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The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Harvest of the Sea
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
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this eBook.
Title: The Harvest of the Sea
Author: James Glass Bertram
Release date: October 10, 2020 [eBook #63433]
Most recently updated: October 18, 2024
Language: English
Other information and formats: www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/63433
Credits: Produced by Turgut Dincer, Les Galloway and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This
file was produced from images generously made available
by The Internet Archive)
*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE HARVEST
OF THE SEA ***
Transcriber’s Notes
Obvious typographical errors have been silently corrected. Variations in hyphenation and
accents have been standardised but all other spelling and punctuation remains unchanged.
With a few exceptions French words are not accented.
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you will
have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using
this eBook.
Title: The Harvest of the Sea
Author: James Glass Bertram
Release date: October 10, 2020 [eBook #63433]
Most recently updated: October 18, 2024
Language: English
Other information and formats: www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/63433
Credits: Produced by Turgut Dincer, Les Galloway and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This
file was produced from images generously made available
by The Internet Archive)
*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE HARVEST
OF THE SEA ***
Transcriber’s Notes
Obvious typographical errors have been silently corrected. Variations in hyphenation and
accents have been standardised but all other spelling and punctuation remains unchanged.
With a few exceptions French words are not accented.
Page 4
In Chapter X, St Monance Uppertown and Overtown both used for the same location.
THE HARVEST OF THE SEA.
VIEW OF WICK HARBOUR DURING THE HERRING SEASON.
THE HARVEST OF THE SEA.
VIEW OF WICK HARBOUR DURING THE HERRING SEASON.
Page 5
THE
HARVEST OF THE SEA
A CONTRIBUTION TO
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE BRITISH FOOD FISHES
By JAMES G. BERTRAM
Polonius.—Do you know me, my lord?
Hamlet.—Excellent well; you are a fishmonger.
Shakespeare.
WITH FIFTY ILLUSTRATIONS.
HARVEST OF THE SEA
A CONTRIBUTION TO
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE BRITISH FOOD FISHES
By JAMES G. BERTRAM
Polonius.—Do you know me, my lord?
Hamlet.—Excellent well; you are a fishmonger.
Shakespeare.
WITH FIFTY ILLUSTRATIONS.
Page 6
LONDON
JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET
1865
Printed by R. C
lark , Edinburgh.
JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET
1865
Printed by R. C
lark , Edinburgh.
Page 7
PREFATORY NOTE.
It is not my intention to inflict upon the reader a formal Preface. It would,
however, be ungrateful were I not to take an opportunity of acknowledging
the aid and information kindly afforded by various Members of the French
Government; also by Professor Coste of the French Institute; M. Coumes of
Strasbourg; the Authorities at Huningue; the Intendant of the Jardin
d’Acclimatisation of Paris; Mr. Robert Buist; Mr. John Cleghorn; Jonathan
Couch, Esq. of Polperro; Mr. H. Dempster; Thomas Ashworth, Esq.; Mr.
Robert Cowie; Mr. R. P. Scott; Edward Cooke, Esq., R.A., to whose
kindness I am indebted for the characteristic Sketches of “The Angler Fish”
and “Jack in his Element.”
So far as I am aware, this is the first work in which an attempt has been
made to bring before the public in one view the present position and future
prospects of the Food Fisheries of Great Britain. Great pains have been
taken to obtain reliable information and correct statistics, but in so wide a
field of labour considerable allowance must be made for errors.
The excellent Fish Groups have been arranged and drawn by Mr. Stewart,
the Natural History draughtsman of this city; while the Sketches of Fishing
Scenes on Lochfyne and elsewhere are by Mr. J. R. Prentice.
Edinburgh , 18th October 1865.
It is not my intention to inflict upon the reader a formal Preface. It would,
however, be ungrateful were I not to take an opportunity of acknowledging
the aid and information kindly afforded by various Members of the French
Government; also by Professor Coste of the French Institute; M. Coumes of
Strasbourg; the Authorities at Huningue; the Intendant of the Jardin
d’Acclimatisation of Paris; Mr. Robert Buist; Mr. John Cleghorn; Jonathan
Couch, Esq. of Polperro; Mr. H. Dempster; Thomas Ashworth, Esq.; Mr.
Robert Cowie; Mr. R. P. Scott; Edward Cooke, Esq., R.A., to whose
kindness I am indebted for the characteristic Sketches of “The Angler Fish”
and “Jack in his Element.”
So far as I am aware, this is the first work in which an attempt has been
made to bring before the public in one view the present position and future
prospects of the Food Fisheries of Great Britain. Great pains have been
taken to obtain reliable information and correct statistics, but in so wide a
field of labour considerable allowance must be made for errors.
The excellent Fish Groups have been arranged and drawn by Mr. Stewart,
the Natural History draughtsman of this city; while the Sketches of Fishing
Scenes on Lochfyne and elsewhere are by Mr. J. R. Prentice.
Edinburgh , 18th October 1865.
Page 8
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
FISH LIFE AND GROWTH.
PAGE
Classification of Fish—Their Form and Colour—Mode and Means of Life—Curiously-
shaped Fish—Senses of Smell and Hearing in Fish—Fish nearly Insensible to Pain—
The Fecundity of Fish—Sexual Instinct of Fish—External Impregnation of the Ova—
Ripening of a Salmon Egg—Birth of a Herring—Proposal for a Marine Observatory in
order to note the Growth of our Sea Fish—Curious Stories about the Growth of the Eel
—All that is known about the Mackerel—Whitebait: is it a Distinct Species?—
Mysterious Fish: the Vendace and the Powan—Where are the Haddocks?—The Food of
Fish—Fish as a rule not Migratory—The Growth of Fish Shoals—When Fish are good
for Food—The Balancing Power of Nature 1
CHAPTER II.
FISH COMMERCE.
Early Fish Commerce—Sale of Fresh-water Fish—Cured Fish—Influence of Rapid Transit
on the Fisheries—Fish-Ponds—The Logan Pond—Ancient Fishing Industries—The
Dutch Herring-Fishing—Comacchio—The Art of Breeding Eels—Progress of Fishing
in Scotland—A Scottish Buss—Newfoundland Fisheries—The Greenland Whale-
Fishing—Speciality of different Fishing Towns—The General Sea Fisheries of France
—French Fish Commerce—Statistics of the British Fisheries 34
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER I.
FISH LIFE AND GROWTH.
PAGE
Classification of Fish—Their Form and Colour—Mode and Means of Life—Curiously-
shaped Fish—Senses of Smell and Hearing in Fish—Fish nearly Insensible to Pain—
The Fecundity of Fish—Sexual Instinct of Fish—External Impregnation of the Ova—
Ripening of a Salmon Egg—Birth of a Herring—Proposal for a Marine Observatory in
order to note the Growth of our Sea Fish—Curious Stories about the Growth of the Eel
—All that is known about the Mackerel—Whitebait: is it a Distinct Species?—
Mysterious Fish: the Vendace and the Powan—Where are the Haddocks?—The Food of
Fish—Fish as a rule not Migratory—The Growth of Fish Shoals—When Fish are good
for Food—The Balancing Power of Nature 1
CHAPTER II.
FISH COMMERCE.
Early Fish Commerce—Sale of Fresh-water Fish—Cured Fish—Influence of Rapid Transit
on the Fisheries—Fish-Ponds—The Logan Pond—Ancient Fishing Industries—The
Dutch Herring-Fishing—Comacchio—The Art of Breeding Eels—Progress of Fishing
in Scotland—A Scottish Buss—Newfoundland Fisheries—The Greenland Whale-
Fishing—Speciality of different Fishing Towns—The General Sea Fisheries of France
—French Fish Commerce—Statistics of the British Fisheries 34
CHAPTER III.
Page 9
FISH CULTURE.
Antiquity of Pisciculture—Italian Fish-Culture—Sergius Orata—Re-discovery of the Art—
Gehin and Remy—Jacobi—Shaw of Drumlanrig—The Ettrick Shepherd—Scientific
and Commercial Pisciculture—A Trip to Huningue—Tourist Talk about Fish—Bale—
Huningue described—The Water Supply—Modus Operandi at Huningue—Packing
Fish Eggs—An Important Question—Artificial Spawning—Danube Salmon—Statistics
of Huningue—Plan of a Suite of Ponds—M. de Galbert’s Establishment—Practical
Nature of Pisciculture—Turtle-Culture—Best kinds of Fish to rear—Pisciculture in
Germany—Stormontfield Salmon-Breeding Ponds—Design for a Suite of Salmon-
Ponds—Statistics of Stormontfield—Acclimatisation of Fish—The Australian
Experiment—Introduction of the Silurus glanis 69
CHAPTER IV.
ANGLERS’ FISHES.
Fresh-Water Fish not of much Value—The Angler and his Equipment—Pleasures of the
Country in May—Anglers’ Fishes—Trout, Pike, Perch, and Carp—Gipsy Anglers—
Angling Localities—Gold Fish—The River Scenery of England—The Thames—
Thames Anglers—Sea Angling—Various Kinds of Sea Fish—Proper Kinds of Bait—
The Tackle Necessary—The Island of Arran—Corry—Goatfell, etc. 129
CHAPTER V.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE
SALMON.
The Salmon our best-known Fish—Controversies and Anomalies—Food of Salmon—The
Parr Controversy—Experiments by Shaw, Young, and Hogg—Grilse: its Rate of
Growth—Do Salmon make Two Voyages to the Sea in each Year?—The Best Way of
marking Young Salmon—Enemies of the Fish—Avarice of the Lessees—The Rhine
Salmon—Size of Fish—Killing of Grilse—Rivers Tay, Spey, Tweed, Severn, etc.—The
Tay Fisheries—Report on English Fisheries—Upper and Lower Proprietors 177
Antiquity of Pisciculture—Italian Fish-Culture—Sergius Orata—Re-discovery of the Art—
Gehin and Remy—Jacobi—Shaw of Drumlanrig—The Ettrick Shepherd—Scientific
and Commercial Pisciculture—A Trip to Huningue—Tourist Talk about Fish—Bale—
Huningue described—The Water Supply—Modus Operandi at Huningue—Packing
Fish Eggs—An Important Question—Artificial Spawning—Danube Salmon—Statistics
of Huningue—Plan of a Suite of Ponds—M. de Galbert’s Establishment—Practical
Nature of Pisciculture—Turtle-Culture—Best kinds of Fish to rear—Pisciculture in
Germany—Stormontfield Salmon-Breeding Ponds—Design for a Suite of Salmon-
Ponds—Statistics of Stormontfield—Acclimatisation of Fish—The Australian
Experiment—Introduction of the Silurus glanis 69
CHAPTER IV.
ANGLERS’ FISHES.
Fresh-Water Fish not of much Value—The Angler and his Equipment—Pleasures of the
Country in May—Anglers’ Fishes—Trout, Pike, Perch, and Carp—Gipsy Anglers—
Angling Localities—Gold Fish—The River Scenery of England—The Thames—
Thames Anglers—Sea Angling—Various Kinds of Sea Fish—Proper Kinds of Bait—
The Tackle Necessary—The Island of Arran—Corry—Goatfell, etc. 129
CHAPTER V.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE
SALMON.
The Salmon our best-known Fish—Controversies and Anomalies—Food of Salmon—The
Parr Controversy—Experiments by Shaw, Young, and Hogg—Grilse: its Rate of
Growth—Do Salmon make Two Voyages to the Sea in each Year?—The Best Way of
marking Young Salmon—Enemies of the Fish—Avarice of the Lessees—The Rhine
Salmon—Size of Fish—Killing of Grilse—Rivers Tay, Spey, Tweed, Severn, etc.—The
Tay Fisheries—Report on English Fisheries—Upper and Lower Proprietors 177
Page 10
CHAPTER VI.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE
HERRING.
Description of the Herring—The Old Theory of Migration—Geographical Distribution of
the Herring—Mr. John Cleghorn’s Ideas on the Natural History of the Herring—Mr.
Mitchell on the National Importance of that Fish—Commission of Inquiry into the
Herring-Fishery—Growth of the Herring—The Sprat—Should there be a Close-time?
—Caprice of the Herring—The Fisheries—The Lochfyne Fishery—The Pilchard—
Herring Commerce—Mr. Methuen—The Brand—The Herring Harvest All Night at the
Fishing—The Cure—The Curers—Herring Boats—Increase of Netting—Are we
Overfishing?—Proposal for more Statistics 226
CHAPTER VII.
THE WHITE-FISH FISHERIES.
Difficulty of obtaining Statistics of our White-Fish Fisheries—Ignorance of the Natural
History of the White Fish—“Finnan Haddies”—The Gadidæ Family: the Cod, Whiting,
etc.—The Turbot and other Flat Fish—When Fish are in Season—How the White-Fish
Fisheries are carried on—The Cod and Haddock Fishery—Line-Fishing—The Scottish
Fishing Boats—Loss of Boats on the Scottish Coasts—Storms in Scotland—Trawl-Net
Fishing—Description of a Trawler—Evidence on the Trawl Question 285
CHAPTER VIII.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE
OYSTER.
Proper Time for Oyster-Fishing to Begin—Description of the Oyster—Controversies about 332
its Natural History—Spatting of the Oyster—Growth of the Oyster—Quantity of Spawn
emitted by the Oyster—Social History of the Oyster—Great Men who were Fond of
Oysters—Oyster-Breeding in France—Lake Fusaro—Beef’s Discovery of Artificial
Culture—Oyster-Farming in the Bay of Biscay—The Celebrated Green Oysters—
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE
HERRING.
Description of the Herring—The Old Theory of Migration—Geographical Distribution of
the Herring—Mr. John Cleghorn’s Ideas on the Natural History of the Herring—Mr.
Mitchell on the National Importance of that Fish—Commission of Inquiry into the
Herring-Fishery—Growth of the Herring—The Sprat—Should there be a Close-time?
—Caprice of the Herring—The Fisheries—The Lochfyne Fishery—The Pilchard—
Herring Commerce—Mr. Methuen—The Brand—The Herring Harvest All Night at the
Fishing—The Cure—The Curers—Herring Boats—Increase of Netting—Are we
Overfishing?—Proposal for more Statistics 226
CHAPTER VII.
THE WHITE-FISH FISHERIES.
Difficulty of obtaining Statistics of our White-Fish Fisheries—Ignorance of the Natural
History of the White Fish—“Finnan Haddies”—The Gadidæ Family: the Cod, Whiting,
etc.—The Turbot and other Flat Fish—When Fish are in Season—How the White-Fish
Fisheries are carried on—The Cod and Haddock Fishery—Line-Fishing—The Scottish
Fishing Boats—Loss of Boats on the Scottish Coasts—Storms in Scotland—Trawl-Net
Fishing—Description of a Trawler—Evidence on the Trawl Question 285
CHAPTER VIII.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE
OYSTER.
Proper Time for Oyster-Fishing to Begin—Description of the Oyster—Controversies about 332
its Natural History—Spatting of the Oyster—Growth of the Oyster—Quantity of Spawn
emitted by the Oyster—Social History of the Oyster—Great Men who were Fond of
Oysters—Oyster-Breeding in France—Lake Fusaro—Beef’s Discovery of Artificial
Culture—Oyster-Farming in the Bay of Biscay—The Celebrated Green Oysters—
Page 11
Marennes—Dr. Kemmerer’s Plan—Lessons to be gleaned from the French
Pisciculturists—How to manage an Oyster-Farm—Whitstable—Cultivation of Natives
—The Colne Oyster-Trade—Scottish Oysters—The Pandores—Extent of Oyster-
Ground in the Firth of Forth—Dredging—Extent of American Oyster-Beds
CHAPTER IX.
OUR SHELL-FISH FISHERIES.
Productive Power of Shell-Fish—Varieties of the Crustacean Family—Study of the Minor
Shell-Fishes—Demand for Shell-Fish—Lobsters—A Lobster Store-Pond Described—
Natural History of the Lobster and other Crustacea—March of the Land-Crabs—
Prawns and Shrimps, how they are caught and cured—Scottish Pearl-Fisheries—
Account of the Scottish Pearl-Fishery—A Mussel-Farm—How to grow Bait 382
CHAPTER X.
THE FISHER-FOLK.
The Fisher-People the same everywhere—Growth of a Fishing Village—Marrying and
giving in Marriage—The Fisher-Folk’s Dance—Newhaven near Edinburgh—
Newhaven Fishwives—A Fishwife’s mode of doing Business—Superstitions—
Fisherrow—Dunbar—Buckhaven—Cost of a Boat and its Gear—Scene of the
Antiquary: Auchmithie—Smoking Haddocks—The Round of Fisher Life—“Finnan
Haddies”—Fittie and its Quaint Inhabitants—Across to Dieppe—Bay of the Departed
—The Eel-Breeders of Comacchio—The French Fishwives—Narrative of a Fishwife—
Buckie—Nicknames of the Fisher-Folk—Effects of a Storm on the Coast 418
CHAPTER XI.
CONCLUDING REMARKS.
Are there more Fish in the Sea than ever came out of it?—Modern Writers on the Fisheries 474
—Were Fish ever so abundant as is said?—Salmon-Poaching—Value of Salmon—Sea
Fish—Destruction of the Young—Is the demand for Fish beginning to exceed the
Supply?—Evils of Exaggeration—Fish quite Local—Incongruity of protecting one Fish
Pisciculturists—How to manage an Oyster-Farm—Whitstable—Cultivation of Natives
—The Colne Oyster-Trade—Scottish Oysters—The Pandores—Extent of Oyster-
Ground in the Firth of Forth—Dredging—Extent of American Oyster-Beds
CHAPTER IX.
OUR SHELL-FISH FISHERIES.
Productive Power of Shell-Fish—Varieties of the Crustacean Family—Study of the Minor
Shell-Fishes—Demand for Shell-Fish—Lobsters—A Lobster Store-Pond Described—
Natural History of the Lobster and other Crustacea—March of the Land-Crabs—
Prawns and Shrimps, how they are caught and cured—Scottish Pearl-Fisheries—
Account of the Scottish Pearl-Fishery—A Mussel-Farm—How to grow Bait 382
CHAPTER X.
THE FISHER-FOLK.
The Fisher-People the same everywhere—Growth of a Fishing Village—Marrying and
giving in Marriage—The Fisher-Folk’s Dance—Newhaven near Edinburgh—
Newhaven Fishwives—A Fishwife’s mode of doing Business—Superstitions—
Fisherrow—Dunbar—Buckhaven—Cost of a Boat and its Gear—Scene of the
Antiquary: Auchmithie—Smoking Haddocks—The Round of Fisher Life—“Finnan
Haddies”—Fittie and its Quaint Inhabitants—Across to Dieppe—Bay of the Departed
—The Eel-Breeders of Comacchio—The French Fishwives—Narrative of a Fishwife—
Buckie—Nicknames of the Fisher-Folk—Effects of a Storm on the Coast 418
CHAPTER XI.
CONCLUDING REMARKS.
Are there more Fish in the Sea than ever came out of it?—Modern Writers on the Fisheries 474
—Were Fish ever so abundant as is said?—Salmon-Poaching—Value of Salmon—Sea
Fish—Destruction of the Young—Is the demand for Fish beginning to exceed the
Supply?—Evils of Exaggeration—Fish quite Local—Incongruity of protecting one Fish
Page 12
and not another—Difficulties in the way of a Close-Time—Duties of the Board of
White-Fisheries—Regulation of Salmon Rivers—Justice to Upper Proprietors—The
one Object of the Fishermen—Conclusion
APPENDIX.
I. Observations on Fish-Guano 491
II. List of Authorities 499
III. Wick Herring-Harvest of 1865 502
IV. Total Catch of Herrings at all the Stations on the North-East
Coast during the last Five Years; and Estimated Number of
Hands employed—1865 503
Index 505
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
View of Wick Harbour during the Herring Season Frontispiece.
Eggs of the Salmon Kind just hatching Page13
Salmon a day or two old 14
Whitebait Ground near Queensferry 22
Lochmaben 27
Packing Herrings 41
A Division of Comacchio 48
Billingsgate 65
The Fishmarket at Bale 81
Ground-Plan of the Piscicultural Establishment at
Huningue 82
White-Fisheries—Regulation of Salmon Rivers—Justice to Upper Proprietors—The
one Object of the Fishermen—Conclusion
APPENDIX.
I. Observations on Fish-Guano 491
II. List of Authorities 499
III. Wick Herring-Harvest of 1865 502
IV. Total Catch of Herrings at all the Stations on the North-East
Coast during the last Five Years; and Estimated Number of
Hands employed—1865 503
Index 505
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
View of Wick Harbour during the Herring Season Frontispiece.
Eggs of the Salmon Kind just hatching Page13
Salmon a day or two old 14
Whitebait Ground near Queensferry 22
Lochmaben 27
Packing Herrings 41
A Division of Comacchio 48
Billingsgate 65
The Fishmarket at Bale 81
Ground-Plan of the Piscicultural Establishment at
Huningue 82
Page 13
View of Huningue 83
Hall of Incubation 84
Basins for the Young Fish 85
Gutters for Hatching Purposes 86
Artificial Mode of Spawning 87
Piscicultural Establishment at Buisse 93
Original Breeding-Pond at Stormontfield 100
Profile of Stormontfield Salmon-Breeding Ponds 101
Design for a Series of Salmon-Breeding Ponds 103
Piscicultural Apparatus 115
Silurus Glanis 127
Anglers’ Fishes 137
Jack in his Element 141
Thames Anglers.—From an Old Picture 151
The Angler Fish 156
Corry Harbour 171
Parr one Year old 182
Smolt two Years old 189
Fishes of the Salmon Family 198
Salmon-Watcher’s Tower on the Rhine 201
Stake-Nets on the River Solway 208
Salmon-Fishing Station at Woodhaven on Tay 212
Members of the Herring Family 245
View of Lochfyne 249
View of a Curing Yard 261
The Gadidæ Family 289
The Pleuronectidæ Family 297
Hall of Incubation 84
Basins for the Young Fish 85
Gutters for Hatching Purposes 86
Artificial Mode of Spawning 87
Piscicultural Establishment at Buisse 93
Original Breeding-Pond at Stormontfield 100
Profile of Stormontfield Salmon-Breeding Ponds 101
Design for a Series of Salmon-Breeding Ponds 103
Piscicultural Apparatus 115
Silurus Glanis 127
Anglers’ Fishes 137
Jack in his Element 141
Thames Anglers.—From an Old Picture 151
The Angler Fish 156
Corry Harbour 171
Parr one Year old 182
Smolt two Years old 189
Fishes of the Salmon Family 198
Salmon-Watcher’s Tower on the Rhine 201
Stake-Nets on the River Solway 208
Salmon-Fishing Station at Woodhaven on Tay 212
Members of the Herring Family 245
View of Lochfyne 249
View of a Curing Yard 261
The Gadidæ Family 289
The Pleuronectidæ Family 297
Page 14
Lake Fusaro 349
Oyster-Pyramid 350
Oyster-Fascines 351
Oyster-Parks 355
Oyster-Claires 357
Oyster-Tiles 363
Oyster-Dredging at Cockenzie 377
The Scottish Pearl-Mussel 399
Mussel-Stakes 411
A Mussel-Farm 412
Newhaven Fishwives 424
A French Fishwoman 454
Oyster-Pyramid 350
Oyster-Fascines 351
Oyster-Parks 355
Oyster-Claires 357
Oyster-Tiles 363
Oyster-Dredging at Cockenzie 377
The Scottish Pearl-Mussel 399
Mussel-Stakes 411
A Mussel-Farm 412
Newhaven Fishwives 424
A French Fishwoman 454
Page 15
CHAPTER I.
FISH LIFE AND GROWTH.
Classification of Fish—Their Form and Colour—Mode and Means of Life—Curiously-shaped Fish—
Senses of Smell and Hearing in Fish—Fish nearly Insensible to Pain—The Fecundity of Fish—
Sexual Instinct of Fish—External Impregnation of the Ova—Ripening of a Salmon Egg—Birth of
a Herring—Proposal for a Marine Observatory in order to note the Growth of our Sea Fish—
Curious Stories about the Growth of the Eel—All that is known about the Mackerel—Whitebait: is
it a Distinct Species?—Mysterious Fish: the Vendace and the Powan—Where are the Haddocks?—
The Food of Fish—Fish as a rule not Migratory—The Growth of Fish Shoals—When Fish are
good for Food—The Balancing Power of Nature.
ish form the fourth class of vertebrate animals, and, as a general rule, they
F live in the water; although in Ceylon and India there are found species
that live in the earth, or, at any rate, that are able to exist in mud, not to
speak of some that are said to occupy the trees of those countries! The
classification of fishes as given by Cuvier is usually adopted. That eminent
naturalist has divided these animals into those with true bones, and those
having a cartilaginous structure; and the former again are divided into
acanthopterous and malcopterous fish. Other naturalists have adopted more
elaborate classifications; but Cuvier’s being the simplest has in my opinion a
strong claim to be considered the best; at least it is the one generally used.
A fish breathes by means of its gills, and progresses chiefly by means of its
tail. This animal is admirably adapted for progressing through the water, as
may be seen from its form, which has been imitated more or less closely by
the builders of ships, the makers of weavers’ shuttles, and others. Fish are
exceedingly beautiful as regards both form and colour. There are
comparatively few persons, however, who have an opportunity of seeing
them at the moment of their greatest brilliancy, namely, just when they are
brought out of the water. I allude more particularly to some of our sea fish—
as the herring, mackerel, etc. The power of a fish to take on the colour of its
hiding-place may be mentioned. I found, a few weeks ago, some young fish
of various kinds in the Tweed at Stobo, which were, when in the water, quite
undistinguishable from the vegetable matter among which they were taking
shelter. It is not an easy matter to paint a fish so as accurately to transmit to
canvas its exquisite shape and glowing colours. The moment it is taken from
its own element its form alters and its delicate hues fade; and in different
FISH LIFE AND GROWTH.
Classification of Fish—Their Form and Colour—Mode and Means of Life—Curiously-shaped Fish—
Senses of Smell and Hearing in Fish—Fish nearly Insensible to Pain—The Fecundity of Fish—
Sexual Instinct of Fish—External Impregnation of the Ova—Ripening of a Salmon Egg—Birth of
a Herring—Proposal for a Marine Observatory in order to note the Growth of our Sea Fish—
Curious Stories about the Growth of the Eel—All that is known about the Mackerel—Whitebait: is
it a Distinct Species?—Mysterious Fish: the Vendace and the Powan—Where are the Haddocks?—
The Food of Fish—Fish as a rule not Migratory—The Growth of Fish Shoals—When Fish are
good for Food—The Balancing Power of Nature.
ish form the fourth class of vertebrate animals, and, as a general rule, they
F live in the water; although in Ceylon and India there are found species
that live in the earth, or, at any rate, that are able to exist in mud, not to
speak of some that are said to occupy the trees of those countries! The
classification of fishes as given by Cuvier is usually adopted. That eminent
naturalist has divided these animals into those with true bones, and those
having a cartilaginous structure; and the former again are divided into
acanthopterous and malcopterous fish. Other naturalists have adopted more
elaborate classifications; but Cuvier’s being the simplest has in my opinion a
strong claim to be considered the best; at least it is the one generally used.
A fish breathes by means of its gills, and progresses chiefly by means of its
tail. This animal is admirably adapted for progressing through the water, as
may be seen from its form, which has been imitated more or less closely by
the builders of ships, the makers of weavers’ shuttles, and others. Fish are
exceedingly beautiful as regards both form and colour. There are
comparatively few persons, however, who have an opportunity of seeing
them at the moment of their greatest brilliancy, namely, just when they are
brought out of the water. I allude more particularly to some of our sea fish—
as the herring, mackerel, etc. The power of a fish to take on the colour of its
hiding-place may be mentioned. I found, a few weeks ago, some young fish
of various kinds in the Tweed at Stobo, which were, when in the water, quite
undistinguishable from the vegetable matter among which they were taking
shelter. It is not an easy matter to paint a fish so as accurately to transmit to
canvas its exquisite shape and glowing colours. The moment it is taken from
its own element its form alters and its delicate hues fade; and in different
Page 16
localities fish have, like the chameleon, different colours, so that the artist
must have a quick eye and a responding hand to catch the rapidly-fleeting
tints of the animal. Nothing, for instance, can reveal more beautiful masses of
colour than the hauling into the boat of a drift of herring-nets. As breadth
after breadth emerges from the water the magnificent ensemble of the fish
flashes with ever-changing hues upon the eye—a wondrous pantomimic
mixture of glancing blue and gold, and silver and purple, blended into one
great burning glow of harmonious colour, lighted into brilliant life by the soft
rays of the newly-risen sun. But, alas for the painter! unless he can
instantaneously fix the burnished mass on his canvas, the light of its colour
will be extinguished, and its beauty be dimmed, long before the boat has
reached the harbour. The brightly-coloured fish of the tropics are indeed
gorgeous, as is the plumage of tropical birds; but as regards excellence of
flavour, beautifully-blended colours, and especially as a food power, they
cannot for a moment be compared with that plentiful poor man’s fish—the
beautiful common herring of our British waters.
If the breathing apparatus of a fish were to become dry the animal would at
once be suffocated. A fish when in the water has very little weight to support,
as its specific gravity is about the same as that of the water in which it lives,
and the bodies of these animals are so flexible as to aid them in all their
movements, while the various fins assist either in balancing the body or in
helping it to progress. The motion of a fish is excessively rapid; it can dash
along in the water with lightning-like velocity. Many of our sea fish are
curiously shaped, such as the hammer-headed shark, the globe-fish, the
monkfish, the angel-fish, etc.; then we have the curious forms of the rays, the
Pluronectidæ, and of some others that I may call “fancy fish;” but fish of all
kinds are admirably adapted to their mode of life and the place where they
live—as for instance, in a cave where light has never penetrated there have
been found fish without eyes. Fresh-water fish do not, however, vary much in
shape, most of them being very elegant. Fish are nearly insensible to pain,
and are cold-blooded, their blood being only two degrees warmer than the
element in which they swim. It is worthy of being noted also that fish have
small brains in comparison to the size of their bodies—considerably smaller
in proportion than in the case of the birds or mammalia, but the nerves
communicating with the brain are as large in fish, proportionately, as in either
the birds or mammalia. So far as personal knowledge goes, I believe the
senses of sight and hearing are well developed in most fish, as also those of
must have a quick eye and a responding hand to catch the rapidly-fleeting
tints of the animal. Nothing, for instance, can reveal more beautiful masses of
colour than the hauling into the boat of a drift of herring-nets. As breadth
after breadth emerges from the water the magnificent ensemble of the fish
flashes with ever-changing hues upon the eye—a wondrous pantomimic
mixture of glancing blue and gold, and silver and purple, blended into one
great burning glow of harmonious colour, lighted into brilliant life by the soft
rays of the newly-risen sun. But, alas for the painter! unless he can
instantaneously fix the burnished mass on his canvas, the light of its colour
will be extinguished, and its beauty be dimmed, long before the boat has
reached the harbour. The brightly-coloured fish of the tropics are indeed
gorgeous, as is the plumage of tropical birds; but as regards excellence of
flavour, beautifully-blended colours, and especially as a food power, they
cannot for a moment be compared with that plentiful poor man’s fish—the
beautiful common herring of our British waters.
If the breathing apparatus of a fish were to become dry the animal would at
once be suffocated. A fish when in the water has very little weight to support,
as its specific gravity is about the same as that of the water in which it lives,
and the bodies of these animals are so flexible as to aid them in all their
movements, while the various fins assist either in balancing the body or in
helping it to progress. The motion of a fish is excessively rapid; it can dash
along in the water with lightning-like velocity. Many of our sea fish are
curiously shaped, such as the hammer-headed shark, the globe-fish, the
monkfish, the angel-fish, etc.; then we have the curious forms of the rays, the
Pluronectidæ, and of some others that I may call “fancy fish;” but fish of all
kinds are admirably adapted to their mode of life and the place where they
live—as for instance, in a cave where light has never penetrated there have
been found fish without eyes. Fresh-water fish do not, however, vary much in
shape, most of them being very elegant. Fish are nearly insensible to pain,
and are cold-blooded, their blood being only two degrees warmer than the
element in which they swim. It is worthy of being noted also that fish have
small brains in comparison to the size of their bodies—considerably smaller
in proportion than in the case of the birds or mammalia, but the nerves
communicating with the brain are as large in fish, proportionately, as in either
the birds or mammalia. So far as personal knowledge goes, I believe the
senses of sight and hearing are well developed in most fish, as also those of
Page 17
smell and taste, particularly the sense of smell, which chiefly guides them to
their food. We may take for granted, I think, that fish have a very keen sense
of smell—more so than most other animals; and thus it is that strong-smelling
baits are so successful in fishing. The French people, for instance, when
fishing for sprats and sardines, bait the ground with prepared cod-roe, which,
by the way, adds very largely to the expense of that branch of fishing in the
Bay of Biscay. I may also remind my readers, as an evidence of fish having a
strong sense of smell, that salmon-roe used to be a deadly trout-bait, but
fishing with salmon-roe is now illegal. It has been said by some naturalists
that fish do not hear well, but that assertion is contrary to my own experience;
for on making repeated trials as to the sense of hearing in fish, I found them
as quick in that faculty as they are sharp in seeing; and have we not all read
of pet fish being summoned by means of a bell, and of trouts that have been
whistled to their food like dogs? Water is an excellent conductor of sound: it
conveys a noise of any kind to a greater distance, and at nearly as great a
speed as air. Benjamin Franklin used to experiment on water as a conductor,
and soon arrived at the conclusion that its powers in this way were wonderful.
By striking two stones together, the experimenter will find that the sound is
conveyed to a great distance, and also that it is very loud. Most kinds of fish
are voracious feeders, and prey upon each other without the slightest
ceremony; and the greatest difficulties of the angler are experienced after the
fish have had a good feed, when even the most practised artist, with his most
seductive bait, will not induce them to nibble, far less to bite. Many of our
fish have a digestion so rapid as only to be comparable to the action of fire,
and in good feeding-grounds the growth of a fish usually corresponds to its
power of eating. In the sea there exists an admirable field for observing the
cannibal propensities of the fish world, where shoals of one species have
apparently no other object in life than to chase another kind with a view to eat
them; and what goes on in the sea on a wholesale scale is imitated on a
smaller scale in the loch and the river. To compensate for the waste of life
incidental to their place of birth and their ratio of growth, nature has endowed
this class of animals with an enormous power of reproduction. Fish yield
their eggs by tens of thousands or millions, according to the danger that has
to be incurred in the progress of their growth.
All fish are enormously fecund; indeed there is nothing in the animal world
that can in this respect be compared to them, except perhaps a queen bee,
which has fifty or sixty thousand young each season; or the white ant, which
their food. We may take for granted, I think, that fish have a very keen sense
of smell—more so than most other animals; and thus it is that strong-smelling
baits are so successful in fishing. The French people, for instance, when
fishing for sprats and sardines, bait the ground with prepared cod-roe, which,
by the way, adds very largely to the expense of that branch of fishing in the
Bay of Biscay. I may also remind my readers, as an evidence of fish having a
strong sense of smell, that salmon-roe used to be a deadly trout-bait, but
fishing with salmon-roe is now illegal. It has been said by some naturalists
that fish do not hear well, but that assertion is contrary to my own experience;
for on making repeated trials as to the sense of hearing in fish, I found them
as quick in that faculty as they are sharp in seeing; and have we not all read
of pet fish being summoned by means of a bell, and of trouts that have been
whistled to their food like dogs? Water is an excellent conductor of sound: it
conveys a noise of any kind to a greater distance, and at nearly as great a
speed as air. Benjamin Franklin used to experiment on water as a conductor,
and soon arrived at the conclusion that its powers in this way were wonderful.
By striking two stones together, the experimenter will find that the sound is
conveyed to a great distance, and also that it is very loud. Most kinds of fish
are voracious feeders, and prey upon each other without the slightest
ceremony; and the greatest difficulties of the angler are experienced after the
fish have had a good feed, when even the most practised artist, with his most
seductive bait, will not induce them to nibble, far less to bite. Many of our
fish have a digestion so rapid as only to be comparable to the action of fire,
and in good feeding-grounds the growth of a fish usually corresponds to its
power of eating. In the sea there exists an admirable field for observing the
cannibal propensities of the fish world, where shoals of one species have
apparently no other object in life than to chase another kind with a view to eat
them; and what goes on in the sea on a wholesale scale is imitated on a
smaller scale in the loch and the river. To compensate for the waste of life
incidental to their place of birth and their ratio of growth, nature has endowed
this class of animals with an enormous power of reproduction. Fish yield
their eggs by tens of thousands or millions, according to the danger that has
to be incurred in the progress of their growth.
All fish are enormously fecund; indeed there is nothing in the animal world
that can in this respect be compared to them, except perhaps a queen bee,
which has fifty or sixty thousand young each season; or the white ant, which
Page 18
produces eggs at the rate of fifty per minute, and goes on laying for a period
of unknown duration; not to speak of that terrible domestic bugbear which no
one likes more particularly to name, but which is popularly supposed to
become a great-grandfather in twenty-four hours. The little aphides of the
garden may also be noted for their vast fecundity, as may likewise the
common house-fly. During a year one green aphis may produce one hundred
thousand millions of young; and the house-fly produces twenty millions of
eggs in a season!
When I state that the codfish yields its eggs in millions, and that a herring
of six or seven ounces in weight is provided with about thirty thousand ova, it
will at once be seen that the multiplying power of all kinds of fish is
enormous; but then the drain on fish life, consequent on the habitat of these
animals, is immense, or at least of corresponding magnitude. Although there
may be thirty thousand eggs in a herring, the reader must bear in mind that if
these be not vivified by the milt of the male fish, they just rot away in the sea,
and never become of any value, except perhaps as food to some minor
monster of the deep. Millions upon millions of the eggs that are emitted by
the cod or the herring never come to life at all—many of them from the want
of the fructifying power, and others from being devoured by enemies. Then,
again, of those eggs that are so fortunate as to be ripened, it is pretty certain, I
think, from minute and careful inquiry, that fully ninety per cent of the young
fish perish before they are six months old. Were only half of the eggs to come
to life, and but one moiety of the young fish to live, the sea would so abound
with animal life that it would soon be impossible for a boat to move in its
waters. But we can never hope to realise such a sight; and when it is
considered that a single shoal of herrings consists of millions and millions of
individual fish, and takes up a space in the sea far more than that occupied by
the parks of London, and yet gives no impediment to navigation, my readers
will see the magnitude of our fish supplies; but, from the destruction of fish
life by natural causes, the breeding supply is kept down to an amount that
cannot, in my opinion, be very far from the point of extermination; and hence
I am prepared to argue the urgent necessity of regulation, continued statistical
inquiry, and the adoption of fish-culture as an adjunct to the natural supplies.
The figures of fish fecundity are quite reliable, and are not dependent on
mere guessing or imagination, because different persons have taken the
trouble, the writer amongst others, to count the separate eggs in the roes of
some of our fish, in order to ascertain exactly their amount of breeding
of unknown duration; not to speak of that terrible domestic bugbear which no
one likes more particularly to name, but which is popularly supposed to
become a great-grandfather in twenty-four hours. The little aphides of the
garden may also be noted for their vast fecundity, as may likewise the
common house-fly. During a year one green aphis may produce one hundred
thousand millions of young; and the house-fly produces twenty millions of
eggs in a season!
When I state that the codfish yields its eggs in millions, and that a herring
of six or seven ounces in weight is provided with about thirty thousand ova, it
will at once be seen that the multiplying power of all kinds of fish is
enormous; but then the drain on fish life, consequent on the habitat of these
animals, is immense, or at least of corresponding magnitude. Although there
may be thirty thousand eggs in a herring, the reader must bear in mind that if
these be not vivified by the milt of the male fish, they just rot away in the sea,
and never become of any value, except perhaps as food to some minor
monster of the deep. Millions upon millions of the eggs that are emitted by
the cod or the herring never come to life at all—many of them from the want
of the fructifying power, and others from being devoured by enemies. Then,
again, of those eggs that are so fortunate as to be ripened, it is pretty certain, I
think, from minute and careful inquiry, that fully ninety per cent of the young
fish perish before they are six months old. Were only half of the eggs to come
to life, and but one moiety of the young fish to live, the sea would so abound
with animal life that it would soon be impossible for a boat to move in its
waters. But we can never hope to realise such a sight; and when it is
considered that a single shoal of herrings consists of millions and millions of
individual fish, and takes up a space in the sea far more than that occupied by
the parks of London, and yet gives no impediment to navigation, my readers
will see the magnitude of our fish supplies; but, from the destruction of fish
life by natural causes, the breeding supply is kept down to an amount that
cannot, in my opinion, be very far from the point of extermination; and hence
I am prepared to argue the urgent necessity of regulation, continued statistical
inquiry, and the adoption of fish-culture as an adjunct to the natural supplies.
The figures of fish fecundity are quite reliable, and are not dependent on
mere guessing or imagination, because different persons have taken the
trouble, the writer amongst others, to count the separate eggs in the roes of
some of our fish, in order to ascertain exactly their amount of breeding
Page 19
power. It is well known that the female salmon yields her eggs at the rate of
about one thousand for each pound of her weight, and some fresh-water fish
are still more prolific; the sea fish, again, far excelling them in reproductive
power. The sturgeon, for instance, is wonderfully fecund, as much as two
hundred pounds weight of roe having been taken from one of these fish,
yielding a total of 7,000,000 of eggs. I have in my possession the results of
several investigations into the question of fish fecundity, which were
conducted with careful attention to the details, and without any desire to
exaggerate: these give the following results:—Codfish, 3,400,000; flounder,
1,250,000; sole, 1,000,000; mackerel, 500,000; herring, 35,000; smelt,
36,000. Mr. Frank Buckland, who some time ago investigated this part of the
fish question, quite corroborates such numbers as being correct, having found
equally great quantities in fish dissected by himself.
Any of my readers who wish to manipulate these figures may try by way of
experiment a few calculations with the herring. The produce of a single
herring is, let us say, thirty-six thousand eggs, but we may—and the
deduction is a most reasonable one—allow that half of these never come to
life, which reduces the quantity born to eighteen thousand. Allowing that the
young fish will be able to repeat the story of their birth in three years, we may
safely calculate that the breeding stock by various accidents will by that time
be reduced to nine thousand individuals; and granting half of these to be
females, or let us say, for the sake of rounding the figures, that four thousand
of them yield roe, we shall find by multiplying that quantity by thirty-six
thousand (the number of eggs in a female herring) that we obtain a total of
one hundred and forty-four millions as the produce in three years of a single
pair of herrings; and although half of these might be taken as the food of man
as soon as they were large enough, there would still be left an immense
breeding stock even after all deductions for casualties had been given effect
to; so that the devastations committed by man on the shoals while capturing
for food uses must be enormous if they affect, as I suppose, the
reproductiveness of these useful animals. Of course this is but guess-work,
and is merely given as a basis for a more minute statement; but I have
conversed with practical people who do not think that, taking all times and
seasons into account, even five per cent of the roe of a herring comes to life,
far less that such a percentage reaches maturity as table fish.
It is now well enough known, even to the merest tyros in the study of
natural history, and to anglers and others interested as well, that the
about one thousand for each pound of her weight, and some fresh-water fish
are still more prolific; the sea fish, again, far excelling them in reproductive
power. The sturgeon, for instance, is wonderfully fecund, as much as two
hundred pounds weight of roe having been taken from one of these fish,
yielding a total of 7,000,000 of eggs. I have in my possession the results of
several investigations into the question of fish fecundity, which were
conducted with careful attention to the details, and without any desire to
exaggerate: these give the following results:—Codfish, 3,400,000; flounder,
1,250,000; sole, 1,000,000; mackerel, 500,000; herring, 35,000; smelt,
36,000. Mr. Frank Buckland, who some time ago investigated this part of the
fish question, quite corroborates such numbers as being correct, having found
equally great quantities in fish dissected by himself.
Any of my readers who wish to manipulate these figures may try by way of
experiment a few calculations with the herring. The produce of a single
herring is, let us say, thirty-six thousand eggs, but we may—and the
deduction is a most reasonable one—allow that half of these never come to
life, which reduces the quantity born to eighteen thousand. Allowing that the
young fish will be able to repeat the story of their birth in three years, we may
safely calculate that the breeding stock by various accidents will by that time
be reduced to nine thousand individuals; and granting half of these to be
females, or let us say, for the sake of rounding the figures, that four thousand
of them yield roe, we shall find by multiplying that quantity by thirty-six
thousand (the number of eggs in a female herring) that we obtain a total of
one hundred and forty-four millions as the produce in three years of a single
pair of herrings; and although half of these might be taken as the food of man
as soon as they were large enough, there would still be left an immense
breeding stock even after all deductions for casualties had been given effect
to; so that the devastations committed by man on the shoals while capturing
for food uses must be enormous if they affect, as I suppose, the
reproductiveness of these useful animals. Of course this is but guess-work,
and is merely given as a basis for a more minute statement; but I have
conversed with practical people who do not think that, taking all times and
seasons into account, even five per cent of the roe of a herring comes to life,
far less that such a percentage reaches maturity as table fish.
It is now well enough known, even to the merest tyros in the study of
natural history, and to anglers and others interested as well, that the
Page 20
impregnation of fish-eggs is a purely external act; but at one time this was not
believed, and even so lately as six years ago a portion of the experiments at
the Stormontfield salmon-breeding ponds was dedicated, by Mr. Robert
Buist, to a solution of this question, with what result may be easily guessed.
The old theory, so stoutly maintained by Mr. Tod Stoddart and others, that it
is contrary both to fact and reason that fish can differ from land animals in the
matter of the fructification of their eggs, was signally defeated, and the
question conclusively settled at the ponds in a very simple way—namely, by
placing in the breeding-boxes a quantity of salmon eggs which had not been
brought into contact with the milt, and which rotted away; proving
emphatically that the sexes do not come into alliance at the time of spawning,
and that there is no way of rendering the eggs fruitful unless they are brought
into immediate contact with the milt. Curious ideas used to prevail on this
branch of natural history. Herodotus observes of the fish of the Nile, that at
the season of spawning they move in vast multitudes towards the sea; the
males lead the way, and emit the engendering principle in their passage; this
the females absorb as they follow, and in consequence conceive, and when
their ova are deposited they are consequently matured into fry. Linnæus
backed up this idea, and asserted that there could be no impregnation of the
eggs of any animal out of the body, and as fish have no organs of generation,
there was in the mind of the great naturalist no more feasible explanation of
their mode of reproduction than that given in Beloe’s Herodotus. It is this
wonderfully exceptional principle in the life of fish that has given rise to the
art of pisciculture—i.e. the artificial impregnation of the eggs of fish forcibly
exuded from these animals, which, as will be fully explained in another
portion of this work, are brought into contact with the milt, independent
altogether of the animal.
The principle of fish life which brings the male and female together at the
period of spawning is unknown. It is supposed by some naturalists that fish
do not gather into shoals till they are about to perform the grandest action of
their nature, and that till that period each animal lives a separate and
individual life. If we set down the sense of smell as the power which attracts
the fish sexes, we shall be very nearly correct: such cold-blooded animals
cannot very well have any more powerful instinct. A very clever Spanish
writer on pisciculture hints that the fish have no amatory feeling for each
other at that period, thus forming a curious exception to most other animals,
and that it is the smell of the roe in the female that attracts the male. As the
believed, and even so lately as six years ago a portion of the experiments at
the Stormontfield salmon-breeding ponds was dedicated, by Mr. Robert
Buist, to a solution of this question, with what result may be easily guessed.
