The fishing for striped bass is altogether different from anything that has heretofore been described. It requires a different rod, reel, line and bait. It is true that at certain places bass may be taken with a large coarse fly either cast or used in trolling, but these spots are so rare that but few anglers have ever enjoyed the sport of fly fishing for striped bass. The best place for this is at the Little Falls of the Potomac, and the sportsmen of Washington are favored in having the privilege. But in general the fishing for striped bass is done with bait and a rod that is short, strong but springy, not over nine feet in length but very stiff by comparison with anything used for salmon or trout. The finest rods are made with the second joint and tip - there are only three joints - of bamboo, and the butt of some heavier wood. A single piece of Japanese bamboo makes an excellent rod and may be had at a cheap price but it is awkward to carry. The guides which are used in place of rings, and tip point or "funnel top," should be lined with agate in order that the line may run through them with the utmost freedom, this being the great desideratum in the more difficult kinds of bass fishing.

More important even than the rod is the reel. This must be made with the delicacy of the finest clock work. It is a multiplier and should either run on agates or steel pins, the latter is not so easily broken as the former and renders as well if it is kept well oiled. The cog wheels must be as perfect as they can be and run with absolute accuracy and noiselessness. The least jar or chatter renders the whole thing utterly useless. The handle is balanced and the main barrel is large and able to hold three hundred yards of line. When a good reel has once been selected it needs and deserves the best of care; it should be kept in a leather case, and if it is unused for some time should be oiled occasionally. Before it is used and when it is about being put away it should be taken apart, wiped dry and oiled, and all rust must be thoroughly removed.