Fw: Fw: [Mid] Period Fishing

Been forwarding the fishing discussion to Andrew Mac Robb, and here's his
reply.

>>Hooks from period (and long before) have been found made of bronze, bone,
>horn, and ivory. A bone, horn, or ivory hook has advantages for fly fisging
>over modern steel; steel hooks are denser than bone or chiton and fish have
>a sixth sence (the lateral line) that detects the density of an object in
>the water, flies made with bone hooks are no denser than natural objects
>thus "look" more realistic and can be made larger and still work. Thus
>larger, more easily made hooks can be used for smaller fish. Lines, in
>period, for fly casting were made from silk which is neutral in the water
>and will float or sink depending on "dressing" (Such lines can still be
>purchased at good fly fishing stores or supply houses). Braided linnen
>(Often tarred) was used for "coarse" fishing. Leaders as described by
>others were braided horse hair usually ending in two strands for trout
>fishing (4 to 6 pounds breaking strength). Tail hair from a gray (white) or
>palomino horse was preferred. Tapered gut leaders could have been made but
>I have not seen a reference to them. Reels were used for salt water fishing
>to keep lines from tangling and simple "single action" wooden reels dating
>from just after period have been found. One method for holding line that
>was used in period was a tray that was held out in front of the fisherman
>with a shoulder harness, line was simply coiled on the tray so that it
>would be ready for casting; keeping it from becoming tangled must have been
>quite a skill.
> I have often thought of having a "period fishing" tournament at the war;
>anyone interested? Andrew MacRobb
>

Phlip

phlip@morganco.net

Philippa Farrour
Caer Frig
Southeastern Ohio

So many Gods, so many creeds,
So many paths that wind and wind,
When just the art of being kind
Is all this sad world needs.

From: "Alderton, Philippa" <phlip@morganco.net>
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Received on Wed Jun 9 09:38:31 1999