The old theory, so stoutly maintained by Mr. Tod Stoddart and others, that it
is contrary both to fact and reason that fish can differ from land animals in the
matter of the fructification of their eggs, was signally defeated, and the
question conclusively settled at the ponds in a very simple way—namely, by
placing in the breeding-boxes a quantity of salmon eggs which had not been
brought into contact with the milt, and which rotted away; proving
emphatically that the sexes do not come into alliance at the time of spawning,
and that there is no way of rendering the eggs fruitful unless they are brought
into immediate contact with the milt. Curious ideas used to prevail on this
branch of natural history. Herodotus observes of the fish of the Nile, that at
the season of spawning they move in vast multitudes towards the sea; the
males lead the way, and emit the engendering principle in their passage; this
the females absorb as they follow, and in consequence conceive, and when
their ova are deposited they are consequently matured into fry. Linnæus
backed up this idea, and asserted that there could be no impregnation of the
eggs of any animal out of the body, and as fish have no organs of generation,
there was in the mind of the great naturalist no more feasible explanation of
their mode of reproduction than that given in Beloe’s Herodotus. It is this
wonderfully exceptional principle in the life of fish that has given rise to the
art of pisciculture—i.e. the artificial impregnation of the eggs of fish forcibly
exuded from these animals, which, as will be fully explained in another
portion of this work, are brought into contact with the milt, independent
altogether of the animal.
The principle of fish life which brings the male and female together at the
period of spawning is unknown. It is supposed by some naturalists that fish
do not gather into shoals till they are about to perform the grandest action of
their nature, and that till that period each animal lives a separate and
individual life. If we set down the sense of smell as the power which attracts
the fish sexes, we shall be very nearly correct: such cold-blooded animals
cannot very well have any more powerful instinct. A very clever Spanish
writer on pisciculture hints that the fish have no amatory feeling for each
other at that period, thus forming a curious exception to most other animals,
and that it is the smell of the roe in the female that attracts the male. As the
Page 21
writer well expresses it—“The curious phenomenon of the fecundation of the
eggs or spawn of the female fish away from the bowels of the mothers, and
independent of their co-operation in every way, constitutes an interesting
exception to the almost universal law of instinct and sympathy in the sexes—
a law simple in its essence, as are all nature’s laws, but most prolific in its
results; for we see it pass through all the phases of an immense series, from
the phenomena of organic attraction shown by the first-named living beings
up to the great passions of love and maternity in the human species, forming
the affectionate and solid bases of families and the imperishable foundation
of society.”
This idea—viz. as to the shoaling of the fish at the period of spawning only
—has been prominently thrown out in regard to the herring by parties who do
not admit even of a partial migration from the deep to the shallow water,
which, however, is an idea that is stoutly held by some writers on the herring
question. It is rather interesting, however, in connection with this phase of
fish life, to note that particular shoals of herrings deposit their spawn at
particular places, that the eggs come simultaneously to life, and that it is quite
certain that the young fish remain together for a considerable period—a few
months at least—after they are hatched. This is well known from the fact of
large bodies of young herrings having been caught during the sprat season;
these could not, of course, have been assembled to spawn—they were too
young and had no development of milt or roe. This, if these fish separate,
gives rise to the question—At what period do the herrings begin their
individual wanderings? Sprats, of course—if sprats be sprats and not the
young of the herring—may have come together at the period when they are
so largely captured for the purpose of perpetuating their kind; but if so, they
must live long together before they acquire milt or roe. And how is it that we
so often find young herrings in the sprat shoals? Then, again, how comes it
that the fishermen do not frequently fall in with the separate herrings during
the white-fishing seasons? How is it that fishermen find particular kinds of
fish always on particular ground? How is it that eels migrate in immense
bodies? My opinion is, that particular kinds of fish do hold always together,
or at all events gather at particular seasons into greater or lesser bodies. No
doubt, life among the inhabitants of the sea, if we could know it, is quite as
diversified as life on land, where we observe that many kinds of animals
colonise—ants, bees, etc. Are the old stories about each kind of fish having a
eggs or spawn of the female fish away from the bowels of the mothers, and
independent of their co-operation in every way, constitutes an interesting
exception to the almost universal law of instinct and sympathy in the sexes—
a law simple in its essence, as are all nature’s laws, but most prolific in its
results; for we see it pass through all the phases of an immense series, from
the phenomena of organic attraction shown by the first-named living beings
up to the great passions of love and maternity in the human species, forming
the affectionate and solid bases of families and the imperishable foundation
of society.”
This idea—viz. as to the shoaling of the fish at the period of spawning only
—has been prominently thrown out in regard to the herring by parties who do
not admit even of a partial migration from the deep to the shallow water,
which, however, is an idea that is stoutly held by some writers on the herring
question. It is rather interesting, however, in connection with this phase of
fish life, to note that particular shoals of herrings deposit their spawn at
particular places, that the eggs come simultaneously to life, and that it is quite
certain that the young fish remain together for a considerable period—a few
months at least—after they are hatched. This is well known from the fact of
large bodies of young herrings having been caught during the sprat season;
these could not, of course, have been assembled to spawn—they were too
young and had no development of milt or roe. This, if these fish separate,
gives rise to the question—At what period do the herrings begin their
individual wanderings? Sprats, of course—if sprats be sprats and not the
young of the herring—may have come together at the period when they are
so largely captured for the purpose of perpetuating their kind; but if so, they
must live long together before they acquire milt or roe. And how is it that we
so often find young herrings in the sprat shoals? Then, again, how comes it
that the fishermen do not frequently fall in with the separate herrings during
the white-fishing seasons? How is it that fishermen find particular kinds of
fish always on particular ground? How is it that eels migrate in immense
bodies? My opinion is, that particular kinds of fish do hold always together,
or at all events gather at particular seasons into greater or lesser bodies. No
doubt, life among the inhabitants of the sea, if we could know it, is quite as
diversified as life on land, where we observe that many kinds of animals
colonise—ants, bees, etc. Are the old stories about each kind of fish having a
Page 22
king so absolutely incredible after all? That there are schools of fish is
certain; how the great bodies may be divided can only be guessed.
Whatever may be the attracting cause, and however powerful the sexual
instinct may be among fish, it can scarcely be discussed fully in a work which
makes no pretension to being scientific or even technological. It is
noteworthy, however, that fish-eggs afford us an admirable opportunity of
studying a peculiarly interesting stage of animal life—viz. the embryo stage
—which naturally enough is rather obscure in all animals. Having had
opportunities of observing the eggs of the salmon in all their stages of
progress, from the period of their first contact with the milt till the bursting of
the egg and the coming forth of the tiny fish, I will venture briefly to describe
what I have seen, because salmon eggs are of a convenient size for continued
examination. The roe of this fine fish is, I daresay, pretty familiar to most of
my readers. The microscope reveals the eggs of the salmon as being more
oval than round, although they appear quite round to the naked eye. A yolk
seems to float in the dim-looking mass, and the skin or shell appears full of
minute holes, while there is an appearance of a kind of canal or funnel, which
opens from the outside and is apparently closed at the inner end. The milt is
found to swarm with a species of very small creatures with big heads and
long tails, apparently of very low organisation. On the contact of this fluid
with the egg, into which it enters by the canal I have described, an immediate
change takes place—the ovum, so to speak, becomes illuminated as if by
some curious internal power, and the aspect of the egg then appears a great
deal brighter and clearer than before; and it is surely wonderful that on the
mere touching of the egg with this wonder-working sperm so great a change
should take place—a change which indicates that the grand process of
reproduction characteristic of all living nature has begun in the ovum, and
will go on with increasing strength to maturity.
Beds containing salmon-spawn are so accessible, comparatively speaking,
as to render it easy to trace the development of the egg from the embryo to
the complete animal. I have personally watched the egg from the date of its
contact with the milt till the little salmon has burst out of its fragile prison
and waddled away to the shady side of a friendly pebble, evidently anxious to
hide its nakedness. I was enabled, in fact, to hatch a few salmon eggs,
brought from Stormontfield last Christmas-day, by means of a very simple
apparatus in a printing-office, and had therefore an opportunity of daily
observation. As may be supposed, however, the transmutation of a salmon
certain; how the great bodies may be divided can only be guessed.
Whatever may be the attracting cause, and however powerful the sexual
instinct may be among fish, it can scarcely be discussed fully in a work which
makes no pretension to being scientific or even technological. It is
noteworthy, however, that fish-eggs afford us an admirable opportunity of
studying a peculiarly interesting stage of animal life—viz. the embryo stage
—which naturally enough is rather obscure in all animals. Having had
opportunities of observing the eggs of the salmon in all their stages of
progress, from the period of their first contact with the milt till the bursting of
the egg and the coming forth of the tiny fish, I will venture briefly to describe
what I have seen, because salmon eggs are of a convenient size for continued
examination. The roe of this fine fish is, I daresay, pretty familiar to most of
my readers. The microscope reveals the eggs of the salmon as being more
oval than round, although they appear quite round to the naked eye. A yolk
seems to float in the dim-looking mass, and the skin or shell appears full of
minute holes, while there is an appearance of a kind of canal or funnel, which
opens from the outside and is apparently closed at the inner end. The milt is
found to swarm with a species of very small creatures with big heads and
long tails, apparently of very low organisation. On the contact of this fluid
with the egg, into which it enters by the canal I have described, an immediate
change takes place—the ovum, so to speak, becomes illuminated as if by
some curious internal power, and the aspect of the egg then appears a great
deal brighter and clearer than before; and it is surely wonderful that on the
mere touching of the egg with this wonder-working sperm so great a change
should take place—a change which indicates that the grand process of
reproduction characteristic of all living nature has begun in the ovum, and
will go on with increasing strength to maturity.
Beds containing salmon-spawn are so accessible, comparatively speaking,
as to render it easy to trace the development of the egg from the embryo to
the complete animal. I have personally watched the egg from the date of its
contact with the milt till the little salmon has burst out of its fragile prison
and waddled away to the shady side of a friendly pebble, evidently anxious to
hide its nakedness. I was enabled, in fact, to hatch a few salmon eggs,
brought from Stormontfield last Christmas-day, by means of a very simple
apparatus in a printing-office, and had therefore an opportunity of daily
observation. As may be supposed, however, the transmutation of a salmon
Page 23
egg into a fish is a tedious process, which takes above a hundred days to
accomplish. The eggs of the female under the natural system of spawning are
laid in the secluded and shallow tributary of some choice stream, in a trough
of gravel ploughed up by the fish with great labour, and are there left to be
wooed into life by the eternal murmuring of the water. From November till
March, through the storms and floods of winter, the ova lie hid among the
gravel, slowly but surely quickening into life, and few persons would guess
from a mere casual glance at the tributary of a great salmon stream that it
held among its bubbling waters such a countless treasure of future fish. A
practised person will find out a burrow of salmon eggs with great precision,
and a little bit of water may contain perhaps a million of eggs waiting to be
summoned into life by the mysterious workings of nature. During the first
three weeks from the milting of the egg scarcely any change is discernible in
its condition, except that about the end of that period it contains a brilliant
spot, which gradually increases in its brilliancy, when certain threads of blood
begin faintly to prefigure the anatomy of the young fish. After another day or
two, the bright spot seems to assume a ring-like form, having a clear space in
the centre, and the blood-threads then become more and more apparent.
These blood-like tracings are ultimately seen to take an animal shape; but it
would be difficult at first to say what the animal may turn out to be—whether
a tadpole or a salmon. After this stage of the development is reached, two
bright black specks are then seen—the eyes of the fish. We can now, from day
to day, note the form as it gradually assumes a more perfect shape; we can see
it change palpably almost from hour to hour. After the egg has been laved by
the water for a hundred days, we can observe that the young fish is then
thoroughly alive and, to use a common expression, kicking. We can see it
moving and can study its anatomy, which, although as yet very rudimentary,
contains all the elements of the perfect fish. Heat expedites the birth of the
fish. The eggs of a minnow have been sensibly advanced towards maturity by
being held on the palm of the hand. The spawn of the lobster has the
advantage of being nursed on the tail of the animal till it is just on the point of
ripening into life. Salmon eggs deposited early in the season, when the
temperature is high, come sooner to life than those spawned in mid-winter:
indeed there is a difference of as much as fifty days between those deposited
in September and those spawned in December, the one requiring ninety days,
the other one hundred and forty days to ripen into life. Salmon have been
brought to life in sixty days at Huningue; but the quickest hatching ever
accomplish. The eggs of the female under the natural system of spawning are
laid in the secluded and shallow tributary of some choice stream, in a trough
of gravel ploughed up by the fish with great labour, and are there left to be
wooed into life by the eternal murmuring of the water. From November till
March, through the storms and floods of winter, the ova lie hid among the
gravel, slowly but surely quickening into life, and few persons would guess
from a mere casual glance at the tributary of a great salmon stream that it
held among its bubbling waters such a countless treasure of future fish. A
practised person will find out a burrow of salmon eggs with great precision,
and a little bit of water may contain perhaps a million of eggs waiting to be
summoned into life by the mysterious workings of nature. During the first
three weeks from the milting of the egg scarcely any change is discernible in
its condition, except that about the end of that period it contains a brilliant
spot, which gradually increases in its brilliancy, when certain threads of blood
begin faintly to prefigure the anatomy of the young fish. After another day or
two, the bright spot seems to assume a ring-like form, having a clear space in
the centre, and the blood-threads then become more and more apparent.
These blood-like tracings are ultimately seen to take an animal shape; but it
would be difficult at first to say what the animal may turn out to be—whether
a tadpole or a salmon. After this stage of the development is reached, two
bright black specks are then seen—the eyes of the fish. We can now, from day
to day, note the form as it gradually assumes a more perfect shape; we can see
it change palpably almost from hour to hour. After the egg has been laved by
the water for a hundred days, we can observe that the young fish is then
thoroughly alive and, to use a common expression, kicking. We can see it
moving and can study its anatomy, which, although as yet very rudimentary,
contains all the elements of the perfect fish. Heat expedites the birth of the
fish. The eggs of a minnow have been sensibly advanced towards maturity by
being held on the palm of the hand. The spawn of the lobster has the
advantage of being nursed on the tail of the animal till it is just on the point of
ripening into life. Salmon eggs deposited early in the season, when the
temperature is high, come sooner to life than those spawned in mid-winter:
indeed there is a difference of as much as fifty days between those deposited
in September and those spawned in December, the one requiring ninety days,
the other one hundred and forty days to ripen into life. Salmon have been
brought to life in sixty days at Huningue; but the quickest hatching ever
Page 24
accomplished at the Stormontfield breeding-ponds was when the fish came to
life in one hundred and twenty days.
I have endeavoured to illustrate these early stages of fish life by a drawing,
which shows the eggs at about their natural size, as also the advance of the
fish in size and shape.
EGGS OF THE SALMON KIND JUST HATCHING.
At the salmon-ponds of Stormontfield the eggs laid down the first season
were hatched in one hundred and twenty-eight days, but the eggs of other fish
have been known to come to life a great deal sooner. The usual time for the
hatching of salmon eggs in our northern rivers is one hundred and thirty days,
or between four and five months, according to the openness or severity of the
season. When at last the infant animal bursts from the shell, it is a clumsy,
unbalanced, tiny thing, having attached to it the remains of the parental egg,
which hamper its movements; but after all, the remains of its little prison are
exceedingly useful, as for a space of about thirty days the young salmon
cannot obtain other nourishment than what is afforded by this umbilical bag.
life in one hundred and twenty days.
I have endeavoured to illustrate these early stages of fish life by a drawing,
which shows the eggs at about their natural size, as also the advance of the
fish in size and shape.
EGGS OF THE SALMON KIND JUST HATCHING.
At the salmon-ponds of Stormontfield the eggs laid down the first season
were hatched in one hundred and twenty-eight days, but the eggs of other fish
have been known to come to life a great deal sooner. The usual time for the
hatching of salmon eggs in our northern rivers is one hundred and thirty days,
or between four and five months, according to the openness or severity of the
season. When at last the infant animal bursts from the shell, it is a clumsy,
unbalanced, tiny thing, having attached to it the remains of the parental egg,
which hamper its movements; but after all, the remains of its little prison are
exceedingly useful, as for a space of about thirty days the young salmon
cannot obtain other nourishment than what is afforded by this umbilical bag.
Page 25
SALMON A DAY OR TWO OLD.
We cannot, unfortunately, obtain a sight of the ripening eggs of any of our
sea fish at a time when they would prove useful to us. No one, so far as I
know, has seen the young herring burst from its shell under such
advantageous circumstances as we can view the salmon ova; but I have seen
the bottled-up spawn of that fish just after it had ripened into life, the infant
animal being remarkably like a fragment of cotton thread that had fallen into
the water: it moved about with great agility, but required the aid of a
microscope to make out that it was a thing endowed with life. Who could
suppose, while examining those wavy floating threads, that in a few months
afterwards they would be grown into beautiful fish, with a mechanism of
bones to bind their flesh together, scales to protect their body, and fins to
guide them in the water? But young herring cannot be long bottled up for
observation, or be kept in an artificial atmosphere; for in that condition they
die almost before there is time to see them live; and when in the sea there are
no means of tracing them, because they are speedily lost in an immensity of
water.
There are points of contrast between the salmon and the herring which I
cannot pass without notice. They form the St. Giles’ and St. James’ of the fish
world, the one being a portion of the rich man’s food, and the other filling the
poor man’s dish. The salmon is hedged round by protecting Acts of
Parliament, but the herring gets leave to grow just as it swims, parliamentary
statutes being thought unnecessary for its protection. The salmon is born in its
fine nursery, and is wakened into life by the music of beautiful streams: it has
nurses and night-watchers, who hover over its cradle and guide its infant
ways; but the herring, like the brat of some wandering pauper, is dropped in
the great ocean workhouse, and cradled amid the hoarse roar of the ravening
waters; and whether it lives or dies is a matter of no moment, and no one’s
We cannot, unfortunately, obtain a sight of the ripening eggs of any of our
sea fish at a time when they would prove useful to us. No one, so far as I
know, has seen the young herring burst from its shell under such
advantageous circumstances as we can view the salmon ova; but I have seen
the bottled-up spawn of that fish just after it had ripened into life, the infant
animal being remarkably like a fragment of cotton thread that had fallen into
the water: it moved about with great agility, but required the aid of a
microscope to make out that it was a thing endowed with life. Who could
suppose, while examining those wavy floating threads, that in a few months
afterwards they would be grown into beautiful fish, with a mechanism of
bones to bind their flesh together, scales to protect their body, and fins to
guide them in the water? But young herring cannot be long bottled up for
observation, or be kept in an artificial atmosphere; for in that condition they
die almost before there is time to see them live; and when in the sea there are
no means of tracing them, because they are speedily lost in an immensity of
water.
There are points of contrast between the salmon and the herring which I
cannot pass without notice. They form the St. Giles’ and St. James’ of the fish
world, the one being a portion of the rich man’s food, and the other filling the
poor man’s dish. The salmon is hedged round by protecting Acts of
Parliament, but the herring gets leave to grow just as it swims, parliamentary
statutes being thought unnecessary for its protection. The salmon is born in its
fine nursery, and is wakened into life by the music of beautiful streams: it has
nurses and night-watchers, who hover over its cradle and guide its infant
ways; but the herring, like the brat of some wandering pauper, is dropped in
the great ocean workhouse, and cradled amid the hoarse roar of the ravening
waters; and whether it lives or dies is a matter of no moment, and no one’s
Page 26
business. Herring mortality in its infantile stages is appalling, and even in its
old age, at a time when the rich man’s fish is protected from the greed of its
enemies, the herring is doomed to suffer the most. And then, to finish up with
the same appropriateness as they have lived, the venison of the waters is
daintily laid out on a slab of marble, while the vulgar but beautiful herring is
handled by a dirty costermonger, who hurls it about in a filthy cart drawn by a
wretched donkey. At the hour of reproduction the salmon is guarded with
jealous care from the hand of man, whilst at the same season the herring is
offered up a wholesale sacrifice to the destroyer. It is only at its period of
spawning that the herring is fished. How comes it to pass that what is a highly
punishable crime in the one instance is a government-rewarded merit in the
other? To kill a gravid salmon is as nearly as possible felony; but to kill a
herring as it rests on the spawning-bed is an act at once meritorious and
profitable!
Having given my readers a general idea of the fecundity of fish, and the
method of fructifying the eggs, and of the development of these into fish—
for, of course, the process will be nearly the same with all kinds of fish eggs,
the only difference perhaps being that the eggs of some varieties will take a
longer time to hatch than the eggs of others—I will now pass on to consider
the question of fish growth.
All fish are not oviparous. There is a well-known blenny which is
viviparous, the young of which at the time of their birth are so perfect as to be
able to swim about with great ease; and this fish is also very productive. Our
skate fishes (Raiæ) are all viviparous. “The young are enclosed in a horny
capsule of an oblong square shape, with a filament at each corner. It is
nourished by means of an umbilical bag till the due period of exclusion
arrives, when it enters upon an independent existence.” I could name a few
other fish which are viviparous. In the fish-room of the British Museum may
be seen one of these. It is known as Ditrema argentea, and is plentifully
found in the seas of South America. But our information on this portion of the
natural history of fish is very obscure at present.
There are many facts of fish biography that have yet to be ascertained, and
which, if we knew them, would probably conduce to a stricter economy of
fish life and the better regulation of the fisheries. Beyond a knowledge of
mere generalities, the animal kingdom of the sea is a sealed book. No person
can tell, for example, how long a time elapses from the birth of any particular
sea fish till the period when it is brought to table. Sea fish grow up unheeded
old age, at a time when the rich man’s fish is protected from the greed of its
enemies, the herring is doomed to suffer the most. And then, to finish up with
the same appropriateness as they have lived, the venison of the waters is
daintily laid out on a slab of marble, while the vulgar but beautiful herring is
handled by a dirty costermonger, who hurls it about in a filthy cart drawn by a
wretched donkey. At the hour of reproduction the salmon is guarded with
jealous care from the hand of man, whilst at the same season the herring is
offered up a wholesale sacrifice to the destroyer. It is only at its period of
spawning that the herring is fished. How comes it to pass that what is a highly
punishable crime in the one instance is a government-rewarded merit in the
other? To kill a gravid salmon is as nearly as possible felony; but to kill a
herring as it rests on the spawning-bed is an act at once meritorious and
profitable!
Having given my readers a general idea of the fecundity of fish, and the
method of fructifying the eggs, and of the development of these into fish—
for, of course, the process will be nearly the same with all kinds of fish eggs,
the only difference perhaps being that the eggs of some varieties will take a
longer time to hatch than the eggs of others—I will now pass on to consider
the question of fish growth.
All fish are not oviparous. There is a well-known blenny which is
viviparous, the young of which at the time of their birth are so perfect as to be
able to swim about with great ease; and this fish is also very productive. Our
skate fishes (Raiæ) are all viviparous. “The young are enclosed in a horny
capsule of an oblong square shape, with a filament at each corner. It is
nourished by means of an umbilical bag till the due period of exclusion
arrives, when it enters upon an independent existence.” I could name a few
other fish which are viviparous. In the fish-room of the British Museum may
be seen one of these. It is known as Ditrema argentea, and is plentifully
found in the seas of South America. But our information on this portion of the
natural history of fish is very obscure at present.
There are many facts of fish biography that have yet to be ascertained, and
which, if we knew them, would probably conduce to a stricter economy of
fish life and the better regulation of the fisheries. Beyond a knowledge of
mere generalities, the animal kingdom of the sea is a sealed book. No person
can tell, for example, how long a time elapses from the birth of any particular
sea fish till the period when it is brought to table. Sea fish grow up unheeded
Page 27
—quite, in a sense, out of the bounds of observation. Naturalists can only
guess at what rate a codfish grows. Even the life of a herring, in its most
important phase, is still a mystery; and at what age the mackerel or any other
fish becomes reproductive, who can say? The salmon is the one particular
fish that has as yet been compelled to render up to those inquiring the secret
of its birth and the ratio of its growth. (See Natural and Economic History of
the Salmon.) We have imprisoned this valuable fish in artificial ponds, and by
robbing it of its eggs have noted when the young ones were born and how
they grew. It would be equally easy to devise a means of observing sea fish.
Why should we not erect a great marine observatory, where we could, as in
the case of the Stormontfield-bred salmon, watch the young fish burst from
its shell, and for a year or two observe and study the progress of the animal,
and ascertain its rate of growth, and especially the period at which it becomes
reproductive? The government might act upon this suggestion, and vote a few
thousand pounds annually for the support of a series of marine fish-ponds; for
something more is required than the resources of an amateur naturalist to
determine how fish live and grow.
What naturalists chiefly and greatly need in respect of our sea fish is,
precise information as to their rate of growth. We have a personal knowledge
of the fact of the sea fish selecting our shores as a spawning-ground, but we
do not precisely know in some instances the exact time of spawning, how
long the spawn takes to quicken into life, or at what rate the fish increase in
growth.
The eel may be taken as an example of our ignorance of fish life. Do our
professed naturalists know anything about it beyond its migratory habits?—
habits which, from sheer ignorance, have at one period or another been
guessed as pertaining to all kinds of fish. The tendency to the romantic,
specially exhibited in the amount of travelling power bestowed by the elder
naturalists on this class of animals, would seem to be very difficult to put
down.
About two years ago an old story about the eel was gravely revived by
having the larger portion of a little book devoted to its elucidation—an old
story seriously informing us that the silver eel is the product of a black beetle.
But no one need wonder at a new story about the eel, far less at the revival of
this old one; for the eel is a fish that has at all times experienced the greatest
difficulty in obtaining recognition as being anything at all in the animal
world, or as having respectable parentage of even the humblest kind. In fact,
guess at what rate a codfish grows. Even the life of a herring, in its most
important phase, is still a mystery; and at what age the mackerel or any other
fish becomes reproductive, who can say? The salmon is the one particular
fish that has as yet been compelled to render up to those inquiring the secret
of its birth and the ratio of its growth. (See Natural and Economic History of
the Salmon.) We have imprisoned this valuable fish in artificial ponds, and by
robbing it of its eggs have noted when the young ones were born and how
they grew. It would be equally easy to devise a means of observing sea fish.
Why should we not erect a great marine observatory, where we could, as in
the case of the Stormontfield-bred salmon, watch the young fish burst from
its shell, and for a year or two observe and study the progress of the animal,
and ascertain its rate of growth, and especially the period at which it becomes
reproductive? The government might act upon this suggestion, and vote a few
thousand pounds annually for the support of a series of marine fish-ponds; for
something more is required than the resources of an amateur naturalist to
determine how fish live and grow.
What naturalists chiefly and greatly need in respect of our sea fish is,
precise information as to their rate of growth. We have a personal knowledge
of the fact of the sea fish selecting our shores as a spawning-ground, but we
do not precisely know in some instances the exact time of spawning, how
long the spawn takes to quicken into life, or at what rate the fish increase in
growth.
The eel may be taken as an example of our ignorance of fish life. Do our
professed naturalists know anything about it beyond its migratory habits?—
habits which, from sheer ignorance, have at one period or another been
guessed as pertaining to all kinds of fish. The tendency to the romantic,
specially exhibited in the amount of travelling power bestowed by the elder
naturalists on this class of animals, would seem to be very difficult to put
down.
About two years ago an old story about the eel was gravely revived by
having the larger portion of a little book devoted to its elucidation—an old
story seriously informing us that the silver eel is the product of a black beetle.
But no one need wonder at a new story about the eel, far less at the revival of
this old one; for the eel is a fish that has at all times experienced the greatest
difficulty in obtaining recognition as being anything at all in the animal
world, or as having respectable parentage of even the humblest kind. In fact,
Page 28
the study of the natural history of the eel has been hampered by old-world
romances and quaint fancies about its birth, or, in its case, may I not say
invention? “The eel is born of the mud,” said one old author. “It grows out of
hairs,” said another. “It is the creation of the dews of evening,” exclaimed a
third. “Nonsense,” emphatically uttered a fourth controversialist, “it is
produced by means of electricity.” “You are all wrong,” sserted a fifth, “the
eel is generated from turf;” and a sixth theorist, determined to outdo all the
others and come nearer the mark than any of his predecessors, assures the
public that the young fish are grown from particles scraped off the old ones!
The beetle theorist tells us that the silver eel is a neuter, having neither milt
nor roe, and is therefore quite incapable of perpetuating its kind; and, in short,
that it is a romance of nature, being one of the productions of some wondrous
lepidopterous animals seen by Mr. Cairncross (the author of the work alluded
to) about the place where he lived in Forfarshire, its other production being of
its own kind, a black beetle! The story of the rapid growth and transformation
of the salmon is—as will by and by be seen—wonderful enough in its way,
but it is certainly far surpassed by the extraordinary silver eel, which is at one
and the same time a fish and an insect.
There can be no doubt that the eel is a curious enough animal even without
the extra attributes bestowed upon it by this very original naturalist, for that
fish is in many respects the opposite of the salmon: it is spawned in the sea,
and almost immediately after coming to life proceeds to live in brackish or
entirely fresh water. It is another of the curious features of fish life that about
the period when eels are on their way to the sea, where they find a suitable
spawning-ground, salmon are on their way from the sea up to the river-heads
to fulfil the grand instinct of their nature—namely, reproduction. The
periodical migrations of the eel, on which instinct has been founded the great
fishing industry of Comacchio, on the Adriatic, described in another portion
of this volume, can be observed in all parts of the globe, and they take place,
according to the climate, at different periods from February to May; the fish
frequenting such canals or rivers as have communication with the sea. The
myriads of young eels which ascend are almost beyond belief; they are in
numbers sufficient for the population of all the waters of the globe—that is, if
there were protective laws to shield them from destruction, or reservoirs in
which they might be preserved to be used for food as required. The eel,
indeed, is quite as prolific as the generality of sea fish. As a corroboration of
the prolificness of the animal, it may be stated that eels have been noted—but
romances and quaint fancies about its birth, or, in its case, may I not say
invention? “The eel is born of the mud,” said one old author. “It grows out of
hairs,” said another. “It is the creation of the dews of evening,” exclaimed a
third. “Nonsense,” emphatically uttered a fourth controversialist, “it is
produced by means of electricity.” “You are all wrong,” sserted a fifth, “the
eel is generated from turf;” and a sixth theorist, determined to outdo all the
others and come nearer the mark than any of his predecessors, assures the
public that the young fish are grown from particles scraped off the old ones!
The beetle theorist tells us that the silver eel is a neuter, having neither milt
nor roe, and is therefore quite incapable of perpetuating its kind; and, in short,
that it is a romance of nature, being one of the productions of some wondrous
lepidopterous animals seen by Mr. Cairncross (the author of the work alluded
to) about the place where he lived in Forfarshire, its other production being of
its own kind, a black beetle! The story of the rapid growth and transformation
of the salmon is—as will by and by be seen—wonderful enough in its way,
but it is certainly far surpassed by the extraordinary silver eel, which is at one
and the same time a fish and an insect.
There can be no doubt that the eel is a curious enough animal even without
the extra attributes bestowed upon it by this very original naturalist, for that
fish is in many respects the opposite of the salmon: it is spawned in the sea,
and almost immediately after coming to life proceeds to live in brackish or
entirely fresh water. It is another of the curious features of fish life that about
the period when eels are on their way to the sea, where they find a suitable
spawning-ground, salmon are on their way from the sea up to the river-heads
to fulfil the grand instinct of their nature—namely, reproduction. The
periodical migrations of the eel, on which instinct has been founded the great
fishing industry of Comacchio, on the Adriatic, described in another portion
of this volume, can be observed in all parts of the globe, and they take place,
according to the climate, at different periods from February to May; the fish
frequenting such canals or rivers as have communication with the sea. The
myriads of young eels which ascend are almost beyond belief; they are in
numbers sufficient for the population of all the waters of the globe—that is, if
there were protective laws to shield them from destruction, or reservoirs in
which they might be preserved to be used for food as required. The eel,
indeed, is quite as prolific as the generality of sea fish. As a corroboration of
the prolificness of the animal, it may be stated that eels have been noted—but
Page 29
that was some years ago—to pass up the river Thames from the sea at the
extraordinary rate of eighteen hundred per minute! This montee was called
eel-fair.
It is clear from certain facts in the history of this peculiar animal that, like
all other fish, it can suit its life and growth to whatever circumstances it may
be placed in, and seems to be quite able to multiply and replenish its species
in rivers and lakes as well as in the sea. In Scotland eels are very seldom
eaten, a strong prejudice existing in that country against the fish on account
of its serpentine shape; but for all that the eel is a nutritious and palatable
fish, and is highly susceptible of the arts of the cook. At one time the eel was
thought to be viviparous, but naturalists now know better, having found out
that eels produce their young in the same way as most other fish do.
It would be interesting, and profitable as well, to know as much of any one
of our sea fish as we now know of the salmon, but so little progress is being
made in observing the natural history of fish that we cannot expect for some
time to know much more than we do at present; everything in the fish world
seems so much to be taken for granted that we are still inclined rather to
revive the old traditions than to study or search out new facts. Naturalists are
so ignorant of how the work of growth is carried on in the fish world—in
fact, it is so difficult to investigate points of natural history in the depths of
the sea—that we cannot wonder at less being known about marine animals
than about any other class of living beings.
It is the want of precise information about the growth of the fish that has of
late been telling heavily against our fisheries, for in the meantime all is fish
that comes to the fisherman’s net, no matter of what size the animals may be,
or whether or not they have been allowed time to perpetuate their kind. No
person, either naturalist or fisherman, knows how long a period elapses from
the date of its birth before a turbot or codfish becomes reproductive. It is now
well known, in consequence of the repeated experiments made with that fish,
that the salmon grows with immense rapidity, a consequence in some degree
of its quick digestive power. The codfish, again—and I reason from the
analogy of its greatly slower power of digesting its food and from other
corroborative circumstances—must be correspondingly slow in its growth;
but people must not, in consequence of this slow power of digestion, believe
all they hear about the miscellaneous articles often said to be found in the
stomach of a codfish, as a large number of the curiosities found in the
intestinal regions of his codship are often placed there by fishermen, either by
extraordinary rate of eighteen hundred per minute! This montee was called
eel-fair.
It is clear from certain facts in the history of this peculiar animal that, like
all other fish, it can suit its life and growth to whatever circumstances it may
be placed in, and seems to be quite able to multiply and replenish its species
in rivers and lakes as well as in the sea. In Scotland eels are very seldom
eaten, a strong prejudice existing in that country against the fish on account
of its serpentine shape; but for all that the eel is a nutritious and palatable
fish, and is highly susceptible of the arts of the cook. At one time the eel was
thought to be viviparous, but naturalists now know better, having found out
that eels produce their young in the same way as most other fish do.
It would be interesting, and profitable as well, to know as much of any one
of our sea fish as we now know of the salmon, but so little progress is being
made in observing the natural history of fish that we cannot expect for some
time to know much more than we do at present; everything in the fish world
seems so much to be taken for granted that we are still inclined rather to
revive the old traditions than to study or search out new facts. Naturalists are
so ignorant of how the work of growth is carried on in the fish world—in
fact, it is so difficult to investigate points of natural history in the depths of
the sea—that we cannot wonder at less being known about marine animals
than about any other class of living beings.
It is the want of precise information about the growth of the fish that has of
late been telling heavily against our fisheries, for in the meantime all is fish
that comes to the fisherman’s net, no matter of what size the animals may be,
or whether or not they have been allowed time to perpetuate their kind. No
person, either naturalist or fisherman, knows how long a period elapses from
the date of its birth before a turbot or codfish becomes reproductive. It is now
well known, in consequence of the repeated experiments made with that fish,
that the salmon grows with immense rapidity, a consequence in some degree
of its quick digestive power. The codfish, again—and I reason from the
analogy of its greatly slower power of digesting its food and from other
corroborative circumstances—must be correspondingly slow in its growth;
but people must not, in consequence of this slow power of digestion, believe
all they hear about the miscellaneous articles often said to be found in the
stomach of a codfish, as a large number of the curiosities found in the
intestinal regions of his codship are often placed there by fishermen, either by
Page 30
way of joke or in order to increase the weight and so enhance the price of the
animal.
As regards the natural history of one of our best-known food fishes, I have
taken the pains to compile a brief precis of its life from the best account of it
that is known, keeping in the background at present any knowledge or
speculation of my own regarding it. I allude to the mackerel; and the
following facts are from an evidently well-studied chapter of Mr. Jonathan
Couch’s Fishes of the British Islands, by which it will be at once seen that our
knowledge of the growing power of this well-known fish is very defective.
1. Mackerel, geographically speaking, are distributed over a wide expanse
of water, embracing the whole of the European coasts, as well as the coasts of
North America, and this fish may be caught as far southward as the Canary
Islands. 2. The mackerel is a wandering unsteady fish, supposed to be
migratory, but individuals are always found in the British seas. 3. This fish
appears off the British coasts in quantity early in the year; that is, in January
and February. 4. The male kind are supposed to be more numerous than the
female. 5. The early appearance of this fish is not dependent on the weather.
6. The mackerel, like the herring, was at one time supposed to be a native of
foreign seas. 7. This fish is laden with spawn in May, and it has been known
to deposit its eggs upon our shores in the following month.
Such is a brief resumé of Mr. Couch’s chapter on the mackerel.
Now, we have no account here of how long it is ere the spawn of the
mackerel quickens into life, or at what age that fish becomes reproductive,
although in these two points is unquestionably obtained the key-note to the
natural history of all fishes, whether they be salmon or sprats. In fact—and it
is no particular demerit of Mr. Couch more than of every other naturalist—we
have no precise information whatever on this point of growth power. We have
at best only a few guesses and general deductions, and we would like to know
as regards all fish—1st, When they spawn; 2d, How long it is ere the spawn
quickens into life; and 3d, At what period the young fish will be able to repeat
the story of their birth. These points once known—and they are most essential
to the proper understanding of the economy of our fisheries—the chief
remaining questions connected with fishing industry would be of
comparatively easy solution, and admit of our regulating the power of capture
to the natural conditions of supply.
animal.
As regards the natural history of one of our best-known food fishes, I have
taken the pains to compile a brief precis of its life from the best account of it
that is known, keeping in the background at present any knowledge or
speculation of my own regarding it. I allude to the mackerel; and the
following facts are from an evidently well-studied chapter of Mr. Jonathan
Couch’s Fishes of the British Islands, by which it will be at once seen that our
knowledge of the growing power of this well-known fish is very defective.
1. Mackerel, geographically speaking, are distributed over a wide expanse
of water, embracing the whole of the European coasts, as well as the coasts of
North America, and this fish may be caught as far southward as the Canary
Islands. 2. The mackerel is a wandering unsteady fish, supposed to be
migratory, but individuals are always found in the British seas. 3. This fish
appears off the British coasts in quantity early in the year; that is, in January
and February. 4. The male kind are supposed to be more numerous than the
female. 5. The early appearance of this fish is not dependent on the weather.
6. The mackerel, like the herring, was at one time supposed to be a native of
foreign seas. 7. This fish is laden with spawn in May, and it has been known
to deposit its eggs upon our shores in the following month.
Such is a brief resumé of Mr. Couch’s chapter on the mackerel.
Now, we have no account here of how long it is ere the spawn of the
mackerel quickens into life, or at what age that fish becomes reproductive,
although in these two points is unquestionably obtained the key-note to the
natural history of all fishes, whether they be salmon or sprats. In fact—and it
is no particular demerit of Mr. Couch more than of every other naturalist—we
have no precise information whatever on this point of growth power. We have
at best only a few guesses and general deductions, and we would like to know
as regards all fish—1st, When they spawn; 2d, How long it is ere the spawn
quickens into life; and 3d, At what period the young fish will be able to repeat
the story of their birth. These points once known—and they are most essential
to the proper understanding of the economy of our fisheries—the chief
remaining questions connected with fishing industry would be of
comparatively easy solution, and admit of our regulating the power of capture
to the natural conditions of supply.
Page 31
WHITEBAIT GROUND NEAR QUEENSFERRY.
As another example of our ignorance of fish life, I may instance that
diminutive member of the Clupea family—the whitebait. This fish, which is
so much better known gastronomically than it is scientifically, was thought at
one time to be found only in the Thames, but it is much more generally
diffused than is supposed. It is found for certain, and in great plenty, in three
rivers—viz., the Thames, the Forth, and the Hamble. I have also seen it taken
out of the Humber, not far from Hull, and have heard of its being caught near
the mouth of the Deveron, on the Moray Firth; and likewise of its being
found in plentiful quantities off the Isle of Wight. Mr. Stewart, the natural
history draughtsman, tells me also that he has seen it taken in bushels on
many parts of the Clyde, and that at certain seasons, while engaged in taking
coal-fish, he has found them so stuffed with whitebait that by holding the
large fish by the tail the little silvery whitebait have fallen out in handfuls.
The whitebait has become celebrated from the mode in which it is cooked,
and the excuse it affords to Londoners for an afternoon’s excursion, as also
As another example of our ignorance of fish life, I may instance that
diminutive member of the Clupea family—the whitebait. This fish, which is
so much better known gastronomically than it is scientifically, was thought at
one time to be found only in the Thames, but it is much more generally
diffused than is supposed. It is found for certain, and in great plenty, in three
rivers—viz., the Thames, the Forth, and the Hamble. I have also seen it taken
out of the Humber, not far from Hull, and have heard of its being caught near
the mouth of the Deveron, on the Moray Firth; and likewise of its being
found in plentiful quantities off the Isle of Wight. Mr. Stewart, the natural
history draughtsman, tells me also that he has seen it taken in bushels on
many parts of the Clyde, and that at certain seasons, while engaged in taking
coal-fish, he has found them so stuffed with whitebait that by holding the
large fish by the tail the little silvery whitebait have fallen out in handfuls.
The whitebait has become celebrated from the mode in which it is cooked,
and the excuse it affords to Londoners for an afternoon’s excursion, as also
Page 32
from its forming a famous dish at the annual fish-dinner of her Majesty’s
ministers; but truth compels me to state that there is nothing in whitebait
beyond its susceptibility of taking on a flavour from the skill of the cook. It is
poor feeding when compared to a dish of sprats, or (an illegal) fry of young
salmon; and it has been said in joke that an expert cook can make up capital
whitebait by means of flour and oil! But to eat whitebait is a fashion of the
season, and the well-served tables of the Greenwich and Blackwall taverns,
with their pleasant outlook to the river, and their inducements of chablis and
other choice wines and comestibles, are undoubtedly very attractive, whether
the persons partaking of these dainties be ministers of state or merchants’
clerks.
The whitebait, however, if I cannot honestly praise it as a table fish, is
particularly interesting as an object of natural history, there having been from
time to time, as in the case of most other fish, some very learned disputes as
to where it comes from, how it grows, and whether or not it be a distinct
member of the herring family or the young of some other fish. The whitebait
—which, although found in rivers, is strictly speaking a sea fish—is a tiny
animal, varying in length, when taken for cooking purposes, from two to four
inches, and has never been seen of a greater length than five inches. In
appearance it is pale and silvery, with a greenish back, and ought to be
cooked immediately after being caught; indeed if, like Lord Lovat’s salmon,
whitebait could leap out of the water into the frying-pan, it would be a
decided advantage to those dining upon it, for if kept even for a few hours it
becomes greatly deteriorated, and, as a consequence, requires all the more
cooking to bring the flavour up to the proper pitch of gastronomic excellence.
In fact, it is necessary to keep the fish alive in a tub of water, and to ladle
them out for the process of cooking as the guests may arrive. Perhaps, as all
fish are chameleon-like in reflecting not only the colour of their abode, but
what they feed on as well, the supposed fine flavour of whitebait, so far as it
is not conferred upon that fish by the cook, may arise from the matters held in
solution in the Thames water, and so the result from the corrupt source of the
supply may be a quicker than ordinary decay. The waters of the Forth at the
whitebait ground, of which I have given a slight sketch, are clean and clear, a
little way above Inchgarvie, where the sprat-fishing is usually carried on, and
the whitebait taken there are in consequence slightly different in colour, and
greatly so in taste, from those obtained in the Thames; in fact, all kinds of
fish, including salmon, are able to live and thrive in the Firth of Forth. It is
ministers; but truth compels me to state that there is nothing in whitebait
beyond its susceptibility of taking on a flavour from the skill of the cook. It is
poor feeding when compared to a dish of sprats, or (an illegal) fry of young
salmon; and it has been said in joke that an expert cook can make up capital
whitebait by means of flour and oil! But to eat whitebait is a fashion of the
season, and the well-served tables of the Greenwich and Blackwall taverns,
with their pleasant outlook to the river, and their inducements of chablis and
other choice wines and comestibles, are undoubtedly very attractive, whether
the persons partaking of these dainties be ministers of state or merchants’
clerks.
The whitebait, however, if I cannot honestly praise it as a table fish, is
particularly interesting as an object of natural history, there having been from
time to time, as in the case of most other fish, some very learned disputes as
to where it comes from, how it grows, and whether or not it be a distinct
member of the herring family or the young of some other fish. The whitebait
—which, although found in rivers, is strictly speaking a sea fish—is a tiny
animal, varying in length, when taken for cooking purposes, from two to four
inches, and has never been seen of a greater length than five inches. In
appearance it is pale and silvery, with a greenish back, and ought to be
cooked immediately after being caught; indeed if, like Lord Lovat’s salmon,
whitebait could leap out of the water into the frying-pan, it would be a
decided advantage to those dining upon it, for if kept even for a few hours it
becomes greatly deteriorated, and, as a consequence, requires all the more
cooking to bring the flavour up to the proper pitch of gastronomic excellence.
In fact, it is necessary to keep the fish alive in a tub of water, and to ladle
them out for the process of cooking as the guests may arrive. Perhaps, as all
fish are chameleon-like in reflecting not only the colour of their abode, but
what they feed on as well, the supposed fine flavour of whitebait, so far as it
is not conferred upon that fish by the cook, may arise from the matters held in
solution in the Thames water, and so the result from the corrupt source of the
supply may be a quicker than ordinary decay. The waters of the Forth at the
whitebait ground, of which I have given a slight sketch, are clean and clear, a
little way above Inchgarvie, where the sprat-fishing is usually carried on, and
the whitebait taken there are in consequence slightly different in colour, and
greatly so in taste, from those obtained in the Thames; in fact, all kinds of
fish, including salmon, are able to live and thrive in the Firth of Forth. It is
Page 33
long since the refined salmon forsook the Thames, but then salmon are very
delicate in their eating, and at once take on the surrounding flavour, whatever
that may be. Creditable attempts are now being made to re-stock the Thames,
especially the upper waters, with more valuable fish than are at present
contained in that river, but whether these attempts will be successful yet
remains to be seen. I have been watching with great interest what is being
done by Mr. Frank Buckland and others; but salmon I fear cannot at present
live in the Thames. To thrive successfully, that fish must have access to the
sea, and how a salmon can ever penetrate to the salt water with the river in its
present state is a problem that must be left for future solution; however, as
Mr. Frank Buckland very truthfully remarks, if the salmon are not first sent
down the Thames they cannot be expected ever to come up that noble river.
