tion to it is that, unless the waterproof cloth with which
it is lined be carefully washed after each day's fishing, a nasty smell
is apt to be contracted and retained. Though we use the bag often
ourselves, we incline for many reasons to the old-fashioned creel. Many
loch-fishers carry along with them a square basket about 16 in. x 8
broad x 10 deep, which they use for carrying their tackle and lunch,
thus leaving the creel or fishing-bag free for fish alone. This is a
capital plan, the only objection being that it makes another article to
carry. As to its usefulness there can be no doubt, as nothing is more
undesirable than having tackle and fish in one basket or bag, even
though you should have something between. Some anglers go the length of
a luncheon-basket, but this savours so much of the picnic that we don't
approve of it.

_Landing-Net and Gaff._--These may be got at any tackle shop, the only
care to be exercised being in the selection of a good long handle, and
in seeing that the net be made of twine which resists the catching of
hooks, and that it be of a size capable of landing a large fish, as the
gaff leaves an ugly mark, and should only be used when actually
necessary. The screw of the net-hoop and of the gaff will suit the same
handle.

_Fishing-Rods._--For loch-fishing, it is desirable to use a rod not less
than 14 feet in length, if fishing for ordinary yellow trout; but if for
sea trout, and the chance of "a fish" _par excellence_, then the rod
should be a couple of feet longer. The angler will find that it is
better to have both rods with him--the spare one being handy in case of
calamity--as the extra trouble of carrying is very slight: rods and
landing-net handle can be easily tied up together with small leather
straps. Do not have a rod that bends too freely--rather err on the
other side; because in loch-fishing you have generally wind enough to
carry your flies out, and if you do get a 3 or 4 pounder, the advantage
of a fairly stiff rod is apparent. We prefer rods in three pieces--no
hollow-butts--and made of greenheart throughout. The first cost is more
than for rods whose various parts are made of different woods, but the
greenheart is the cheapest rod in the end. With the minimum of care, a
greenheart never gets out of order; and a good rod of this description
will be as straight at the end of a season as at the beginning. Avoid
all fancy rods, and do not be beguiled into buying them.

_Ree