening and shiny quality which detracts so much
from Gut, and which no staining will entirely obliterate; it wears out
by use in a great measure, but having come to that point, cannot be
depended u