Returning, however, to our whitebait, it may be stated that that fish was
once thought to be the young of the shad, which is itself an interesting fish,
coming from the sea to deposit its spawn in the fresh waters. The shad was at
one time thought to be the patriarch of the herring tribe; and it was said, in
the days when the old theory about the migration of the herring was believed
in, that the great shoals which came to this country from the icy seas of the
high latitudes were led on their wonderful tour by a few thousands of this
gigantic fish. Pennant conjectured that whitebait was an independent species,
but so difficult is it to investigate such facts in the water that it was not till
many years had elapsed that the question was set at rest so far as to determine
at any rate that whitebait were not the young of either the Alice or the Twaite
shad, which, by the by, is a coarse and insipid fish—
“Alusæ, crackling on the embers, are
Of wretched poverty the insipid fare.”
Some investigations I have in hand may settle the question whether or not
the whitebait be herring-fry or a distinct fish. As yet I have never at any
season of the year found an example of whitebait containing either milt or
roe, although it is said that examples may be taken full of both during the
early winter months. This, of course, is not conclusive evidence of its being
the young of some other fish, although it would go some length in proving it
a distinct species; but I need not enter further into the controversy at present,
as it is not of much interest to the general reader, except to say that whitebait,
whatever species it may belong to, comes up from the sea, where it has been
delicate in their eating, and at once take on the surrounding flavour, whatever
that may be. Creditable attempts are now being made to re-stock the Thames,
especially the upper waters, with more valuable fish than are at present
contained in that river, but whether these attempts will be successful yet
remains to be seen. I have been watching with great interest what is being
done by Mr. Frank Buckland and others; but salmon I fear cannot at present
live in the Thames. To thrive successfully, that fish must have access to the
sea, and how a salmon can ever penetrate to the salt water with the river in its
present state is a problem that must be left for future solution; however, as
Mr. Frank Buckland very truthfully remarks, if the salmon are not first sent
down the Thames they cannot be expected ever to come up that noble river.
Returning, however, to our whitebait, it may be stated that that fish was
once thought to be the young of the shad, which is itself an interesting fish,
coming from the sea to deposit its spawn in the fresh waters. The shad was at
one time thought to be the patriarch of the herring tribe; and it was said, in
the days when the old theory about the migration of the herring was believed
in, that the great shoals which came to this country from the icy seas of the
high latitudes were led on their wonderful tour by a few thousands of this
gigantic fish. Pennant conjectured that whitebait was an independent species,
but so difficult is it to investigate such facts in the water that it was not till
many years had elapsed that the question was set at rest so far as to determine
at any rate that whitebait were not the young of either the Alice or the Twaite
shad, which, by the by, is a coarse and insipid fish—
“Alusæ, crackling on the embers, are
Of wretched poverty the insipid fare.”
Some investigations I have in hand may settle the question whether or not
the whitebait be herring-fry or a distinct fish. As yet I have never at any
season of the year found an example of whitebait containing either milt or
roe, although it is said that examples may be taken full of both during the
early winter months. This, of course, is not conclusive evidence of its being
the young of some other fish, although it would go some length in proving it
a distinct species; but I need not enter further into the controversy at present,
as it is not of much interest to the general reader, except to say that whitebait,
whatever species it may belong to, comes up from the sea, where it has been
Page 34
spawned, to feed in the river. I may mention that this fish cannot now be
taken so far up the river Thames as formerly. Whitebait are now usually
caught between Gravesend and Woolwich, and the fish are in their best
season between April and September. It is not unusual for sea fish to ascend
our rivers: the eel, as I have already narrated, spawns in the sea, and the
young of that fish ascend to the fresh water, in which they live till they are
seized with the migratory instinct. The parentage of the whitebait will be
discovered in the sea, and the changes undergone by fish during their growth
are so varied and curious that it would be difficult to predict what the little
whitebait may turn out to be—whiting perhaps! After being told that the
silver eel is the produce of a black beetle, and knowing that a tadpole is an
infantile frog, and that the zœa ultimately becomes a crab, we need not
wonder if we are some day told that whitebait becomes in time
metamorphosed into some other entirely different fish!
Besides whitebait there are other mysterious fish—especially in Scotland
—which are well worthy of being alluded to. An idea prevails in Scotland
that the vendace of Lochmaben and the powan of Lochlomond are really
herrings forced into fresh water, and slightly altered by the circumstances of a
new dwelling-place, change of food, and other causes. One learned person
lately ascribed the presence of sea fish in fresh water to the great wave which
had at one time passed over the country. But no doubt the real cause is that
these peculiar fish were brought to those lakes ages ago by monks or other
persons who were adepts in the piscicultural art.
taken so far up the river Thames as formerly. Whitebait are now usually
caught between Gravesend and Woolwich, and the fish are in their best
season between April and September. It is not unusual for sea fish to ascend
our rivers: the eel, as I have already narrated, spawns in the sea, and the
young of that fish ascend to the fresh water, in which they live till they are
seized with the migratory instinct. The parentage of the whitebait will be
discovered in the sea, and the changes undergone by fish during their growth
are so varied and curious that it would be difficult to predict what the little
whitebait may turn out to be—whiting perhaps! After being told that the
silver eel is the produce of a black beetle, and knowing that a tadpole is an
infantile frog, and that the zœa ultimately becomes a crab, we need not
wonder if we are some day told that whitebait becomes in time
metamorphosed into some other entirely different fish!
Besides whitebait there are other mysterious fish—especially in Scotland
—which are well worthy of being alluded to. An idea prevails in Scotland
that the vendace of Lochmaben and the powan of Lochlomond are really
herrings forced into fresh water, and slightly altered by the circumstances of a
new dwelling-place, change of food, and other causes. One learned person
lately ascribed the presence of sea fish in fresh water to the great wave which
had at one time passed over the country. But no doubt the real cause is that
these peculiar fish were brought to those lakes ages ago by monks or other
persons who were adepts in the piscicultural art.
Page 35
LOCHMABEN.
The home of the Vendace.
A brief summary of the chief points in the habits of these mysterious fish
may interest the reader. The “vendiss,” as it is locally called, occurs nowhere
but in the waters at Lochmaben, in Dumfriesshire; and it is thought by the
general run of the country people to be, like the powan of Lochlomond, a
fresh-water herring. The history of this fish is quite unknown, but it is thought
to have been introduced into the Castle Loch of Lochmaben in the early
monkish times, when it was essential, for the proper observance of church
fasts, to have an ample supply of fish for fast-day fare. It is curious as regards
the vendace that they float about in shoals, that they make the same kind of
poppling noise as the herring, and that they cannot be easily taken by any
kind of bait. At certain seasons of the year the people assemble for the
purpose of holding a vendace feast, at which times large quantities of the fish
are caught by means of a sweep net. The fish is said to have been found in
other waters besides those of Lochmaben, but I have never been able to see a
specimen anywhere else. There are a great number of traditions afloat about
the vendace, and a story of its having been introduced to the lake by Mary
The home of the Vendace.
A brief summary of the chief points in the habits of these mysterious fish
may interest the reader. The “vendiss,” as it is locally called, occurs nowhere
but in the waters at Lochmaben, in Dumfriesshire; and it is thought by the
general run of the country people to be, like the powan of Lochlomond, a
fresh-water herring. The history of this fish is quite unknown, but it is thought
to have been introduced into the Castle Loch of Lochmaben in the early
monkish times, when it was essential, for the proper observance of church
fasts, to have an ample supply of fish for fast-day fare. It is curious as regards
the vendace that they float about in shoals, that they make the same kind of
poppling noise as the herring, and that they cannot be easily taken by any
kind of bait. At certain seasons of the year the people assemble for the
purpose of holding a vendace feast, at which times large quantities of the fish
are caught by means of a sweep net. The fish is said to have been found in
other waters besides those of Lochmaben, but I have never been able to see a
specimen anywhere else. There are a great number of traditions afloat about
the vendace, and a story of its having been introduced to the lake by Mary
Page 36
Queen of Scots. The country people are very proud of their fish, and take a
pride in showing it to strangers. The principal information I can give about
the vendace, without becoming technical, is, that it is a beautiful and very
symmetrical fish, about seven or eight inches long, not at all unlike a herring,
only not so brilliant in the colour; and that the females of the vendace seem to
be about a third more numerous than the males—a characteristic which is
also observed in the salmon family. The vendace spawn about the beginning
of winter, and for this purpose gather, like the herring, into shoals. They are
very productive, and do not take long to grow to maturity.
The peculiarities of the Lochleven trout may be chiefly ascribed to a
peculiar feeding-ground. Having lived at one time on the banks of this far-
famed loch, I had ample time and many opportunities of studying the habits
and anatomy, as well as the fine flavour, of this beautiful fish, which, in my
humble opinion, has no equal in any other waters. Feeding I believe to be
everything, whether the subjects operated upon be cattle, capons, or carps.
The land-locked bays of Scotland afford richer flavoured fish than the wider
expanses of water, where the finny tribe, it may be, are much more numerous,
but have not the same quantity or variety of food, and, as a consequence, the
fish obtained in such places are comparatively poor both in size and flavour.
Nothing can be more certain than that a given expanse of water will feed only
a certain number of fish; if there be more than the feeding-ground will
support they will be small in size, and if the fish again be very large it may be
taken for granted that the water could easily support a few more. It is well
known, for instance, that the superiority of the herrings caught in the inland
sea-lochs of Scotland is owing to the fish finding there a better feeding-
ground than in the large and exposed open bays. Look, for instance, at
Lochfyne: the land runs down to the water’s edge, and the surface water or
drainage carries with it rich food to fatten the loch, and put flesh on the
herring; and what fish is finer, I would ask, than a Lochfyne herring? Again,
in the bay of Wick, which is the scene of the largest herring fishery in the
world, the fish have no land food, being shut out from such a luxury by a vast
sea wall of everlasting rock; and the consequence is, that the Wick herrings
are not nearly so rich in flavour as those taken in the sea-lochs of the west of
Scotland. In the same way I account for the rich flavour and beautiful colour
of the trout of Lochleven. This fish has been acclimatised with more or less
success in other waters, but when transplanted it deteriorates in flavour, and
gradually loses its beautiful colour—another proof that much depends on the
pride in showing it to strangers. The principal information I can give about
the vendace, without becoming technical, is, that it is a beautiful and very
symmetrical fish, about seven or eight inches long, not at all unlike a herring,
only not so brilliant in the colour; and that the females of the vendace seem to
be about a third more numerous than the males—a characteristic which is
also observed in the salmon family. The vendace spawn about the beginning
of winter, and for this purpose gather, like the herring, into shoals. They are
very productive, and do not take long to grow to maturity.
The peculiarities of the Lochleven trout may be chiefly ascribed to a
peculiar feeding-ground. Having lived at one time on the banks of this far-
famed loch, I had ample time and many opportunities of studying the habits
and anatomy, as well as the fine flavour, of this beautiful fish, which, in my
humble opinion, has no equal in any other waters. Feeding I believe to be
everything, whether the subjects operated upon be cattle, capons, or carps.
The land-locked bays of Scotland afford richer flavoured fish than the wider
expanses of water, where the finny tribe, it may be, are much more numerous,
but have not the same quantity or variety of food, and, as a consequence, the
fish obtained in such places are comparatively poor both in size and flavour.
Nothing can be more certain than that a given expanse of water will feed only
a certain number of fish; if there be more than the feeding-ground will
support they will be small in size, and if the fish again be very large it may be
taken for granted that the water could easily support a few more. It is well
known, for instance, that the superiority of the herrings caught in the inland
sea-lochs of Scotland is owing to the fish finding there a better feeding-
ground than in the large and exposed open bays. Look, for instance, at
Lochfyne: the land runs down to the water’s edge, and the surface water or
drainage carries with it rich food to fatten the loch, and put flesh on the
herring; and what fish is finer, I would ask, than a Lochfyne herring? Again,
in the bay of Wick, which is the scene of the largest herring fishery in the
world, the fish have no land food, being shut out from such a luxury by a vast
sea wall of everlasting rock; and the consequence is, that the Wick herrings
are not nearly so rich in flavour as those taken in the sea-lochs of the west of
Scotland. In the same way I account for the rich flavour and beautiful colour
of the trout of Lochleven. This fish has been acclimatised with more or less
success in other waters, but when transplanted it deteriorates in flavour, and
gradually loses its beautiful colour—another proof that much depends on the
Page 37
feeding-ground; indeed, the fact of the trout having deteriorated in quality as
a consequence of the abridgment of their feeding-range, is on this point quite
conclusive. I feel certain, however, that there must be more than one kind of
these Lochleven trouts; there is, at any rate, one curious fact in their life
worth noting, and that is, that they are often in prime condition for table use
when other trouts are spawning.
The powan, another of the mysterious fish of Scotland, is also considered
to be a fresh-water herring, and thought to be confined exclusively to
Lochlomond, where they are taken in great quantities. It is supposed by
persons versed in the subject that it is possible to acclimatise sea fish in fresh
water, and that the vendace and powan, changed by the circumstances in
which they have been placed, are, or were, undoubtedly herrings. The fish in
Lochlomond also gather into shoals, and on looking at a few of them one is
irresistibly forced to the conclusion, that in size and shape they are
remarkably like the common herring. The powan of Lochlomond and the
pollan of Lough Neagh are not the same fish, but both belong to the
Coregoni: the powan is long and slender, while the pollan is an altogether
stouter fish, although well shaped and beautifully proportioned.
I could analyse the natural history of many other fish, but the result in all
cases is nearly the same, and ends in a repeated expression that what we
require as regards all fish is the date of their period of reproduction; all other
information without this great fact is comparatively unimportant. It is
difficult, however, to obtain any reliable information on the natural history of
fish either by way of inquiry or by means of experiments. Naturalists cannot
live in the water, and those who live on it, and have opportunities for
observation, have not the necessary ability to record, or at any rate to
generalise what they see. No two fishermen, for instance, will agree on any
one point regarding the animals of the deep. I have examined every
intelligent fisherman I have met within the last ten years, numbering above
one hundred, and few of them have any real knowledge regarding the habits
of the fish which it is their business to capture. As an instance of fishermen’s
knowledge, one of that body recently repeated to me the old story of the
migration of the herring, holding that the herring comes from Iceland to
spawn, and that the sprat goes to the same icy region in order that it may
fulfil the same instinct.
“Where are the haddocks?” I once asked a Newhaven fisherman. “They are
about all eaten up, sir,” was his very innocent reply; and I believe this to be
a consequence of the abridgment of their feeding-range, is on this point quite
conclusive. I feel certain, however, that there must be more than one kind of
these Lochleven trouts; there is, at any rate, one curious fact in their life
worth noting, and that is, that they are often in prime condition for table use
when other trouts are spawning.
The powan, another of the mysterious fish of Scotland, is also considered
to be a fresh-water herring, and thought to be confined exclusively to
Lochlomond, where they are taken in great quantities. It is supposed by
persons versed in the subject that it is possible to acclimatise sea fish in fresh
water, and that the vendace and powan, changed by the circumstances in
which they have been placed, are, or were, undoubtedly herrings. The fish in
Lochlomond also gather into shoals, and on looking at a few of them one is
irresistibly forced to the conclusion, that in size and shape they are
remarkably like the common herring. The powan of Lochlomond and the
pollan of Lough Neagh are not the same fish, but both belong to the
Coregoni: the powan is long and slender, while the pollan is an altogether
stouter fish, although well shaped and beautifully proportioned.
I could analyse the natural history of many other fish, but the result in all
cases is nearly the same, and ends in a repeated expression that what we
require as regards all fish is the date of their period of reproduction; all other
information without this great fact is comparatively unimportant. It is
difficult, however, to obtain any reliable information on the natural history of
fish either by way of inquiry or by means of experiments. Naturalists cannot
live in the water, and those who live on it, and have opportunities for
observation, have not the necessary ability to record, or at any rate to
generalise what they see. No two fishermen, for instance, will agree on any
one point regarding the animals of the deep. I have examined every
intelligent fisherman I have met within the last ten years, numbering above
one hundred, and few of them have any real knowledge regarding the habits
of the fish which it is their business to capture. As an instance of fishermen’s
knowledge, one of that body recently repeated to me the old story of the
migration of the herring, holding that the herring comes from Iceland to
spawn, and that the sprat goes to the same icy region in order that it may
fulfil the same instinct.
“Where are the haddocks?” I once asked a Newhaven fisherman. “They are
about all eaten up, sir,” was his very innocent reply; and I believe this to be
Page 38
true. The shore races of that fish have long disappeared, and our fishermen
have now to seek this most palatable inhabitant of the sea afar off in the deep
waters. Vast numbers of the haddock used to be taken in the Firth of Forth,
but during late years they have become very scarce, and the boats now
require to go a night’s voyage to seek for them. If we knew the minutiæ of the
life of this fish, we should be better able to regulate the season for its capture,
and the percentage that we might with safety take from the water without
deteriorating the breeding power of the animal. There are some touches of
romance even about the haddock, but I need not further allude to these in this
division of my book, as I shall have to refer to it again under the head of the
“White Fish Fisheries.” It is, like all fish, wonderfully prolific, and is looked
upon by the fishermen as being also a migratory fish, as are also the turbot
and many other sea animals.
The family to which the haddock belongs embraces many of our best food
fish, as whiting, cod, ling, etc.; but of the growth and habits of the members
of this family we are as ignorant as we are of the natural history of the
whitebait or sprat. I have the authority of a rather learned Buckie fisherman
(recently drowned, poor fellow! in the great storm on the Moray Frith) for
stating that codfish do not grow at a greater rate than from eight to twelve
ounces per annum. This fisherman had seen a cod that had got enclosed by
some accident in a large rock pool, and so had obtained for a few weeks the
advantage of studying its powers of digestion, which he found to be
particularly slow, although there was abundant food. The haddock, which is a
far more active fish, my informant considered to grow at a more rapid rate.
On asking this man about the food of fishes, he said he was of opinion that
they preyed extensively upon each other, but that, so far as his opportunities
of observation went, they did not as a matter of course live upon each other’s
spawn; in other words, he did not think that the enormous quantities of roe
and milt given to fish were provided, as has been supposed by one or two
writers on the subject, for any other purpose than the keeping up of the
species. The spawn of all kinds of fish is extensively wasted by other means;
and these animals have no doubt a thousand ways of obtaining food that are
yet unknown to man; indeed, the very element in which they live is in a sense
a great mass of living matter, and it doubtless affords by means of minute
animals a wonderful source of supply. Fish, too, are less dainty in their food
than is generally supposed, and some kinds eat garbage of the most revolting
description with great avidity.
have now to seek this most palatable inhabitant of the sea afar off in the deep
waters. Vast numbers of the haddock used to be taken in the Firth of Forth,
but during late years they have become very scarce, and the boats now
require to go a night’s voyage to seek for them. If we knew the minutiæ of the
life of this fish, we should be better able to regulate the season for its capture,
and the percentage that we might with safety take from the water without
deteriorating the breeding power of the animal. There are some touches of
romance even about the haddock, but I need not further allude to these in this
division of my book, as I shall have to refer to it again under the head of the
“White Fish Fisheries.” It is, like all fish, wonderfully prolific, and is looked
upon by the fishermen as being also a migratory fish, as are also the turbot
and many other sea animals.
The family to which the haddock belongs embraces many of our best food
fish, as whiting, cod, ling, etc.; but of the growth and habits of the members
of this family we are as ignorant as we are of the natural history of the
whitebait or sprat. I have the authority of a rather learned Buckie fisherman
(recently drowned, poor fellow! in the great storm on the Moray Frith) for
stating that codfish do not grow at a greater rate than from eight to twelve
ounces per annum. This fisherman had seen a cod that had got enclosed by
some accident in a large rock pool, and so had obtained for a few weeks the
advantage of studying its powers of digestion, which he found to be
particularly slow, although there was abundant food. The haddock, which is a
far more active fish, my informant considered to grow at a more rapid rate.
On asking this man about the food of fishes, he said he was of opinion that
they preyed extensively upon each other, but that, so far as his opportunities
of observation went, they did not as a matter of course live upon each other’s
spawn; in other words, he did not think that the enormous quantities of roe
and milt given to fish were provided, as has been supposed by one or two
writers on the subject, for any other purpose than the keeping up of the
species. The spawn of all kinds of fish is extensively wasted by other means;
and these animals have no doubt a thousand ways of obtaining food that are
yet unknown to man; indeed, the very element in which they live is in a sense
a great mass of living matter, and it doubtless affords by means of minute
animals a wonderful source of supply. Fish, too, are less dainty in their food
than is generally supposed, and some kinds eat garbage of the most revolting
description with great avidity.
Page 39
I take this opportunity of correcting the very common error that all fish are
migratory. Some fishermen, and naturalists as well, picture the haddock and
the herring as being afflicted with perpetual motion—as being wanderers
from sea to sea and shore to shore. The migratory instinct in fish is, in my
opinion, very limited. They do move about a little, without doubt, but not
further than from their feeding-ground to their spawning-ground—from deep
to shallow water. Some plan of taking fish other than the present must
speedily be devised; for now we only capture them—and I take the herring as
an example—over their spawning-ground, when, according to all good
authority, they must be in their worst possible condition, their whole flesh-
forming or fattening power having been bestowed on the formation of the
milt and roe. I repudiate altogether this iteration of the periodical wandering
instincts of the finny tribes. There are great fish colonies in the sea, in the
same way as there are great seats of population on land, and these fish
colonies are stationary, having, comparatively speaking, but a limited range
of water in which to live and die. Adventurous individuals of the fish world
occasionally roam far away from home, and speedily find themselves in a
warmer or colder climate, as the case may be; but, speaking generally, as the
salmon returns to its own waters, so do sea fish keep to their own colony.
Our larger shoals of fish, which form money-yielding industries, are of
wonderful extent, and must have been gathering and increasing for ages,
having a population multiplied almost beyond belief. Century after century
must have passed away as these colonies grew in size, and were subjected to
all kinds of influences, evil or good: at times decimated by enemies, or
perhaps attacked by mysterious diseases, that killed the fish in tens of
thousands. At Rockall, for instance, there was lately discovered a cod depôt,
about which a kind of sensation was made—perhaps by interested parties—in
the public prints, but the supply obtained at that place was only of brief
duration. This fish colony, which had evidently fixed upon a good food-
giving centre, was too infantile to be able to stand the heavy draughts that
were all at once made upon it. Schools or shoals of fish, when they are of
such an extent as will admit of constant fishing, must have been forming
during long periods of time; for we know that, despite the wonderful
fecundity of all kinds of sea fish, the expenditure of both seed and life is
something tremendous. We may rest assured that, if a female codfish yields
its roe by millions, a balancing-power exists in the water that prevents the
bulk of them from coming to life, or at any rate from reaching maturity. If it
migratory. Some fishermen, and naturalists as well, picture the haddock and
the herring as being afflicted with perpetual motion—as being wanderers
from sea to sea and shore to shore. The migratory instinct in fish is, in my
opinion, very limited. They do move about a little, without doubt, but not
further than from their feeding-ground to their spawning-ground—from deep
to shallow water. Some plan of taking fish other than the present must
speedily be devised; for now we only capture them—and I take the herring as
an example—over their spawning-ground, when, according to all good
authority, they must be in their worst possible condition, their whole flesh-
forming or fattening power having been bestowed on the formation of the
milt and roe. I repudiate altogether this iteration of the periodical wandering
instincts of the finny tribes. There are great fish colonies in the sea, in the
same way as there are great seats of population on land, and these fish
colonies are stationary, having, comparatively speaking, but a limited range
of water in which to live and die. Adventurous individuals of the fish world
occasionally roam far away from home, and speedily find themselves in a
warmer or colder climate, as the case may be; but, speaking generally, as the
salmon returns to its own waters, so do sea fish keep to their own colony.
Our larger shoals of fish, which form money-yielding industries, are of
wonderful extent, and must have been gathering and increasing for ages,
having a population multiplied almost beyond belief. Century after century
must have passed away as these colonies grew in size, and were subjected to
all kinds of influences, evil or good: at times decimated by enemies, or
perhaps attacked by mysterious diseases, that killed the fish in tens of
thousands. At Rockall, for instance, there was lately discovered a cod depôt,
about which a kind of sensation was made—perhaps by interested parties—in
the public prints, but the supply obtained at that place was only of brief
duration. This fish colony, which had evidently fixed upon a good food-
giving centre, was too infantile to be able to stand the heavy draughts that
were all at once made upon it. Schools or shoals of fish, when they are of
such an extent as will admit of constant fishing, must have been forming
during long periods of time; for we know that, despite the wonderful
fecundity of all kinds of sea fish, the expenditure of both seed and life is
something tremendous. We may rest assured that, if a female codfish yields
its roe by millions, a balancing-power exists in the water that prevents the
bulk of them from coming to life, or at any rate from reaching maturity. If it
Page 40
were not so, how came it, in the days when there was no fish commerce, and
when man only killed the denizens of the sea for the supply of his individual
wants, that our waters were not, so to speak, impassable from a superfluity of
fish? Buffon has said that if a pair of herrings were left to breed and multiply
undisturbed for a period of twenty years, they would yield a fish bulk equal to
the whole of the globe in which we live!
The subject of fish growth—particularly as regards the changes undergone
by the salmon family—will be found further elucidated under the head of
“Fish Culture,” and incidentally in some other divisions of this work.
when man only killed the denizens of the sea for the supply of his individual
wants, that our waters were not, so to speak, impassable from a superfluity of
fish? Buffon has said that if a pair of herrings were left to breed and multiply
undisturbed for a period of twenty years, they would yield a fish bulk equal to
the whole of the globe in which we live!
The subject of fish growth—particularly as regards the changes undergone
by the salmon family—will be found further elucidated under the head of
“Fish Culture,” and incidentally in some other divisions of this work.
Page 41
CHAPTER II.
FISH COMMERCE.
Early Fish Commerce—Sale of Fresh-water Fish—Cured Fish—Influence of Rapid Transit on the
Fisheries—Fish-ponds—The Logan Pond—Ancient Fishing Industries—The Dutch Herring
Fishing—Comacchio—the Art of Breeding Eels—Progress of Fishing in Scotland—A Scottish
Buss—Newfoundland Fisheries—The Greenland Whale Fishing—Speciality of different Fishing
Towns—The General Sea Fisheries of France—French Fish Commerce—Statistics of the British
Fisheries.
here was a time when man only killed the denizens of the deep in order
T to supply his own immediate wants, and it is very much to be regretted,
in the face of the extensive fish commerce now carried on, that no
reliable documents exist from which to write a consecutive history of the
rise and progress of fishing.
In the absence of precise information, it may be allowed us to guess that
even during the far back ages fish was esteemed as an article of diet, and
formed an important contribution to the food resources of such peoples as
had access to the sea, or who could obtain the finny inhabitants of the deep
by purchase or barter. In the Old and New Testaments, and in various
ancient profane histories, fish and fishing are mentioned very frequently;
and in what may be called modern times a few scattered dates, indicating
the progress of the sea fisheries, may, by the exercise of great industry and
research, be collected; but these are not in any sense consecutive, or indeed
very reliable, so that we are, as it were, compelled to imagine the progress
of fish commerce, and to picture in our mind’s eye its transition from the
period when the mere satisfaction of individual wants was all that was cared
for, to a time when fish began to be bartered for land goods—such as farm,
dairy, and garden produce—and to trace, as we best can, that commerce
through these obscure periods to the present time, when the fisheries form a
prominent outlet for capital, are a large source of national revenue, and are
attracting, because of these qualities, an amount of attention never before
bestowed upon them.
Fish commerce being an industry naturally arising out of the immediate
wants of mankind, has unfortunately, as regards the article dealt in, been
FISH COMMERCE.
Early Fish Commerce—Sale of Fresh-water Fish—Cured Fish—Influence of Rapid Transit on the
Fisheries—Fish-ponds—The Logan Pond—Ancient Fishing Industries—The Dutch Herring
Fishing—Comacchio—the Art of Breeding Eels—Progress of Fishing in Scotland—A Scottish
Buss—Newfoundland Fisheries—The Greenland Whale Fishing—Speciality of different Fishing
Towns—The General Sea Fisheries of France—French Fish Commerce—Statistics of the British
Fisheries.
here was a time when man only killed the denizens of the deep in order
T to supply his own immediate wants, and it is very much to be regretted,
in the face of the extensive fish commerce now carried on, that no
reliable documents exist from which to write a consecutive history of the
rise and progress of fishing.
In the absence of precise information, it may be allowed us to guess that
even during the far back ages fish was esteemed as an article of diet, and
formed an important contribution to the food resources of such peoples as
had access to the sea, or who could obtain the finny inhabitants of the deep
by purchase or barter. In the Old and New Testaments, and in various
ancient profane histories, fish and fishing are mentioned very frequently;
and in what may be called modern times a few scattered dates, indicating
the progress of the sea fisheries, may, by the exercise of great industry and
research, be collected; but these are not in any sense consecutive, or indeed
very reliable, so that we are, as it were, compelled to imagine the progress
of fish commerce, and to picture in our mind’s eye its transition from the
period when the mere satisfaction of individual wants was all that was cared
for, to a time when fish began to be bartered for land goods—such as farm,
dairy, and garden produce—and to trace, as we best can, that commerce
through these obscure periods to the present time, when the fisheries form a
prominent outlet for capital, are a large source of national revenue, and are
attracting, because of these qualities, an amount of attention never before
bestowed upon them.
Fish commerce being an industry naturally arising out of the immediate
wants of mankind, has unfortunately, as regards the article dealt in, been
Page 42
invested with an amount of exaggeration that has no parallel in other
branches of industry. Blunders perpetrated long ago in Encyclopædias and
other works, when the life and habits of all kinds of fish, from the want of
investigation, were but little understood, have been, with those additions
which under such circumstances always accumulate, handed down to the
present day, so that even now we are carrying on some of our fisheries on
altogether false assumptions, and in many cases evidently killing the goose
for the sake of the golden egg: in other words, never dreaming that there
will be a fishing to-morrow, which must be as important, or even more
important, than the fishing of to-day, beyond which the fisher class as a rule
never look.
It is curious to note that there was in most countries a commerce in fresh-
water fish long before the food treasures of the sea were broken upon. This
is particularly noticeable in our own country, and is vouched for by many
authorities both at home and abroad. We can all imagine also, that in the
prehistoric or very early ages, when the land was untilled and virgin, and
the earth was undrained, there were sources for the supply of fresh-water
fish that do not now exist in consequence of the enhanced value of land. At
the period to which I have been alluding there was a much greater water
surface than there is now—rivers were broader and deeper, and so also were
our lakes and marshes. In those early days, although not so early as the
remote uncultivated age of which I have spoken, there were great inland
stews populous with fish, especially in connection with monasteries and
other religious houses, many examples of which, in their remains, are still
to be seen in England or on the Continent. In fact, fish commerce, in despite
of many curious industries connected with the productiveness of the
fisheries, was not really developed till a few years ago, when the railway
system of carriage began. Even up to the time of George Stephenson
commerce in fish was generally speaking a purely local business, except in
so far as the fishwives could extend the trade by carrying the contents of
their husbands’ boats away inland, in order, as in the still more primitive
times, to barter the fish for other produce. The fishermen of Comacchio, for
instance, still cure their eels, because they have not the means of sending
them so rapidly into the interior of Italy as would admit of their being eaten
fresh. Scotch salmon in the beginning of the present century was nearly all
kippered or cured as soon as caught, because the demand for the fresh fish
was only local, and therefore limited. With the discovery that salmon by
branches of industry. Blunders perpetrated long ago in Encyclopædias and
other works, when the life and habits of all kinds of fish, from the want of
investigation, were but little understood, have been, with those additions
which under such circumstances always accumulate, handed down to the
present day, so that even now we are carrying on some of our fisheries on
altogether false assumptions, and in many cases evidently killing the goose
for the sake of the golden egg: in other words, never dreaming that there
will be a fishing to-morrow, which must be as important, or even more
important, than the fishing of to-day, beyond which the fisher class as a rule
never look.
It is curious to note that there was in most countries a commerce in fresh-
water fish long before the food treasures of the sea were broken upon. This
is particularly noticeable in our own country, and is vouched for by many
authorities both at home and abroad. We can all imagine also, that in the
prehistoric or very early ages, when the land was untilled and virgin, and
the earth was undrained, there were sources for the supply of fresh-water
fish that do not now exist in consequence of the enhanced value of land. At
the period to which I have been alluding there was a much greater water
surface than there is now—rivers were broader and deeper, and so also were
our lakes and marshes. In those early days, although not so early as the
remote uncultivated age of which I have spoken, there were great inland
stews populous with fish, especially in connection with monasteries and
other religious houses, many examples of which, in their remains, are still
to be seen in England or on the Continent. In fact, fish commerce, in despite
of many curious industries connected with the productiveness of the
fisheries, was not really developed till a few years ago, when the railway
system of carriage began. Even up to the time of George Stephenson
commerce in fish was generally speaking a purely local business, except in
so far as the fishwives could extend the trade by carrying the contents of
their husbands’ boats away inland, in order, as in the still more primitive
times, to barter the fish for other produce. The fishermen of Comacchio, for
instance, still cure their eels, because they have not the means of sending
them so rapidly into the interior of Italy as would admit of their being eaten
fresh. Scotch salmon in the beginning of the present century was nearly all
kippered or cured as soon as caught, because the demand for the fresh fish
was only local, and therefore limited. With the discovery that salmon by
Page 43
being packed in ice could be kept a long time fresh, the trade began to
extend and the price to rise. This discovery, which exercised a very
important influence on the value of our salmon-fisheries, was made by a
country gentleman of Scotland, Mr. Dempster of Dunnichen, in the year
1780. Steamboat and railway transit, when they became general, at once
converted salmon into a valuable commodity; and such is now the demand,
from facility of transport, that this particular fish, from its great individual
value, has been lately in some danger of being exterminated through the
greed of the fishery tenants; indeed, it cannot be said that it is yet safe, for
every tenant thinks it legitimate to kill all the fish he can see.
The network of railways which now encircles the land has conferred
upon our inland towns, so far as fish is concerned, all the advantages of the
coast. For instance, the fishermen of Prestonpans send more of their fish to
Manchester than to Edinburgh, which is only nine miles distant: indeed our
most landward cities are comparatively well supplied with fresh fish and
crustacea, while at the seaside these delicacies are not at all plentiful. The
Newhaven fishwife is a common visitant in many of our larger Scottish
inland towns, being able by means of the railway to take a profitable
journey; indeed, one consequence of the extension of our railways has
undoubtedly been to add enormously to the demand for sea produce, and to
excite the ingenuity of our seafaring population to still greater cunning and
industry in the capture of all kinds of fish. In former years, when a large
haul of fish was taken there was no means of despatching them to a
distance, neither was there a resident population to consume what was
caught. Railways not being then in existence, the conveyance inland was
too slow for a perishable commodity like fish, and visitors to the seaside
were also rarer than at present. The want of a population to eat the fish no
doubt aided the comfortable delusion of our supplies being inexhaustible.
But it is now an undoubted fact, that with railways branching out to every
pier and quay, our densely-populated inland towns are better supplied with
fish than the villages where they are caught—a result of that keen
competition which has at length become so noticeable where fish, oysters,
or other sea delicacies are concerned. The high prices now obtained form an
inducement to the fishermen to take from the water all they can get,
whether the fish be ripe for food or not. A practical fisherman, whom I have
often consulted on these topics, says that forty years ago the slow system of
carriage was a sure preventive of overfishing, as fish, to be valuable for
extend and the price to rise. This discovery, which exercised a very
important influence on the value of our salmon-fisheries, was made by a
country gentleman of Scotland, Mr. Dempster of Dunnichen, in the year
1780. Steamboat and railway transit, when they became general, at once
converted salmon into a valuable commodity; and such is now the demand,
from facility of transport, that this particular fish, from its great individual
value, has been lately in some danger of being exterminated through the
greed of the fishery tenants; indeed, it cannot be said that it is yet safe, for
every tenant thinks it legitimate to kill all the fish he can see.
The network of railways which now encircles the land has conferred
upon our inland towns, so far as fish is concerned, all the advantages of the
coast. For instance, the fishermen of Prestonpans send more of their fish to
Manchester than to Edinburgh, which is only nine miles distant: indeed our
most landward cities are comparatively well supplied with fresh fish and
crustacea, while at the seaside these delicacies are not at all plentiful. The
Newhaven fishwife is a common visitant in many of our larger Scottish
inland towns, being able by means of the railway to take a profitable
journey; indeed, one consequence of the extension of our railways has
undoubtedly been to add enormously to the demand for sea produce, and to
excite the ingenuity of our seafaring population to still greater cunning and
industry in the capture of all kinds of fish. In former years, when a large
haul of fish was taken there was no means of despatching them to a
distance, neither was there a resident population to consume what was
caught. Railways not being then in existence, the conveyance inland was
too slow for a perishable commodity like fish, and visitors to the seaside
were also rarer than at present. The want of a population to eat the fish no
doubt aided the comfortable delusion of our supplies being inexhaustible.
But it is now an undoubted fact, that with railways branching out to every
pier and quay, our densely-populated inland towns are better supplied with
fish than the villages where they are caught—a result of that keen
competition which has at length become so noticeable where fish, oysters,
or other sea delicacies are concerned. The high prices now obtained form an
inducement to the fishermen to take from the water all they can get,
whether the fish be ripe for food or not. A practical fisherman, whom I have
often consulted on these topics, says that forty years ago the slow system of
carriage was a sure preventive of overfishing, as fish, to be valuable for
Page 44
table purposes, require to be fresh. “It’s the railways that has done all the
mischief, sir, depend on that; and as for the fishing, sir, it’s going on at such
a rate that there will very soon be a complete famine. I’ve seen more fish
caught in a day, sir, with a score of hooks on a line than can now be got
with eight thousand!”
As to fish-ponds: at the time indicated it was quite usual for noblemen
and other country gentlemen to have fish-ponds; in fact, a fish-pond was as
necessary an adjunct of a large country house as its vegetable or fruit
garden. These ponds, as the foregoing sketch will show, were of the most
simple kind, and were often enough constructed by merely stopping a little
stream at some suitable place, and so forming a couple of artificial lakes, in
which were placed a few large stones, or two or three bits of artificial rock-
work, so constructed as to afford shelter to the fish. There being in those
days no railways or other speedy conveyance, there arose a necessity for
fish-ponds to persons who were in the habit of entertaining guests or giving
mischief, sir, depend on that; and as for the fishing, sir, it’s going on at such
a rate that there will very soon be a complete famine. I’ve seen more fish
caught in a day, sir, with a score of hooks on a line than can now be got
with eight thousand!”
As to fish-ponds: at the time indicated it was quite usual for noblemen
and other country gentlemen to have fish-ponds; in fact, a fish-pond was as
necessary an adjunct of a large country house as its vegetable or fruit
garden. These ponds, as the foregoing sketch will show, were of the most
simple kind, and were often enough constructed by merely stopping a little
stream at some suitable place, and so forming a couple of artificial lakes, in
which were placed a few large stones, or two or three bits of artificial rock-
work, so constructed as to afford shelter to the fish. There being in those
days no railways or other speedy conveyance, there arose a necessity for
fish-ponds to persons who were in the habit of entertaining guests or giving
Page 45
great dinner-parties; hence also the multiplicity of recipes in our older
cookery-books for the dressing of all kinds of fresh-water fishes; besides, in
the very ancient times, that is before the Reformation, when Roman
Catholicism required a rigorous observance of the various church fasts, a
fish-pond near every cathedral city, and in the precincts of every monastery,
was a sine qua non. The varieties of fish bred in these ponds were
necessarily very limited, being usually carp, some of which, however, grew
to a very large size. There are traces also of some of our curious and
valuable fishes having been introduced into this country during those old
monastic times. Thus it is thought, as has been already stated, that the
celebrated trout of Lochleven may have been introduced from foreign parts
by some of the ancient monks who had a taste for gastronomy. The
celebrated vendace of Lochmaben is likewise supposed to have been
introduced in the same way from some continental fishery.
As I have already shown, most of the fish-ponds of these remote times
were quite primitive in their construction—very similar, in fact, to the
beautiful trout-pond that may any day be seen at Wolfsbrunnen, near
Heidelberg. There were no doubt ponds of large extent and of elaborate
construction, but these were comparatively rare; and even on the very sea-
coast we used to have ponds or storing-places for sea fish. One of these is
still in existence: I allude to Logan Pond in Galloway. This is only used as a
place for keeping fish so as to have them attainable for table uses without
the family having to depend on the state of the weather. This particular pond
is not an artificially-constructed one, but has been improved out of the
natural surrounding of the place. It is a basin, formed in the solid rock, ten
yards in depth, and having a circumference of one hundred and sixty feet. It
is used chiefly as a preserve to ensure a constant supply of fish, which are
taken in the neighbouring bay when the weather is fine, and transferred to
the pond, which communicates with the sea by a narrow passage. It is
generally well stocked with cod, haddock, and flat fish, which in the course
of time become very tame; and I regret to say, from want of proper shelter,
most of the animals become blind. The fish have of course to be fed, and
they partake greedily, even from the hand of their keeper, of the mass of
boiled mussels, limpets, whelks, etc., with which they are fed, and their
flavour is really unexceptionable.
cookery-books for the dressing of all kinds of fresh-water fishes; besides, in
the very ancient times, that is before the Reformation, when Roman
Catholicism required a rigorous observance of the various church fasts, a
fish-pond near every cathedral city, and in the precincts of every monastery,
was a sine qua non. The varieties of fish bred in these ponds were
necessarily very limited, being usually carp, some of which, however, grew
to a very large size. There are traces also of some of our curious and
valuable fishes having been introduced into this country during those old
monastic times. Thus it is thought, as has been already stated, that the
celebrated trout of Lochleven may have been introduced from foreign parts
by some of the ancient monks who had a taste for gastronomy. The
celebrated vendace of Lochmaben is likewise supposed to have been
introduced in the same way from some continental fishery.
As I have already shown, most of the fish-ponds of these remote times
were quite primitive in their construction—very similar, in fact, to the
beautiful trout-pond that may any day be seen at Wolfsbrunnen, near
Heidelberg. There were no doubt ponds of large extent and of elaborate
construction, but these were comparatively rare; and even on the very sea-
coast we used to have ponds or storing-places for sea fish. One of these is
still in existence: I allude to Logan Pond in Galloway. This is only used as a
place for keeping fish so as to have them attainable for table uses without
the family having to depend on the state of the weather. This particular pond
is not an artificially-constructed one, but has been improved out of the
natural surrounding of the place. It is a basin, formed in the solid rock, ten
yards in depth, and having a circumference of one hundred and sixty feet. It
is used chiefly as a preserve to ensure a constant supply of fish, which are
taken in the neighbouring bay when the weather is fine, and transferred to
the pond, which communicates with the sea by a narrow passage. It is
generally well stocked with cod, haddock, and flat fish, which in the course
of time become very tame; and I regret to say, from want of proper shelter,
most of the animals become blind. The fish have of course to be fed, and
they partake greedily, even from the hand of their keeper, of the mass of
boiled mussels, limpets, whelks, etc., with which they are fed, and their
flavour is really unexceptionable.
Page 46
Coming back, however, to the subject of fresh-water fish-ponds, it may
be stated that at one time some very large but simply-constructed fish-
ponds, or stews as they were then called, existed in various parts of
England, but that, as the commerce in sea fish gradually extended, these
were given up, except as adjuncts to the amenities of gentlemen’s pleasure-
grounds. Ornamental canals and fish-ponds are not at all uncommon in the
parks of our country gentlemen, although they are not required for fish-
breeding purposes, as the fast London or provincial trains carry baskets of
fish to a distance of one hundred miles in a very few hours, so that a turbot
or whiting is in excellent condition for a late dinner.
All the ancient fishing industries, whether those that still exist or those
that are extinct, except in their remains, bear traces of the times in which
they originated. Pisciculture (which I shall describe at some length by and
by) arose at a very ancient period, and was chiefly resorted to in connection
with fresh-water fishes—the ova of such being the most readily obtainable;
or with the mollusca, as these could bear a long transport, having a reservoir
of water in their shell. The sea fishers of the olden time dealt with the fish
for the purpose of their being cured with salt or otherwise, simply, as has
already been stated, because of the scarcity of rapid land carriage and a
comparatively scanty local population.
be stated that at one time some very large but simply-constructed fish-
ponds, or stews as they were then called, existed in various parts of
England, but that, as the commerce in sea fish gradually extended, these
were given up, except as adjuncts to the amenities of gentlemen’s pleasure-
grounds. Ornamental canals and fish-ponds are not at all uncommon in the
parks of our country gentlemen, although they are not required for fish-
breeding purposes, as the fast London or provincial trains carry baskets of
fish to a distance of one hundred miles in a very few hours, so that a turbot
or whiting is in excellent condition for a late dinner.
All the ancient fishing industries, whether those that still exist or those
that are extinct, except in their remains, bear traces of the times in which
they originated. Pisciculture (which I shall describe at some length by and
by) arose at a very ancient period, and was chiefly resorted to in connection
with fresh-water fishes—the ova of such being the most readily obtainable;
or with the mollusca, as these could bear a long transport, having a reservoir
of water in their shell. The sea fishers of the olden time dealt with the fish
for the purpose of their being cured with salt or otherwise, simply, as has
already been stated, because of the scarcity of rapid land carriage and a
comparatively scanty local population.
Page 47
PACKING HERRINGS.
The particular fishing industry which has bulked largest in literature, and
which was pursued after a systematic fashion, is, or rather was, that of the
Dutch, for Holland does not at present make her mark so largely on the
waters as she was wont to do, being at present far surpassed in fishing
enterprise by Scotland and other countries. The particular fish coveted by
the Dutch people was the herring, and I have recently had the pleasure of
examining a set of engravings procured in Amsterdam, that convey a
graphic idea of the great importance that was attached by the Dutch
themselves to their herring-fishery. This series of sixteen peculiarly Dutch
plates begins at the beginning of the fishery, as is indeed proper it should,
by showing us a party busy at a seaside cottage knitting the herring nets;
one or two busses are seen in the distance busy at work. We are then shown,
on the banks of one of the numerous Dutch canals, a lot of quaint-looking
coopers engaged in preparing the barrels, while next in order comes a
representation of the preparing and victualing of the buss, which is
The particular fishing industry which has bulked largest in literature, and
which was pursued after a systematic fashion, is, or rather was, that of the
Dutch, for Holland does not at present make her mark so largely on the
waters as she was wont to do, being at present far surpassed in fishing
enterprise by Scotland and other countries. The particular fish coveted by
the Dutch people was the herring, and I have recently had the pleasure of
examining a set of engravings procured in Amsterdam, that convey a
graphic idea of the great importance that was attached by the Dutch
themselves to their herring-fishery. This series of sixteen peculiarly Dutch
plates begins at the beginning of the fishery, as is indeed proper it should,
by showing us a party busy at a seaside cottage knitting the herring nets;
one or two busses are seen in the distance busy at work. We are then shown,
on the banks of one of the numerous Dutch canals, a lot of quaint-looking
coopers engaged in preparing the barrels, while next in order comes a
representation of the preparing and victualing of the buss, which is
Page 48
surrounded by small boats, and crowded with an active population all
engaged in getting the vessel ready for sea—barrels of provisions, breadths
of netting, and various necessaries, are being got on board. Then follow
plates, of which the foregoing is a specimen, showing us the equipment of
various other kinds of boats, which again are succeeded by a view of the
busses among the shoals of herring, the big mast struck, most of the sails
furled, and the men busy hauling in the nets, which are of course, as is
fitting in a picture, laden with fish. Various other boats are also shown at
work, as the great hoy, a one-masted vessel, that is apparently furnished
with a seine-net, and the great double shore or sea-boar, which is an open
boat. Then we have the herring-buss coming gallantly into the harbour, with
its sails all set and its flags all flying—its hull deep in the water, which
seems to frolic lovingly round its prow as if glad at its safe return. Next, of
course, there is a scene on the shore, where the pompous-looking curer and
his servants are seen congratulating each other amid the bustle of
surrounding commerce and labour; dealers, too, are figured in these
engravings, with their wheelbarrows drawn by dogs of unmistakable Dutch
build, and there are also to be seen in the picture many other elements of
that industry peculiar to all fishing towns, whether ancient or modern.
