Gone Fishing, 18th Century Style

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During the 2021 Trek, our explorers encountered a number of trout in the stream, there for the pickings. While some of our hearty hunters were able to snatch the fish from the stream, fishing in a period correct manner, would be more appropriate, and potentially point-worthy. Incidentally, the Rainbow Trout is not native east of the Ohio river, but the the Brook Trout is.

Buy your own hooks here.

As you can imagine, the bare essentials of a period correct fishing kit were limited to some hooks, a line, and a sinker. Since hooks were a hand-made product, they were larger than one might expect. To simplify manufacture, the end of the hook was flattened and the leader was essentially lashed to the hook's shank. This prevented the leader from slipping off the end. If you're interested, you can watch this video on how to snell (tie on) an eyeless fishhook. Also, Blue Heron Mercantile carries fishhooks too.  Townsend's sells a complete fishing kit consisting of hand forged eyeless hooks, some twine for fishing line, some cork bobbers, and some lead sinkers. The contents of this kit fully prepares you to go all Isaac Walton in the wilderness without the pain of actually learning to use the stuff. 

Oh! Was that a trout? No, a snark.

If I misjudged your mettle, my apologies. As restitution, I offer you this video link explaining how to fish in a period correct manner. It comes from our friend Fandabi Dozi, a Scottish highlander that I've featured in other postings. He and Jon Townsend produce the best videos.

So when your mind starts wandering to the 2022 Autumn Trek, keep this important survival skill in mind.