The next scene of this fishing panorama is the herring banquet or feast,
where the king, or mayhap the rich owner of a fleet of busses, sits grandly
at table, with his wife and daughter, attended by a butler and a black
footman, partaking of the first fruits of the fishery. After this follows a view
of the fishmarket, with portraits of the fishwives, and altogether thoroughly
indicative of their peculiar way of doing business, which is always the
same, whether the scene be laid in ancient Holland or in modern
Billingsgate. Next comes a picture of the various buyers of the commodity
on their way home, of course by the side of a canal, with their purchases of
deep-sea, shore, state, and red herrings. The next scene of the series is a
smoking-house, partially obscured by wreaths of smoke, where the herrings
are being red-ed; and the series is appropriately wound up with a tableau
representing the important process of repairing the damaged nets—the
whole conveying a really graphic, although not very artistic, delineation of
this highly characteristic Dutch industry. A few plates illustrative of the
whale-fisheries of Holland are appended to the series I have been describing
—for whale-fishing in the seas of Greenland was also in those days one of
the industries of the hardworking Dutch.
engaged in getting the vessel ready for sea—barrels of provisions, breadths
of netting, and various necessaries, are being got on board. Then follow
plates, of which the foregoing is a specimen, showing us the equipment of
various other kinds of boats, which again are succeeded by a view of the
busses among the shoals of herring, the big mast struck, most of the sails
furled, and the men busy hauling in the nets, which are of course, as is
fitting in a picture, laden with fish. Various other boats are also shown at
work, as the great hoy, a one-masted vessel, that is apparently furnished
with a seine-net, and the great double shore or sea-boar, which is an open
boat. Then we have the herring-buss coming gallantly into the harbour, with
its sails all set and its flags all flying—its hull deep in the water, which
seems to frolic lovingly round its prow as if glad at its safe return. Next, of
course, there is a scene on the shore, where the pompous-looking curer and
his servants are seen congratulating each other amid the bustle of
surrounding commerce and labour; dealers, too, are figured in these
engravings, with their wheelbarrows drawn by dogs of unmistakable Dutch
build, and there are also to be seen in the picture many other elements of
that industry peculiar to all fishing towns, whether ancient or modern.
The next scene of this fishing panorama is the herring banquet or feast,
where the king, or mayhap the rich owner of a fleet of busses, sits grandly
at table, with his wife and daughter, attended by a butler and a black
footman, partaking of the first fruits of the fishery. After this follows a view
of the fishmarket, with portraits of the fishwives, and altogether thoroughly
indicative of their peculiar way of doing business, which is always the
same, whether the scene be laid in ancient Holland or in modern
Billingsgate. Next comes a picture of the various buyers of the commodity
on their way home, of course by the side of a canal, with their purchases of
deep-sea, shore, state, and red herrings. The next scene of the series is a
smoking-house, partially obscured by wreaths of smoke, where the herrings
are being red-ed; and the series is appropriately wound up with a tableau
representing the important process of repairing the damaged nets—the
whole conveying a really graphic, although not very artistic, delineation of
this highly characteristic Dutch industry. A few plates illustrative of the
whale-fisheries of Holland are appended to the series I have been describing
—for whale-fishing in the seas of Greenland was also in those days one of
the industries of the hardworking Dutch.
Page 49
The old saying that Amsterdam was built on herring bones frequently
used to symbolise the fishing power of Holland. It is thought that the
industry of the Dutch people was first drawn to the value of the sea fisheries
by the settlement of some Scottish fishermen in their country. I cannot
vouch for the truth of this statement as to the Scottish emigration, but I
believe it was a Fleming who first discovered the virtues of pickled
herrings, and it is also known that the capture of the herring was a chief
industry on the sea-board of all the Low Countries, and it is likewise
instructive to learn that at a time when our own fisheries were very much
undeveloped the Dutch people found our seas to be a mine of gold, so
productive were they in fish, and so famous did the Dutch cure of herrings
become. We are not called on, however, to credit all the stories of
miraculous draughts taken, and store of wealth garnered up, by the plodding
Hollanders. We must bear in mind that when the Dutch began to fish the
seas as a field of industry were nearly virgin, and that that people had at one
time this great source of wealth all to themselves. At that particular period,
likewise, there was no limit to the supply, the fishermen having but to dip
their nets in the water in order to have them filled. No wonder, therefore,
that the fisheries of Holland grew into a prominent industry, and became at
one time the one absorbing hobby of the nation. Busses in large fleets were
fitted out and manned, till in time the Dutch came to be reputed as the
greatest fishers in the world. But great as was the fishing industry of those
days in Holland, and industrious as the Dutch undoubtedly were, it is
evident that there has been a considerable amount of exaggeration as to the
results, more especially in regard to the enormous quantities of fish that are
said to have been captured and cured. But whatever this total might be was
not of great consequence. The mere quantity of fish caught is perhaps,
although a considerable one, the smallest of the many benefits conferred on
a nation by an energetic pursuit of its fisheries. The fishermen must have
boats, and these must be fitted with sails, rigging, etc.; and, moreover, the
boats must be manned by an efficient crew; then the curing and sale of the
fish give employment to a large number of people as well; whilst the
articles of cure—as salt, barrels, etc.—must of necessity be largely
provided, and are all of them the result of some kind of trained industry:
and all these varied circumstances of demand combine to feed the particular
industrial pursuit I am describing. And the fisheries provide, besides, a
used to symbolise the fishing power of Holland. It is thought that the
industry of the Dutch people was first drawn to the value of the sea fisheries
by the settlement of some Scottish fishermen in their country. I cannot
vouch for the truth of this statement as to the Scottish emigration, but I
believe it was a Fleming who first discovered the virtues of pickled
herrings, and it is also known that the capture of the herring was a chief
industry on the sea-board of all the Low Countries, and it is likewise
instructive to learn that at a time when our own fisheries were very much
undeveloped the Dutch people found our seas to be a mine of gold, so
productive were they in fish, and so famous did the Dutch cure of herrings
become. We are not called on, however, to credit all the stories of
miraculous draughts taken, and store of wealth garnered up, by the plodding
Hollanders. We must bear in mind that when the Dutch began to fish the
seas as a field of industry were nearly virgin, and that that people had at one
time this great source of wealth all to themselves. At that particular period,
likewise, there was no limit to the supply, the fishermen having but to dip
their nets in the water in order to have them filled. No wonder, therefore,
that the fisheries of Holland grew into a prominent industry, and became at
one time the one absorbing hobby of the nation. Busses in large fleets were
fitted out and manned, till in time the Dutch came to be reputed as the
greatest fishers in the world. But great as was the fishing industry of those
days in Holland, and industrious as the Dutch undoubtedly were, it is
evident that there has been a considerable amount of exaggeration as to the
results, more especially in regard to the enormous quantities of fish that are
said to have been captured and cured. But whatever this total might be was
not of great consequence. The mere quantity of fish caught is perhaps,
although a considerable one, the smallest of the many benefits conferred on
a nation by an energetic pursuit of its fisheries. The fishermen must have
boats, and these must be fitted with sails, rigging, etc.; and, moreover, the
boats must be manned by an efficient crew; then the curing and sale of the
fish give employment to a large number of people as well; whilst the
articles of cure—as salt, barrels, etc.—must of necessity be largely
provided, and are all of them the result of some kind of trained industry:
and all these varied circumstances of demand combine to feed the particular
industrial pursuit I am describing. And the fisheries provide, besides, a
Page 50
grand nursery for seamen, which is, perhaps, in a country like ours, having
a powerful navy, the greatest of all the benefits conferred.
I have taken the pains to collate as many of the figures of the Dutch
fishery as I could collect during an industrious search, and I find that, in the
zenith of its prosperity, after the proclamation of the independence of the
States of Holland, three thousand boats were employed in her own bays,
while sixteen hundred herring busses fished industriously in British waters,
while eight hundred larger vessels prosecuted the cod and whale fisheries at
remote distances. In the year 1603 we are informed that the Dutch sold
herrings to the amount of £4,759,000, besides what they themselves
consumed. We are also told that in 1618 they had twelve thousand vessels
engaged in this branch of the fishery, and that these ships employed about
two hundred thousand men. It must have been a splendid sight, on every
24th of June, to witness the departure of the great fleet from the Texel; and
as most of the Dutch people were more or less interested in the prosperity
of the fishery, either as labourers or employers of labour, there would be no
lack of spectators on these occasions. The Wick herring drave of twelve
hundred boats is, as I will by and by endeavour to show, an industrial sight
of no common kind, but it must give way before the picturesque fleet of
Holland, as it sailed away from the Texel about three hundred years ago.
Long before the organisation of the Dutch fisheries there existed a quaint
colony of Italian fisher people on the borders of a more poetic water than
the Zuyder Zee. I allude to the eel-breeders of Comacchio on the Adriatic.
This particular fishing industry is of very considerable antiquity, as we have
well-authenticated statistics of its produce, extending back over three
centuries. The lagoons of Comacchio afford a curious example of what may
be done by design and labour. This place was at one time a great
unproductive swamp, about one hundred and forty miles in circumference,
accessible to the waves of the sea, where eels, leeches, and the other
inhabitants of such watery regions, sported about unmolested by the hand of
man; and its inhabitants—the descendants of those who first populated its
various islands—isolated from the surrounding civilisation, and devoid of
ambition, have long been contented with their obscure lot, and have even
remained to this day without establishing any direct communication with
surrounding countries.
a powerful navy, the greatest of all the benefits conferred.
I have taken the pains to collate as many of the figures of the Dutch
fishery as I could collect during an industrious search, and I find that, in the
zenith of its prosperity, after the proclamation of the independence of the
States of Holland, three thousand boats were employed in her own bays,
while sixteen hundred herring busses fished industriously in British waters,
while eight hundred larger vessels prosecuted the cod and whale fisheries at
remote distances. In the year 1603 we are informed that the Dutch sold
herrings to the amount of £4,759,000, besides what they themselves
consumed. We are also told that in 1618 they had twelve thousand vessels
engaged in this branch of the fishery, and that these ships employed about
two hundred thousand men. It must have been a splendid sight, on every
24th of June, to witness the departure of the great fleet from the Texel; and
as most of the Dutch people were more or less interested in the prosperity
of the fishery, either as labourers or employers of labour, there would be no
lack of spectators on these occasions. The Wick herring drave of twelve
hundred boats is, as I will by and by endeavour to show, an industrial sight
of no common kind, but it must give way before the picturesque fleet of
Holland, as it sailed away from the Texel about three hundred years ago.
Long before the organisation of the Dutch fisheries there existed a quaint
colony of Italian fisher people on the borders of a more poetic water than
the Zuyder Zee. I allude to the eel-breeders of Comacchio on the Adriatic.
This particular fishing industry is of very considerable antiquity, as we have
well-authenticated statistics of its produce, extending back over three
centuries. The lagoons of Comacchio afford a curious example of what may
be done by design and labour. This place was at one time a great
unproductive swamp, about one hundred and forty miles in circumference,
accessible to the waves of the sea, where eels, leeches, and the other
inhabitants of such watery regions, sported about unmolested by the hand of
man; and its inhabitants—the descendants of those who first populated its
various islands—isolated from the surrounding civilisation, and devoid of
ambition, have long been contented with their obscure lot, and have even
remained to this day without establishing any direct communication with
surrounding countries.
Page 51
The precise date at which the great lagoon of Comacchio was formed
into a fish-pond is not known, but so early as the year 1229 the inhabitants
of the place—a community of fishers as quaint, superstitious, and peculiar
as those of Buckie on the Moray Firth, or any other ancient Scottish fishing
port—proclaimed Prince Azzo d’Este Lord of Comacchio; and from the
time of this appointment the place grew in prosperity, and the fisheries from
that date began to assume an organisation and design which had not before
that time been their characteristic. The waters of the lagoon were dyked out
from those of the Adriatic, and a series of canals and pools were formed
suitable for the requirements of the peculiar fishery carried on at the place,
all of which operations were greatly facilitated by the Reno and Volano
mouths of the Po forming the side boundaries of the great swamp; and, as a
chief feature of the place, the marvellous fish labyrinth celebrated by Tasso
still exists. Without being technical, we may state that the principal
entrances to the various divisions of the great pond—and it is divided into a
great many stations—are from the two rivers. A number of these entrances
have been constructed in the natural embankments which dyke out the
waters of the lagoon. Bridges have also been built over all these trenches by
the munificence of various Popes, and very strong flood-gates, worked by a
crank and screw, are attached to each, so as to regulate the migration of the
fish and the entrance and exit of the waters. A very minute account of all the
varied hydraulic apparatus of Comacchio would only weary the reader; but
I may state generally, and I speak on the authority of M. Coste, that these
flood-gates place at the service of the fish-cultivators about twenty currents,
which allow the salt waters of the lagoon to mingle with the fresh waters of
the river. Then, again, the waters of the Adriatic are admitted to the lagoon
by means of the Grand Palotta Canal, which extends from the port of
Magnavacca right through the great body of the waters, with branches
stretching to the chief fishing stations which dot the surface of this inland
sea, so that there are about a hundred mouths always ready to vomit into the
lagoon the salt water of the Adriatic.
The entire industry of this unique place is founded on a knowledge of the
natural history of the particular fish which is so largely cultivated there—
viz. the eel. Being a migratory fish, the eel is admirably adapted for
cultivation, and being also very prolific and of tolerably rapid growth it can
be speedily turned into a source of great profit. About the end of the
sixteenth century we know that the annual income derived from eel-
into a fish-pond is not known, but so early as the year 1229 the inhabitants
of the place—a community of fishers as quaint, superstitious, and peculiar
as those of Buckie on the Moray Firth, or any other ancient Scottish fishing
port—proclaimed Prince Azzo d’Este Lord of Comacchio; and from the
time of this appointment the place grew in prosperity, and the fisheries from
that date began to assume an organisation and design which had not before
that time been their characteristic. The waters of the lagoon were dyked out
from those of the Adriatic, and a series of canals and pools were formed
suitable for the requirements of the peculiar fishery carried on at the place,
all of which operations were greatly facilitated by the Reno and Volano
mouths of the Po forming the side boundaries of the great swamp; and, as a
chief feature of the place, the marvellous fish labyrinth celebrated by Tasso
still exists. Without being technical, we may state that the principal
entrances to the various divisions of the great pond—and it is divided into a
great many stations—are from the two rivers. A number of these entrances
have been constructed in the natural embankments which dyke out the
waters of the lagoon. Bridges have also been built over all these trenches by
the munificence of various Popes, and very strong flood-gates, worked by a
crank and screw, are attached to each, so as to regulate the migration of the
fish and the entrance and exit of the waters. A very minute account of all the
varied hydraulic apparatus of Comacchio would only weary the reader; but
I may state generally, and I speak on the authority of M. Coste, that these
flood-gates place at the service of the fish-cultivators about twenty currents,
which allow the salt waters of the lagoon to mingle with the fresh waters of
the river. Then, again, the waters of the Adriatic are admitted to the lagoon
by means of the Grand Palotta Canal, which extends from the port of
Magnavacca right through the great body of the waters, with branches
stretching to the chief fishing stations which dot the surface of this inland
sea, so that there are about a hundred mouths always ready to vomit into the
lagoon the salt water of the Adriatic.
The entire industry of this unique place is founded on a knowledge of the
natural history of the particular fish which is so largely cultivated there—
viz. the eel. Being a migratory fish, the eel is admirably adapted for
cultivation, and being also very prolific and of tolerably rapid growth it can
be speedily turned into a source of great profit. About the end of the
sixteenth century we know that the annual income derived from eel-
Page 52
breeding in the lagoons was close upon £12,000—a very large sum of
money at that period. No recent statistics have been made public as to the
money derived from the eels of Comacchio, but I have reason to know that
the sum has not in any sense diminished during late years.
A DIVISION OF COMACCHIO.
A. Canal Palotta. H. Second compartment.
B. Entrance from the canal. I. Chamber of second compartment.
C. Canal for the passage of boats. K. Third compartment.
C´. Sluices for closing canal. L L L. Chambers of third compartment.
D. First compartment of the labyrinth. M. Wickerwork baskets for keeping fish alive.
E. Outer basin. N. Boat with instruments of fishing.
F. Antechamber of the first compartment. O. Dwelling-house.
G. Chamber of the first compartment. P. Storehouse.
The inhabitants of Comacchio seem to have a very correct idea of the
natural history of this rather mysterious fish. They know exactly the time
when the animal breeds, which, as well as the question how it breeds, has in
Britain been long a source of controversy, as I have already shown; and
these shrewd people know very well when the fry may be expected to leave
the sea and perform their montee. They can measure the numbers, or rather
estimate the quantity, of young fish as they ascend into the lagoon, and
consequently are in a position to know what the produce will eventually be,
as also the amount of food necessary to be provided, for the fish-farmers of
money at that period. No recent statistics have been made public as to the
money derived from the eels of Comacchio, but I have reason to know that
the sum has not in any sense diminished during late years.
A DIVISION OF COMACCHIO.
A. Canal Palotta. H. Second compartment.
B. Entrance from the canal. I. Chamber of second compartment.
C. Canal for the passage of boats. K. Third compartment.
C´. Sluices for closing canal. L L L. Chambers of third compartment.
D. First compartment of the labyrinth. M. Wickerwork baskets for keeping fish alive.
E. Outer basin. N. Boat with instruments of fishing.
F. Antechamber of the first compartment. O. Dwelling-house.
G. Chamber of the first compartment. P. Storehouse.
The inhabitants of Comacchio seem to have a very correct idea of the
natural history of this rather mysterious fish. They know exactly the time
when the animal breeds, which, as well as the question how it breeds, has in
Britain been long a source of controversy, as I have already shown; and
these shrewd people know very well when the fry may be expected to leave
the sea and perform their montee. They can measure the numbers, or rather
estimate the quantity, of young fish as they ascend into the lagoon, and
consequently are in a position to know what the produce will eventually be,
as also the amount of food necessary to be provided, for the fish-farmers of
Page 53
Comacchio do not expect to fatten their animals out of nothing. However,
they go about this in a very economic way, for the same water that grows
the fish also grows the food on which they are fed. This is chiefly the
aquadelle, a tiny little fish which is contained in the lakes in great numbers,
and which, in its turn, finds food in the insect and vegetable world of the
lagoons. Other fish are bred as well as the eel—viz. mullet, plaice, etc. On
the 2d day of February the year of Comacchio may be said to begin, for at
that time the montee commences, when may be seen ascending up the Reno
and Volano mouths of the Po from the Adriatic a great series of wisps,
apparently composed of threads, but in reality young eels; and as soon as
one lot enters, the rest, with a sheeplike instinct, follow their leader, and
hundreds of thousands pass annually from the sea to the waters of the
lagoon, which can be so regulated as in places to be either salt or fresh as
required. Various operations connected with the working of the fisheries
keep the people in employment from the time the entrance-sluices are
closed, at the end of April, till the commencement of the great harvest of
eel-culture, which lasts from the beginning of August till December. The
manner of life of the people of Comacchio will be found detailed under the
title of “The Fisher Folks” in another part of this volume. The engraving
represents one of the fishing-places of the lagoon.
No country has, taking into account size and population, been more
industrious on the seas than Scotland—the most productive fishery of that
country having been the herring. There is no consecutive historical account
of the progress of the herring-fishery. The first really authentic notice we
have of a trade in herrings is nine hundred years old, when it is recorded
that the Scots sold herrings to the people of the Netherlands, and we have
some indications that even at that early period a considerable fishery for
herrings existed in Scotland; and even prior to this time Boethius alludes to
Inverlochy as an important seat of commerce, and persons of intelligence
consider that town to have been a resort of the French and Spaniards for the
purchase of herring and other fishes. The pickling and drying of herrings for
commerce were first carried on by the Flemings. This mode of curing fish is
said to have been discovered by William Benkelen of Biervlet, near Sluys,
who died in 1397, and whose memory was held in such veneration for that
service that the Emperor Charles V. and the Queen of Hungary made a
pilgrimage to his tomb. We have also incidental notices of the herring-
fishery in the records of the monastery of Evesham, so far back as the year
they go about this in a very economic way, for the same water that grows
the fish also grows the food on which they are fed. This is chiefly the
aquadelle, a tiny little fish which is contained in the lakes in great numbers,
and which, in its turn, finds food in the insect and vegetable world of the
lagoons. Other fish are bred as well as the eel—viz. mullet, plaice, etc. On
the 2d day of February the year of Comacchio may be said to begin, for at
that time the montee commences, when may be seen ascending up the Reno
and Volano mouths of the Po from the Adriatic a great series of wisps,
apparently composed of threads, but in reality young eels; and as soon as
one lot enters, the rest, with a sheeplike instinct, follow their leader, and
hundreds of thousands pass annually from the sea to the waters of the
lagoon, which can be so regulated as in places to be either salt or fresh as
required. Various operations connected with the working of the fisheries
keep the people in employment from the time the entrance-sluices are
closed, at the end of April, till the commencement of the great harvest of
eel-culture, which lasts from the beginning of August till December. The
manner of life of the people of Comacchio will be found detailed under the
title of “The Fisher Folks” in another part of this volume. The engraving
represents one of the fishing-places of the lagoon.
No country has, taking into account size and population, been more
industrious on the seas than Scotland—the most productive fishery of that
country having been the herring. There is no consecutive historical account
of the progress of the herring-fishery. The first really authentic notice we
have of a trade in herrings is nine hundred years old, when it is recorded
that the Scots sold herrings to the people of the Netherlands, and we have
some indications that even at that early period a considerable fishery for
herrings existed in Scotland; and even prior to this time Boethius alludes to
Inverlochy as an important seat of commerce, and persons of intelligence
consider that town to have been a resort of the French and Spaniards for the
purchase of herring and other fishes. The pickling and drying of herrings for
commerce were first carried on by the Flemings. This mode of curing fish is
said to have been discovered by William Benkelen of Biervlet, near Sluys,
who died in 1397, and whose memory was held in such veneration for that
service that the Emperor Charles V. and the Queen of Hungary made a
pilgrimage to his tomb. We have also incidental notices of the herring-
fishery in the records of the monastery of Evesham, so far back as the year
Page 54
709, and the tax levied on the capture of herrings is noticed in the annals of
the monastery of Barking as herring-silver. The great fishery for herrings at
Yarmouth dates from the earliest Anglo-Saxon times, and at so early a
period as the reign of Henry I. it paid a tax of 10,000 fish to the king. We
are told that the most ancient records of the French herring-fishery are not
earlier than the year 1020, and we know that in 1088 the Duke of
Normandy allowed a fair to be held at Fecamp during the time of this
fishery, the right of holding it being granted to the Abbey of the Holy
Trinity. The Yarmouth fishery, even in these early times, was a great success
—as success was then understood. Edward III. did all he could to encourage
the fishery at that place. In 1357 he got his Parliament to lay down a body
of laws for the better regulation of the fisheries, and the following year
sixty lasts of herring were shipped at Portsmouth for the use of his army
and fleet in France. In 1635 a patent was granted to Mr. Davis for gauging
red-herrings, for which Yarmouth was famed thus early, at a certain price
per last; his duty was, in fact, to denote the quality of the fish by affixing a
certain seal; this, so far as we know, is the first indication of the brand
system. His Majesty Charles II., being interested in the fisheries, visited
Yarmouth in company with the Duke of York and others of the nobility,
when he was handsomely entertained, and presented with four golden
herrings and a chain of considerable value.
Several of the kings of Scotland were zealous in aiding the fisheries, but
the death of James V. and the subsequent religious and civil commotions
put a stop for a time to the progress of this particular branch of trade, as
well as to every other industrial project of his time. In 1602 his successor on
the throne, James VI., resumed the plans which had been chalked out by his
grandfather. Practical experiments were made in the art of fishing, fishing-
towns were built in the different parts of the Highlands, and persons well
versed in the practice were brought to teach the ignorant natives; but as the
Highlanders were jealous of these “interlopers,” very slow progress was
made; and, again, the course of improvement was interrupted by the king’s
accession to the throne of England and the union of the two Crowns. During
the remainder of James’s reign little progress was made in the art of fishing,
and we have to pass over the reign of Charles I. and wait through the
troublous times of the Protectorate till we have Charles II. seated on the
throne, before much further encouragement is decreed to the fisheries.
Charles II. aided the advancement of this industrial pursuit by appointing a
the monastery of Barking as herring-silver. The great fishery for herrings at
Yarmouth dates from the earliest Anglo-Saxon times, and at so early a
period as the reign of Henry I. it paid a tax of 10,000 fish to the king. We
are told that the most ancient records of the French herring-fishery are not
earlier than the year 1020, and we know that in 1088 the Duke of
Normandy allowed a fair to be held at Fecamp during the time of this
fishery, the right of holding it being granted to the Abbey of the Holy
Trinity. The Yarmouth fishery, even in these early times, was a great success
—as success was then understood. Edward III. did all he could to encourage
the fishery at that place. In 1357 he got his Parliament to lay down a body
of laws for the better regulation of the fisheries, and the following year
sixty lasts of herring were shipped at Portsmouth for the use of his army
and fleet in France. In 1635 a patent was granted to Mr. Davis for gauging
red-herrings, for which Yarmouth was famed thus early, at a certain price
per last; his duty was, in fact, to denote the quality of the fish by affixing a
certain seal; this, so far as we know, is the first indication of the brand
system. His Majesty Charles II., being interested in the fisheries, visited
Yarmouth in company with the Duke of York and others of the nobility,
when he was handsomely entertained, and presented with four golden
herrings and a chain of considerable value.
Several of the kings of Scotland were zealous in aiding the fisheries, but
the death of James V. and the subsequent religious and civil commotions
put a stop for a time to the progress of this particular branch of trade, as
well as to every other industrial project of his time. In 1602 his successor on
the throne, James VI., resumed the plans which had been chalked out by his
grandfather. Practical experiments were made in the art of fishing, fishing-
towns were built in the different parts of the Highlands, and persons well
versed in the practice were brought to teach the ignorant natives; but as the
Highlanders were jealous of these “interlopers,” very slow progress was
made; and, again, the course of improvement was interrupted by the king’s
accession to the throne of England and the union of the two Crowns. During
the remainder of James’s reign little progress was made in the art of fishing,
and we have to pass over the reign of Charles I. and wait through the
troublous times of the Protectorate till we have Charles II. seated on the
throne, before much further encouragement is decreed to the fisheries.
Charles II. aided the advancement of this industrial pursuit by appointing a
Page 55
Royal Council of Fishery, in order to the establishment of proper laws and
regulations for the encouragement of those engaged in this branch of our
commerce.
After this period the British trade in fish and the knowledge of the arts of
capture expanded rapidly. It is said, as I have already stated, that during our
early pursuit of the fishery the Dutch learned much from us, and that, in
fact, while we were away founding the Greenland whale-fishery, the people
of Holland came upon our seas and robbed us of our fish, and so obtained a
supremacy in the art that lasted for many years. At any rate, whatever the
Dutch accomplished, we were particularly industrious in fishing. Our seas
were covered with busses of considerable tonnage—the average being
vessels of fifty tons, with a complement of fourteen men and a master. The
mode of fishing then was to sail with the ship into the deep sea, and then,
leaving the vessel as a rendezvous, take to the small boats, and fish with
them, returning to the large vessel to carry on the cure. The same mode of
fishing, with slight modifications, is still pursued at Yarmouth and some
other places in England.
The following note of the cost of building and sailing one of the old
Scottish herring-busses will illustrate the fishery of the last century:—
Expenses of a Vessel of 60 Tons Burden fitted out for the Herring-Fishery.
To shipbuilder’s account for hull £345 0 0
To joiners’ account 21 10 0
To blockmaker’s account (paint, etc.) 18 0 0
To rope-work account (sails, etc.) 160 0 0
To smith’s account (anchors, etc.) 22 10 0
To spars, 3 fishing-boats, compasses, etc. 56 0 0
Cost of Vessel (forward) £623 0 0
Outfit.
To 462 bushels of salt 45 0 0
To 32 lasts herring barrels 80 0 0
To 15,000 square yards netting 78 5 0
To buoys, etc. 8 40
To provisions for 14 men for 3 months 42 10 0
To spirits for men when at work 5 00
To wages, 13 men at 27s. per month 52 13 0
To shipmaster’s wages 10 0 0
To custom-house clearing 0 15 0
Cost of Outfit £945 7 0
regulations for the encouragement of those engaged in this branch of our
commerce.
After this period the British trade in fish and the knowledge of the arts of
capture expanded rapidly. It is said, as I have already stated, that during our
early pursuit of the fishery the Dutch learned much from us, and that, in
fact, while we were away founding the Greenland whale-fishery, the people
of Holland came upon our seas and robbed us of our fish, and so obtained a
supremacy in the art that lasted for many years. At any rate, whatever the
Dutch accomplished, we were particularly industrious in fishing. Our seas
were covered with busses of considerable tonnage—the average being
vessels of fifty tons, with a complement of fourteen men and a master. The
mode of fishing then was to sail with the ship into the deep sea, and then,
leaving the vessel as a rendezvous, take to the small boats, and fish with
them, returning to the large vessel to carry on the cure. The same mode of
fishing, with slight modifications, is still pursued at Yarmouth and some
other places in England.
The following note of the cost of building and sailing one of the old
Scottish herring-busses will illustrate the fishery of the last century:—
Expenses of a Vessel of 60 Tons Burden fitted out for the Herring-Fishery.
To shipbuilder’s account for hull £345 0 0
To joiners’ account 21 10 0
To blockmaker’s account (paint, etc.) 18 0 0
To rope-work account (sails, etc.) 160 0 0
To smith’s account (anchors, etc.) 22 10 0
To spars, 3 fishing-boats, compasses, etc. 56 0 0
Cost of Vessel (forward) £623 0 0
Outfit.
To 462 bushels of salt 45 0 0
To 32 lasts herring barrels 80 0 0
To 15,000 square yards netting 78 5 0
To buoys, etc. 8 40
To provisions for 14 men for 3 months 42 10 0
To spirits for men when at work 5 00
To wages, 13 men at 27s. per month 52 13 0
To shipmaster’s wages 10 0 0
To custom-house clearing 0 15 0
Cost of Outfit £945 7 0
Page 56
Supposing the above vessel to make one-half of her cargo of herrings
yearly, which has not been the case for seven years back on an average, the
state of account will stand as under:—
Voyage to Herring Fishers and Owners. Dr.
To one-half of salt carried out £22 10 0
To one-half of barrels used 48 0 0
To tear and wear on nets (one-third worn) 26 1 3
To provisions and spirits 47 10 0
To wages, including skipper 62 13 0
To tear and wear of rigging and vessel, 5 per cent per month 30 11 2
To insurance on £957 for 3 months at 2½ per cent 27 16 0
To interest on £957 for 3 months 11 18 0
To waste on salt, etc., at 10 per cent 3 10 0
To freight of herrings to Cork, at 2s. per barrel, 192 barrels 19 4 0
To duty on herrings in Ireland, at 1s. per barrel 9 12 0
£305 5 5
Contra. Cr.
By 192 barrels herrings at 20s. £192 0 0
By debenture on herrings at 2s. 8d. 25 12 0
By bounty on 60 tons 90 0 0
307 12 0
Gain on home fishery £2 6 7
Extra Expenses on such Busses as go to the Irish Fishery—
To duty of 17¾ tons salt in Ireland £10 19 11
To duty on barrels 4 16 0
To fees on 3 boats at 42s. 6 6 0
22 1 11
Loss if upon Irish fishery £19 15 4
Much has also been written from time to time about the great cod-fishery
of Newfoundland: it has been the subject of innumerable treatises, Acts of
Parliament, and other negotiations, and various travellers have illustrated
the natural products and industrial capabilities of these North American
seas. The cod-fishery of Newfoundland is undoubtedly one of the greatest
fishing industries the world has ever seen, and has been more or less
worked for three hundred and sixty years. Occasionally there is a whisper of
the cod grounds of Newfoundland being exhausted, and it would be no
wonder if they were, considering the enormous capture of that fish that has
constantly been going on during the period indicated, not only by means of
various shore fisheries, but by the active American and French crews that
are always on the grounds capturing and curing. Since the time when the
yearly, which has not been the case for seven years back on an average, the
state of account will stand as under:—
Voyage to Herring Fishers and Owners. Dr.
To one-half of salt carried out £22 10 0
To one-half of barrels used 48 0 0
To tear and wear on nets (one-third worn) 26 1 3
To provisions and spirits 47 10 0
To wages, including skipper 62 13 0
To tear and wear of rigging and vessel, 5 per cent per month 30 11 2
To insurance on £957 for 3 months at 2½ per cent 27 16 0
To interest on £957 for 3 months 11 18 0
To waste on salt, etc., at 10 per cent 3 10 0
To freight of herrings to Cork, at 2s. per barrel, 192 barrels 19 4 0
To duty on herrings in Ireland, at 1s. per barrel 9 12 0
£305 5 5
Contra. Cr.
By 192 barrels herrings at 20s. £192 0 0
By debenture on herrings at 2s. 8d. 25 12 0
By bounty on 60 tons 90 0 0
307 12 0
Gain on home fishery £2 6 7
Extra Expenses on such Busses as go to the Irish Fishery—
To duty of 17¾ tons salt in Ireland £10 19 11
To duty on barrels 4 16 0
To fees on 3 boats at 42s. 6 6 0
22 1 11
Loss if upon Irish fishery £19 15 4
Much has also been written from time to time about the great cod-fishery
of Newfoundland: it has been the subject of innumerable treatises, Acts of
Parliament, and other negotiations, and various travellers have illustrated
the natural products and industrial capabilities of these North American
seas. The cod-fishery of Newfoundland is undoubtedly one of the greatest
fishing industries the world has ever seen, and has been more or less
worked for three hundred and sixty years. Occasionally there is a whisper of
the cod grounds of Newfoundland being exhausted, and it would be no
wonder if they were, considering the enormous capture of that fish that has
constantly been going on during the period indicated, not only by means of
various shore fisheries, but by the active American and French crews that
are always on the grounds capturing and curing. Since the time when the
Page 57
Red Indian lay over the rocks and transfixed the codfish with his spear, till
now, when thousands of ships are spreading their sails in the bays and
surrounding seas, taking the fish with ingenious instruments of capture,
myriads upon myriads of valuable cod have been taken from the waters,
although to the ordinary eye the supply seems as abundant as it was a
century ago. When my readers learn that the great bank from whence is
obtained the chief supply of codfish is nearly six hundred miles long and
over two hundred miles in breadth, it will afford a slight index to the vast
total of our sea wealth and to the enormous numbers of the finny population
of this part of our seas, and the population of which, before it was
discovered, must have been growing and gathering for centuries; but when
it is further stated—and this by way of index to the extent of this great food-
wealth—that Catholic countries alone give something like half a million
sterling every year for the produce of these North American seas, the
enormous money value of a well-regulated fishery must become apparent
even to the most superficial observer of facts and figures.
It is much to be regretted that we are not in possession of reliable annual
statistics of the fisheries of Newfoundland, but there are so many
conflicting interests connected with these fisheries as to render it difficult to
obtain accurate statistics. Mr. Hind, in his recent work on Labrador, gives us
a few figures about the fisheries of Nova Scotia and Canada, for which we
are thankful. From this work we learn that the fish exported from Nova
Scotia in 1860 reached the large sum of $2,956,788, and that 3258 vessels
were engaged in the fishery; and Mr. Hind thinks that if we include the fish
and fish-oil consumed by the inhabitants, the present annual value of the
fisheries to British America must be above $15,000,000, and this estimate
even does not include much of the fish that goes directly to Britain. The
value of the Labrador fisheries alone has been estimated at one million
sterling per annum, and the total value of the fisheries of the Gulf of St.
Lawrence and the coast of Labrador may be set down as four millions
sterling per annum, and the Canadian fisheries, Mr. Hind informs us, are yet
in their infancy!
Another fishing industry which has bulked large in the annals of the sea
is the whale-fishery. At one time a goodly number of British vessels were
fitted out in order to follow this dangerous pursuit in the Arctic Seas, and
many a thrilling narrative has been founded on the adventures of
now, when thousands of ships are spreading their sails in the bays and
surrounding seas, taking the fish with ingenious instruments of capture,
myriads upon myriads of valuable cod have been taken from the waters,
although to the ordinary eye the supply seems as abundant as it was a
century ago. When my readers learn that the great bank from whence is
obtained the chief supply of codfish is nearly six hundred miles long and
over two hundred miles in breadth, it will afford a slight index to the vast
total of our sea wealth and to the enormous numbers of the finny population
of this part of our seas, and the population of which, before it was
discovered, must have been growing and gathering for centuries; but when
it is further stated—and this by way of index to the extent of this great food-
wealth—that Catholic countries alone give something like half a million
sterling every year for the produce of these North American seas, the
enormous money value of a well-regulated fishery must become apparent
even to the most superficial observer of facts and figures.
It is much to be regretted that we are not in possession of reliable annual
statistics of the fisheries of Newfoundland, but there are so many
conflicting interests connected with these fisheries as to render it difficult to
obtain accurate statistics. Mr. Hind, in his recent work on Labrador, gives us
a few figures about the fisheries of Nova Scotia and Canada, for which we
are thankful. From this work we learn that the fish exported from Nova
Scotia in 1860 reached the large sum of $2,956,788, and that 3258 vessels
were engaged in the fishery; and Mr. Hind thinks that if we include the fish
and fish-oil consumed by the inhabitants, the present annual value of the
fisheries to British America must be above $15,000,000, and this estimate
even does not include much of the fish that goes directly to Britain. The
value of the Labrador fisheries alone has been estimated at one million
sterling per annum, and the total value of the fisheries of the Gulf of St.
Lawrence and the coast of Labrador may be set down as four millions
sterling per annum, and the Canadian fisheries, Mr. Hind informs us, are yet
in their infancy!
Another fishing industry which has bulked large in the annals of the sea
is the whale-fishery. At one time a goodly number of British vessels were
fitted out in order to follow this dangerous pursuit in the Arctic Seas, and
many a thrilling narrative has been founded on the adventures of
Page 58
enterprising whalers. This fishery has fallen off very much of late years,
both as regards the pursuit of the right or the Greenland whale, and also in
the case of the sperm whale, the capture of which used to be an “enterprise
of great pith and moment” in America, the head-quarters of the fishery
being situated at New Bedford. It is a good thing that the invention of gas
has superseded in a great measure our dependence on the whale; and the
discovery of other lubricants, vegetable and mineral, suitable for machinery,
has rendered us altogether independent of the Leviathan of the deep.
Although this particular fishing industry may almost be said to be extinct, it
was at one time of considerable importance, at least to Scottish commerce.
To come down to the present time, it is pleasant to think that the seas of
Britain are crowded with many thousand boats, all gleaning wealth from the
bosom of the waters. As one particular branch of sea industry becomes
exhausted for the season another one begins. In spring we have our white
fisheries; in summer we have our mackerel; in autumn we have the great
herring-fishery; then in winter we deal in pilchards and sprats and oysters;
and all the year round we trawl for flat fish or set pots for lobsters, or do
some other work of the fishing—in fact, we are continually day by day
despoiling the waters of their food treasures. When we exhaust the inshore
fisheries we proceed straightway to the deep waters. Hale and strong
fishermen sail hundreds of miles to the white-fishing grounds, whilst old
men potter about the shore, setting nets with which to catch crabs, or
ploughing the sand for prawns. At different places we can note the
specialities of the British fisheries. In Caithness-shire we can follow the
greatest herring-fleet in the world; at Cornwall, again, we can view the
pilchard-fishery; at Barking we can see the cod-fleet; at Hull there is a
wealth of trawlers; at Whitstable we can make acquaintance with the oyster-
dredgers; and at the quaint fishing-ports on the Moray Firth, to be
afterwards described, we can witness the manufacture of “Finnan haddies,”
as at Yarmouth we can take part in the making of bloaters; and all round our
coasts we can see women and children industriously gathering shell-fish for
bait, or performing other functions connected with the industry of the sea—
repairing nets, baiting the lines, or hawking the fish, for the fisherwomen
are true helpmates to their husbands. At certain seasons everything that can
float in the water is called into requisition—little cobbles, gigantic yawls,
trig schooners, are all required to aid in the gathering of the sea harvest.
both as regards the pursuit of the right or the Greenland whale, and also in
the case of the sperm whale, the capture of which used to be an “enterprise
of great pith and moment” in America, the head-quarters of the fishery
being situated at New Bedford. It is a good thing that the invention of gas
has superseded in a great measure our dependence on the whale; and the
discovery of other lubricants, vegetable and mineral, suitable for machinery,
has rendered us altogether independent of the Leviathan of the deep.
Although this particular fishing industry may almost be said to be extinct, it
was at one time of considerable importance, at least to Scottish commerce.
To come down to the present time, it is pleasant to think that the seas of
Britain are crowded with many thousand boats, all gleaning wealth from the
bosom of the waters. As one particular branch of sea industry becomes
exhausted for the season another one begins. In spring we have our white
fisheries; in summer we have our mackerel; in autumn we have the great
herring-fishery; then in winter we deal in pilchards and sprats and oysters;
and all the year round we trawl for flat fish or set pots for lobsters, or do
some other work of the fishing—in fact, we are continually day by day
despoiling the waters of their food treasures. When we exhaust the inshore
fisheries we proceed straightway to the deep waters. Hale and strong
fishermen sail hundreds of miles to the white-fishing grounds, whilst old
men potter about the shore, setting nets with which to catch crabs, or
ploughing the sand for prawns. At different places we can note the
specialities of the British fisheries. In Caithness-shire we can follow the
greatest herring-fleet in the world; at Cornwall, again, we can view the
pilchard-fishery; at Barking we can see the cod-fleet; at Hull there is a
wealth of trawlers; at Whitstable we can make acquaintance with the oyster-
dredgers; and at the quaint fishing-ports on the Moray Firth, to be
afterwards described, we can witness the manufacture of “Finnan haddies,”
as at Yarmouth we can take part in the making of bloaters; and all round our
coasts we can see women and children industriously gathering shell-fish for
bait, or performing other functions connected with the industry of the sea—
repairing nets, baiting the lines, or hawking the fish, for the fisherwomen
are true helpmates to their husbands. At certain seasons everything that can
float in the water is called into requisition—little cobbles, gigantic yawls,
trig schooners, are all required to aid in the gathering of the sea harvest.
Page 59
Thousands of people are employed in this great industry; betokening that a
vast population have chosen to seek bread on the bosom of the great deep.
Crossing the Channel we can see that the general sea fisheries of France
are also being prosecuted with great vigour, and at those places which have
railways to bear away the produce with considerable profit. I am in
possession of notes and statistics pertaining to a large portion of the French
seabord, giving plentiful details of the modern fishing industry of that
country; and the fisheries of France are greatly noticed just now, in the hope
of their forming a splendid nursery for seamen, the improvement of the
navy being at present one of the dominant objects of the Emperor of the
French. The Marine Department, having this object in view, have
sagaciously broken through all the old protective laws incidental to the
fisheries, and now allow the fishermen to carry on their trade very much as
they please; trawling has therefore become pretty general at all those ports
which maintain railway communication with the interior: thus at Dunkerque
there are 60 trawlers; at Boulogne, 100; at Tourville, 109; at Treport, 53; at
Calais, 84; with lesser numbers at smaller ports, most of them being
engaged in supplying the wants of Paris with deep-sea fish; and as the
coasts are provided with excellent harbours of refuge, the trawlers follow
their avocations with regularity and success.
The modes of sea-fishing are so much alike in every country that it is
unnecessary for us to do more than just mention that the French method of
trawling is very similar to our own, about which I will by and by have
something to say. But there are details of fishing industry connected with
that pursuit on the French coasts that we are not familiar with in Britain.
The neighbouring peasantry, for instance, come to the seaside and fish with
nets which are called bas parc; and these are spread out before the tide is
full in order to retain all the fish which are brought within their meshes. The
children of these land-fishers also work, although with smaller nets, at these
foreshore fisheries, while the wives poke about the sand for shrimps and the
smaller crustacea. These people thus not only ensure a supply of food for
themselves during winter, but also contrive during summer to take as much
fish as brings them in a little store of money.
The perpetual industry carried on by the coast people on the French
foreshores is quite a sight, although it is a fish commerce of a humble and
primitive kind. Even the little children contrive to make money by building
vast population have chosen to seek bread on the bosom of the great deep.
Crossing the Channel we can see that the general sea fisheries of France
are also being prosecuted with great vigour, and at those places which have
railways to bear away the produce with considerable profit. I am in
possession of notes and statistics pertaining to a large portion of the French
seabord, giving plentiful details of the modern fishing industry of that
country; and the fisheries of France are greatly noticed just now, in the hope
of their forming a splendid nursery for seamen, the improvement of the
navy being at present one of the dominant objects of the Emperor of the
French. The Marine Department, having this object in view, have
sagaciously broken through all the old protective laws incidental to the
fisheries, and now allow the fishermen to carry on their trade very much as
they please; trawling has therefore become pretty general at all those ports
which maintain railway communication with the interior: thus at Dunkerque
there are 60 trawlers; at Boulogne, 100; at Tourville, 109; at Treport, 53; at
Calais, 84; with lesser numbers at smaller ports, most of them being
engaged in supplying the wants of Paris with deep-sea fish; and as the
coasts are provided with excellent harbours of refuge, the trawlers follow
their avocations with regularity and success.
The modes of sea-fishing are so much alike in every country that it is
unnecessary for us to do more than just mention that the French method of
trawling is very similar to our own, about which I will by and by have
something to say. But there are details of fishing industry connected with
that pursuit on the French coasts that we are not familiar with in Britain.
The neighbouring peasantry, for instance, come to the seaside and fish with
nets which are called bas parc; and these are spread out before the tide is
full in order to retain all the fish which are brought within their meshes. The
children of these land-fishers also work, although with smaller nets, at these
foreshore fisheries, while the wives poke about the sand for shrimps and the
smaller crustacea. These people thus not only ensure a supply of food for
themselves during winter, but also contrive during summer to take as much
fish as brings them in a little store of money.
The perpetual industry carried on by the coast people on the French
foreshores is quite a sight, although it is a fish commerce of a humble and
primitive kind. Even the little children contrive to make money by building
Page 60
fish-ponds, or erecting trenches, in which to gather salt, or in some other
little industry incidental to sea-shore life. One occasionally encounters
some abject creature groping about the rocks to obtain the wherewithal to
sustain life. To these people all is fish that comes to hand; no creature,
however slimy, that creeps about is allowed to escape, so long as it can be
disguised by cookery into any kind of food for human beings. Some of the
people have old rickety boats patched up with still older pieces of wood or
leather, sails mended here and there, till it is difficult to distinguish the
original portion from those that have been added to it; nets torn and darned
till they are scarce able to hold a fish; and yet that boat and that crippled
machinery are the stock in trade of perhaps two or three generations of a
family, and the concern may have been founded half a century ago by the
grandfather, who now sees around him a legion of hungry gamins that it
would take a fleet of boats to keep in food and raiment. The moment the
tide flows back, the foreshore is at once overrun with an army of hungry
people, who are eager to clutch whatever fishy debris the receding water
may have left; the little pools are eagerly, nay hungrily, explored, and their
contents grabbed with an anxiety that pertains only to poverty. At some
places of the coast, however, a happier life is dawning on the people—the
discovery of pisciculture has led to a traffic in oysters that, as I will by and
by show, is surprising; indeed a new life has in consequence dawned on
some districts, and where at one time there was poverty and its attendant
squalor, there is now wealth and its handmaid prosperity.
On some parts of the French coasts, and it is proper to mention this, the
fishery is not of importance, although the fish are plentiful enough. At
Cancale, for instance, the fishermen have imposed on themselves the
restriction of only fishing twice a week. In Brittany, at some of the fishing
places, the people seem very poor and miserable, and their boats look to be
almost valueless, reminding one of the state of matters at Fittie in the
outskirts of Aberdeen. At the isle of Groix, however, there is to be found a
tolerably well-off maritime and fishing community; at this place, where the
men take to the sea at an early age, there are about one hundred and thirty
fishing boats of from twenty to thirty tons each, of which the people—i.e.
the practical fishermen—are themselves the owners. At the Sands of Olonne
there is a most extensive sardine-fishery—the capture of sprats, young
herrings, and young pilchards, for curing as sardines, yielding a
considerable share of wealth, as a large number of boats follow this branch
little industry incidental to sea-shore life. One occasionally encounters
some abject creature groping about the rocks to obtain the wherewithal to
sustain life. To these people all is fish that comes to hand; no creature,
however slimy, that creeps about is allowed to escape, so long as it can be
disguised by cookery into any kind of food for human beings. Some of the
people have old rickety boats patched up with still older pieces of wood or
leather, sails mended here and there, till it is difficult to distinguish the
original portion from those that have been added to it; nets torn and darned
till they are scarce able to hold a fish; and yet that boat and that crippled
machinery are the stock in trade of perhaps two or three generations of a
family, and the concern may have been founded half a century ago by the
grandfather, who now sees around him a legion of hungry gamins that it
would take a fleet of boats to keep in food and raiment. The moment the
tide flows back, the foreshore is at once overrun with an army of hungry
people, who are eager to clutch whatever fishy debris the receding water
may have left; the little pools are eagerly, nay hungrily, explored, and their
contents grabbed with an anxiety that pertains only to poverty. At some
places of the coast, however, a happier life is dawning on the people—the
discovery of pisciculture has led to a traffic in oysters that, as I will by and
by show, is surprising; indeed a new life has in consequence dawned on
some districts, and where at one time there was poverty and its attendant
squalor, there is now wealth and its handmaid prosperity.
On some parts of the French coasts, and it is proper to mention this, the
fishery is not of importance, although the fish are plentiful enough. At
Cancale, for instance, the fishermen have imposed on themselves the
restriction of only fishing twice a week. In Brittany, at some of the fishing
places, the people seem very poor and miserable, and their boats look to be
almost valueless, reminding one of the state of matters at Fittie in the
outskirts of Aberdeen. At the isle of Groix, however, there is to be found a
tolerably well-off maritime and fishing community; at this place, where the
men take to the sea at an early age, there are about one hundred and thirty
fishing boats of from twenty to thirty tons each, of which the people—i.e.
the practical fishermen—are themselves the owners. At the Sands of Olonne
there is a most extensive sardine-fishery—the capture of sprats, young
herrings, and young pilchards, for curing as sardines, yielding a
considerable share of wealth, as a large number of boats follow this branch
Page 61
of the business all the year round. There are not less than 13,000 boats on
the coast of Brittany devoted to the sardine trade, and when it is considered
that, according to Mitchell, a sum of £80,000 is annually expended on cod
and mackerel roe for bait in this fishery, my readers will see that the total
value of the French fisheries must be very considerable. Experiments in
artificial breeding are now being made both with the white fish and the
crustaceans, and sanguine hopes are entertained of having in a short time a
plentiful supply of all kinds of shell and white fish, and as regards those
parts of the French coast which are at present destitute of the power of
conveyance, the apparition of a few locomotives will no doubt work
wonders in instigating a hearty fishing enterprise.
In fact the industry of the French as regards the fisheries has become of
late years quite wonderful, and there is evidently more in their eager pursuit
of sea wealth than all at once meets the eye. No finer naval men need be
wished for any country than those that are to be found in the French fishing
luggers, and there can be no doubt but that they are being trained with a
view to the more perfect manning of the French navy. At any rate the
French people (? government) have discovered the art of growing sailors,
and doubtless they will make the most of it, being able apparently to grow
them at a greatly cheaper rate than we can do. As regards the French
fisheries in the North Sea, I may mention that the flotilla engaged in 1863,
in that particular mine of industry, consisted of 285 ships, measuring 22,000
tons, and manned by nearly 4000 seamen—the whole, both ships and men,
being an increase over those of the preceding year. This fleet left the shores
of France between the 20th of March and the 12th of April, and shortly after
these dates arrived at Iceland. A very large number of codfish were taken,
and the report to the Minister of Marine says that the ships of war on the
station afforded help to eighty-three of the vessels, and that the health of the
crews was remarkably good during the whole season, eighteen vessels only
requiring the aid of the surgeon, and these vessels had only two invalids
each. This is instructive as showing the care that is taken in the selection of
healthy crews, and of the pains of their Government to keep them healthy,
and it must be admitted that, so far as physique is concerned, the French
seamen are fine-looking fellows.
The commercial system established in France for bringing the produce of
the sea into the market is of a highly-elaborate and intricate character. The
the coast of Brittany devoted to the sardine trade, and when it is considered
that, according to Mitchell, a sum of £80,000 is annually expended on cod
and mackerel roe for bait in this fishery, my readers will see that the total
value of the French fisheries must be very considerable. Experiments in
artificial breeding are now being made both with the white fish and the
crustaceans, and sanguine hopes are entertained of having in a short time a
plentiful supply of all kinds of shell and white fish, and as regards those
parts of the French coast which are at present destitute of the power of
conveyance, the apparition of a few locomotives will no doubt work
wonders in instigating a hearty fishing enterprise.
In fact the industry of the French as regards the fisheries has become of
late years quite wonderful, and there is evidently more in their eager pursuit
of sea wealth than all at once meets the eye. No finer naval men need be
wished for any country than those that are to be found in the French fishing
luggers, and there can be no doubt but that they are being trained with a
view to the more perfect manning of the French navy. At any rate the
French people (? government) have discovered the art of growing sailors,
and doubtless they will make the most of it, being able apparently to grow
them at a greatly cheaper rate than we can do. As regards the French
fisheries in the North Sea, I may mention that the flotilla engaged in 1863,
in that particular mine of industry, consisted of 285 ships, measuring 22,000
tons, and manned by nearly 4000 seamen—the whole, both ships and men,
being an increase over those of the preceding year. This fleet left the shores
of France between the 20th of March and the 12th of April, and shortly after
these dates arrived at Iceland. A very large number of codfish were taken,
and the report to the Minister of Marine says that the ships of war on the
station afforded help to eighty-three of the vessels, and that the health of the
crews was remarkably good during the whole season, eighteen vessels only
requiring the aid of the surgeon, and these vessels had only two invalids
each. This is instructive as showing the care that is taken in the selection of
healthy crews, and of the pains of their Government to keep them healthy,
and it must be admitted that, so far as physique is concerned, the French
seamen are fine-looking fellows.
The commercial system established in France for bringing the produce of
the sea into the market is of a highly-elaborate and intricate character. The
Page 62
direct consequence of this system is, that the price of fish goes on
increasing from its first removal from the shore until it reaches the market.
This fact cannot be better illustrated than by tracing the fish from the
moment they are landed on the quay by the fishermen through various
intermediate transactions until they reach the hands of the fishmonger of
Paris. The first agent into whose hands they come is the ecoreur. The
ecoreur is usually a qualified man appointed by the owners of the vessels,
the municipality, or by an association termed the Société d’Ecorage. He
performs the functions of a wholesale agent between the fisherman and the
public. He is ready to take the fish out of the fisherman’s hands as soon as
they are landed. He buys the fish from the fisherman, and pays him at once,
deducting a percentage for his own services. This percentage is sometimes
5, 4, or even as low as 3½ per cent. He undertakes the whole risk of selling
the fish, and suffers any loss that may be incurred by bad debts or bad sale,
for which he can make no claim whatever upon the owner of the boat. The
system of ecorage is universally adopted, as the fisherman prefers ready
money with a deduction of 5 per cent rather than trouble himself with any
repayment or run the risk of bad debts. Passing from the ecoreur we come
to the mareyeur—that is, the merchant who buys the fish from the
wholesale agent. He provides baskets to hold the fish, packs them, and
despatches them by railway. He pays the carriage, the town-dues or duties,
and the fees to the market-crier. Should the fish not keep, and arrive in Paris
in bad condition, and be complained of by the police, he sustains the loss.
As regards the transport arrangements, the fish are usually forwarded by the
fast trains, and the rates are invariable, whatever may be the quality of the
fish. Thus, turbot and salmon are carried at the same rate as monkfish,
oysters, and crabs. On the northern lines the rate is 37 cents per ton per
kilometre; upon the Dieppe and Nantes lines, 25 or 26 cents; which gives
85 or 96 francs as the carriage of a ton of fish despatched from the principal
ports of the north—such as St. Valery-sur-Somme, Boulogne, Calais, and
Dunkerque—and 130 francs per ton on fish despatched from Nantes.
The fish, on their arrival in Paris, are subjected to a duty. For the
collection of this duty the fish are divided into two classes—viz., fine fresh
fish and ordinary fresh fish. The fine fish—which class includes salmon,
trout, turbot, sturgeon, tunny, brill, shad, mullet, roach, sole, lobster, shrimp,
and oyster—pay a duty of 10 per cent of the market value. The duty upon
increasing from its first removal from the shore until it reaches the market.
This fact cannot be better illustrated than by tracing the fish from the
moment they are landed on the quay by the fishermen through various
intermediate transactions until they reach the hands of the fishmonger of
Paris. The first agent into whose hands they come is the ecoreur. The
ecoreur is usually a qualified man appointed by the owners of the vessels,
the municipality, or by an association termed the Société d’Ecorage. He
performs the functions of a wholesale agent between the fisherman and the
public. He is ready to take the fish out of the fisherman’s hands as soon as
they are landed. He buys the fish from the fisherman, and pays him at once,
deducting a percentage for his own services. This percentage is sometimes
5, 4, or even as low as 3½ per cent. He undertakes the whole risk of selling
the fish, and suffers any loss that may be incurred by bad debts or bad sale,
for which he can make no claim whatever upon the owner of the boat. The
system of ecorage is universally adopted, as the fisherman prefers ready
money with a deduction of 5 per cent rather than trouble himself with any
repayment or run the risk of bad debts. Passing from the ecoreur we come
to the mareyeur—that is, the merchant who buys the fish from the
wholesale agent. He provides baskets to hold the fish, packs them, and
despatches them by railway. He pays the carriage, the town-dues or duties,
and the fees to the market-crier. Should the fish not keep, and arrive in Paris
in bad condition, and be complained of by the police, he sustains the loss.
As regards the transport arrangements, the fish are usually forwarded by the
fast trains, and the rates are invariable, whatever may be the quality of the
fish. Thus, turbot and salmon are carried at the same rate as monkfish,
oysters, and crabs. On the northern lines the rate is 37 cents per ton per
kilometre; upon the Dieppe and Nantes lines, 25 or 26 cents; which gives
85 or 96 francs as the carriage of a ton of fish despatched from the principal
ports of the north—such as St. Valery-sur-Somme, Boulogne, Calais, and
Dunkerque—and 130 francs per ton on fish despatched from Nantes.
The fish, on their arrival in Paris, are subjected to a duty. For the
collection of this duty the fish are divided into two classes—viz., fine fresh
fish and ordinary fresh fish. The fine fish—which class includes salmon,
trout, turbot, sturgeon, tunny, brill, shad, mullet, roach, sole, lobster, shrimp,
and oyster—pay a duty of 10 per cent of the market value. The duty upon
Page 63
the common fresh fish is 5 per cent. This duty is paid after the sale, and is
then of course duly entered in the official register.
All the fish sent to Paris is sold through the agency of auctioneers
(facteurs à la criee) appointed by the town, who receive a commission of 2
or 3 per cent. The auctioneer either sells to the fishmonger or to the
consumer.
It will be seen from the above statement that between the landing of the
fish by the fisherman and the purchase of it by the salesman at Paris there is
added to the price paid to the fisherman 5 per cent for the ecorage; 90, 100,
or 130 francs per ton for carriage; 10 or 5 per cent, with a double tithe of
war, for town-dues; and 3 per cent taken by the auctioneer—or, altogether,
18 or 13 per cent, besides the war-tithe and the cost of transport. This is an
estimate of the indispensable expenses only, and does not include a number
of items—such as the profit which the mareyeur ought to make, the cost of
the baskets, carriage from the market to the railway, and from the custom-
house to the market in Paris; and, besides, presumes that the merchant who
buys in the market is the consumer, which is seldom the case.
Many other considerations must be taken into account, as, for instance,
the quantity of fish not sold, or sold at a low price, the fish which arrive in
Paris in bad condition, and that quantity which never leaves the fishing
town.
Besides all this, if we bear in mind that the fish-despatcher tries to repay
himself for losses incurred, it need not astonish us that he must put a high
price upon the fish he sends to the market.
From these considerations it is evident, I think, that the high price of fish
is not owing to any scarcity in the supply, or that an increase in the quantity
brought to land will effectually reduce the price. Were the fisherman to give
his labour for nothing, and the merchant, or rather commission-agent, who
buys from him to seek no profit, there is still enough in carriage, toll, and
duties, to put a price on the fish which would place it beyond the power of
small purses to reach. To reduce the price we must lessen these intermediate
expenses, and put the fisherman in direct communication with the Parisian
salesman. This might be possible by the establishment of fishermen’s
societies, directed by skilful business men.
then of course duly entered in the official register.
All the fish sent to Paris is sold through the agency of auctioneers
(facteurs à la criee) appointed by the town, who receive a commission of 2
or 3 per cent. The auctioneer either sells to the fishmonger or to the
consumer.
It will be seen from the above statement that between the landing of the
fish by the fisherman and the purchase of it by the salesman at Paris there is
added to the price paid to the fisherman 5 per cent for the ecorage; 90, 100,
or 130 francs per ton for carriage; 10 or 5 per cent, with a double tithe of
war, for town-dues; and 3 per cent taken by the auctioneer—or, altogether,
18 or 13 per cent, besides the war-tithe and the cost of transport. This is an
estimate of the indispensable expenses only, and does not include a number
of items—such as the profit which the mareyeur ought to make, the cost of
the baskets, carriage from the market to the railway, and from the custom-
house to the market in Paris; and, besides, presumes that the merchant who
buys in the market is the consumer, which is seldom the case.
Many other considerations must be taken into account, as, for instance,
the quantity of fish not sold, or sold at a low price, the fish which arrive in
Paris in bad condition, and that quantity which never leaves the fishing
town.
Besides all this, if we bear in mind that the fish-despatcher tries to repay
himself for losses incurred, it need not astonish us that he must put a high
price upon the fish he sends to the market.
From these considerations it is evident, I think, that the high price of fish
is not owing to any scarcity in the supply, or that an increase in the quantity
brought to land will effectually reduce the price. Were the fisherman to give
his labour for nothing, and the merchant, or rather commission-agent, who
buys from him to seek no profit, there is still enough in carriage, toll, and
duties, to put a price on the fish which would place it beyond the power of
small purses to reach. To reduce the price we must lessen these intermediate
expenses, and put the fisherman in direct communication with the Parisian
salesman. This might be possible by the establishment of fishermen’s
societies, directed by skilful business men.
Page 64
I question very much, however, if the fishermen would agree to such a
plan, as they always prefer ready money and no risk. Another suggestion is
to unite the offices of ecoreur and mareyeur in one person, or even, as is
already done in some quarters, to combine these two functions with the
owner’s own special duties. Undoubtedly, a much more effectual plan than
either of these is a reduction in the expenses of carriage and duties. The
system of transport is manifestly defective, inasmuch as the rate is a
uniform one for fine and ordinary fresh fish. The expenses of the carriage
compel the fisherman in many cases to retain the ordinary or inferior
qualities of fish and endeavour to make use of them otherwise than for sale
by employing them for the food of their own households, feeding poultry,
or manuring barren land. They in some instances cut off the superfluous
parts of the monkfish—the tail, fins, etc.—to reduce the carriage weight;
and although the fish thus mutilated fetch a less price than they would
otherwise bring, the depreciation of the selling-price is more than
counterbalanced by the reduction in the freight.
It would be difficult to suggest a system which would at once meet the
wishes of the owners of boats, the fish-merchants, and the railway directors.
On the southern and western railway lines in Ireland the fish are divided
into classes. Turbot, sole, plaice, whiting, eels, and shrimps, are charged
two-thirds of the rate for salmon; oysters, crabs, and lobsters, one-half; and
herring and the common fish one-third. In France, as I have already said,
the rate is uniform. The cost of transport depends upon the distance alone.
The Commercial Treaty has brought foreign fish more abundantly into the
market; but those coming from England, being gutted to make them keep,
have no longer the red gills by which the buyer distinguishes fresh fish; and
between a gutted fish and one with the gills intact the purchaser never
hesitates to choose the latter, without the slightest regard to the place at
which it has been caught. The fish-carrier, again, tries, by cramming as
many fish as possible into the large baskets, to diminish the number of
packages, and thus destroys a number of his fish.
If there is little hope of a reduction of the railway tariffs, there is still less
chance, we think, of any reduction of the town-duties. They are far too
profitable to the city funds. The revenue derived by the city of Paris from
the sale of fish amounted, in 1858, to 894,214 francs; in 1859, to 928,925;
and in 1860 it increased to 1,027,920 francs. This sum, however, only
plan, as they always prefer ready money and no risk. Another suggestion is
to unite the offices of ecoreur and mareyeur in one person, or even, as is
already done in some quarters, to combine these two functions with the
owner’s own special duties. Undoubtedly, a much more effectual plan than
either of these is a reduction in the expenses of carriage and duties. The
system of transport is manifestly defective, inasmuch as the rate is a
uniform one for fine and ordinary fresh fish. The expenses of the carriage
compel the fisherman in many cases to retain the ordinary or inferior
qualities of fish and endeavour to make use of them otherwise than for sale
by employing them for the food of their own households, feeding poultry,
or manuring barren land. They in some instances cut off the superfluous
parts of the monkfish—the tail, fins, etc.—to reduce the carriage weight;
and although the fish thus mutilated fetch a less price than they would
otherwise bring, the depreciation of the selling-price is more than
counterbalanced by the reduction in the freight.
It would be difficult to suggest a system which would at once meet the
wishes of the owners of boats, the fish-merchants, and the railway directors.
On the southern and western railway lines in Ireland the fish are divided
into classes. Turbot, sole, plaice, whiting, eels, and shrimps, are charged
two-thirds of the rate for salmon; oysters, crabs, and lobsters, one-half; and
herring and the common fish one-third. In France, as I have already said,
the rate is uniform. The cost of transport depends upon the distance alone.
The Commercial Treaty has brought foreign fish more abundantly into the
market; but those coming from England, being gutted to make them keep,
have no longer the red gills by which the buyer distinguishes fresh fish; and
between a gutted fish and one with the gills intact the purchaser never
hesitates to choose the latter, without the slightest regard to the place at
which it has been caught. The fish-carrier, again, tries, by cramming as
many fish as possible into the large baskets, to diminish the number of
packages, and thus destroys a number of his fish.
If there is little hope of a reduction of the railway tariffs, there is still less
chance, we think, of any reduction of the town-duties. They are far too
profitable to the city funds. The revenue derived by the city of Paris from
the sale of fish amounted, in 1858, to 894,214 francs; in 1859, to 928,925;
and in 1860 it increased to 1,027,920 francs. This sum, however, only
Page 65
includes the dues levied upon fish carried to the market. There is a separate
and distinct duty upon fish which arrive directly by railway to the
consumer. In this case fine fresh fish are subjected to a duty of 60 francs the
100 kilogrammes; common fish, 15 francs; ordinary oysters, 5 francs; and
Ostend oysters, 15 francs per 100 kilogrammes. The exact revenue accruing
to the city from this source embraces these two duties; and in estimating the
full amount that the merchant must pay for bringing fish into the town and
selling it in the market, we must add to these dues the expense of cartage,
railway fare, the double tithe of war, and the fees to the crier.
From the official records of the market sales, we find that for six years
there has been little difference in the price of fish. The tables of 1852 and
1862 show that mussels, shrimps, mullets, and salmon, are at the same
price; lobsters, sprats, turbot, and shad, are a little less; and mackerel,
whiting, monkfish, sardines, sole, tunny, trout, barbel, and flounder, are
slightly raised. The prices vary so little that any increase in the revenue
must arise from an increased quantity being brought into the market.
Oysters, however, have increased greatly in price, although the quantity has
diminished.
and distinct duty upon fish which arrive directly by railway to the
consumer. In this case fine fresh fish are subjected to a duty of 60 francs the
100 kilogrammes; common fish, 15 francs; ordinary oysters, 5 francs; and
Ostend oysters, 15 francs per 100 kilogrammes. The exact revenue accruing
to the city from this source embraces these two duties; and in estimating the
full amount that the merchant must pay for bringing fish into the town and
selling it in the market, we must add to these dues the expense of cartage,
railway fare, the double tithe of war, and the fees to the crier.
From the official records of the market sales, we find that for six years
there has been little difference in the price of fish. The tables of 1852 and
1862 show that mussels, shrimps, mullets, and salmon, are at the same
price; lobsters, sprats, turbot, and shad, are a little less; and mackerel,
whiting, monkfish, sardines, sole, tunny, trout, barbel, and flounder, are
slightly raised. The prices vary so little that any increase in the revenue
must arise from an increased quantity being brought into the market.
Oysters, however, have increased greatly in price, although the quantity has
diminished.
Page 66
BILLINGSGATE.
But allowing the French people to cultivate to the very utmost—as they
especially do as regards the oyster—it is impossible they can ever exceed,
either in productive power or money value, the fisheries of our own coasts.
If, without the trouble of taking a long journey, we desire to witness the
results of the British fisheries, we have only to repair to Billingsgate to find
this particular industry brought to a focus. At that piscatorial bourse we can
see in the early morning the produce of our most distant seas brought to our
greatest seat of population, sure of finding a ready and a profitable market.
The aldermanic turbot, the tempting sole, the gigantic codfish, the valuable
salmon, the cheap sprat, and the universal herring, are all to be found during
their different seasons in great plenty at Billingsgate; and in the lower
depths of the market buildings countless quantities of shell-fish of all kinds,
stored in immense tubs, may be seen; while away in the adjacent lanes there
are to be found gigantic boilers erected for the purpose of crab and lobster
boiling. Some of the shops in the neighbourhood have always on hand large
But allowing the French people to cultivate to the very utmost—as they
especially do as regards the oyster—it is impossible they can ever exceed,
either in productive power or money value, the fisheries of our own coasts.
If, without the trouble of taking a long journey, we desire to witness the
results of the British fisheries, we have only to repair to Billingsgate to find
this particular industry brought to a focus. At that piscatorial bourse we can
see in the early morning the produce of our most distant seas brought to our
greatest seat of population, sure of finding a ready and a profitable market.
The aldermanic turbot, the tempting sole, the gigantic codfish, the valuable
salmon, the cheap sprat, and the universal herring, are all to be found during
their different seasons in great plenty at Billingsgate; and in the lower
depths of the market buildings countless quantities of shell-fish of all kinds,
stored in immense tubs, may be seen; while away in the adjacent lanes there
are to be found gigantic boilers erected for the purpose of crab and lobster
boiling. Some of the shops in the neighbourhood have always on hand large
Page 67
stocks of all kinds of dried fish, which are carried away in great waggons to
the railway stations for country distribution. About four o’clock on a
summer morning this grand piscatorial mart may be seen in its full
excitement—the auctioneers bawling, the porters rushing madly about, the
hawkers also rushing madly about seeking persons to join them in buying a
lot, and so to divide their speculations; and all over is sprinkled the dripping
sea-water, and all around we feel that “ancient and fish-like smell” which is
the concomitant of such a place.
No statistics of a reliable kind are published as to the total annual value
of the British fisheries. An annual account of the Scottish herring-fishery is
taken by commissioners and officers appointed for that purpose; which,
along with a yearly report of the Irish fisheries, is the only reliable annual
document on the subject that we possess, and the latest official report of the
commissioners will be found analysed in another part of this volume. For
any statistics of our white-fish fisheries we are compelled to resort to
second-hand sources of information; and, as is likely enough in the
circumstances, we do not, after all, get our curiosity properly gratified on
these important topics—the progress and produce of the British fisheries.
As a proof of the difficulty of obtaining reliable statistics of our sea-harvest,
I am compelled to have recourse to the quantities of all kinds of fish carried
by the various railways as an indication of what we are doing on the waters.
Large quantities of sea produce are still, however, carried by water. The
supplies brought inland by the various railways are as follow:—
London and Brighton 5,174 tons.
Great Western 2,885 ”
North British 8,303 ”
Great Northern 11,930 ”
North Eastern 27,896 ”
South Eastern 3,218 ”
Great Eastern 29,086 ”
Making a total of 88,492 tons.
For Ireland the statistics of carriage for the same year are as follow:—
Great Southern and Western 1145 tons.
Midland and Great Western 785 ”
Waterford and Limerick 374 ”
Dublin and Drogheda 1004 ”
Making a total of 3308 tons.
the railway stations for country distribution. About four o’clock on a
summer morning this grand piscatorial mart may be seen in its full
excitement—the auctioneers bawling, the porters rushing madly about, the
hawkers also rushing madly about seeking persons to join them in buying a
lot, and so to divide their speculations; and all over is sprinkled the dripping
sea-water, and all around we feel that “ancient and fish-like smell” which is
the concomitant of such a place.
No statistics of a reliable kind are published as to the total annual value
of the British fisheries. An annual account of the Scottish herring-fishery is
taken by commissioners and officers appointed for that purpose; which,
along with a yearly report of the Irish fisheries, is the only reliable annual
document on the subject that we possess, and the latest official report of the
commissioners will be found analysed in another part of this volume. For
any statistics of our white-fish fisheries we are compelled to resort to
second-hand sources of information; and, as is likely enough in the
circumstances, we do not, after all, get our curiosity properly gratified on
these important topics—the progress and produce of the British fisheries.
As a proof of the difficulty of obtaining reliable statistics of our sea-harvest,
I am compelled to have recourse to the quantities of all kinds of fish carried
by the various railways as an indication of what we are doing on the waters.
Large quantities of sea produce are still, however, carried by water. The
supplies brought inland by the various railways are as follow:—
London and Brighton 5,174 tons.
Great Western 2,885 ”
North British 8,303 ”
Great Northern 11,930 ”
North Eastern 27,896 ”
South Eastern 3,218 ”
Great Eastern 29,086 ”
Making a total of 88,492 tons.
For Ireland the statistics of carriage for the same year are as follow:—
Great Southern and Western 1145 tons.
Midland and Great Western 785 ”
Waterford and Limerick 374 ”
Dublin and Drogheda 1004 ”
Making a total of 3308 tons.
Page 68
The best index, however, of the quantities of fish taken out of the British
seas is the supply of that comestible required for London alone. Two
attempts have been made to obtain a correct account of the quantities of
each kind used for the commissariat of London. Fourteen years ago Mr.
Mayhew gave a summation of the quantities of fish sold at Billingsgate, and
the number of each kind as detailed is really astonishing; as 203,000
salmon, nearly four millions of fresh herrings, and others in proportion. The
second attempt to gauge the fish-supply of the great metropolis was made
by a Member of Parliament. In moving for a commission to inquire into the
state of the British fisheries, he gave the following statistics:—
Codfish 500,000
Mackerel 25,000,000
Soles 100,000,000
Plaice 35,000,000
Haddocks 200,000,000
Oysters 500,000,000
Periwinkles 300,000,000
Cockles 70,000,000
Mussels 50,000,000
Lobsters, daily 10,000
There is likewise a very extensive demand for cured or pickled fish.
Mayhew quoted 1,600,000 dried cod and 50,000,000 of red herrings as
being a portion of the London fish-supply. Eels are also a very large item,
being set down as nearly 10,000,000 per annum; and as for crabs, prawns,
shrimps, sprats, etc., they are required by the ton weight, and are hawked
about London in millions!
seas is the supply of that comestible required for London alone. Two
attempts have been made to obtain a correct account of the quantities of
each kind used for the commissariat of London. Fourteen years ago Mr.
Mayhew gave a summation of the quantities of fish sold at Billingsgate, and
the number of each kind as detailed is really astonishing; as 203,000
salmon, nearly four millions of fresh herrings, and others in proportion. The
second attempt to gauge the fish-supply of the great metropolis was made
by a Member of Parliament. In moving for a commission to inquire into the
state of the British fisheries, he gave the following statistics:—
Codfish 500,000
Mackerel 25,000,000
Soles 100,000,000
Plaice 35,000,000
Haddocks 200,000,000
Oysters 500,000,000
Periwinkles 300,000,000
Cockles 70,000,000
Mussels 50,000,000
Lobsters, daily 10,000
There is likewise a very extensive demand for cured or pickled fish.
Mayhew quoted 1,600,000 dried cod and 50,000,000 of red herrings as
being a portion of the London fish-supply. Eels are also a very large item,
being set down as nearly 10,000,000 per annum; and as for crabs, prawns,
shrimps, sprats, etc., they are required by the ton weight, and are hawked
about London in millions!
Page 69
CHAPTER III.
FISH CULTURE.
Antiquity of Pisciculture—Italian Fish-Culture—Sergius Orata—Re-discovery of the Art—Gehin and
Remy—Jacobi—Shaw of Drumlanrig—The Ettrick Shepherd—Scientific and Commercial
Pisciculture—A Trip to Huningue—Tourist Talk about Fish—Bale—Huningue described—The
Water Supply—Modus Operandi at Huningue—Packing Fish Eggs—An Important Question—
Artificial Spawning—Danube Salmon—Statistics of Huningue—Plan of a Suite of Ponds—M. De
Galbert’s Establishment—Practical Nature of Pisciculture—Turtle-Culture—Best Kinds of Fish to
Rear—Pisciculture in Germany—Stormontfield Salmon-Breeding Ponds—Design for a Suite of
Salmon-Ponds—Statistics of Stormontfield—Acclimatisation of Fish—The Australian Experiment
—Introduction of the Silurus glanis.
may be briefly described as the art of fecundating and
P
isciculture
hatching fish-eggs, and of nursing young fish under protection till they
are of an age to take care of themselves.
The art of pisciculture is almost as old as civilisation itself. We read of its
having been practised in the empire of China for many centuries, and we also
know that it was much thought of in the palmy days of ancient Italy, when
expensively-fed fish of all kinds were a necessity of the wonderful banquets
given by wealthy Romans and Neapolitans. There is still in China a large
trade in fish-eggs, and boats may be seen containing men who gather the
spawn in various rivers, and then carry it into the interior of the country for
sale, where the young fish are reared in great flocks or shoals in the rice-
fields. One Chinese mode of collecting fish-spawn is to map out a river into
compartments by means of mats and hurdles, leaving only a passage for the
boats. The mats and hurdles intercept the spawn, which is skimmed off the
water, preserved for sale in large jars, and is bought by persons who have
ponds or other pieces of water which they may wish to stock with gold or
other fish. One Chinese plan is to hatch fish-eggs in paddy-fields, and in
these places the spawn speedily comes to life, and the flocks of little fishes
are herded from one field to another as the food becomes exhausted. The
trade in ova is so well managed, even in the present day, that fish are plentiful
and cheap—so cheap as to form a large portion of the food of the people; and
nothing so much surprises the Chinese who come here as the high price that
is paid for the fish of this country. A Chinese fisherman was much astonished,
three years ago, at the price he was charged for a fish-breakfast at Toulon.
FISH CULTURE.
Antiquity of Pisciculture—Italian Fish-Culture—Sergius Orata—Re-discovery of the Art—Gehin and
Remy—Jacobi—Shaw of Drumlanrig—The Ettrick Shepherd—Scientific and Commercial
Pisciculture—A Trip to Huningue—Tourist Talk about Fish—Bale—Huningue described—The
Water Supply—Modus Operandi at Huningue—Packing Fish Eggs—An Important Question—
Artificial Spawning—Danube Salmon—Statistics of Huningue—Plan of a Suite of Ponds—M. De
Galbert’s Establishment—Practical Nature of Pisciculture—Turtle-Culture—Best Kinds of Fish to
Rear—Pisciculture in Germany—Stormontfield Salmon-Breeding Ponds—Design for a Suite of
Salmon-Ponds—Statistics of Stormontfield—Acclimatisation of Fish—The Australian Experiment
—Introduction of the Silurus glanis.
may be briefly described as the art of fecundating and
P
isciculture
hatching fish-eggs, and of nursing young fish under protection till they
are of an age to take care of themselves.
The art of pisciculture is almost as old as civilisation itself. We read of its
having been practised in the empire of China for many centuries, and we also
know that it was much thought of in the palmy days of ancient Italy, when
expensively-fed fish of all kinds were a necessity of the wonderful banquets
given by wealthy Romans and Neapolitans. There is still in China a large
trade in fish-eggs, and boats may be seen containing men who gather the
spawn in various rivers, and then carry it into the interior of the country for
sale, where the young fish are reared in great flocks or shoals in the rice-
fields. One Chinese mode of collecting fish-spawn is to map out a river into
compartments by means of mats and hurdles, leaving only a passage for the
boats. The mats and hurdles intercept the spawn, which is skimmed off the
water, preserved for sale in large jars, and is bought by persons who have
ponds or other pieces of water which they may wish to stock with gold or
other fish. One Chinese plan is to hatch fish-eggs in paddy-fields, and in
these places the spawn speedily comes to life, and the flocks of little fishes
are herded from one field to another as the food becomes exhausted. The
trade in ova is so well managed, even in the present day, that fish are plentiful
and cheap—so cheap as to form a large portion of the food of the people; and
nothing so much surprises the Chinese who come here as the high price that
is paid for the fish of this country. A Chinese fisherman was much astonished,
three years ago, at the price he was charged for a fish-breakfast at Toulon.
Page 70
This person had arrived in France with four or five thousand young fish of the
best kinds produced in his country, for the purpose of their being placed in the
great marine aquarium in the Bois de Boulogne. Being annoyed at the
comparative scarcity of fish in France, the young Chinaman wrote a brief
memoir, showing that, with the command of a small pond, any quantity of
fish might be raised at a trifling expense. All that is necessary, he stated in the
memoir alluded to, is to watch the period of spawning, and throw yolks of
eggs into the water from time to time, by which means an incredible quantity
of the young fry are saved from destruction. For, according to the information
conveyed by this very intelligent youth, thousands of young fish annually die
from starvation—they are unable to seek their own food at so tender an age.
We cannot believe all the stories we hear about the Chinese mode of breeding
fish, they are so evidently exaggerated; but I must notice one particularly
ingenious method of artificial hatching which has been resorted to by the
people of China and which is worth noting as a piscicultural novelty. These
ingenious Celestials carry on a business in selling and hatching fish-spawn,
collecting the impregnated eggs from various rivers and lakes, in order to sell
to the proprietors of canals and private ponds. When the proper season for
hatching arrives, they empty a hen’s egg, by means of a small aperture,
sucking out the natural contents, and then, after substituting fish-spawn, close
up the opening. The egg thus manipulated is placed for a few days under a
hen! By and by the shell is broken, and the contents are placed in a vessel of
water, warmed by the heat of the sun only; the eggs speedily burst, and in a
short time the young fish are able to be transported to a lake or river of
ordinary temperature, where they are of course left to grow to maturity
without being further noticed than to have a little food thrown to them.
The luxurious Romans achieved great wonders in the art of fish-breeding,
and were able to perform curious experiments with the piscine inhabitants of
their aquariums; they were also well versed in the arts of acclimatisation. A
classic friend, who is well versed in ancient fish lore, tells me that the great
Roman epicures could run their fish from ice-cold water into boiling
cauldrons without handling them! They spared neither labour nor money in
order to gratify their palates. The Italians sent to the shores of Britain for their
oysters, and then flavoured them in large quantities on artificial beds. The
value of a Roman gentleman’s fish in the palmy days of Italian banqueting
was represented by an enormous sum of money. The stock kept up by
Lucullus was never valued at a less sum than £35,000! These classic lovers of
best kinds produced in his country, for the purpose of their being placed in the
great marine aquarium in the Bois de Boulogne. Being annoyed at the
comparative scarcity of fish in France, the young Chinaman wrote a brief
memoir, showing that, with the command of a small pond, any quantity of
fish might be raised at a trifling expense. All that is necessary, he stated in the
memoir alluded to, is to watch the period of spawning, and throw yolks of
eggs into the water from time to time, by which means an incredible quantity
of the young fry are saved from destruction. For, according to the information
conveyed by this very intelligent youth, thousands of young fish annually die
from starvation—they are unable to seek their own food at so tender an age.
We cannot believe all the stories we hear about the Chinese mode of breeding
fish, they are so evidently exaggerated; but I must notice one particularly
ingenious method of artificial hatching which has been resorted to by the
people of China and which is worth noting as a piscicultural novelty. These
ingenious Celestials carry on a business in selling and hatching fish-spawn,
collecting the impregnated eggs from various rivers and lakes, in order to sell
to the proprietors of canals and private ponds. When the proper season for
hatching arrives, they empty a hen’s egg, by means of a small aperture,
sucking out the natural contents, and then, after substituting fish-spawn, close
up the opening. The egg thus manipulated is placed for a few days under a
hen! By and by the shell is broken, and the contents are placed in a vessel of
water, warmed by the heat of the sun only; the eggs speedily burst, and in a
short time the young fish are able to be transported to a lake or river of
ordinary temperature, where they are of course left to grow to maturity
without being further noticed than to have a little food thrown to them.
The luxurious Romans achieved great wonders in the art of fish-breeding,
and were able to perform curious experiments with the piscine inhabitants of
their aquariums; they were also well versed in the arts of acclimatisation. A
classic friend, who is well versed in ancient fish lore, tells me that the great
Roman epicures could run their fish from ice-cold water into boiling
cauldrons without handling them! They spared neither labour nor money in
order to gratify their palates. The Italians sent to the shores of Britain for their
oysters, and then flavoured them in large quantities on artificial beds. The
value of a Roman gentleman’s fish in the palmy days of Italian banqueting
was represented by an enormous sum of money. The stock kept up by
Lucullus was never valued at a less sum than £35,000! These classic lovers of
Page 71
good things had pet breeds of fish in the same sense as gentlemen in the
present day have pet breeds of sheep or homed cattle. Lucullus, for instance,
to have such a valuable stock, must have been in possession of unique
varieties derived from curious crosses, etc. Red mullet or fat carp, which sold
for large prices, were not at all unusual. Sixty pounds we can ascertain as
being given for a single mullet, and more than three times that sum for a dish
of that fish; and enormous sums of money were lavished in the buying,
rearing, and taming of the mullet; so much so, that some of those who
devoted their time and money to this purpose were satirised as mullet-
millionaires. One noble Roman went to a fabulous expense in boring a tunnel
through a mountain, in order that he might obtain a plentiful supply of salt
water for his fish-ponds. Sergius Orata invented artificial oyster-beds. He
caused, as will be afterwards described when I come to speak of oyster-
farming, to be constructed at Baiæ, on the Lucrine Sea, great reservoirs,
where he grew the dainty mollusc in thousands; and in order that he and his
friends might have this renowned shell-fish in its very highest perfection, he
built a palace on the coast, in order to be near his oyster-ponds; and thither he
resorted when he wanted to have a fish-dinner free from the care and turmoil
of business. Many of the more luxurious Italians, imitating Sergius Orata,
expended fabulous sums of money on their fish-ponds, and were so enabled,
by means of their extravagance, to achieve all kinds of outré results in the
fattening and flavouring of their fish. A curious story, illustrative of these
times and of the value set on fish of a particular flavour, is related, in regard
to the bass (labrax lupus) which were caught in the river Tiber. The Roman
epicures were very fond of this fish, especially of those caught in a particular
portion of the river, which they could tell by means of their taste and fine
colour. An exquisite, while dining, was horrified at being served with bass of
the wrong flavour, and loudly complained of the badness of the fish; the fact
being that the real bass (the high-coloured kind) were flavoured by the
disgusting food which they obtained at the mouth of a common sewer.
The modern phase of pisciculture is entirely a commercial one, which as
yet does not lie in imparting fanciful flavours to the fish—although, if such
were wanted, it might easily enough be accomplished—but has developed
itself both at home and abroad in the replenishing of exhausted streams with
salmon, trout, or other kinds of fish. The present idea of pisciculture, as a
branch of commerce, is due to the shrewdness of a simple French peasant,
who gained his livelihood as a pêcheur in the tributaries of the Moselle, and
present day have pet breeds of sheep or homed cattle. Lucullus, for instance,
to have such a valuable stock, must have been in possession of unique
varieties derived from curious crosses, etc. Red mullet or fat carp, which sold
for large prices, were not at all unusual. Sixty pounds we can ascertain as
being given for a single mullet, and more than three times that sum for a dish
of that fish; and enormous sums of money were lavished in the buying,
rearing, and taming of the mullet; so much so, that some of those who
devoted their time and money to this purpose were satirised as mullet-
millionaires. One noble Roman went to a fabulous expense in boring a tunnel
through a mountain, in order that he might obtain a plentiful supply of salt
water for his fish-ponds. Sergius Orata invented artificial oyster-beds. He
caused, as will be afterwards described when I come to speak of oyster-
farming, to be constructed at Baiæ, on the Lucrine Sea, great reservoirs,
where he grew the dainty mollusc in thousands; and in order that he and his
friends might have this renowned shell-fish in its very highest perfection, he
built a palace on the coast, in order to be near his oyster-ponds; and thither he
resorted when he wanted to have a fish-dinner free from the care and turmoil
of business. Many of the more luxurious Italians, imitating Sergius Orata,
expended fabulous sums of money on their fish-ponds, and were so enabled,
by means of their extravagance, to achieve all kinds of outré results in the
fattening and flavouring of their fish. A curious story, illustrative of these
times and of the value set on fish of a particular flavour, is related, in regard
to the bass (labrax lupus) which were caught in the river Tiber. The Roman
epicures were very fond of this fish, especially of those caught in a particular
portion of the river, which they could tell by means of their taste and fine
colour. An exquisite, while dining, was horrified at being served with bass of
the wrong flavour, and loudly complained of the badness of the fish; the fact
being that the real bass (the high-coloured kind) were flavoured by the
disgusting food which they obtained at the mouth of a common sewer.
The modern phase of pisciculture is entirely a commercial one, which as
yet does not lie in imparting fanciful flavours to the fish—although, if such
were wanted, it might easily enough be accomplished—but has developed
itself both at home and abroad in the replenishing of exhausted streams with
salmon, trout, or other kinds of fish. The present idea of pisciculture, as a
branch of commerce, is due to the shrewdness of a simple French peasant,
who gained his livelihood as a pêcheur in the tributaries of the Moselle, and
Page 72
the other streams of his native district, La Bresse in the Vosges. He was a
thinking man, although a poor one, and it had long puzzled him to understand
how animals yielding such an abundant supply of eggs should, by any
amount of fishing, ever become scarce. He knew very well that all female
fish were provided with tens of thousands of eggs, and he could not well see
how, in the face of this fact, the rivers of La Bresse should be so scantily
peopled with the finny tribes. Nor was the scarcity of fish confined to his own
district: the rivers of France generally had become impoverished; and as in all
Catholic countries fish is a prime necessary of life, the want of course was
greatly felt. Joseph Remy was the man who first found out what was wrong
with the French streams, and especially with the fish supplies of his native
rivers—and better than that, he discovered a remedy. He ascertained that the
scarcity of fish was chiefly caused by the immense number of eggs that never
came to life, the enormous quantity of young fish that were destroyed by
enemies of one kind or another, and the fishing-up of all that was left, in
many instances, before they had an opportunity to reproduce themselves; at
any rate, without any care being taken to leave a sufficient breeding stock in
the rivers, so that the result he discovered had become inevitable.
The guiding fact of pisciculture has been more than once accidentally re-
discovered—that is, allowing that the ancient Romans knew it exactly as now
practised; but nothing came of such discoveries, and till a discovery be turned
to some practical use, it is, in a sense, no discovery at all. After being lost for
many hundred years, the art of artificially spawning fish was re-discovered in
Germany by one Jacobi, and practised on some trout more than a century ago.
This gentleman not only practised pisciculture himself, but wrote essays on
the subject as well. His elaborate treatise on the art of fish-culture was written
in the German language, but also translated into Latin, and inserted by
Duhamel du Monceau, in his General Treatise on Fishes. Jacobi, who
practised the art for thirty years, was not satisfied with a mere discovery, but
at once turned what he had discovered to practical account, and, in the time of
Jacobi, great attention was devoted to pisciculture by various gentlemen of
scientific eminence. Count Goldstein, a savan of the period, likewise wrote
on the subject. The Journal of Hanover also had papers on this art, and an
account of Jacobi’s proceedings was enrolled in the Memoirs of the Royal
Academy of Berlin. This discovery of Jacobi was the simple result of keen
observation of the natural action of the breeding salmon. Observing that the
process of impregnation was entirely an external act, he saw at once that this
thinking man, although a poor one, and it had long puzzled him to understand
how animals yielding such an abundant supply of eggs should, by any
amount of fishing, ever become scarce. He knew very well that all female
fish were provided with tens of thousands of eggs, and he could not well see
how, in the face of this fact, the rivers of La Bresse should be so scantily
peopled with the finny tribes. Nor was the scarcity of fish confined to his own
district: the rivers of France generally had become impoverished; and as in all
Catholic countries fish is a prime necessary of life, the want of course was
greatly felt. Joseph Remy was the man who first found out what was wrong
with the French streams, and especially with the fish supplies of his native
rivers—and better than that, he discovered a remedy. He ascertained that the
scarcity of fish was chiefly caused by the immense number of eggs that never
came to life, the enormous quantity of young fish that were destroyed by
enemies of one kind or another, and the fishing-up of all that was left, in
many instances, before they had an opportunity to reproduce themselves; at
any rate, without any care being taken to leave a sufficient breeding stock in
the rivers, so that the result he discovered had become inevitable.
The guiding fact of pisciculture has been more than once accidentally re-
discovered—that is, allowing that the ancient Romans knew it exactly as now
practised; but nothing came of such discoveries, and till a discovery be turned
to some practical use, it is, in a sense, no discovery at all. After being lost for
many hundred years, the art of artificially spawning fish was re-discovered in
Germany by one Jacobi, and practised on some trout more than a century ago.
This gentleman not only practised pisciculture himself, but wrote essays on
the subject as well. His elaborate treatise on the art of fish-culture was written
in the German language, but also translated into Latin, and inserted by
Duhamel du Monceau, in his General Treatise on Fishes. Jacobi, who
practised the art for thirty years, was not satisfied with a mere discovery, but
at once turned what he had discovered to practical account, and, in the time of
Jacobi, great attention was devoted to pisciculture by various gentlemen of
scientific eminence. Count Goldstein, a savan of the period, likewise wrote
on the subject. The Journal of Hanover also had papers on this art, and an
account of Jacobi’s proceedings was enrolled in the Memoirs of the Royal
Academy of Berlin. This discovery of Jacobi was the simple result of keen
observation of the natural action of the breeding salmon. Observing that the
process of impregnation was entirely an external act, he saw at once that this
Page 73
could be easily imitated by careful manipulation; so that, by conducting
artificial hatching on a large scale, a constant and unfailing supply of fish
might readily be obtained. The results arrived at by Jacobi were of vast
importance, and obtained not only the recognition of his government, but also
the more solid reward of a pension. I need not detail the experiments of
Jacobi, as they are very similar to those of others that I intend to describe at
full length in this portion of my narrative.
Some persons dispute the claims of France to the honour of this discovery,
asserting that the peasant Remy had borrowed his idea from the experiments
of Shaw of Drumlanrig, who had by the artificial system undertaken to prove
that parrs were the young of the salmon. As I shall again have occasion to
allude to Mr. Shaw’s experiments, I do not require to say more at present on
this part of my subject than that they were brought to a successful conclusion
long before the rediscovery of the art of pisciculture by Remy. In my opinion
the honours may be thus divided, whether Remy knew of Shaw’s experiments
or not: I would give to Scotland the honour of having re-discovered
pisciculture as an adjunct of science, and to France the useful part of having
turned the art to commercial uses. In regard to what has been already stated
here as to the accidental discovery of artificial fish-breeding, I may mention
that James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, was one of the discoverers. Hogg had
an observant eye for rural scenes and incidents, and anxiously studied and
experimented on fish-life. He took an active share in the parr controversy.
Having seen with his own eyes the branded parr assuming the scales of the
smolt, he never doubted after that the fact that the parr was the young of the
salmon. In Norway, too, an accidental discovery of this fish-breeding power
was made; and certainly if salmon-fishing in that country goes on at its
present rate cultivation will be largely required. The artificial plan of breeding
oysters has been more than once accidentally discovered. There is at least one
well-authenticated instance of this, which occurred about a century ago, when
a saltmaker of Marennes, who added to his income by fattening oysters, lost a
batch of six thousand in consequence of an intense frost, the shells not being
sufficiently covered with water; but while engaged in mourning over his loss
and kicking about the dead molluscs, he found them, greatly to his surprise,
covered with young oysters already pretty well developed, and these,
fortunately, although tender, all in good health, so that ultimately he
repeopled his salt-bed without either trouble or expense—having of course to
wait the growth of the natives before he could recommence his commerce.
artificial hatching on a large scale, a constant and unfailing supply of fish
might readily be obtained. The results arrived at by Jacobi were of vast
importance, and obtained not only the recognition of his government, but also
the more solid reward of a pension. I need not detail the experiments of
Jacobi, as they are very similar to those of others that I intend to describe at
full length in this portion of my narrative.
Some persons dispute the claims of France to the honour of this discovery,
asserting that the peasant Remy had borrowed his idea from the experiments
of Shaw of Drumlanrig, who had by the artificial system undertaken to prove
that parrs were the young of the salmon. As I shall again have occasion to
allude to Mr. Shaw’s experiments, I do not require to say more at present on
this part of my subject than that they were brought to a successful conclusion
long before the rediscovery of the art of pisciculture by Remy. In my opinion
the honours may be thus divided, whether Remy knew of Shaw’s experiments
or not: I would give to Scotland the honour of having re-discovered
pisciculture as an adjunct of science, and to France the useful part of having
turned the art to commercial uses. In regard to what has been already stated
here as to the accidental discovery of artificial fish-breeding, I may mention
that James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, was one of the discoverers. Hogg had
an observant eye for rural scenes and incidents, and anxiously studied and
experimented on fish-life. He took an active share in the parr controversy.
Having seen with his own eyes the branded parr assuming the scales of the
smolt, he never doubted after that the fact that the parr was the young of the
salmon. In Norway, too, an accidental discovery of this fish-breeding power
was made; and certainly if salmon-fishing in that country goes on at its
present rate cultivation will be largely required. The artificial plan of breeding
oysters has been more than once accidentally discovered. There is at least one
well-authenticated instance of this, which occurred about a century ago, when
a saltmaker of Marennes, who added to his income by fattening oysters, lost a
batch of six thousand in consequence of an intense frost, the shells not being
sufficiently covered with water; but while engaged in mourning over his loss
and kicking about the dead molluscs, he found them, greatly to his surprise,
covered with young oysters already pretty well developed, and these,
fortunately, although tender, all in good health, so that ultimately he
repeopled his salt-bed without either trouble or expense—having of course to
wait the growth of the natives before he could recommence his commerce.
Page 74
To return to Remy, however, his experiments were so instantaneously
crowned with success as even to be a surprise to himself; and in order to
encourage him and Gehin, a coadjutor he had chosen, the Emulation Society
of the Vosges voted them a considerable sum of money and a handsome
bronze medal. It was not, however, till 1849 that the proceedings of the two
attracted that degree of notice which their importance demanded both in a
scientific and economic sense. Dr. Haxo of Epinal then communicated to the
Academy of Sciences at Paris an elaborate paper on the subject, which at
once fixed attention on the labours of the two fishermen—in fact, it excited a
sensation both in the Academy and among the people. The government of the
time at once gave attention to the matter, and finding, upon inquiry,
everything that was said about the utility of the plan to be true, resolved to
have it extended to all the rivers in France, especially to those of the poorer
districts of the country. The artificial system of fish-breeding was by this
mode of action rapidly extended over the chief rivers of France, and added
much to the comfort of the people, and in some cases little fortunes were
realised by intelligent farmers who appreciated the system and had a pond or
stream on which they could conduct their experiments in safety.
The piscicultural system has culminated in France, chiefly under the
direction of Professor Coste, in the erection of a great establishment at
Huningue, near Bale, for the collection and distribution of fish-eggs. In order
to see this place with my own eyes, and so be enabled to describe exactly
how the piscicultural business of France is administered, I paid a visit to the
great laboratory along with some friends in the autumn of 1863, having gone
by way of Paris in order to see that city in its holiday trim during the fêtes of
the Emperor. The weather was so hot, and pleasure-seeking so fatiguing, that
my little party made but a brief stay in the gay capital. It was a pleasant relief
indeed when we had obtained our tickets for Mulhausen, done the penance of
the salle d’attente, and then, attaining our seats, had left the sultry city behind
us. The air became at once cool and moist, and the torturing Paris thirst left us
—that fierce thirst which no quantity of well-mixed vin ordinaire and water,
no amount of brandy and eau de seltz, could assuage. After reaching the
outskirts of the city, and passing those manufactories, wood-yards, tile-
depôts, brickfields, and stone-yards, which are common to the environs of all
large towns, we could see well about us, and enjoy the sights and sounds of
French agriculture—all but the perfume of the rotting flax in process of
manipulation in the watery pits; we certainly did not enjoy that potent
crowned with success as even to be a surprise to himself; and in order to
encourage him and Gehin, a coadjutor he had chosen, the Emulation Society
of the Vosges voted them a considerable sum of money and a handsome
bronze medal. It was not, however, till 1849 that the proceedings of the two
attracted that degree of notice which their importance demanded both in a
scientific and economic sense. Dr. Haxo of Epinal then communicated to the
Academy of Sciences at Paris an elaborate paper on the subject, which at
once fixed attention on the labours of the two fishermen—in fact, it excited a
sensation both in the Academy and among the people. The government of the
time at once gave attention to the matter, and finding, upon inquiry,
everything that was said about the utility of the plan to be true, resolved to
have it extended to all the rivers in France, especially to those of the poorer
districts of the country. The artificial system of fish-breeding was by this
mode of action rapidly extended over the chief rivers of France, and added
much to the comfort of the people, and in some cases little fortunes were
realised by intelligent farmers who appreciated the system and had a pond or
stream on which they could conduct their experiments in safety.
The piscicultural system has culminated in France, chiefly under the
direction of Professor Coste, in the erection of a great establishment at
Huningue, near Bale, for the collection and distribution of fish-eggs. In order
to see this place with my own eyes, and so be enabled to describe exactly
how the piscicultural business of France is administered, I paid a visit to the
great laboratory along with some friends in the autumn of 1863, having gone
by way of Paris in order to see that city in its holiday trim during the fêtes of
the Emperor. The weather was so hot, and pleasure-seeking so fatiguing, that
my little party made but a brief stay in the gay capital. It was a pleasant relief
indeed when we had obtained our tickets for Mulhausen, done the penance of
the salle d’attente, and then, attaining our seats, had left the sultry city behind
us. The air became at once cool and moist, and the torturing Paris thirst left us
—that fierce thirst which no quantity of well-mixed vin ordinaire and water,
no amount of brandy and eau de seltz, could assuage. After reaching the
outskirts of the city, and passing those manufactories, wood-yards, tile-
depôts, brickfields, and stone-yards, which are common to the environs of all
large towns, we could see well about us, and enjoy the sights and sounds of
French agriculture—all but the perfume of the rotting flax in process of
manipulation in the watery pits; we certainly did not enjoy that potent
Page 75
compound of all that is awful in the way of smell. It was pleasant to note the
industry of the small farmers, all busy with their wives and families on their
little allotments, or rather estates, for numbers of them are owners or
perpetual holders of the land on which they work; and it looks curious to eyes
accustomed to the large fields of England to see the little patches which
compose the majority of French farms. We saw no particularly choice
landscape scenery on the line of rail by which we travelled—via Troyes and
Chalindrey—but there was no lack of picturesque villages and immense
barns, giving cheerful token of a rude plenty, and there was no end of tall
pollard trees, and numerous vineyards; besides, here and there, upon a bit of
stubble, we were agreeably surprised by the whitter of an occasional covey of
partridges.
Bent on a piscatorial tour, I noted with care—to the occasional
wonderment of my friends—the spots of water that pretty often fringed the
line of rails, and wondered if they were populated by any of the finny tribe; if
so, by what kind of fish, and whether they had been replenished by the aid of
pisciculture? There was evidently fishing in the districts we passed through,
because at many of the stations we encountered the vision of an occasional
angler, and a frequent “flop” in many of the pools which we passed
convinced me that fair sport might be had; and the entry of an occasional
Waltonian into some of the stations with twenty pounds weight of trout quite
excited everybody, and made some of us long to whip the waters of the
district of Champagne, through which we were passing. And a close
inspection of the national etablissement de pisciculture at Huningue has
convinced me that if any river in France be still fishless, it is not through the
fault of a paternal government.
Travelling is pleasant in France, for although the trains are slow, they are
safe and punctual. The distance from Paris to Mulhausen is fifteen hours by
the ordinary train, but we did not feel the journey at all tedious. In my
compartment were a priest, who spoke a very “leetle” English, but who could
evidently read a great deal of Latin; a shrewd Edinburgh news-agent—who,
like most Scotchmen, took nothing for granted, but saw and judged for
himself; and his daughter, a young lady on her way to “do” the Rhine, but
who took no interest in pisciculture. Then there was a lively English
gentleman, who seemed to have an intimate acquaintance with every fish in
the Thames; he had netted whitebait (and eaten them) off Blackwall, he had
taken perch out of the East India Dock, killed a monster pike near
industry of the small farmers, all busy with their wives and families on their
little allotments, or rather estates, for numbers of them are owners or
perpetual holders of the land on which they work; and it looks curious to eyes
accustomed to the large fields of England to see the little patches which
compose the majority of French farms. We saw no particularly choice
landscape scenery on the line of rail by which we travelled—via Troyes and
Chalindrey—but there was no lack of picturesque villages and immense
barns, giving cheerful token of a rude plenty, and there was no end of tall
pollard trees, and numerous vineyards; besides, here and there, upon a bit of
stubble, we were agreeably surprised by the whitter of an occasional covey of
partridges.
Bent on a piscatorial tour, I noted with care—to the occasional
wonderment of my friends—the spots of water that pretty often fringed the
line of rails, and wondered if they were populated by any of the finny tribe; if
so, by what kind of fish, and whether they had been replenished by the aid of
pisciculture? There was evidently fishing in the districts we passed through,
because at many of the stations we encountered the vision of an occasional
angler, and a frequent “flop” in many of the pools which we passed
convinced me that fair sport might be had; and the entry of an occasional
Waltonian into some of the stations with twenty pounds weight of trout quite
excited everybody, and made some of us long to whip the waters of the
district of Champagne, through which we were passing. And a close
inspection of the national etablissement de pisciculture at Huningue has
convinced me that if any river in France be still fishless, it is not through the
fault of a paternal government.
Travelling is pleasant in France, for although the trains are slow, they are
safe and punctual. The distance from Paris to Mulhausen is fifteen hours by
the ordinary train, but we did not feel the journey at all tedious. In my
compartment were a priest, who spoke a very “leetle” English, but who could
evidently read a great deal of Latin; a shrewd Edinburgh news-agent—who,
like most Scotchmen, took nothing for granted, but saw and judged for
himself; and his daughter, a young lady on her way to “do” the Rhine, but
who took no interest in pisciculture. Then there was a lively English
gentleman, who seemed to have an intimate acquaintance with every fish in
the Thames; he had netted whitebait (and eaten them) off Blackwall, he had
taken perch out of the East India Dock, killed a monster pike near
Page 76
Teddington, and had caught no end of gudgeon at various picturesque spots
on the great river.
“Bah,” said my Scotch friend, joining in the conversation, “did you ever
kill a salmon, man? I hate gudgeon and such small fry; give me the river Isla,
about the ‘Brig o’ Riven,’ a good stout rod with no end of tackle, and an
angry seventeen-pound fish sulking behind a big stone—then you may have
sport; or favour me with good trolling-tackle and a boat on deep Loch Awe,
with the castle of Kilchurn glooming its great shadow over us, and the eternal
hills rising tall around, and I will take out trout that will outweigh a hundred
gudgeon; or give me a trout-rod and a pleasant ramble along the picturesque
Shochy, and I will manage to fill my basket with fish worth taking home; but
away with your Thames gudgeon, they can only satisfy a Cockney
linendraper.”
Verily my shrewd Scottish friend, with his reminiscences of monster fish
and his fervid manner, waxed eloquent; he even startled the priest; and as for
the Englishman he looked quite chapfallen. I had to come to the rescue, and
defended as well as I could Thames angling, and reminded the enthusiastic
Caledonian that they once had very fine salmon in the Thames, and would
some day, if all goes well, have them again; and that gudgeon-fishing in the
midst of such fine scenery was at least a healthy and happy way of having a
pleasant day’s “out,” even if the sport was not quite so fierce as hunting for
salmon in the river Isla at the “Brig o’ Riven.”
The salmon of the Tay, it was also hinted to the news-agent, were not so
famous as those of the Severn. “But we have twenty for your one,” was the
quick reply, “and at the Stormontfield breeding-ponds we are raising them by
the hundred thousand. The rental of the Tay, sir, is equal to what the whole
revenue of the French fisheries was a year or two ago.” “Very likely, sir,” I
replied; “but then the Tay is what you may call a Highland stream—good for
fish, no doubt; and the Thames is a splendid river in its own way, but no one
pretends that it is a fish river; it is the highway of the greatest commerce in
the world, and——” “Pooh, man,” said the Scotchman, “the Tay is as
celebrated for commerce as for fish. Have you ever been to Dundee?” And
then, chuckling to himself at his rather rich idea of comparing Dundee to
London, my friend sank back in his corner of the carriage and looked as if he
could have slain a thousand London gudgeon-fishers, and the twinkle in his
eye waxed brighter and brighter as he continued his chuckle.
on the great river.
“Bah,” said my Scotch friend, joining in the conversation, “did you ever
kill a salmon, man? I hate gudgeon and such small fry; give me the river Isla,
about the ‘Brig o’ Riven,’ a good stout rod with no end of tackle, and an
angry seventeen-pound fish sulking behind a big stone—then you may have
sport; or favour me with good trolling-tackle and a boat on deep Loch Awe,
with the castle of Kilchurn glooming its great shadow over us, and the eternal
hills rising tall around, and I will take out trout that will outweigh a hundred
gudgeon; or give me a trout-rod and a pleasant ramble along the picturesque
Shochy, and I will manage to fill my basket with fish worth taking home; but
away with your Thames gudgeon, they can only satisfy a Cockney
linendraper.”
Verily my shrewd Scottish friend, with his reminiscences of monster fish
and his fervid manner, waxed eloquent; he even startled the priest; and as for
the Englishman he looked quite chapfallen. I had to come to the rescue, and
defended as well as I could Thames angling, and reminded the enthusiastic
Caledonian that they once had very fine salmon in the Thames, and would
some day, if all goes well, have them again; and that gudgeon-fishing in the
midst of such fine scenery was at least a healthy and happy way of having a
pleasant day’s “out,” even if the sport was not quite so fierce as hunting for
salmon in the river Isla at the “Brig o’ Riven.”
The salmon of the Tay, it was also hinted to the news-agent, were not so
famous as those of the Severn. “But we have twenty for your one,” was the
quick reply, “and at the Stormontfield breeding-ponds we are raising them by
the hundred thousand. The rental of the Tay, sir, is equal to what the whole
revenue of the French fisheries was a year or two ago.” “Very likely, sir,” I
replied; “but then the Tay is what you may call a Highland stream—good for
fish, no doubt; and the Thames is a splendid river in its own way, but no one
pretends that it is a fish river; it is the highway of the greatest commerce in
the world, and——” “Pooh, man,” said the Scotchman, “the Tay is as
celebrated for commerce as for fish. Have you ever been to Dundee?” And
then, chuckling to himself at his rather rich idea of comparing Dundee to
London, my friend sank back in his corner of the carriage and looked as if he
could have slain a thousand London gudgeon-fishers, and the twinkle in his
eye waxed brighter and brighter as he continued his chuckle.
Page 77
As even the longest journey will come to an end, the train arrived in due
time at Mulhouse, or Mulhausen, as it is called in the German, and it being
late and dark, and our whole party being somewhat fatigued, we allowed
ourselves to be carried to the nearest hotel, a large, uncomfortable, dirty-
looking place, where apparently they seldom see British gold, and make an
immense charge for bougies. Had we had the necessary time to spare, my
little party would have been interested in seeing Mulhouse, which is a
manufacturing town of considerable size, where many of the operatives are
the owners of their own houses; but being within scent of Switzerland, having
the feeling that we were in the shadow of its mountains, and almost within
hearing of the noise made by its many waters, we hurried on by the first train
to Bale. The distance is short, and the conveyance quick. Almost before we
had time to view the passing landscape, which is exceedingly beautiful, being
rich in vineyards and orchards, and rapidly turning Swiss in its scenery, we
were stopped at St. Louis by the custom-house authorities, who, it is but
proper to say, are exceedingly polite to all honest travellers. I would advise
any one in search of the etablissement de pisciculture at Huningue to leave
the train at this station. Not knowing its proximity at the time of my visit, I
went right on to Bale.
Poets might go into raptures about Bale—Bale the beautiful—with the
flowing Rhine cutting it into two halves, its waters green as the icefields
which had given them birth, its houses quaint, its streets so clean, its
fountains so antique; but we had no time to go into raptures—our business
was to get to Huningue, and curiously enough we had wandered into the
fishmarket before we knew where we were. Like various other fishmarkets
which we have visited, it contained no fish that we could see, but it is so
picturesque that I determined to place a view of it in this work. Hailing a
voiture, our party had no end of difficulty to get the coachman to understand
where we wanted to be driven. I said, “To Huningue;” he then suggested that
it must be “Euiniguen,” and my Scotch young lady friend, who was all in a
glow about the “beautiful Rhine,” as, of course, a young lady ought to be,
suggested that the pronunciation might be “Hiningue,” which proved a
shrewd guess, as immediately on hearing it we were addressed in tolerable
but very broken English by a quiet-looking coachman, who said, “Come with
me; I have study the English grammaire; I know where you want to go, and
will take you.” Although I could not help wondering that a celebrated place,
as we all thought Huningue ought to be, was not better known, I felt pretty
time at Mulhouse, or Mulhausen, as it is called in the German, and it being
late and dark, and our whole party being somewhat fatigued, we allowed
ourselves to be carried to the nearest hotel, a large, uncomfortable, dirty-
looking place, where apparently they seldom see British gold, and make an
immense charge for bougies. Had we had the necessary time to spare, my
little party would have been interested in seeing Mulhouse, which is a
manufacturing town of considerable size, where many of the operatives are
the owners of their own houses; but being within scent of Switzerland, having
the feeling that we were in the shadow of its mountains, and almost within
hearing of the noise made by its many waters, we hurried on by the first train
to Bale. The distance is short, and the conveyance quick. Almost before we
had time to view the passing landscape, which is exceedingly beautiful, being
rich in vineyards and orchards, and rapidly turning Swiss in its scenery, we
were stopped at St. Louis by the custom-house authorities, who, it is but
proper to say, are exceedingly polite to all honest travellers. I would advise
any one in search of the etablissement de pisciculture at Huningue to leave
the train at this station. Not knowing its proximity at the time of my visit, I
went right on to Bale.
Poets might go into raptures about Bale—Bale the beautiful—with the
flowing Rhine cutting it into two halves, its waters green as the icefields
which had given them birth, its houses quaint, its streets so clean, its
fountains so antique; but we had no time to go into raptures—our business
was to get to Huningue, and curiously enough we had wandered into the
fishmarket before we knew where we were. Like various other fishmarkets
which we have visited, it contained no fish that we could see, but it is so
picturesque that I determined to place a view of it in this work. Hailing a
voiture, our party had no end of difficulty to get the coachman to understand
where we wanted to be driven. I said, “To Huningue;” he then suggested that
it must be “Euiniguen,” and my Scotch young lady friend, who was all in a
glow about the “beautiful Rhine,” as, of course, a young lady ought to be,
suggested that the pronunciation might be “Hiningue,” which proved a
shrewd guess, as immediately on hearing it we were addressed in tolerable
but very broken English by a quiet-looking coachman, who said, “Come with
me; I have study the English grammaire; I know where you want to go, and
will take you.” Although I could not help wondering that a celebrated place,
as we all thought Huningue ought to be, was not better known, I felt pretty
Page 78
sure our coachman knew it; and having persuaded my Scotch friend and his
young lady to take a drive, we at once started for the etablissement de
pisciculture, where we were all of us most hospitably received by the
superintendent, who at once conducted us over the whole place with great
civility and attention.
THE FISHMARKET AT BALE.
young lady to take a drive, we at once started for the etablissement de
pisciculture, where we were all of us most hospitably received by the
superintendent, who at once conducted us over the whole place with great
civility and attention.
THE FISHMARKET AT BALE.
Page 79
GROUND-PLAN OF THE PISCICULTURAL ESTABLISHMENT AT HUNINGUE.
Showing the disposition of the buildings and the situation of the experimental
watercourses.
Showing the disposition of the buildings and the situation of the experimental
watercourses.
Page 80
VIEW OF HUNINGUE.
The series of buildings which have been erected at Huningue are admirably
adapted to the purpose for which they have been designed. The group forms a
square, the entrance portion of which—two lodges—is devoted to the corps
de garde, and the centre has been laid out as a kind of shrubbery, and is
relieved with two little ponds containing fish. The whole establishment,
ponds and buildings, occupies a space of eighty acres. The suite of buildings
comprise at the side two great hatching-galleries, 60 metres in length and 9
metres broad, containing a plentiful supply of tanks and egg-boxes; and in the
back part of the square are the offices, library, laboratory, and residences of
the officers. Having minutely inspected the whole apparatus, I particularly
admired the aptitude by which the means to a certain end had been carried
out. The egg-boxes are raised in pyramids, the water flowing from the one on
the top into those immediately below. The eggs are placed in rows on glass
frames which fit into the boxes, as will be seen by examining the drawings.
The grand agent in the hatching of fish-eggs being water, I was naturally
The series of buildings which have been erected at Huningue are admirably
adapted to the purpose for which they have been designed. The group forms a
square, the entrance portion of which—two lodges—is devoted to the corps
de garde, and the centre has been laid out as a kind of shrubbery, and is
relieved with two little ponds containing fish. The whole establishment,
ponds and buildings, occupies a space of eighty acres. The suite of buildings
comprise at the side two great hatching-galleries, 60 metres in length and 9
metres broad, containing a plentiful supply of tanks and egg-boxes; and in the
back part of the square are the offices, library, laboratory, and residences of
the officers. Having minutely inspected the whole apparatus, I particularly
admired the aptitude by which the means to a certain end had been carried
out. The egg-boxes are raised in pyramids, the water flowing from the one on
the top into those immediately below. The eggs are placed in rows on glass
frames which fit into the boxes, as will be seen by examining the drawings.
The grand agent in the hatching of fish-eggs being water, I was naturally
Page 81
enough rather particular in making inquiry into the water supplies of
Huningue, and these I found were very ample: they are derived from three
sources—the springs on the private grounds of the establishment, the Rhine,
and the Augraben stream. The water of the higher springs is directed towards
the buildings through an underground conduit, whilst those rising at a lower
level are used only in small basins and trenches for the experiments in rearing
fish outside. Being uncovered, however, they are easily frozen, and are
besides frequently muddy and troubled. As a general rule, fish are not bred at
Huningue, the chief business accomplished there being the collection and
distribution of their eggs; but there is a large supply of tanks or troughs for
the purpose of experimenting with such fish as may be kept in the place. The
waters of the Rhine, being at a higher level than the springs, can be at once
employed in the appareils and basins. The waters of the Augraben stream,
which cross the grounds, are of very little use. Nearly dry in summer, rapid
and muddy after rain, they have only hitherto served to supply some small
exterior basins. Of course, different qualities of water are quite necessary for
the success of the experiments in acclimatisation carried on so zealously at
this establishment. Some fish delight in a clear running stream, while others
prefer to pass their life in sluggish and fat waters. The engineering of the
different water-supplies, all of them at different levels, has been effectually
accomplished by M. Coumes, the engineer of this department of the Rhine,
who, in conjunction with Professor Coste, planned the buildings at Huningue;
indeed the machinery of all kinds is as nearly as possible perfect.
Huningue, and these I found were very ample: they are derived from three
sources—the springs on the private grounds of the establishment, the Rhine,
and the Augraben stream. The water of the higher springs is directed towards
the buildings through an underground conduit, whilst those rising at a lower
level are used only in small basins and trenches for the experiments in rearing
fish outside. Being uncovered, however, they are easily frozen, and are
besides frequently muddy and troubled. As a general rule, fish are not bred at
Huningue, the chief business accomplished there being the collection and
distribution of their eggs; but there is a large supply of tanks or troughs for
the purpose of experimenting with such fish as may be kept in the place. The
waters of the Rhine, being at a higher level than the springs, can be at once
employed in the appareils and basins. The waters of the Augraben stream,
which cross the grounds, are of very little use. Nearly dry in summer, rapid
and muddy after rain, they have only hitherto served to supply some small
exterior basins. Of course, different qualities of water are quite necessary for
the success of the experiments in acclimatisation carried on so zealously at
this establishment. Some fish delight in a clear running stream, while others
prefer to pass their life in sluggish and fat waters. The engineering of the
different water-supplies, all of them at different levels, has been effectually
accomplished by M. Coumes, the engineer of this department of the Rhine,
who, in conjunction with Professor Coste, planned the buildings at Huningue;
indeed the machinery of all kinds is as nearly as possible perfect.
Page 82
HALL OF INCUBATION.
Page 83
BASINS FOR THE YOUNG FISH.
Page 84
GUTTERS FOR HATCHING PURPOSES.
The course of business at Huningue is as follows:—The eggs are brought
chiefly from Switzerland and Germany, and embrace those of the various
kinds of trout, the Danube and Rhine salmon, and the tender ombre chevalier.
People are appointed to capture gravid fish of these various kinds, and having
done so to communicate with the authorities at Huningue, who at once send
an expert to deprive the fishes of their spawn and bring it to the breeding or
store boxes, where it is carefully tended and daily watched till it is ready to be
despatched to some district in want of it. The mode of artificial spawning is
as follows, and I will suppose the subject operated upon to be a salmon:—
Well, first catch your fish; and here I may state that male salmon are a great
deal scarcer than female ones, but fortunately one of the former will milt two
or even three of the latter, so that the scarcity is not so much felt as it might
otherwise be. The fish, then, having been caught, it should be seen, before
operating, that the spawn is perfectly matured, and that being the case, the
salmon should be held in a large tub, well buried in the water it contains,
The course of business at Huningue is as follows:—The eggs are brought
chiefly from Switzerland and Germany, and embrace those of the various
kinds of trout, the Danube and Rhine salmon, and the tender ombre chevalier.
People are appointed to capture gravid fish of these various kinds, and having
done so to communicate with the authorities at Huningue, who at once send
an expert to deprive the fishes of their spawn and bring it to the breeding or
store boxes, where it is carefully tended and daily watched till it is ready to be
despatched to some district in want of it. The mode of artificial spawning is
as follows, and I will suppose the subject operated upon to be a salmon:—
Well, first catch your fish; and here I may state that male salmon are a great
deal scarcer than female ones, but fortunately one of the former will milt two
or even three of the latter, so that the scarcity is not so much felt as it might
otherwise be. The fish, then, having been caught, it should be seen, before
operating, that the spawn is perfectly matured, and that being the case, the
salmon should be held in a large tub, well buried in the water it contains,
Page 85
while the hand is gently passed along its abdomen, when, if the ova be ripe,
the eggs will flow out like so many peas. The eggs must be carefully roused
or washed, and the water should then be poured off. The male salmon may be
then handled in a similar way, the contact of the milt immediately changing
the eggs into a brilliant pink colour. After being again washed, the eggs may
be ladled out into the breeding-boxes, and safely left to come to maturity in
due season. Very great care is necessary in handling the ova. The eggs
distributed from Huningue are all carefully examined on their arrival, when
the bad ones are thrown out, and those that are good are counted and entered
upon the records of the establishment, which are carefully kept. The usual
way of ascertaining the quantity is by means of a little stamped measure,
which varies according to the particular fish-eggs to be counted. The ova are
watched with great care so long as they remain in the boxes at Huningue, and
any dust is removed by means of a fine camel-hair brush, and from day to day
all the eggs that become addled are removed. The applications to the
authorities at Huningue for eggs, both from individuals and associations, are
always a great deal more numerous than can be supplied; and before second
applications from the same people can be entertained, it is necessary for them
to give a detailed account of how their former efforts succeeded. The eggs,
when sent away, are nicely packed in boxes among wet moss, and they suffer
very little injury if there be no delay in the transit.
ARTIFICIAL MODE OF SPAWNING.
“How about the streams from which the eggs are brought?” I asked. “Does
this robbery of the spawn not injure them?”
the eggs will flow out like so many peas. The eggs must be carefully roused
or washed, and the water should then be poured off. The male salmon may be
then handled in a similar way, the contact of the milt immediately changing
the eggs into a brilliant pink colour. After being again washed, the eggs may
be ladled out into the breeding-boxes, and safely left to come to maturity in
due season. Very great care is necessary in handling the ova. The eggs
distributed from Huningue are all carefully examined on their arrival, when
the bad ones are thrown out, and those that are good are counted and entered
upon the records of the establishment, which are carefully kept. The usual
way of ascertaining the quantity is by means of a little stamped measure,
which varies according to the particular fish-eggs to be counted. The ova are
watched with great care so long as they remain in the boxes at Huningue, and
any dust is removed by means of a fine camel-hair brush, and from day to day
all the eggs that become addled are removed. The applications to the
authorities at Huningue for eggs, both from individuals and associations, are
always a great deal more numerous than can be supplied; and before second
applications from the same people can be entertained, it is necessary for them
to give a detailed account of how their former efforts succeeded. The eggs,
when sent away, are nicely packed in boxes among wet moss, and they suffer
very little injury if there be no delay in the transit.
ARTIFICIAL MODE OF SPAWNING.
“How about the streams from which the eggs are brought?” I asked. “Does
this robbery of the spawn not injure them?”
Page 86
“Oh, no; we find that it makes no difference whatever. The fish are so
enormously fecund that the eggs can be got in any quantity, and no difference
be felt in the parent waters; what we obtain here are a mere percentage of the
grand totals deposited by the fish.”
Of course, as the operations are pursued over a large district of two
countries, no immediate difference will be felt; but how if these Huningue
explorateurs go on for years taking away tens of thousands of eggs? Will that
not ultimately prove a case of robbing Peter to pay Paul? I know full well that
all kinds of fish are enormously prolific, and the reader would see from the
figures given in a former section that it is so; but suppose a river, with the
breeding power of the Tay, was annually robbed of a few million eggs, the
result must some day be a slight difference in the productive power of the
water. I would like to know with exactitude if, while the waters of France are
being replenished, the rivers in Switzerland and Germany are not beginning
to be in their turn impoverished? It surely stands to reason that if the
impoverishment of streams resulting from natural causes be aided by the
carrying away of the eggs by zealous explorateurs, they must become in a
short time almost totally barren of fish. The best plan, in my opinion, is for
each river to have its own breeding-ponds on the plan of those of
Stormontfield on the river Tay which I will by and by describe.[1]
It would scarcely pay to breed the commoner fishes of the lakes and rivers,
as pike, carp, and perch; the commonest fish bred at Huningue is the fera,
whilst the most expensive is the beautiful ombre chevalier, the eggs of which
cost about a penny each before they are in the water as fish. The general
calculation, however, appertaining to the operations carried on at Huningue
gives twelve living fish for a penny. The fera is very prolific, yielding its eggs
in thousands; it is called the herring of the lakes; and the young, when first
born, are so small as scarcely to be perceptible. The superintendent at
Huningue told me that several of them had escaped by means of the canal
into the Rhine, where they had never before been found. I inquired
particularly as to the Danube salmon, but found that it was very difficult to
hatch, especially at first, great numbers of the eggs, as many sometimes as 60
or 70 per cent, being destroyed; but now the manipulators are getting better
acquainted with the modus operandi, and it is expected that by and by the
assistants at Huningue will be as successful with this fish as they are with all
others. Even allowing for a very considerable loss in the artificially-
manipulated ova—and it is thought that two-thirds at least of the eggs of this
enormously fecund that the eggs can be got in any quantity, and no difference
be felt in the parent waters; what we obtain here are a mere percentage of the
grand totals deposited by the fish.”
Of course, as the operations are pursued over a large district of two
countries, no immediate difference will be felt; but how if these Huningue
explorateurs go on for years taking away tens of thousands of eggs? Will that
not ultimately prove a case of robbing Peter to pay Paul? I know full well that
all kinds of fish are enormously prolific, and the reader would see from the
figures given in a former section that it is so; but suppose a river, with the
breeding power of the Tay, was annually robbed of a few million eggs, the
result must some day be a slight difference in the productive power of the
water. I would like to know with exactitude if, while the waters of France are
being replenished, the rivers in Switzerland and Germany are not beginning
to be in their turn impoverished? It surely stands to reason that if the
impoverishment of streams resulting from natural causes be aided by the
carrying away of the eggs by zealous explorateurs, they must become in a
short time almost totally barren of fish. The best plan, in my opinion, is for
each river to have its own breeding-ponds on the plan of those of
Stormontfield on the river Tay which I will by and by describe.[1]
It would scarcely pay to breed the commoner fishes of the lakes and rivers,
as pike, carp, and perch; the commonest fish bred at Huningue is the fera,
whilst the most expensive is the beautiful ombre chevalier, the eggs of which
cost about a penny each before they are in the water as fish. The general
calculation, however, appertaining to the operations carried on at Huningue
gives twelve living fish for a penny. The fera is very prolific, yielding its eggs
in thousands; it is called the herring of the lakes; and the young, when first
born, are so small as scarcely to be perceptible. The superintendent at
Huningue told me that several of them had escaped by means of the canal
into the Rhine, where they had never before been found. I inquired
particularly as to the Danube salmon, but found that it was very difficult to
hatch, especially at first, great numbers of the eggs, as many sometimes as 60
or 70 per cent, being destroyed; but now the manipulators are getting better
acquainted with the modus operandi, and it is expected that by and by the
assistants at Huningue will be as successful with this fish as they are with all
others. Even allowing for a very considerable loss in the artificially-
manipulated ova—and it is thought that two-thirds at least of the eggs of this
Page 87
fish are in some way lost—it is certain that the artificial system of protection
is immensely more productive in fish than the natural one, for it has been
said, in reference especially to the salmon of the river Tay, that hardly one in
a thousand of the eggs ever reaches to maturity as a proper table-fish, such is
the enormous destruction of eggs and young fry; and the percentage of
destruction in Catholic countries is greatly larger, because during the fast-
days enjoined by the church fish must be obtained.
Up to the season of 1863-64 the total number of fresh-water fish-eggs
distributed from Huningue was far above 110,000,000, and nearly the half of
these were of the finer kinds of fish, there being no less than 41,000,000 of
eggs of salmon and trout.
I have complied a tabular statement, which I insert at this place, of the
number of fish-eggs collected and distributed at Huningue for the two years
previous to my visit:—
1860-61.
Quantity Retained for
Time of Ova
Species Loss. despatched from Experiments at
Operations. provided.
the Establishment. Huningue.
1860-61.
Common trout
Salmon trout Oct. 20 to
1,943,100,
Great lake trout Mar. 17, 149 5,729,100 3,153,500 632,500
34 per cent
Rhine salmon days.
Ombre chevalier
Nov. 14 to
Fera Dec. 30, 46 8,997,000 22,000 5,573,000 3,402,000
days.
Total 14,726,100 1,965,100 8,726,500 4,034,500
Destination of the Ova despatched from the Establishment.
278 demands for establishments in 70 departments of France, and 29 demands from establishments
in Belgium, Switzerland, Bavaria, and Wurtemberg.
1861-62.
Quantity Retained for
Time of Ova
Species Loss. despatched from Experiments at
Operations. provided.
the Establishment. Huningue.
1861-62.
Common trout Oct. 20 to 6,382,900 2,602,400 3,360,000 420,500
Salmon trout Mar. 7, 135
Great lake trout days.
is immensely more productive in fish than the natural one, for it has been
said, in reference especially to the salmon of the river Tay, that hardly one in
a thousand of the eggs ever reaches to maturity as a proper table-fish, such is
the enormous destruction of eggs and young fry; and the percentage of
destruction in Catholic countries is greatly larger, because during the fast-
days enjoined by the church fish must be obtained.
Up to the season of 1863-64 the total number of fresh-water fish-eggs
distributed from Huningue was far above 110,000,000, and nearly the half of
these were of the finer kinds of fish, there being no less than 41,000,000 of
eggs of salmon and trout.
I have complied a tabular statement, which I insert at this place, of the
number of fish-eggs collected and distributed at Huningue for the two years
previous to my visit:—
1860-61.
Quantity Retained for
Time of Ova
Species Loss. despatched from Experiments at
Operations. provided.
the Establishment. Huningue.
1860-61.
Common trout
Salmon trout Oct. 20 to
1,943,100,
Great lake trout Mar. 17, 149 5,729,100 3,153,500 632,500
34 per cent
Rhine salmon days.
Ombre chevalier
Nov. 14 to
Fera Dec. 30, 46 8,997,000 22,000 5,573,000 3,402,000
days.
Total 14,726,100 1,965,100 8,726,500 4,034,500
Destination of the Ova despatched from the Establishment.
278 demands for establishments in 70 departments of France, and 29 demands from establishments
in Belgium, Switzerland, Bavaria, and Wurtemberg.
1861-62.
Quantity Retained for
Time of Ova
Species Loss. despatched from Experiments at
Operations. provided.
the Establishment. Huningue.
1861-62.
Common trout Oct. 20 to 6,382,900 2,602,400 3,360,000 420,500
Salmon trout Mar. 7, 135
Great lake trout days.
Page 88
Rhine salmon
Ombre chevalier
Nov. 16 to
Fera Dec. 25, 39 11,995,000 12,000 9,519,000 2,464,000
days.
Total 18,377,900 2,614,400 12,879,000 2,884,500
296 demands for establishments in 76 departments of France, and 39 demands from other parts of
Europe.
So far as I could ascertain, the right of fishing in France is claimed by the
Government in all navigable rivers and canals, but private persons can
purchase the power to fish; and the rent payable by those using nets varies
from £1 to £4 per annum. In common streams that are not navigable, and in
lakes, the fishery belongs to the proprietors of the surrounding land, and no
person can fish in these without permission. As to the larger river fisheries,
they are so mapped out as to prevent all possibility of dispute, no fisherman
being permitted to work his nets on a portion of water which does not belong
to him. Fishing of some kind goes on all the year round.
The following figures will indicate the money rental and the value of the
produce of the whole of the French fisheries:—
4719 miles navigable rivers £23,025
3105 miles of canals 5,845
310 miles of estuaries of rivers 46,140
930 miles of rivers and canals belonging to individual proprietors 2,700
114,889 miles of rivers and streams not navigable.
493,750 acres of lakes and ponds.
The money value of the fish caught in these waters may be stated as
follows:—
From State Returns for rivers and canals £28,880
The estuaries yield £46,140, of which the fresh waters supply one-half, giving 23,080
Rivers and canals belonging to private individuals 2,680
114,889 miles of watercourses 148,000
493,750 acres of lakes and ponds 400,000
Total £602,640
If the profits of the cultivators and expenses of the fishery be added to the
produce, we have—
Canals and watercourses £400,000
Lakes and ponds 400,000
Total production of profits and produce £800,000
Ombre chevalier
Nov. 16 to
Fera Dec. 25, 39 11,995,000 12,000 9,519,000 2,464,000
days.
Total 18,377,900 2,614,400 12,879,000 2,884,500
296 demands for establishments in 76 departments of France, and 39 demands from other parts of
Europe.
So far as I could ascertain, the right of fishing in France is claimed by the
Government in all navigable rivers and canals, but private persons can
purchase the power to fish; and the rent payable by those using nets varies
from £1 to £4 per annum. In common streams that are not navigable, and in
lakes, the fishery belongs to the proprietors of the surrounding land, and no
person can fish in these without permission. As to the larger river fisheries,
they are so mapped out as to prevent all possibility of dispute, no fisherman
being permitted to work his nets on a portion of water which does not belong
to him. Fishing of some kind goes on all the year round.
The following figures will indicate the money rental and the value of the
produce of the whole of the French fisheries:—
4719 miles navigable rivers £23,025
3105 miles of canals 5,845
310 miles of estuaries of rivers 46,140
930 miles of rivers and canals belonging to individual proprietors 2,700
114,889 miles of rivers and streams not navigable.
493,750 acres of lakes and ponds.
The money value of the fish caught in these waters may be stated as
follows:—
From State Returns for rivers and canals £28,880
The estuaries yield £46,140, of which the fresh waters supply one-half, giving 23,080
Rivers and canals belonging to private individuals 2,680
114,889 miles of watercourses 148,000
493,750 acres of lakes and ponds 400,000
Total £602,640
If the profits of the cultivators and expenses of the fishery be added to the
produce, we have—
Canals and watercourses £400,000
Lakes and ponds 400,000
Total production of profits and produce £800,000
Page 89
PISCICULTURAL ESTABLISHMENT AT BUISSE.
The piscicultural establishment of M. de Galbert, one of the most
important of the kind which exists in France, is worthy of notice. It is situated
at Buisse in the canton of Voiron in Isere, a department on the south-east
frontier of France. The works, of which the accompanying engraving is a
plan, comprise four ponds for the reception of the fish in various stages of
growth. The first (1 in the plan) is about 100 metres long by 3 m. 50 in
breadth, with a mean depth of 1 metre. It is almost divided into two parts, a
sheet of water and a stream, by a peninsula, and the division is completed by
a grating which prevents the mixing of the fish contained in each part, and
also arrests the ascent or descent of the fry. The sheet of water is supplied
from sources of an elevated temperature which diverge into the stream, and
thence into pond No. 2 at N. This basin (2) is 150 metres long, with a mean
breadth of 8 metres, and a depth varying from 1 to 2 metres. Besides the
waters from the first pond, this basin is supplied from the springs, and from
the mill-stream which rises from a rock situated at a distance of 200 metres.
This pond contains fish of the second year. A sluice or water-gate (J), placed
in the deepest part of the pond, affords the means of turning the water and the
fish contained therein into the pond No. 3. Courses of rough stones and
The piscicultural establishment of M. de Galbert, one of the most
important of the kind which exists in France, is worthy of notice. It is situated
at Buisse in the canton of Voiron in Isere, a department on the south-east
frontier of France. The works, of which the accompanying engraving is a
plan, comprise four ponds for the reception of the fish in various stages of
growth. The first (1 in the plan) is about 100 metres long by 3 m. 50 in
breadth, with a mean depth of 1 metre. It is almost divided into two parts, a
sheet of water and a stream, by a peninsula, and the division is completed by
a grating which prevents the mixing of the fish contained in each part, and
also arrests the ascent or descent of the fry. The sheet of water is supplied
from sources of an elevated temperature which diverge into the stream, and
thence into pond No. 2 at N. This basin (2) is 150 metres long, with a mean
breadth of 8 metres, and a depth varying from 1 to 2 metres. Besides the
waters from the first pond, this basin is supplied from the springs, and from
the mill-stream which rises from a rock situated at a distance of 200 metres.
This pond contains fish of the second year. A sluice or water-gate (J), placed
in the deepest part of the pond, affords the means of turning the water and the
fish contained therein into the pond No. 3. Courses of rough stones and
Page 90
weeds line the banks of the pond, and form places of shelter for the fish,
besides encouraging the growth of such shell-fish as shrimps, lobsters, etc.
The third pond (3) has a surface of about 5000 yards, with a depth equal to
that of the second pond. An underground canal (G) runs along the eastern
side, and at distances of 2 metres trenches lined with stones loosely thrown
together join the canal to the basin, and allow the fish to circulate through
these subterranean passages, where every stone becomes a means of shelter
and concealment. The adult trout can conceal themselves in the submerged
holes and crevices of the islands (F) of which there are three in the pond. The
narrowest part of the basin is crossed by a viaduct of 8 metres (N), to the arch
of which is fitted an iron grating with rods in grooves to receive either a
sluice or a snare. The sluice, formed of fine wire, keeps out the fish that
would destroy the spawn at the time of fecundation. The spawn is covered
with a layer of fine round gravel, to the thickness of 0 m. 30, which the trout
can easily raise as fast as it bursts the egg. The snare or netting encloses the
fish destined for artificial breeding without hurting them, and also secures the
fish that are to be consumed, and those which it is necessary to destroy
because of their voracity, as the pike. A floodgate placed at the lower end of
the pond permits the pond to be emptied when necessary, and an iron grating
prevents the escape of the fish. All the ponds are protected by a double line of
galvanised iron wire placed on posts armed with hooks, and yet low enough
to allow a boat to pass. The water of the ponds finally passes into the Isere,
where a permanent snare allows strange fish to penetrate into the ponds. At
spawning time a great many trout deposit their spawn there. The small pond
(4) fed by the mill-stream is a sort of reservoir for large fish destined for sale
or domestic use. Throughout the year the fish caught in the nets of the third
pond are placed in this basin, so when the spawning season arrives it is a vast
nursery for the purpose of reproduction. In the house (O) built near the bridge
(N) of the third pond lodge the guard and the hatching-apparatus. The
appareils are similar to those employed at the Collége de France and are
supplied from a spring. One particular appareil, placed in a source of which
the temperature never varies, is slightly different from the other models: it is
simply zinc boxes pierced with very fine holes. This apparatus, which has
been in use for three years, has given great satisfaction. It may be added that
the establishment at Buisse can supply 40,000 or 50,000 young trout in the
year at five centimes each, a result which is mainly due to the care and
solicitude with which M. de Galbert has conducted his operations.
besides encouraging the growth of such shell-fish as shrimps, lobsters, etc.
The third pond (3) has a surface of about 5000 yards, with a depth equal to
that of the second pond. An underground canal (G) runs along the eastern
side, and at distances of 2 metres trenches lined with stones loosely thrown
together join the canal to the basin, and allow the fish to circulate through
these subterranean passages, where every stone becomes a means of shelter
and concealment. The adult trout can conceal themselves in the submerged
holes and crevices of the islands (F) of which there are three in the pond. The
narrowest part of the basin is crossed by a viaduct of 8 metres (N), to the arch
of which is fitted an iron grating with rods in grooves to receive either a
sluice or a snare. The sluice, formed of fine wire, keeps out the fish that
would destroy the spawn at the time of fecundation. The spawn is covered
with a layer of fine round gravel, to the thickness of 0 m. 30, which the trout
can easily raise as fast as it bursts the egg. The snare or netting encloses the
fish destined for artificial breeding without hurting them, and also secures the
fish that are to be consumed, and those which it is necessary to destroy
because of their voracity, as the pike. A floodgate placed at the lower end of
the pond permits the pond to be emptied when necessary, and an iron grating
prevents the escape of the fish. All the ponds are protected by a double line of
galvanised iron wire placed on posts armed with hooks, and yet low enough
to allow a boat to pass. The water of the ponds finally passes into the Isere,
where a permanent snare allows strange fish to penetrate into the ponds. At
spawning time a great many trout deposit their spawn there. The small pond
(4) fed by the mill-stream is a sort of reservoir for large fish destined for sale
or domestic use. Throughout the year the fish caught in the nets of the third
pond are placed in this basin, so when the spawning season arrives it is a vast
nursery for the purpose of reproduction. In the house (O) built near the bridge
(N) of the third pond lodge the guard and the hatching-apparatus. The
appareils are similar to those employed at the Collége de France and are
supplied from a spring. One particular appareil, placed in a source of which
the temperature never varies, is slightly different from the other models: it is
simply zinc boxes pierced with very fine holes. This apparatus, which has
been in use for three years, has given great satisfaction. It may be added that
the establishment at Buisse can supply 40,000 or 50,000 young trout in the
year at five centimes each, a result which is mainly due to the care and
solicitude with which M. de Galbert has conducted his operations.
Page 91
What strikes us most in connection with the history of French fish-culture
is the essentially practical nature of all the experiments which have been
entered upon. There has been no toying in France with this revived art of fish-
breeding. The moment it was ascertained that Remy’s discoveries in artificial
spawning were capable of being carried out on the largest possible scale, that
scale was at once resolved upon, and the government of the country became
responsible for its success, which was immediate and substantial. The
discoverer of the art was handsomely rewarded; and the great building at
Huningue, used as a place for the reception and distribution of fish-eggs,
testifies to the anxiety of France to make pisciculture one of the most
practical industries of the present day. Unceasing efforts are still being made
by the government to extend the art, so that every acre of water in that
country may be as industriously turned to profit as the acres of land are. Why
should not an acre of water become as productive as an acre of land? We have
an immensity of water space that is comparatively useless. The area occupied
by the water of our lakes and rivers may be estimated from the Thames,
which occupies a space of five thousand square miles. The French people are
now beginning thoroughly to appreciate the value of their lakes and rivers.
Think of the fish-ponds of Doombes being of the extent of thirty thousand
acres! No wonder that in France pisciculture has become a government
question, and been taken under the protecting wing of the state.
The different kinds of water in France are carefully considered, and only
fish suitable for them placed therein. In marshy places eels alone are
deposited, whilst in bright and rapid waters trout and other suitable fish are
now to be found in great plenty. Attention is at present being turned to sea-
fish, and the latest “idea” that has been promulgated in connection with the
cultivation of sea-animals is turtle-culture. The artificial multiplication of
turtle, on the plan of securing the eggs and protecting the young till they are
able to be left to their own guidance, is advocated by M. Salles, who is
connected with the French navy, and who seems to have a considerable
knowledge of the nature and habits of the turtle. To some extent turtle-culture
is already carried on in the island of Ascension—so far at least as the
protection of the eggs and watching over the young is concerned. M. Salles
proposes, however, to do more than is yet done at Ascension; he thinks that,
to arrive quickly at a useful result, it would be best to obtain a certain number
of these animals from places where they are still abundant, and transport
them to such parks or receptacles as might be established on the coasts of
is the essentially practical nature of all the experiments which have been
entered upon. There has been no toying in France with this revived art of fish-
breeding. The moment it was ascertained that Remy’s discoveries in artificial
spawning were capable of being carried out on the largest possible scale, that
scale was at once resolved upon, and the government of the country became
responsible for its success, which was immediate and substantial. The
discoverer of the art was handsomely rewarded; and the great building at
Huningue, used as a place for the reception and distribution of fish-eggs,
testifies to the anxiety of France to make pisciculture one of the most
practical industries of the present day. Unceasing efforts are still being made
by the government to extend the art, so that every acre of water in that
country may be as industriously turned to profit as the acres of land are. Why
should not an acre of water become as productive as an acre of land? We have
an immensity of water space that is comparatively useless. The area occupied
by the water of our lakes and rivers may be estimated from the Thames,
which occupies a space of five thousand square miles. The French people are
now beginning thoroughly to appreciate the value of their lakes and rivers.
Think of the fish-ponds of Doombes being of the extent of thirty thousand
acres! No wonder that in France pisciculture has become a government
question, and been taken under the protecting wing of the state.
The different kinds of water in France are carefully considered, and only
fish suitable for them placed therein. In marshy places eels alone are
deposited, whilst in bright and rapid waters trout and other suitable fish are
now to be found in great plenty. Attention is at present being turned to sea-
fish, and the latest “idea” that has been promulgated in connection with the
cultivation of sea-animals is turtle-culture. The artificial multiplication of
turtle, on the plan of securing the eggs and protecting the young till they are
able to be left to their own guidance, is advocated by M. Salles, who is
connected with the French navy, and who seems to have a considerable
knowledge of the nature and habits of the turtle. To some extent turtle-culture
is already carried on in the island of Ascension—so far at least as the
protection of the eggs and watching over the young is concerned. M. Salles
proposes, however, to do more than is yet done at Ascension; he thinks that,
to arrive quickly at a useful result, it would be best to obtain a certain number
of these animals from places where they are still abundant, and transport
them to such parks or receptacles as might be established on the coasts of
Page 92
France and Corsica, where, at one time, turtles were plentiful. Animals about
to lay would be the best to secure for the proposed experiments; and these
might be captured when seeking the sandy shores for the purpose of
depositing their eggs. Male turtles might at the same time be taken about the
islets which they frequent. A vessel of sufficient dimensions should be in
readiness to bring away the precious freight; and the captured animals, on
arriving at their destination, should be deposited in a park chosen under the
following considerations:—The formation of the sides to be an inclosure by
means of an artificial barrier of moderate height, formed of stones, and
perpendicular within, so as to prevent the escape of the animals, but so
constructed as to admit the sea, and, at the same time, allow of a large sandy
background for the deposition of the eggs, which are about the size of those
laid by geese. As the turtles are herbivorous, the bottom of the park should be
covered with sea-weeds and marine plants of all kinds, similar to those the
animal is accustomed to at home. A fine southern exposure ought to be
chosen for the site of the park, in order to obtain as much of the sunshine as
possible, heat being the one grand element in the hatching of the eggs. Turtles
are very fond of sunshine, and float lazily about in the tropical water, seldom
coming to the shore except to lay. This they do in the night-time: crawling
cautiously ashore, and scraping a large hole in a part of the sand which is
never reached by the tide, they deposit their eggs, and carefully cover them
with the sand, leaving the sun to effect the work of quickening them into life.
It may be as well to state here that the French people eat all kinds of fish,
whether they be from the sea, the river, the lake, or the canal. In Scotland and
Ireland the salmon only is bred artificially as yet, and chiefly because it is a
valuable and money-yielding animal, and no other fresh-water fish is
regarded there as being of value except for sport. In France large quantities of
eels are bred and eaten; but in Scotland, and in some parts of England, the
people have such a horror of that fish that they will not touch it. This of
course is due to prejudice, as the eel is good for food in a very high degree. In
all Roman Catholic countries there are so many fast-days that fish-food
becomes to the people an essential article of diet; in France this is so, and the
consequence is that a good many private amateurs in pisciculture are to be
found throughout the empire; but the mission of the French Government in
connection with fish-culture is apparently to meddle only with the rearing and
acclimatising of the more valuable fishes. It would be a waste of energy for
the authorities at Huningue to commence the culture of the carp or perch. In
to lay would be the best to secure for the proposed experiments; and these
might be captured when seeking the sandy shores for the purpose of
depositing their eggs. Male turtles might at the same time be taken about the
islets which they frequent. A vessel of sufficient dimensions should be in
readiness to bring away the precious freight; and the captured animals, on
arriving at their destination, should be deposited in a park chosen under the
following considerations:—The formation of the sides to be an inclosure by
means of an artificial barrier of moderate height, formed of stones, and
perpendicular within, so as to prevent the escape of the animals, but so
constructed as to admit the sea, and, at the same time, allow of a large sandy
background for the deposition of the eggs, which are about the size of those
laid by geese. As the turtles are herbivorous, the bottom of the park should be
covered with sea-weeds and marine plants of all kinds, similar to those the
animal is accustomed to at home. A fine southern exposure ought to be
chosen for the site of the park, in order to obtain as much of the sunshine as
possible, heat being the one grand element in the hatching of the eggs. Turtles
are very fond of sunshine, and float lazily about in the tropical water, seldom
coming to the shore except to lay. This they do in the night-time: crawling
cautiously ashore, and scraping a large hole in a part of the sand which is
never reached by the tide, they deposit their eggs, and carefully cover them
with the sand, leaving the sun to effect the work of quickening them into life.
It may be as well to state here that the French people eat all kinds of fish,
whether they be from the sea, the river, the lake, or the canal. In Scotland and
Ireland the salmon only is bred artificially as yet, and chiefly because it is a
valuable and money-yielding animal, and no other fresh-water fish is
regarded there as being of value except for sport. In France large quantities of
eels are bred and eaten; but in Scotland, and in some parts of England, the
people have such a horror of that fish that they will not touch it. This of
course is due to prejudice, as the eel is good for food in a very high degree. In
all Roman Catholic countries there are so many fast-days that fish-food
becomes to the people an essential article of diet; in France this is so, and the
consequence is that a good many private amateurs in pisciculture are to be
found throughout the empire; but the mission of the French Government in
connection with fish-culture is apparently to meddle only with the rearing and
acclimatising of the more valuable fishes. It would be a waste of energy for
the authorities at Huningue to commence the culture of the carp or perch. In
Page 93
our Protestant country there is no demand for the commoner river or lake
fishes except for the purposes of sport; and with one or two exceptions, such
as the Lochleven trout, the charr, etc., there is no commerce carried on in
these fishes. One has but to visit the fishmarket at Paris to observe that all
kinds of fresh-water fish and river crustacea are there ranked as saleable, and
largely purchased. The mode of keeping these animals fresh is worthy of
being followed here. They are kept alive till wanted in large basins and
troughs, where they may at all times be seen swimming about in a very lively
state.
As soon as the piscicultural system became known, it was rapidly extended
over the whole continent of Europe, and the rivers of Germany were among
the first to participate in the advantages of the artificial system. In particular
may be noticed the efforts made to increase the supplies of the Danube
salmon, a beautiful and excellent food-fish, with a body similar to the trout,
but still more shapely and graceful, and which, if allowed time, is said to
grow to an enormous size. The young salmon of the Danube are always of a
darker colour than those a little older, but they become lighter in colour as
they progress in years. The mouth of this fish is furnished with very strong
teeth; its back is of a reddish grey, its sides and belly perfectly white; the fins
are bluish white; the back and the upper part of both sides are slightly and
irregularly speckled with black and roundish red spots. This fish is also very
prolific. Professor Wimmer of Landshut, the authorities at Huningue
mentioned, had frequently obtained as many as 40,000 eggs from a female
specimen which weighed only eighteen pounds. Our own Salmo salar is not
so fecund, it being well understood that a thousand eggs per pound weight is
about the average spawning power of the British salmon. The ova of the
Danube salmon are hatched in half the time that our salmon eggs require for
incubation—viz. in fifty-six days—while the young fry attain the weight of
one pound in the first year; and by the third year, if well supplied with the
requisite quantity of food, they will have attained a weight of four pounds.
The divisions of growth, as compared with Salmo salar, are pretty nearly as
follows:—That fish, curiously enough, may at the end of two years be eight
pounds in weight, or it may not be half that number of ounces. One batch of a
salmon hatching go to the sea at the end of the first year, and rapidly return as
grilse, handsome four-pound fish, whilst the other moiety remain in the fresh
water till the expiry of the second year from the time of birth, so that they
require about thirty months to become four-pound fish, by which time the
fishes except for the purposes of sport; and with one or two exceptions, such
as the Lochleven trout, the charr, etc., there is no commerce carried on in
these fishes. One has but to visit the fishmarket at Paris to observe that all
kinds of fresh-water fish and river crustacea are there ranked as saleable, and
largely purchased. The mode of keeping these animals fresh is worthy of
being followed here. They are kept alive till wanted in large basins and
troughs, where they may at all times be seen swimming about in a very lively
state.
As soon as the piscicultural system became known, it was rapidly extended
over the whole continent of Europe, and the rivers of Germany were among
the first to participate in the advantages of the artificial system. In particular
may be noticed the efforts made to increase the supplies of the Danube
salmon, a beautiful and excellent food-fish, with a body similar to the trout,
but still more shapely and graceful, and which, if allowed time, is said to
grow to an enormous size. The young salmon of the Danube are always of a
darker colour than those a little older, but they become lighter in colour as
they progress in years. The mouth of this fish is furnished with very strong
teeth; its back is of a reddish grey, its sides and belly perfectly white; the fins
are bluish white; the back and the upper part of both sides are slightly and
irregularly speckled with black and roundish red spots. This fish is also very
prolific. Professor Wimmer of Landshut, the authorities at Huningue
mentioned, had frequently obtained as many as 40,000 eggs from a female
specimen which weighed only eighteen pounds. Our own Salmo salar is not
so fecund, it being well understood that a thousand eggs per pound weight is
about the average spawning power of the British salmon. The ova of the
Danube salmon are hatched in half the time that our salmon eggs require for
incubation—viz. in fifty-six days—while the young fry attain the weight of
one pound in the first year; and by the third year, if well supplied with the
requisite quantity of food, they will have attained a weight of four pounds.
The divisions of growth, as compared with Salmo salar, are pretty nearly as
follows:—That fish, curiously enough, may at the end of two years be eight
pounds in weight, or it may not be half that number of ounces. One batch of a
salmon hatching go to the sea at the end of the first year, and rapidly return as
grilse, handsome four-pound fish, whilst the other moiety remain in the fresh
water till the expiry of the second year from the time of birth, so that they
require about thirty months to become four-pound fish, by which time the
Page 94
first moiety are salmon of eight or ten pounds! These are ascertained facts.
This is rapid work as compared with the Danube fish, which, after the first
year, grows only at about the rate of eighteen ounces per annum. But even at
that rate, fish-cultivation must pay well. Suppose that by the protected or
piscicultural system a full third (i.e. 13,500) of the 40,000 eggs arrive in
twelve months at the stage of pound fish, and are sold at the rate of
threepence per pound weight, a revenue of £162 would thus result in one
year’s time from a single pair of breeding salmon! Two pairs would, of
course, double the amount, and so on.
A series of well-conducted operations in fish-culture has been carried on
for about twelve years on the river Tay about five miles from Perth; and as
these have attracted a great amount of attention, they merit a somewhat
lengthened description. The breeding-ponds at Stormontfield are beautifully
situated on a sloping haugh on the banks of the Tay, and are sheltered at the
back by a plantation of trees. The ground has been laid out to the best
advantage, and the whole of the ponds, water-runs, etc., have been planned
and constructed by Mr. Peter Burn, C.E., and they have answered the purpose
for which they were designed admirably. The supply of water is obtained
from a rapid mill-stream, which runs in a line with the river Tay, as is shown
by a small plan on the next page. The necessary quantity of water is first run
from this stream into a reservoir, from which it is filtered through pipes into a
little watercourse at the head of the range of boxes from whence it is laid on.
These boxes are fixed on a gentle declivity, half-way between the mill-race
and the Tay, and by means of the slope the water falls beautifully from one to
another of the three hundred “procreant cradles” in a gradual but constant
stream, and collects at the bottom of the range of boxes in a kind of dam, and
thence runs into a small lake or depôt where the young fish are kept. Until
lately only one such pond was to be found at Stormontfield, but another pond
for the smolts has now been added in order to complete the suite. A sluice
made of fine wire-grating admits of the superfluous water being run off into
the Tay, so that an equable supply is invariably kept up. It also serves for an
outlet to the fish when it is deemed expedient to send them out to try their
fortune in the greater deep near at hand, and for which their pond experience
has been a mode of preparation. The planning of the boxes, ponds, sluices,
etc., has been accomplished with great ingenuity; and one can only regret that
the whole apparatus is not three times the size, so that the Tay proprietors
This is rapid work as compared with the Danube fish, which, after the first
year, grows only at about the rate of eighteen ounces per annum. But even at
that rate, fish-cultivation must pay well. Suppose that by the protected or
piscicultural system a full third (i.e. 13,500) of the 40,000 eggs arrive in
twelve months at the stage of pound fish, and are sold at the rate of
threepence per pound weight, a revenue of £162 would thus result in one
year’s time from a single pair of breeding salmon! Two pairs would, of
course, double the amount, and so on.
A series of well-conducted operations in fish-culture has been carried on
for about twelve years on the river Tay about five miles from Perth; and as
these have attracted a great amount of attention, they merit a somewhat
lengthened description. The breeding-ponds at Stormontfield are beautifully
situated on a sloping haugh on the banks of the Tay, and are sheltered at the
back by a plantation of trees. The ground has been laid out to the best
advantage, and the whole of the ponds, water-runs, etc., have been planned
and constructed by Mr. Peter Burn, C.E., and they have answered the purpose
for which they were designed admirably. The supply of water is obtained
from a rapid mill-stream, which runs in a line with the river Tay, as is shown
by a small plan on the next page. The necessary quantity of water is first run
from this stream into a reservoir, from which it is filtered through pipes into a
little watercourse at the head of the range of boxes from whence it is laid on.
These boxes are fixed on a gentle declivity, half-way between the mill-race
and the Tay, and by means of the slope the water falls beautifully from one to
another of the three hundred “procreant cradles” in a gradual but constant
stream, and collects at the bottom of the range of boxes in a kind of dam, and
thence runs into a small lake or depôt where the young fish are kept. Until
lately only one such pond was to be found at Stormontfield, but another pond
for the smolts has now been added in order to complete the suite. A sluice
made of fine wire-grating admits of the superfluous water being run off into
the Tay, so that an equable supply is invariably kept up. It also serves for an
outlet to the fish when it is deemed expedient to send them out to try their
fortune in the greater deep near at hand, and for which their pond experience
has been a mode of preparation. The planning of the boxes, ponds, sluices,
etc., has been accomplished with great ingenuity; and one can only regret that
the whole apparatus is not three times the size, so that the Tay proprietors
Page 95
might breed annually a million of salmon, which would add largely to the
productiveness of that river, and of course aid in increasing the rental.
ORIGINAL BREEDING-POND AT
STORMONTFIELD.
K. Pipe from mill-race
to pond.
L. Pipe to empty pond.
A. Mill-race.
M. Pipe from mill-race
B. Filtering-pond.
to filtering-pond.
C. Hatching-boxes.
n n. Discharge-pipes
D. Rearing-pond.
from do.
E. Upper canal.
O. Do. do. to lower
F. Lower canal.
canal.
G. Connecting stream
P. Sluices from pond.
of C and D.
R. Marking-box.
H. By-run to river.
S. Keeper’s house.
T V. Sluices from lower
canal.
For the purpose of showing the level of the pond at Stormontfield I beg to
introduce what the French people call “a profile.”
productiveness of that river, and of course aid in increasing the rental.
ORIGINAL BREEDING-POND AT
STORMONTFIELD.
K. Pipe from mill-race
to pond.
L. Pipe to empty pond.
A. Mill-race.
M. Pipe from mill-race
B. Filtering-pond.
to filtering-pond.
C. Hatching-boxes.
n n. Discharge-pipes
D. Rearing-pond.
from do.
E. Upper canal.
O. Do. do. to lower
F. Lower canal.
canal.
G. Connecting stream
P. Sluices from pond.
of C and D.
R. Marking-box.
H. By-run to river.
S. Keeper’s house.
T V. Sluices from lower
canal.
For the purpose of showing the level of the pond at Stormontfield I beg to
introduce what the French people call “a profile.”
Page 96
PROFILE OF STORMONTFIELD SALMON-BREEDING PONDS.
C. Egg-boxes.
A. Source of water-supply.
D. Pond for young fish.
B. Pond from which to filter water on boxes.
E. River Tay.
The salmon-breeding operations at Stormontfield originated at a meeting
of the proprietors of the river Tay held in July 1852, when a communication
by Dr. Eisdale was read on the subject of artificial propagation; and Mr.
Thomas Ashworth of Poynton detailed the experiments which had been
conducted at his Irish fisheries. This gentleman, who takes a great and
practical interest in all matters relating to fisheries and the breeding of fish—
and to whom I am greatly indebted for practical information—said that he
had long entertained the opinion that it would be quite as easy to propagate
salmon artificially in our rivers as it is to raise silkworms on mulberry leaves,
though the former were under water and the latter in the open air; “indeed it
has become an established fact,” said Mr. Ashworth, “that salmon and other
fish may be propagated artificially in ponds in numbers amounting to
millions, at a small cost, and thus be protected from their natural enemies for
the first year or two of their existence, after which they will be much more
able, comparatively speaking, to take care of themselves, than can be the case
in the earlier stages of their existence.” Mr. Ashworth estimates the expense
of artificial propagation as about one pound for each thousand fish, or one
farthing per salmon. On the suggestion of Mr. Ashworth, a practical
pisciculturist was engaged to inaugurate the breeding operations at
Stormontfield, and to teach a local fisherman the art of artificial spawning.
The operation of preparing the spawn for the boxes was commenced on the
23d of November 1853, and in the course of a month 300,000 ova were
deposited in the 300 boxes, which had been carefully filled with prepared
gravel, and made all ready for their reception. Mr. Ramsbottom, who
conducted the manipulation, says the river Tay is one of the finest breeding
C. Egg-boxes.
A. Source of water-supply.
D. Pond for young fish.
B. Pond from which to filter water on boxes.
E. River Tay.
The salmon-breeding operations at Stormontfield originated at a meeting
of the proprietors of the river Tay held in July 1852, when a communication
by Dr. Eisdale was read on the subject of artificial propagation; and Mr.
Thomas Ashworth of Poynton detailed the experiments which had been
conducted at his Irish fisheries. This gentleman, who takes a great and
practical interest in all matters relating to fisheries and the breeding of fish—
and to whom I am greatly indebted for practical information—said that he
had long entertained the opinion that it would be quite as easy to propagate
salmon artificially in our rivers as it is to raise silkworms on mulberry leaves,
though the former were under water and the latter in the open air; “indeed it
has become an established fact,” said Mr. Ashworth, “that salmon and other
fish may be propagated artificially in ponds in numbers amounting to
millions, at a small cost, and thus be protected from their natural enemies for
the first year or two of their existence, after which they will be much more
able, comparatively speaking, to take care of themselves, than can be the case
in the earlier stages of their existence.” Mr. Ashworth estimates the expense
of artificial propagation as about one pound for each thousand fish, or one
farthing per salmon. On the suggestion of Mr. Ashworth, a practical
pisciculturist was engaged to inaugurate the breeding operations at
Stormontfield, and to teach a local fisherman the art of artificial spawning.
The operation of preparing the spawn for the boxes was commenced on the
23d of November 1853, and in the course of a month 300,000 ova were
deposited in the 300 boxes, which had been carefully filled with prepared
gravel, and made all ready for their reception. Mr. Ramsbottom, who
conducted the manipulation, says the river Tay is one of the finest breeding
Page 97
streams in the world, and thinks that it would be presumptuous to limit the
numbers of salmon that might be bred in it were the river cultivated to the full
extent of its capabilities.
The date when the first of the eggs deposited was observed to be hatched
was on the 31st of March, a period of more than four months after the
stocking of the boxes; and during April and May most of the eggs had started
into life, and the fry were observed waddling about the breeding-boxes, and
were in June promoted to a place in the reception-pond, being then tiny fish a
little more than an inch long. Sir William Jardine, who has taken a warm
interest in the Stormontfield operations, thought that the first year’s
experiments were remarkably successful in showing the practicability of
hatching, rearing, and maintaining in health, a very large number of young
fish, at a comparatively trifling cost. The artificial breeding of salmon is still
carried on at these ponds, and with very great success, when their limited
extent is taken into account. They have sensibly increased the stock of fish in
the Tay, and also, as I will by and by relate, under the separate head of “The
Salmon,” contributed greatly to the solution of the various mysteries
connected with the growth of that fish. The fish, it is remarkable, suffer no
deterioration of any kind by being bred in the ponds, and can compare in
every respect with those bred in the river.
numbers of salmon that might be bred in it were the river cultivated to the full
extent of its capabilities.
The date when the first of the eggs deposited was observed to be hatched
was on the 31st of March, a period of more than four months after the
stocking of the boxes; and during April and May most of the eggs had started
into life, and the fry were observed waddling about the breeding-boxes, and
were in June promoted to a place in the reception-pond, being then tiny fish a
little more than an inch long. Sir William Jardine, who has taken a warm
interest in the Stormontfield operations, thought that the first year’s
experiments were remarkably successful in showing the practicability of
hatching, rearing, and maintaining in health, a very large number of young
fish, at a comparatively trifling cost. The artificial breeding of salmon is still
carried on at these ponds, and with very great success, when their limited
extent is taken into account. They have sensibly increased the stock of fish in
the Tay, and also, as I will by and by relate, under the separate head of “The
Salmon,” contributed greatly to the solution of the various mysteries
connected with the growth of that fish. The fish, it is remarkable, suffer no
deterioration of any kind by being bred in the ponds, and can compare in
every respect with those bred in the river.
Page 98
DESIGN FOR A SERIES OF SALMON-BREEDING PONDS.
Source of supply at top. Adult salmon pond to the left.
Breeding-boxes next. River at foot of plan.
Parr-pond after. Ornamental walks.
Smolt-pond to the right. Clumps of trees, etc., according to taste.
The plan of the ponds at Stormontfield, as originally constructed, will be a
better guide to persons desiring information than any written description. The
engraving, with the double pond, shows a design of my own, founded on the
Stormontfield suite it contains a separate pond for the detention, for a time, of
such large fish as may be taken with their spawn not fully matured. Cottages
for the superintendent of the ponds and his assistants are also shown in the
plan.
The ponds at Stormontfield were originally designed with a view to breed
300,000 fish per annum, but after a trial of two years it was found, from a
speciality in the natural history of the salmon elsewhere alluded to, that only
half that number of fish could be bred in each year. Hence the necessity for
Source of supply at top. Adult salmon pond to the left.
Breeding-boxes next. River at foot of plan.
Parr-pond after. Ornamental walks.
Smolt-pond to the right. Clumps of trees, etc., according to taste.
The plan of the ponds at Stormontfield, as originally constructed, will be a
better guide to persons desiring information than any written description. The
engraving, with the double pond, shows a design of my own, founded on the
Stormontfield suite it contains a separate pond for the detention, for a time, of
such large fish as may be taken with their spawn not fully matured. Cottages
for the superintendent of the ponds and his assistants are also shown in the
plan.
The ponds at Stormontfield were originally designed with a view to breed
300,000 fish per annum, but after a trial of two years it was found, from a
speciality in the natural history of the salmon elsewhere alluded to, that only
half that number of fish could be bred in each year. Hence the necessity for
Page 99
the recently-constructed smolt-pond, which will now admit of a hatching at
Stormontfield of at least 350,000 eggs every year. An additional reason for
the construction of the new pond was the fact of the old one being too small
in proportion to the breeding-boxes. Its dimensions were 223 feet by 112 feet
at its longest and broadest parts. The new pond is nearly an acre in extent, and
is well adapted for the reception of the young fish.
The egg-boxes at Stormontfield, unlike those at Huningue, are in the open
air, and in consequence the eggs are exposed to the natural temperature, and
take, on an average of the seasons, about 120 days to ripen into fish. For
instance, the eggs laid down in November 1863 had not come to life at the
time of my visit to the ponds in the second week of March 1864. The young
fish, as soon as they are able to eat—which is not for a good few days, as the
umbilical bag supplies all the food that is required for a time by the newly-
hatched animal—are fed with particles of boiled liver. On the occasion of my
last visit (December 22, 1864), Mr. Marshall threw a few crumbs into the
pond, which caused an immediate rising of the fry at that spot in great
numbers. It would, of course, have been a simple plan to turn each year’s fish
out of the ponds into the river as they were hatched, but it was thought
advisable rather to detain them till they were seized with the migratory
instinct and assumed the scales of smolthood, which occurs, as already stated
in other parts of this work, at the age of one and two years respectively.
Indeed, the experiments conducted at the Stormontfield ponds have
conclusively settled the long-fought battle of the parr, and proved
indisputably that the parr is the young of the salmon, that it becomes
transformed to a smolt, grows into a grilse, and ultimately attains the honour
of full-grown salmonhood.
The anomaly in the growth of the parr was also attempted to be solved at
Stormontfield, but without success. In November and December 1857
provision was made for hatching in separate compartments the artificially-
impregnated ova of—1, parr and salmon; 2, grilse and salmon; 3, grilse pure;
4, salmon pure. It was found, when the young of these different matches
came to be examined early in April 1859, that the sizes of each kind varied a
little, Mr. Buist, the superintendent of fisheries, informing us that—“1st, the
produce of the salmon with salmon are 4 in. in length; 2d, grilse with salmon,
3½ in.; 3d, grilse with grilse, 3½ in.; 4th, parr with grilse, 3 in.; 5th, smolt
from large pond, 5 in.” These results of a varied manipulation never got a fair
chance of being of use as a proof in the disputation; for, owing to the limited
Stormontfield of at least 350,000 eggs every year. An additional reason for
the construction of the new pond was the fact of the old one being too small
in proportion to the breeding-boxes. Its dimensions were 223 feet by 112 feet
at its longest and broadest parts. The new pond is nearly an acre in extent, and
is well adapted for the reception of the young fish.
The egg-boxes at Stormontfield, unlike those at Huningue, are in the open
air, and in consequence the eggs are exposed to the natural temperature, and
take, on an average of the seasons, about 120 days to ripen into fish. For
instance, the eggs laid down in November 1863 had not come to life at the
time of my visit to the ponds in the second week of March 1864. The young
fish, as soon as they are able to eat—which is not for a good few days, as the
umbilical bag supplies all the food that is required for a time by the newly-
hatched animal—are fed with particles of boiled liver. On the occasion of my
last visit (December 22, 1864), Mr. Marshall threw a few crumbs into the
pond, which caused an immediate rising of the fry at that spot in great
numbers. It would, of course, have been a simple plan to turn each year’s fish
out of the ponds into the river as they were hatched, but it was thought
advisable rather to detain them till they were seized with the migratory
instinct and assumed the scales of smolthood, which occurs, as already stated
in other parts of this work, at the age of one and two years respectively.
Indeed, the experiments conducted at the Stormontfield ponds have
conclusively settled the long-fought battle of the parr, and proved
indisputably that the parr is the young of the salmon, that it becomes
transformed to a smolt, grows into a grilse, and ultimately attains the honour
of full-grown salmonhood.
The anomaly in the growth of the parr was also attempted to be solved at
Stormontfield, but without success. In November and December 1857
provision was made for hatching in separate compartments the artificially-
impregnated ova of—1, parr and salmon; 2, grilse and salmon; 3, grilse pure;
4, salmon pure. It was found, when the young of these different matches
came to be examined early in April 1859, that the sizes of each kind varied a
little, Mr. Buist, the superintendent of fisheries, informing us that—“1st, the
produce of the salmon with salmon are 4 in. in length; 2d, grilse with salmon,
3½ in.; 3d, grilse with grilse, 3½ in.; 4th, parr with grilse, 3 in.; 5th, smolt
from large pond, 5 in.” These results of a varied manipulation never got a fair
chance of being of use as a proof in the disputation; for, owing to the limited
Page 100
extent of the ponds at the time, the experiments had to be matured in such
small boxes or ponds as evidently tended to stunt the growth of the fish. Up
to the present time the riddle which has so long puzzled our naturalists in
connection with the growth of the salmon has not been solved. A visitor
whom I met at the ponds was of opinion that a sufficient quantity of milt was
not used in the fructification of the eggs, as the male fish were scarcer than
the female ones, and that those eggs which first came into contact with the
milt produced the stronger fish.
“Peter of the Pools” (Mr. Buist) says that what strikes a stranger who visits
the ponds most is the great disparity in the size of fish of the same age, the
difference of which can only be that of a few weeks, as all were hatched by
the month of May. That there are strong and weak fry from the moment that
they burst the covering admits not of a doubt, and that the early fish may very
speedily be singled out from among the late ones is also quite certain. In the
course of a few weeks the smolts that are to leave at the end of the first year
can be noted. The keeper’s opinion is that at feeding-time the weak are kept
back by the strong, and therefore are not likely to thrive so fast as those that
get a larger portion of the food; he lays great stress on feeding, and his
opinion on that subject is entitled to consideration.
At the time of the visit alluded to one of the ponds (the original one) was
swarming with young salmon hatched out in March and April 1864, the eggs
having been placed in the boxes in November and December 1863. Half of
these would depart from the ponds as smolts during May 1865; the other half,
I suppose, would be transferred to the new pond, as there is direct
communication with both of the ponds from the canal at the foot of the suite
of breeding-boxes, which have been lately renewed and improved. The
requirements of spawning only once in two seasons have not been strictly
observed of late years, so that eggs were laid down in both the years 1862 and
1863. In the former of those years the ova laid down were 250,000, and in
1863 about 80,000; indeed, no more could be obtained, in consequence of the
river being in an unfavourable state for capturing the gravid fish.
The guiding of the smolts from the ponds to the river is easily managed
through the provision made at Stormontfield for that purpose, and which
consists of a runlet lined with wood, protected at the pond by a perforated
zinc sluice, and terminating near the river in a kind of reception-chamber,
about four feet square, which, is likewise provided with a zinc sluice (also
perforated), to keep the fish from getting away till the arranged time, thus
small boxes or ponds as evidently tended to stunt the growth of the fish. Up
to the present time the riddle which has so long puzzled our naturalists in
connection with the growth of the salmon has not been solved. A visitor
whom I met at the ponds was of opinion that a sufficient quantity of milt was
not used in the fructification of the eggs, as the male fish were scarcer than
the female ones, and that those eggs which first came into contact with the
milt produced the stronger fish.
“Peter of the Pools” (Mr. Buist) says that what strikes a stranger who visits
the ponds most is the great disparity in the size of fish of the same age, the
difference of which can only be that of a few weeks, as all were hatched by
the month of May. That there are strong and weak fry from the moment that
they burst the covering admits not of a doubt, and that the early fish may very
speedily be singled out from among the late ones is also quite certain. In the
course of a few weeks the smolts that are to leave at the end of the first year
can be noted. The keeper’s opinion is that at feeding-time the weak are kept
back by the strong, and therefore are not likely to thrive so fast as those that
get a larger portion of the food; he lays great stress on feeding, and his
opinion on that subject is entitled to consideration.
At the time of the visit alluded to one of the ponds (the original one) was
swarming with young salmon hatched out in March and April 1864, the eggs
having been placed in the boxes in November and December 1863. Half of
these would depart from the ponds as smolts during May 1865; the other half,
I suppose, would be transferred to the new pond, as there is direct
communication with both of the ponds from the canal at the foot of the suite
of breeding-boxes, which have been lately renewed and improved. The
requirements of spawning only once in two seasons have not been strictly
observed of late years, so that eggs were laid down in both the years 1862 and
1863. In the former of those years the ova laid down were 250,000, and in
1863 about 80,000; indeed, no more could be obtained, in consequence of the
river being in an unfavourable state for capturing the gravid fish.
The guiding of the smolts from the ponds to the river is easily managed
through the provision made at Stormontfield for that purpose, and which
consists of a runlet lined with wood, protected at the pond by a perforated
zinc sluice, and terminating near the river in a kind of reception-chamber,
about four feet square, which, is likewise provided with a zinc sluice (also
perforated), to keep the fish from getting away till the arranged time, thus
Page 101
affording proper facilities for the marking and examination of departing
broods. [See plan.] The sluice being lifted, the current of water is sufficiently
strong to carry the fish down a gentle slope to the Tay, into which they
proceed in considerable quantities, day by day, till all have departed; the
parrs, strange to say, evincing no desire to remove, although, of course, being
in the same breeding-ponds, they have a good opportunity of reaching the
river.
It was a great drawback in former years at Stormontfield, during the
hatching seasons, that many fish were caught with their eggs not sufficiently
matured, and which could not be used in consequence. To remedy this, a plan
has been adopted of keeping all the salmon that are caught, if they be so
nearly ripe for spawning as to warrant their detention. These are confined in
the mill-race till they become thoroughly ready for the manipulator, and are
kept within bounds by strong iron gratings, placed about 100 yards from each
other. These gravid fish are taken out as they are required, or rather as they
ripen, by means of a small sweep-net, and it is noteworthy that the animals,
after being once or twice fished for, become very cunning, and hide
themselves in such bottom holes as they can discover, in order that the net
may pass over them. I have no doubt that the Stormontfield mill-race forms
an excellent temporary feeding-place for these fish, as its banks are well
overhung with vegetation, and its waters are clear as crystal, and of good
flavour. It is a decided convenience to be able thus to store the egg-and-milt-
producing fish till they are wanted, and will render the annual filling of the
breeding-boxes a certainty, which, even under the old two-year system, was
not so, in consequence of floods on the river Tay, and from many other causes
besides.
The latest has been the best spawning season experienced since the
commencement of the Stormontfield artificial spawning operations. On the
22d of December (1865) I found that Peter Marshall, the resident
pisciculturist, had up to that date deposited in the breeding-boxes more than
300,000 salmon eggs, and that he still had three adult fish to spawn, from
which he calculated upon obtaining something like 50,000 additional eggs,
and he told me that that number would complete the total quantity required
that season—viz. 350,000; indeed, the boxes cannot conveniently hold many
more, although another row has been constructed.
Upwards of a million of pond-bred fish have now been thrown into the
river Tay, and the result has been a satisfactory rise in the salmon-rental of
broods. [See plan.] The sluice being lifted, the current of water is sufficiently
strong to carry the fish down a gentle slope to the Tay, into which they
proceed in considerable quantities, day by day, till all have departed; the
parrs, strange to say, evincing no desire to remove, although, of course, being
in the same breeding-ponds, they have a good opportunity of reaching the
river.
It was a great drawback in former years at Stormontfield, during the
hatching seasons, that many fish were caught with their eggs not sufficiently
matured, and which could not be used in consequence. To remedy this, a plan
has been adopted of keeping all the salmon that are caught, if they be so
nearly ripe for spawning as to warrant their detention. These are confined in
the mill-race till they become thoroughly ready for the manipulator, and are
kept within bounds by strong iron gratings, placed about 100 yards from each
other. These gravid fish are taken out as they are required, or rather as they
ripen, by means of a small sweep-net, and it is noteworthy that the animals,
after being once or twice fished for, become very cunning, and hide
themselves in such bottom holes as they can discover, in order that the net
may pass over them. I have no doubt that the Stormontfield mill-race forms
an excellent temporary feeding-place for these fish, as its banks are well
overhung with vegetation, and its waters are clear as crystal, and of good
flavour. It is a decided convenience to be able thus to store the egg-and-milt-
producing fish till they are wanted, and will render the annual filling of the
breeding-boxes a certainty, which, even under the old two-year system, was
not so, in consequence of floods on the river Tay, and from many other causes
besides.
The latest has been the best spawning season experienced since the
commencement of the Stormontfield artificial spawning operations. On the
22d of December (1865) I found that Peter Marshall, the resident
pisciculturist, had up to that date deposited in the breeding-boxes more than
300,000 salmon eggs, and that he still had three adult fish to spawn, from
which he calculated upon obtaining something like 50,000 additional eggs,
and he told me that that number would complete the total quantity required
that season—viz. 350,000; indeed, the boxes cannot conveniently hold many
more, although another row has been constructed.
Upwards of a million of pond-bred fish have now been thrown into the
river Tay, and the result has been a satisfactory rise in the salmon-rental of
Page 102
that magnificent stream.
I have compiled the following summary of what has been achieved in
salmon-breeding at the Stormontfield ponds:—
On the 23d November 1853 the stocking of the boxes commenced, and
before a month had expired 300,000 ova were deposited, being at the rate of
1000 to each box, of which at that time there were 300. These ova were
hatched in April 1854, and the fry were kept in the ponds till May 1855, when
the sluice was opened, and one moiety of the fish departed for the river and
the sea. About 1300 of these were marked by cutting off the dead or second
dorsal fin. The smolts marked were about one in every hundred, so that about
130,000 must have departed, leaving more than that number in the pond. The
second spawning, in 1854, was a failure, only a few thousand fish being
produced. This result arose from the imperfect manipulation of the fish by
those intrusted with the spawning. The third spawning took place between the
22d November and the 16th December 1855, and during that time 183,000
ova were deposited in the boxes. These ova came to life in April 1856. The
second migration of the fry spawned in 1853 took place between the 20th
April and 24th May 1856. Of the smolts that then left the ponds, 300 were
marked with rings, and 800 with cuts in the tail. Many grilses having the
mark on the tail were re-taken, but none of those marked with the ring. The
smolts from the hatching of 1856 left the pond in April 1857. About 270 were
marked with silver rings inserted into the fleshy part of the tail; about 1700
with a small hole in the gill-cover; and about 600 with the dead fin cut off in
addition to the mark in the gill-cover. Several grilses with the mark on the gill
and tail were caught and reported, but no fish marked with the ring. The
fourth spawning took place between the 12th November and the 2d
December 1857, when 150,000 ova were deposited in the boxes. These came
to life in March 1858. Of the smolts produced from the previous hatching,
which left the pond in 1858, 25 were marked with a silver ring behind the
dead fin, and 50 with gilt copper wire. Very few of this exodus were reported
as being caught. The smolts produced from the hatching of 1858 left the pond
in April 1859, and 506 of them were marked. The fifth spawning, from 15th
November to 13th December 1859, produced 250,000 ova, which were
hatched in April 1860. Of the smolts that left in 1860, 670 were marked, and
a good many of them were reported as having been caught on their return
from the sea. The smolts of the hatching of 1860 left the pond in May 1861,
but none of them were marked.[2] The number of eggs deposited in the
I have compiled the following summary of what has been achieved in
salmon-breeding at the Stormontfield ponds:—
On the 23d November 1853 the stocking of the boxes commenced, and
before a month had expired 300,000 ova were deposited, being at the rate of
1000 to each box, of which at that time there were 300. These ova were
hatched in April 1854, and the fry were kept in the ponds till May 1855, when
the sluice was opened, and one moiety of the fish departed for the river and
the sea. About 1300 of these were marked by cutting off the dead or second
dorsal fin. The smolts marked were about one in every hundred, so that about
130,000 must have departed, leaving more than that number in the pond. The
second spawning, in 1854, was a failure, only a few thousand fish being
produced. This result arose from the imperfect manipulation of the fish by
those intrusted with the spawning. The third spawning took place between the
22d November and the 16th December 1855, and during that time 183,000
ova were deposited in the boxes. These ova came to life in April 1856. The
second migration of the fry spawned in 1853 took place between the 20th
April and 24th May 1856. Of the smolts that then left the ponds, 300 were
marked with rings, and 800 with cuts in the tail. Many grilses having the
mark on the tail were re-taken, but none of those marked with the ring. The
smolts from the hatching of 1856 left the pond in April 1857. About 270 were
marked with silver rings inserted into the fleshy part of the tail; about 1700
with a small hole in the gill-cover; and about 600 with the dead fin cut off in
addition to the mark in the gill-cover. Several grilses with the mark on the gill
and tail were caught and reported, but no fish marked with the ring. The
fourth spawning took place between the 12th November and the 2d
December 1857, when 150,000 ova were deposited in the boxes. These came
to life in March 1858. Of the smolts produced from the previous hatching,
which left the pond in 1858, 25 were marked with a silver ring behind the
dead fin, and 50 with gilt copper wire. Very few of this exodus were reported
as being caught. The smolts produced from the hatching of 1858 left the pond
in April 1859, and 506 of them were marked. The fifth spawning, from 15th
November to 13th December 1859, produced 250,000 ova, which were
hatched in April 1860. Of the smolts that left in 1860, 670 were marked, and
a good many of them were reported as having been caught on their return
from the sea. The smolts of the hatching of 1860 left the pond in May 1861,
but none of them were marked.[2] The number of eggs deposited in the
Page 103
breeding-boxes in the spawning season of 1862 (November and December)
was about 250,000; and in 1863 not more than 80,000 ova could be obtained,
in consequence of the unfavourable state of the river for capturing gravid
salmon. Peter Marshall has proved a most able pisciculturist. The loss of eggs
under his management forms an almost infinitesimal proportion of the total
quantities hatched at Stormontfield.
Mr. Buist has favoured me with the following notes, which were compiled
from his day-books at an early stage of the Stormontfield experiments:—
“1. Of the marked fish which were liberated from the pond at
Stormontfield, four out of every hundred were recaptured, either as grilse or
salmon.
“2. We find that more than 300,000 fish were reared in the pond, and
allowed to go into the Tay. Thus forty fish out of every thousand were
recaptured; and as 300,000 were in all liberated, it follows that 12,000 of the
salmon taken in the Tay were pond-bred fish. But as the fish did not all go
away in one year, this 12,000 must be distributed over two years.
“3. We find the average number of salmon and grilse taken in each
year is 70,000. It follows, then, if there be any truth in figures, that
nearly one-tenth of the fish taken in the Tay for the last two years were
artificially bred. This is equivalent to a rise of 10 per cent in the rental of
the fishings; and such we find is the result.
“It may be urged that if the salmon from which the ova were taken
had been left at liberty, the result would have been the same; but this we
know could not have been the case, for, according to a careful
calculation made by Mr. Thomas Tod Stoddart and others, each pair of
salmon, although they produce upon an average 30,000 eggs, do not rear
above five fish. Three female fish, if every egg they deposit was to
produce a salmon, would produce all the fish in the Tay. When left in
their natural state, 30,000 ova produce four or five fish fit for the table;
whereas the same number of ova, when carefully protected in the
breeding-ponds, produce about 800. This is supposing that one-third of
the ova deposited in the boxes perishes—does not hatch, and comes to
nothing. Therefore the increase in the number of salmon taken within the
last year is accounted for. Had there been any increase in the number of
fish in the other rivers of Scotland, doubts might arise; but there has
was about 250,000; and in 1863 not more than 80,000 ova could be obtained,
in consequence of the unfavourable state of the river for capturing gravid
salmon. Peter Marshall has proved a most able pisciculturist. The loss of eggs
under his management forms an almost infinitesimal proportion of the total
quantities hatched at Stormontfield.
Mr. Buist has favoured me with the following notes, which were compiled
from his day-books at an early stage of the Stormontfield experiments:—
“1. Of the marked fish which were liberated from the pond at
Stormontfield, four out of every hundred were recaptured, either as grilse or
salmon.
“2. We find that more than 300,000 fish were reared in the pond, and
allowed to go into the Tay. Thus forty fish out of every thousand were
recaptured; and as 300,000 were in all liberated, it follows that 12,000 of the
salmon taken in the Tay were pond-bred fish. But as the fish did not all go
away in one year, this 12,000 must be distributed over two years.
“3. We find the average number of salmon and grilse taken in each
year is 70,000. It follows, then, if there be any truth in figures, that
nearly one-tenth of the fish taken in the Tay for the last two years were
artificially bred. This is equivalent to a rise of 10 per cent in the rental of
the fishings; and such we find is the result.
“It may be urged that if the salmon from which the ova were taken
had been left at liberty, the result would have been the same; but this we
know could not have been the case, for, according to a careful
calculation made by Mr. Thomas Tod Stoddart and others, each pair of
salmon, although they produce upon an average 30,000 eggs, do not rear
above five fish. Three female fish, if every egg they deposit was to
produce a salmon, would produce all the fish in the Tay. When left in
their natural state, 30,000 ova produce four or five fish fit for the table;
whereas the same number of ova, when carefully protected in the
breeding-ponds, produce about 800. This is supposing that one-third of
the ova deposited in the boxes perishes—does not hatch, and comes to
nothing. Therefore the increase in the number of salmon taken within the
last year is accounted for. Had there been any increase in the number of
fish in the other rivers of Scotland, doubts might arise; but there has
Page 104
been no such increase, last year being a bad one for every river in
Scotland with the exception of the Tay.”
In addition to the group of salmon-breeding ponds at Stormontfield, a very
successful suite of breeding-boxes has been laid down on the river Dee, in the
Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, by Messrs. Martin and Gillone, the lessees of the
river Dee salmon-fisheries. Mr. Gillone, who is an adept in the art of fish-
culture, was one of the earliest to experiment on the salmon, and so long ago
as 1830 had arrived at the conclusion that parr were young salmon, and that
that tiny animal changed at a given period into a smolt, and in time became a
valuable table-fish. These early experiments of Mr. Gillone’s were not in any
sense commercial; they were conducted solely with a view to solve what was
then a curious problem in salmon-growth. In later years Mr. Gillone and his
partner have entered upon salmon-breeding as an adjunct of their fisheries on
the river Dee, for which, as tacksmen, they pay a rental of upwards of £1200
per annum. The breeding-boxes of Messrs. Martin and Gillone have been
fitted up on a very picturesque part of the river at Tongueland, and the
number of eggs last brought to maturity is considerably over 100,000. The
present series of hatchings for commercial purposes was begun in 1862-63
with 25,000 eggs, followed in the succeeding year by a laying down of nearly
double that number. The hatchings of these seasons were very unsuccessful,
the loss from many causes being very great, for the manipulation of fish eggs
during the time of their artificial extraction and impregnation requires great
care—a little maladroitness being sufficient to spoil thousands.
The last hatching (spring 1865) has been most successfully dealt with.
Messrs. Martin and Gillone’s breeding-boxes are all under cover, being
placed in a large lumber-store connected with a biscuit manufactory. This
chamber is seventy feet long, and there is a double row of boxes extending
the whole length of the place. These receptacles for the eggs are made of
wood; they are three feet long, one foot wide, and four inches deep, and into
the whole series a range of frames has been fitted containing glass troughs on
which to lay the eggs. The edges of the glass are ground off, and they are
fitted angularly across the current in the shape of a V. The eggs are laid down
on, or rather sown into, these troughs, from a store bottle, on to which is
fitted a tapering funnel. The flow of water, which is derived from the river,
and is filtered to prevent the admission of any impurity, is very gentle, being
at the rate of about fifteen feet per minute, and is kept perfectly regular. The
boxes are all fitted with lids, in order to prevent the eggs from being
Scotland with the exception of the Tay.”
In addition to the group of salmon-breeding ponds at Stormontfield, a very
successful suite of breeding-boxes has been laid down on the river Dee, in the
Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, by Messrs. Martin and Gillone, the lessees of the
river Dee salmon-fisheries. Mr. Gillone, who is an adept in the art of fish-
culture, was one of the earliest to experiment on the salmon, and so long ago
as 1830 had arrived at the conclusion that parr were young salmon, and that
that tiny animal changed at a given period into a smolt, and in time became a
valuable table-fish. These early experiments of Mr. Gillone’s were not in any
sense commercial; they were conducted solely with a view to solve what was
then a curious problem in salmon-growth. In later years Mr. Gillone and his
partner have entered upon salmon-breeding as an adjunct of their fisheries on
the river Dee, for which, as tacksmen, they pay a rental of upwards of £1200
per annum. The breeding-boxes of Messrs. Martin and Gillone have been
fitted up on a very picturesque part of the river at Tongueland, and the
number of eggs last brought to maturity is considerably over 100,000. The
present series of hatchings for commercial purposes was begun in 1862-63
with 25,000 eggs, followed in the succeeding year by a laying down of nearly
double that number. The hatchings of these seasons were very unsuccessful,
the loss from many causes being very great, for the manipulation of fish eggs
during the time of their artificial extraction and impregnation requires great
care—a little maladroitness being sufficient to spoil thousands.
The last hatching (spring 1865) has been most successfully dealt with.
Messrs. Martin and Gillone’s breeding-boxes are all under cover, being
placed in a large lumber-store connected with a biscuit manufactory. This
chamber is seventy feet long, and there is a double row of boxes extending
the whole length of the place. These receptacles for the eggs are made of
wood; they are three feet long, one foot wide, and four inches deep, and into
the whole series a range of frames has been fitted containing glass troughs on
which to lay the eggs. The edges of the glass are ground off, and they are
fitted angularly across the current in the shape of a V. The eggs are laid down
on, or rather sown into, these troughs, from a store bottle, on to which is
fitted a tapering funnel. The flow of water, which is derived from the river,
and is filtered to prevent the admission of any impurity, is very gentle, being
at the rate of about fifteen feet per minute, and is kept perfectly regular. The
boxes are all fitted with lids, in order to prevent the eggs from being
Page 105
devoured, as is often done, by rats and other vermin, and also to assimilate
the conditions of artificial hatching as much as possible to those of the natural
breeding-beds—where, of course, the eggs are covered up with gravel and are
hatched in comparative darkness.
It may be of some use, particularly to those who are interested in
pisciculture, to note a few details connected with the capturing of the gravid
fish and the plan of exuding the ova practised at Tongueland. The river Dee is
tolerably well stocked with fish, as may be surmised from the rent I have
named as being paid for the right of fishing. Mr. Gillone adopts the plan, now
also in use at Stormontfield, of capturing his fish in good time—in fact, as a
general rule, before the eggs are ripe—and of confining them in his mill-race
till they are thoroughly ready for manipulation. Last season—i.e. in
November and December 1864, and January 1865—as many as thirty-six
female fish were taken for their roe, the number of milters being twenty-five,
the total weight of the lot being 454 lbs., or, on the average, six and a half
pounds each fish. According to rule, the weight of the female fish taken
having been 283 lbs., these ought to have yielded 283,000 eggs, but as
several of the fish were about ripe at the time they were caught, they spawned
naturally in the mill-race, where the eggs in due time came to life. The plan of
spawning pursued at Tongueland is as follows:—Whenever the fish are
supposed to be ripe for that process, the water is shut out of the dam, and the
animal is first placed in a box filled with water in order to its examination; if
ready to be operated upon, it is then transferred to a trough filled with water
about three feet and a half long, seven inches in breadth, and of
corresponding depth, and the roe or milt is pressed out of the fish just in the
position in which it swims. As soon as the eggs are secured, a portion of the
water is poured out of the wooden vessel, and the male fish is then similarly
treated. The milt and roe are mixed by hand stirring, and the eggs then being
washed are distributed into the boxes.
Mr. Gillone carries on all his operations with the greatest possible
precision. He has a large clear glass bottle marked off in divisions, each of
which contains 800 eggs, and he numbers the divisions allotted to each
particular fish, which are sown into a similarly numbered division in his box,
so that by referring to his index-book he can trace out any peculiarity in the
eggs, etc.
Although pisciculture has been shown by means of what has been achieved
on the Continent and at Stormontfield to be eminently practical, yet nothing
the conditions of artificial hatching as much as possible to those of the natural
breeding-beds—where, of course, the eggs are covered up with gravel and are
hatched in comparative darkness.
It may be of some use, particularly to those who are interested in
pisciculture, to note a few details connected with the capturing of the gravid
fish and the plan of exuding the ova practised at Tongueland. The river Dee is
tolerably well stocked with fish, as may be surmised from the rent I have
named as being paid for the right of fishing. Mr. Gillone adopts the plan, now
also in use at Stormontfield, of capturing his fish in good time—in fact, as a
general rule, before the eggs are ripe—and of confining them in his mill-race
till they are thoroughly ready for manipulation. Last season—i.e. in
November and December 1864, and January 1865—as many as thirty-six
female fish were taken for their roe, the number of milters being twenty-five,
the total weight of the lot being 454 lbs., or, on the average, six and a half
pounds each fish. According to rule, the weight of the female fish taken
having been 283 lbs., these ought to have yielded 283,000 eggs, but as
several of the fish were about ripe at the time they were caught, they spawned
naturally in the mill-race, where the eggs in due time came to life. The plan of
spawning pursued at Tongueland is as follows:—Whenever the fish are
supposed to be ripe for that process, the water is shut out of the dam, and the
animal is first placed in a box filled with water in order to its examination; if
ready to be operated upon, it is then transferred to a trough filled with water
about three feet and a half long, seven inches in breadth, and of
corresponding depth, and the roe or milt is pressed out of the fish just in the
position in which it swims. As soon as the eggs are secured, a portion of the
water is poured out of the wooden vessel, and the male fish is then similarly
treated. The milt and roe are mixed by hand stirring, and the eggs then being
washed are distributed into the boxes.
Mr. Gillone carries on all his operations with the greatest possible
precision. He has a large clear glass bottle marked off in divisions, each of
which contains 800 eggs, and he numbers the divisions allotted to each
particular fish, which are sown into a similarly numbered division in his box,
so that by referring to his index-book he can trace out any peculiarity in the
eggs, etc.
Although pisciculture has been shown by means of what has been achieved
on the Continent and at Stormontfield to be eminently practical, yet nothing
Page 106
beyond a few toy experiments, so to speak, have been made in England;
indeed, we have had a great deal of “toying” with the subject; but all honour
to Messrs. Buckland and Francis—they are evidently doing their best to
create public opinion on the subject. Lectures have been delivered on fish-
culture, and letters have been thickly sent to the daily papers, advocating the
extension of the art; but no great movement has been made beyond stocking
the upper waters of the Thames with a few thousand trout and some fancy
fish. Salmon also have been hatched; but can they reach the sea in the present
state of the river?
PISCICULTURAL APPARATUS.
In order that gentlemen who have a bit of running water on their property
may try the experiment of artificial hatching, I give a drawing of an apparatus
invented by M. Coste suitable for hatching out a few thousand eggs—it could
be set up in a garden or be placed in any convenient outhouse. I may state
that I am able to hatch salmon eggs in the saucer of a flower-pot; it is placed
on a shelf over a fixed wash-hand basin, and a small flow of water regulated
by a stopcock falls into it. The vessel is filled with small stones and bits of
broken china, and answers admirably. Out of a batch of about two hundred
eggs brought from Stormontfield, only fifteen were found to have turned
indeed, we have had a great deal of “toying” with the subject; but all honour
to Messrs. Buckland and Francis—they are evidently doing their best to
create public opinion on the subject. Lectures have been delivered on fish-
culture, and letters have been thickly sent to the daily papers, advocating the
extension of the art; but no great movement has been made beyond stocking
the upper waters of the Thames with a few thousand trout and some fancy
fish. Salmon also have been hatched; but can they reach the sea in the present
state of the river?
PISCICULTURAL APPARATUS.
In order that gentlemen who have a bit of running water on their property
may try the experiment of artificial hatching, I give a drawing of an apparatus
invented by M. Coste suitable for hatching out a few thousand eggs—it could
be set up in a garden or be placed in any convenient outhouse. I may state
that I am able to hatch salmon eggs in the saucer of a flower-pot; it is placed
on a shelf over a fixed wash-hand basin, and a small flow of water regulated
by a stopcock falls into it. The vessel is filled with small stones and bits of
broken china, and answers admirably. Out of a batch of about two hundred
eggs brought from Stormontfield, only fifteen were found to have turned
Page 107
opaque in the first five weeks. Eggs hatched in this homely way are very
serviceable, as one can examine them day by day and note how they progress,
and in due time observe the development of the fish for a few days. The
young animals can only be kept in the saucer about ten or twelve days, and
should then be placed in a larger vessel or be thrown into a river.
As regards England, I should like to see one of the great rivers of that
country turned into a gigantic salmon “manufactory.” Ponds might be readily
constructed on one or two places of the Severn, or on some of the other
suitable salmon streams of England or Wales, capable of turning out a million
fish per annum, and at a comparatively trifling cost. The formation of the
ponds would be the chief expense; a couple of men could watch and feed the
fry with the greatest ease. The size adopted might be three times that of the
ponds on the river Tay, and the original cost of these was less than £500. I
would humbly submit that the ponds should be constructed after the manner
of the plan I have elsewhere given. Except by the protecting of the spawn and
the young fish from their numerous enemies, there is no way of meeting the
present great demand for salmon, which, when in season, is in the aggregate
of greater value than the best butchers’ meat. The salmon is an excellent fish
to work with in a piscicultural sense, because it is large enough to bear a good
deal of handling, and it is very accessible to the operations of mankind,
because of the instinct which leads it to spawn in the fresh water instead of
the sea. It is only such a fish as this monarch of the brook that would
individually pay for artificial breeding, for, having a high money value as an
animal, it is clear that salmon-culture would in time become as good a way of
making money as cattle-feeding or sheep-rearing.
There are waste places in England—the Essex marshes, for instance, or the
fens of Norfolk—where it would be profitable to cultivate eels or other fish
after the manner of the inhabitants of Comacchio. I observed lately some
details of a plan to rescue a quantity of land in Essex from the water; it would
perhaps pay as well to convert the broad acres in question, from their being
near the great London market, into a fish-farm. The English people are fond
of eels, and would be able to consume any quantity that might be offered for
sale, and the place being in such close proximity to the Thames, other fish
might be cultivated as well. All the best portions of the hydraulic apparatus of
Comacchio might be imitated, and to suit the locality, such other portions as
might be required could be invented. The art of pisciculture is but in its
infancy, and we may all live in the hope of seeing great water farms—but, to
serviceable, as one can examine them day by day and note how they progress,
and in due time observe the development of the fish for a few days. The
young animals can only be kept in the saucer about ten or twelve days, and
should then be placed in a larger vessel or be thrown into a river.
As regards England, I should like to see one of the great rivers of that
country turned into a gigantic salmon “manufactory.” Ponds might be readily
constructed on one or two places of the Severn, or on some of the other
suitable salmon streams of England or Wales, capable of turning out a million
fish per annum, and at a comparatively trifling cost. The formation of the
ponds would be the chief expense; a couple of men could watch and feed the
fry with the greatest ease. The size adopted might be three times that of the
ponds on the river Tay, and the original cost of these was less than £500. I
would humbly submit that the ponds should be constructed after the manner
of the plan I have elsewhere given. Except by the protecting of the spawn and
the young fish from their numerous enemies, there is no way of meeting the
present great demand for salmon, which, when in season, is in the aggregate
of greater value than the best butchers’ meat. The salmon is an excellent fish
to work with in a piscicultural sense, because it is large enough to bear a good
deal of handling, and it is very accessible to the operations of mankind,
because of the instinct which leads it to spawn in the fresh water instead of
the sea. It is only such a fish as this monarch of the brook that would
individually pay for artificial breeding, for, having a high money value as an
animal, it is clear that salmon-culture would in time become as good a way of
making money as cattle-feeding or sheep-rearing.
There are waste places in England—the Essex marshes, for instance, or the
fens of Norfolk—where it would be profitable to cultivate eels or other fish
after the manner of the inhabitants of Comacchio. I observed lately some
details of a plan to rescue a quantity of land in Essex from the water; it would
perhaps pay as well to convert the broad acres in question, from their being
near the great London market, into a fish-farm. The English people are fond
of eels, and would be able to consume any quantity that might be offered for
sale, and the place being in such close proximity to the Thames, other fish
might be cultivated as well. All the best portions of the hydraulic apparatus of
Comacchio might be imitated, and to suit the locality, such other portions as
might be required could be invented. The art of pisciculture is but in its
infancy, and we may all live in the hope of seeing great water farms—but, to
Page 108
be profitable, they must be gigantic—for the cultivation of fish, in the same
sense as we have extensive grazing or feeding farms for the breeding and
rearing of cattle.
In Ireland, Mr. Thomas Ashworth, of the Galway fisheries, finds it as
profitable and as easy to breed salmon as it is to rear sheep. His fisheries are a
decided success; and, if we except the cost of some extensive engineering
operations in forming fish-passes to admit of a communication with the sea,
the cost of his experiments has been trifling and the returns exceptionally
large. Mr. Ashworth put into his fisheries no less than a million and a half of
salmon eggs in the course of two seasons—viz., 659,000 eggs in 1861, and
770,000 in 1862.[3] I am anxious to obtain a consecutive and detailed account
of the operations carried out by the Messrs. Ashworth, but have not been able
to get correct particulars. Mr. Ashworth has lately visited the oyster-farms of
the Isle of Re, and has a high opinion of the efforts made for the
multiplication of that favourite mollusc. He has very obligingly
communicated to me a number of interesting statistics as to French oyster-
culture, which I have incorporated into my account of the shell-fish fisheries.
Two recent achievements in the art of fish-culture, or at any rate in the art
of acclimatisation, deserve to be chronicled in this division of the “Harvest of
the Sea.” I allude to the successful introduction into Australia of the British
salmon, and the equally successful bringing to this country of a foreign fish—
the Silurus glanis.
Grave doubts at one time prevailed among persons interested in
acclimatisation and pisciculture as to whether or not it were possible to
introduce the British salmon into the waters of Australia; and an interesting
controversy was about three years ago carried on in various journals as to the
best way of taking out the fish to that country. Those very wise people who
never do anything, but are largely endowed with the gift of prophecy, at once
proclaimed that it could not be done; that it was impossible to take the salmon
out to Australia, etc. etc. But happily for the cause of progress in natural
science, and the success of this particular experiment, there were men who
had resolved to carry it out and who would not be put down. Mr. Francis
Francis, Mr. Frank Buckland, and Mr. J. A. Youl, took a leading part in the
achievement; but before they fell upon their successful plan of taking out the
ova in ice, hot discussions had ensued as to how the salmon could be
introduced into the rivers of the Australian Continent. Many plans were
sense as we have extensive grazing or feeding farms for the breeding and
rearing of cattle.
In Ireland, Mr. Thomas Ashworth, of the Galway fisheries, finds it as
profitable and as easy to breed salmon as it is to rear sheep. His fisheries are a
decided success; and, if we except the cost of some extensive engineering
operations in forming fish-passes to admit of a communication with the sea,
the cost of his experiments has been trifling and the returns exceptionally
large. Mr. Ashworth put into his fisheries no less than a million and a half of
salmon eggs in the course of two seasons—viz., 659,000 eggs in 1861, and
770,000 in 1862.[3] I am anxious to obtain a consecutive and detailed account
of the operations carried out by the Messrs. Ashworth, but have not been able
to get correct particulars. Mr. Ashworth has lately visited the oyster-farms of
the Isle of Re, and has a high opinion of the efforts made for the
multiplication of that favourite mollusc. He has very obligingly
communicated to me a number of interesting statistics as to French oyster-
culture, which I have incorporated into my account of the shell-fish fisheries.
Two recent achievements in the art of fish-culture, or at any rate in the art
of acclimatisation, deserve to be chronicled in this division of the “Harvest of
the Sea.” I allude to the successful introduction into Australia of the British
salmon, and the equally successful bringing to this country of a foreign fish—
the Silurus glanis.
Grave doubts at one time prevailed among persons interested in
acclimatisation and pisciculture as to whether or not it were possible to
introduce the British salmon into the waters of Australia; and an interesting
controversy was about three years ago carried on in various journals as to the
best way of taking out the fish to that country. Those very wise people who
never do anything, but are largely endowed with the gift of prophecy, at once
proclaimed that it could not be done; that it was impossible to take the salmon
out to Australia, etc. etc. But happily for the cause of progress in natural
science, and the success of this particular experiment, there were men who
had resolved to carry it out and who would not be put down. Mr. Francis
Francis, Mr. Frank Buckland, and Mr. J. A. Youl, took a leading part in the
achievement; but before they fell upon their successful plan of taking out the
ova in ice, hot discussions had ensued as to how the salmon could be
introduced into the rivers of the Australian Continent. Many plans were
Page 109
suggested: some for carrying out the young fish in tanks, and others for
taking out the fructified ova, so that the process of hatching might be carried
on during the voyage. One ingenious person promulgated a plan of taking the
parr in a fresh-water tank a month or two before it changed into a smolt,
saying that after the change it would be easy to keep the smolts supplied with
fresh salt water direct from the sea as the ship proceeded on her voyage.
The mode ultimately adopted was to pack up the ova in a bed of ice,
experiments having first been made with a view to test the plan. For that
purpose a large number of ova were deposited in an ice-house in order to
ascertain how long the ripening of the egg could be deferred—a condition of
the experiment of course being that the egg should remain quite healthy. The
Wenham Lake Ice Company were so obliging as to allow boxes containing
salmon and trout ova, packed in moss, to be placed in their ice vaults, and to
afford every facility for the occasional examination of the eggs. Satisfactory
results being obtained—in other words, it having been proved that the eggs of
the salmon could with perfect safety be kept in ice for a period exceeding the
average time of a voyage to Australia—it was therefore resolved that a
quantity of eggs, properly packed in ice, should be sent out. The result of this
experiment is now well known, most of the daily papers having chronicled
the successful exportation of the ova, and announced that the fish had come
to life and were thriving in their foreign home.
I do not wish to weary my readers, but must crave their indulgence while I
give a few of the more interesting details connected with this important
experiment.
The number of ova sent out to Australia was 100,000 salmon and 3000
trout. The vessel selected for the conveyance of the eggs was the Norfolk,
which on one or two occasions had made very rapid voyages. The ova were
procured from the Tweed, the Severn, the Ribble, and the Dovey rivers; thus
England, Scotland, and Wales contributed to this precious freight. One
hundred and sixty-four boxes, containing about 90,000 ova, were placed at
the bottom of the ice-house, with a solid mass of ice nine feet thick on the
top, so that every particle of this mass must melt before the ova would suffer.
Sixteen boxes, containing above 13,000 ova, were placed in other parts of the
ice-house, with ice below and above, as well as all round the boxes. The ova
were taken between the 13th and 15th January, placed on board the ship on
the 18th, and the Norfolk left the docks on the morning of the 21st, and
taking out the fructified ova, so that the process of hatching might be carried
on during the voyage. One ingenious person promulgated a plan of taking the
parr in a fresh-water tank a month or two before it changed into a smolt,
saying that after the change it would be easy to keep the smolts supplied with
fresh salt water direct from the sea as the ship proceeded on her voyage.
The mode ultimately adopted was to pack up the ova in a bed of ice,
experiments having first been made with a view to test the plan. For that
purpose a large number of ova were deposited in an ice-house in order to
ascertain how long the ripening of the egg could be deferred—a condition of
the experiment of course being that the egg should remain quite healthy. The
Wenham Lake Ice Company were so obliging as to allow boxes containing
salmon and trout ova, packed in moss, to be placed in their ice vaults, and to
afford every facility for the occasional examination of the eggs. Satisfactory
results being obtained—in other words, it having been proved that the eggs of
the salmon could with perfect safety be kept in ice for a period exceeding the
average time of a voyage to Australia—it was therefore resolved that a
quantity of eggs, properly packed in ice, should be sent out. The result of this
experiment is now well known, most of the daily papers having chronicled
the successful exportation of the ova, and announced that the fish had come
to life and were thriving in their foreign home.
I do not wish to weary my readers, but must crave their indulgence while I
give a few of the more interesting details connected with this important
experiment.
The number of ova sent out to Australia was 100,000 salmon and 3000
trout. The vessel selected for the conveyance of the eggs was the Norfolk,
which on one or two occasions had made very rapid voyages. The ova were
procured from the Tweed, the Severn, the Ribble, and the Dovey rivers; thus
England, Scotland, and Wales contributed to this precious freight. One
hundred and sixty-four boxes, containing about 90,000 ova, were placed at
the bottom of the ice-house, with a solid mass of ice nine feet thick on the
top, so that every particle of this mass must melt before the ova would suffer.
Sixteen boxes, containing above 13,000 ova, were placed in other parts of the
ice-house, with ice below and above, as well as all round the boxes. The ova
were taken between the 13th and 15th January, placed on board the ship on
the 18th, and the Norfolk left the docks on the morning of the 21st, and
Page 110
Plymouth on the 28th January. Thirty tons of Wenham Lake ice were used in
the experiment.
The ship arrived at Hobson’s Bay, Melbourne, on the 15th of April, having
been seventy-seven days on the voyage. A few of the boxes containing the
eggs were at once opened and placed in a suitable hatching apparatus, but the
larger portion were sent off to Tasmania and reached Hobart Town on the
20th of April, where they were at once deposited in the pond which had been
carefully prepared for them on the river Plenty. The following extract from a
letter, written by the Hon. Dr. Officer, Speaker of the House of Assembly, will
show what was done on the arrival of the eggs:—“Soon after the arrival of
the first half of the boxes, the process of opening them and depositing the ova
in their watery beds commenced, and you may be sure an anxious process it
was. In the first two boxes that were opened by far the greater number of the
ova had perished, but as we proceeded much more fortunate results were
obtained, and in many of the packages the living predominated over the dead.
I could not attempt to state to you, even approximately, at the present
moment, the actual number of healthy ova that were found in the moss and
placed in the hatching-boxes, beyond saying that they amount to many
thousands, and are amply sufficient, if they should all continue to thrive and
should become living fish, to insure the complete success of our experiment.
All the boxes have now been opened except fifteen, and the ova first taken
out have been about twenty-four hours in the water. Among these some of
them can be observed with the eyes quite prominent, and visibly indicating
the near approach of hatching, so that not many days will elapse until the
ultimate result of the experiment is known. The remnant of the ice,
amounting to about eight tons, obtained from the Norfolk, was brought up
here with very little loss, and has of course been used in cooling the water in
the hatching-boxes. Mr. Ramsbottom thinks it will last as long as he will
require its aid, although it melts very quickly. The water of the Plenty, which
had fallen below 50 degrees, had been again raised by a week of warm sunny
weather to 54 degrees, which was its temperature yesterday, but it was
reduced to 45 degrees by the introduction of ice. To-day the weather has been
more suitable, and the natural temperature is not much over 50 degrees, and
will in all probability soon decline several degrees lower. One or two of the
ova which were deposited in the water in apparently sound health have been
observed to become opaque and die, while some others have been seen to
retain all their clearness. These observations have necessarily been of very
the experiment.
The ship arrived at Hobson’s Bay, Melbourne, on the 15th of April, having
been seventy-seven days on the voyage. A few of the boxes containing the
eggs were at once opened and placed in a suitable hatching apparatus, but the
larger portion were sent off to Tasmania and reached Hobart Town on the
20th of April, where they were at once deposited in the pond which had been
carefully prepared for them on the river Plenty. The following extract from a
letter, written by the Hon. Dr. Officer, Speaker of the House of Assembly, will
show what was done on the arrival of the eggs:—“Soon after the arrival of
the first half of the boxes, the process of opening them and depositing the ova
in their watery beds commenced, and you may be sure an anxious process it
was. In the first two boxes that were opened by far the greater number of the
ova had perished, but as we proceeded much more fortunate results were
obtained, and in many of the packages the living predominated over the dead.
I could not attempt to state to you, even approximately, at the present
moment, the actual number of healthy ova that were found in the moss and
placed in the hatching-boxes, beyond saying that they amount to many
thousands, and are amply sufficient, if they should all continue to thrive and
should become living fish, to insure the complete success of our experiment.
All the boxes have now been opened except fifteen, and the ova first taken
out have been about twenty-four hours in the water. Among these some of
them can be observed with the eyes quite prominent, and visibly indicating
the near approach of hatching, so that not many days will elapse until the
ultimate result of the experiment is known. The remnant of the ice,
amounting to about eight tons, obtained from the Norfolk, was brought up
here with very little loss, and has of course been used in cooling the water in
the hatching-boxes. Mr. Ramsbottom thinks it will last as long as he will
require its aid, although it melts very quickly. The water of the Plenty, which
had fallen below 50 degrees, had been again raised by a week of warm sunny
weather to 54 degrees, which was its temperature yesterday, but it was
reduced to 45 degrees by the introduction of ice. To-day the weather has been
more suitable, and the natural temperature is not much over 50 degrees, and
will in all probability soon decline several degrees lower. One or two of the
ova which were deposited in the water in apparently sound health have been
observed to become opaque and die, while some others have been seen to
retain all their clearness. These observations have necessarily been of very
Page 111
limited extent. In one of the two boxes of trout ova, nearly all were dead; in
the other nearly all alive, and of a remarkably clear and brilliant appearance.
These have been placed in a compartment separated from the salmon-boxes.”
The commissioners appointed to receive the ova sent to Tasmania made a
formal report to the Government of the colony. One of the local papers
supplies a summary of what was reported, which is as follows:—“They state
that upon examination of the cases on arrival, it was found that a close and
almost unvarying relation existed between the fate of the ova and the
condition of the moss in which they were enveloped. Where the moss
retained its natural green hue and elasticity, there a large proportion of the
ova retained a healthy vitality; where, on the contrary, the moss was of a
brown colour, and in a collapsed or compressed form, few of the ova were
found alive, and all were more or less entangled in a network of fungus. The
smallest amount of mortality was invariably found to have taken place in
those boxes in which the moss had been most loosely packed and the ova
subjected to the least amount of pressure. On the 4th of May the first trout
made its appearance, followed on the succeeding day by the first salmon that
had ever been seen in Australia, or south of the equator. The further hatching
of the trout and salmon proceeded very slowly for some days, but then
became more rapid—especially among the trout. Among these the process
was completed about the 25th May, producing upwards of two hundred
healthy fish. The hatching of the salmon is more protracted, and was not
concluded until the 8th June, on which day the last little fish was observed
making its escape from the shell. As they continued to make their appearance
from day to day, their numbers were counted by Mr. Ramsbottom with
tolerable accuracy up to about 1000, after which it was no longer possible to
keep any reckoning. The great undertaking of introducing the salmon and
trout into Tasmania has now, the commissioners believe, been successfully
accomplished. Few countries of the same extent possess more rivers suited to
the nature and habits of this noble fish than Tasmania. A stranger acquainted
with the salmon rivers of Europe could scarcely behold the ample stream and
sparkling waters of the Derwent without fancying that they were already the
home of the king of fish. And the Derwent is but one of many other large and
ever-flowing rivers almost equally suited to become the abode of the salmon.
When these rivers have been stocked, they cannot fail to become a source of
considerable public revenue, and of profit and pleasure to the people.”
the other nearly all alive, and of a remarkably clear and brilliant appearance.
These have been placed in a compartment separated from the salmon-boxes.”
The commissioners appointed to receive the ova sent to Tasmania made a
formal report to the Government of the colony. One of the local papers
supplies a summary of what was reported, which is as follows:—“They state
that upon examination of the cases on arrival, it was found that a close and
almost unvarying relation existed between the fate of the ova and the
condition of the moss in which they were enveloped. Where the moss
retained its natural green hue and elasticity, there a large proportion of the
ova retained a healthy vitality; where, on the contrary, the moss was of a
brown colour, and in a collapsed or compressed form, few of the ova were
found alive, and all were more or less entangled in a network of fungus. The
smallest amount of mortality was invariably found to have taken place in
those boxes in which the moss had been most loosely packed and the ova
subjected to the least amount of pressure. On the 4th of May the first trout
made its appearance, followed on the succeeding day by the first salmon that
had ever been seen in Australia, or south of the equator. The further hatching
of the trout and salmon proceeded very slowly for some days, but then
became more rapid—especially among the trout. Among these the process
was completed about the 25th May, producing upwards of two hundred
healthy fish. The hatching of the salmon is more protracted, and was not
concluded until the 8th June, on which day the last little fish was observed
making its escape from the shell. As they continued to make their appearance
from day to day, their numbers were counted by Mr. Ramsbottom with
tolerable accuracy up to about 1000, after which it was no longer possible to
keep any reckoning. The great undertaking of introducing the salmon and
trout into Tasmania has now, the commissioners believe, been successfully
accomplished. Few countries of the same extent possess more rivers suited to
the nature and habits of this noble fish than Tasmania. A stranger acquainted
with the salmon rivers of Europe could scarcely behold the ample stream and
sparkling waters of the Derwent without fancying that they were already the
home of the king of fish. And the Derwent is but one of many other large and
ever-flowing rivers almost equally suited to become the abode of the salmon.
When these rivers have been stocked, they cannot fail to become a source of
considerable public revenue, and of profit and pleasure to the people.”
Page 112
Mr. Ramsbottom, a son of the well-known English practical pisciculturist,
went out in charge of the eggs, and aided in their accouchement, watching
over the progress of the experiment with much zeal. Very great anxiety was
evinced by those interested for the proper hatching out of the eggs, and the
mortality which was soon visible among the ova—it was at one time at the
rate of one hundred each day—was viewed with great alarm. The first eggs
were hatched in the ponds of Tasmania. Of the Victoria consignment, the first
egg was hatched at an ice company’s establishment on the 7th of May,
twenty-two days after the arrival of the ship. In a letter, dated 11th May 1864,
Dr. Officer communicates many interesting details of the experiment, as the
following extract will show:—“By our last out-going mail I reported the
hatching of the first trout and the first salmon on May 4 and 5. We have now
forty trout and nine salmon, but of the latter two are deformed, and, therefore,
not likely to survive long. The first-born salmon is now nine days old, and is
quite healthy and visibly grown. The mortality among the ova, which had
been about one hundred per diem for some days, has very much decreased
again, and for the last two days has been quite trifling. The weather and
temperature of the water have continued favourable. The temperature of the
Plenty and ponds has not exceeded 49 degrees, nor descended below 46
degrees. This equality is of course highly conducive to the health and
progress of our charge. We expected to have seen more salmon by this time,
but our impatience has outrun probability and the teachings of experience.
The authorities tell us that a few always precede the great body of fish by a
good many days, and are not usually so vigorous as those that are hatched at a
later period. As to the trout we may, I think, regard them as safe. Only one out
of the whole number hatched has died. As I looked at their box this afternoon,
I observed several in the act of escaping from the shell. Mr. Ramsbottom’s
attentions are indefatigable, and, I believe, nothing has been neglected that
could insure success.”
The process of hatching was much more protracted than was anticipated; it
was not till the 8th of June that the last of the eggs gave forth its little tenant.
An account of the daily hatching was kept up till the time that 1000 of the
eggs had arrived at maturity, but after that the hatching went on with such
rapidity as to render it impossible to keep a correct record. Up to the 16th of
June the trout had not been artificially fed, but for all that they looked healthy
and grew fat. Mr. Ramsbottom computed that he had at least 3000 healthy
salmon, rather a small percentage certainly to obtain out of the 30,000 eggs,
went out in charge of the eggs, and aided in their accouchement, watching
over the progress of the experiment with much zeal. Very great anxiety was
evinced by those interested for the proper hatching out of the eggs, and the
mortality which was soon visible among the ova—it was at one time at the
rate of one hundred each day—was viewed with great alarm. The first eggs
were hatched in the ponds of Tasmania. Of the Victoria consignment, the first
egg was hatched at an ice company’s establishment on the 7th of May,
twenty-two days after the arrival of the ship. In a letter, dated 11th May 1864,
Dr. Officer communicates many interesting details of the experiment, as the
following extract will show:—“By our last out-going mail I reported the
hatching of the first trout and the first salmon on May 4 and 5. We have now
forty trout and nine salmon, but of the latter two are deformed, and, therefore,
not likely to survive long. The first-born salmon is now nine days old, and is
quite healthy and visibly grown. The mortality among the ova, which had
been about one hundred per diem for some days, has very much decreased
again, and for the last two days has been quite trifling. The weather and
temperature of the water have continued favourable. The temperature of the
Plenty and ponds has not exceeded 49 degrees, nor descended below 46
degrees. This equality is of course highly conducive to the health and
progress of our charge. We expected to have seen more salmon by this time,
but our impatience has outrun probability and the teachings of experience.
The authorities tell us that a few always precede the great body of fish by a
good many days, and are not usually so vigorous as those that are hatched at a
later period. As to the trout we may, I think, regard them as safe. Only one out
of the whole number hatched has died. As I looked at their box this afternoon,
I observed several in the act of escaping from the shell. Mr. Ramsbottom’s
attentions are indefatigable, and, I believe, nothing has been neglected that
could insure success.”
The process of hatching was much more protracted than was anticipated; it
was not till the 8th of June that the last of the eggs gave forth its little tenant.
An account of the daily hatching was kept up till the time that 1000 of the
eggs had arrived at maturity, but after that the hatching went on with such
rapidity as to render it impossible to keep a correct record. Up to the 16th of
June the trout had not been artificially fed, but for all that they looked healthy
and grew fat. Mr. Ramsbottom computed that he had at least 3000 healthy
salmon, rather a small percentage certainly to obtain out of the 30,000 eggs,
Page 113
but quite sufficient to solve the grand problem of whether or not it were
possible to introduce the British salmon into Australian waters. The latest
accounts tell us that the young parr are doing well, though they are not
growing so fast as the trout.[4] The further progress of the experiment will be
watched with great anxiety both at home and abroad. The Tasmanian
Legislature have voted a further sum of £800 for the purpose of introducing
another batch of ova; this sum will be augmented by £400 voted by the
Victorian Acclimatisation Society; so that no means will be left untried to
bring to a successful conclusion this great experiment—the ultimate result of
which, I have no doubt, will be, that the salmon will become as valuable a
fish in the waters of the great Australian Continent as it is in the waters of our
own islands.
The naturalisation of fish, to which a brief reference has already been
made, is a subject that is not very well understood; but so far as practical
experience goes, I have seen nothing to prevent our breeding in England
some of the most productive foreign kinds. Among the fishes of China, for
instance, in addition to the golden carp—now quite common here, and bred in
thousands in nearly every factory pond, and which is looked upon as simply
an ornamental fish—there is the lo-in, or king of fish, which frequently
measures seven feet in length, and weighs from fifty to two hundred pounds,
the flesh being excellent; the lien-in-wang and the kan-in, almost as good,
and even larger than the other. Then there is the li-in, the usual weight of
which is about fifteen pounds, and is said to be of a much finer flavour than
our European carp. There are many other choice fishes of exquisite flavour,
which it is unnecessary to enumerate; but I have no doubt that, besides these
natives of Chinese seas, there are numerous other fine fish that might be
acclimatised in our rivers and firths. The seir fish of Ceylon may be named: it
is a kind of scomberoid, and in shape and size is similar to the British salmon.
We must not, however, build ourselves much on the acclimatisation of foreign
fish, especially tropical fish, as—although fish can bear great extremes of
temperature—it would be no easy matter to habituate them to our climate.
Indeed some writers think it will be found impossible to habituate tropical
fish, however valuable, to our cold waters, but the experiment is, I believe,
being tried in France. The bass of Lake Wennern may also be mentioned as a
suitable fish for British waters, as well as the ombre chevalier of the Lake of
Geneva, a few of which latter are now, I believe, along with some other
varieties, being tried in the river Thames. So great is the increasing interest of
possible to introduce the British salmon into Australian waters. The latest
accounts tell us that the young parr are doing well, though they are not
growing so fast as the trout.[4] The further progress of the experiment will be
watched with great anxiety both at home and abroad. The Tasmanian
Legislature have voted a further sum of £800 for the purpose of introducing
another batch of ova; this sum will be augmented by £400 voted by the
Victorian Acclimatisation Society; so that no means will be left untried to
bring to a successful conclusion this great experiment—the ultimate result of
which, I have no doubt, will be, that the salmon will become as valuable a
fish in the waters of the great Australian Continent as it is in the waters of our
own islands.
The naturalisation of fish, to which a brief reference has already been
made, is a subject that is not very well understood; but so far as practical
experience goes, I have seen nothing to prevent our breeding in England
some of the most productive foreign kinds. Among the fishes of China, for
instance, in addition to the golden carp—now quite common here, and bred in
thousands in nearly every factory pond, and which is looked upon as simply
an ornamental fish—there is the lo-in, or king of fish, which frequently
measures seven feet in length, and weighs from fifty to two hundred pounds,
the flesh being excellent; the lien-in-wang and the kan-in, almost as good,
and even larger than the other. Then there is the li-in, the usual weight of
which is about fifteen pounds, and is said to be of a much finer flavour than
our European carp. There are many other choice fishes of exquisite flavour,
which it is unnecessary to enumerate; but I have no doubt that, besides these
natives of Chinese seas, there are numerous other fine fish that might be
acclimatised in our rivers and firths. The seir fish of Ceylon may be named: it
is a kind of scomberoid, and in shape and size is similar to the British salmon.
We must not, however, build ourselves much on the acclimatisation of foreign
fish, especially tropical fish, as—although fish can bear great extremes of
temperature—it would be no easy matter to habituate them to our climate.
Indeed some writers think it will be found impossible to habituate tropical
fish, however valuable, to our cold waters, but the experiment is, I believe,
being tried in France. The bass of Lake Wennern may also be mentioned as a
suitable fish for British waters, as well as the ombre chevalier of the Lake of
Geneva, a few of which latter are now, I believe, along with some other
varieties, being tried in the river Thames. So great is the increasing interest of
Page 114
pisciculture becoming, that new ideas are being daily thrown out regarding it.
A few months ago a writer in the Times suggested the introduction of a white
fish from the Canadian lakes to our fresh waters:—“This fish (Coregonus
albus), of the salmon family, is from three to four pounds weight, as delicious
as a Dublin Bay haddock when fresh, and when barrelled considered a luxury
in the Central and Southern States of America and the West Indies, bringing
50 per cent over the price of barrelled trout. Different from our fresh-water
fish, it is a vegetarian, living on weeds and moss. It is a great article of food
in the North-Western States of America and Canada, the exports of it being
$464,479 in 1861 from the states on the lakes; but I have no return from
Canada, which may be about one-half more, making a total of over $700,000,
or £140,000 a year.”
The latest achievement in pisciculture has been the introduction to this part
of Europe of “the Wels” (Silurus glanis), an interesting account of which
lately appeared in the Field newspaper. Great expectations have been formed
that this gigantic fish may be successfully reared in England. It is, I believe,
the largest European fresh-water fish, commonly attaining a weight of from
fifty to eighty pounds, and individuals have been found of the extraordinary
size of four cwts.! Dr. Gunther, the eminent ichthyologist, remarks that this is
the only foreign fish which it would be worth while to introduce into this
country; and thinks that, in several of our lakes, particularly those in peat soil,
it might be usefully placed.
A few months ago a writer in the Times suggested the introduction of a white
fish from the Canadian lakes to our fresh waters:—“This fish (Coregonus
albus), of the salmon family, is from three to four pounds weight, as delicious
as a Dublin Bay haddock when fresh, and when barrelled considered a luxury
in the Central and Southern States of America and the West Indies, bringing
50 per cent over the price of barrelled trout. Different from our fresh-water
fish, it is a vegetarian, living on weeds and moss. It is a great article of food
in the North-Western States of America and Canada, the exports of it being
$464,479 in 1861 from the states on the lakes; but I have no return from
Canada, which may be about one-half more, making a total of over $700,000,
or £140,000 a year.”
The latest achievement in pisciculture has been the introduction to this part
of Europe of “the Wels” (Silurus glanis), an interesting account of which
lately appeared in the Field newspaper. Great expectations have been formed
that this gigantic fish may be successfully reared in England. It is, I believe,
the largest European fresh-water fish, commonly attaining a weight of from
fifty to eighty pounds, and individuals have been found of the extraordinary
size of four cwts.! Dr. Gunther, the eminent ichthyologist, remarks that this is
the only foreign fish which it would be worth while to introduce into this
country; and thinks that, in several of our lakes, particularly those in peat soil,
it might be usefully placed.
Page 115
SILURUS GLANIS.
The following particulars regarding this new food fish have been printed
by the Acclimatisation Society, to whom the greatest praise is due for its
introduction:—Its appearance is not pleasant, the large flattened head having
a capacious mouth, which is capable of seizing the largest kind of prey; so
that if this fish be successfully propagated in our streams and lakes, the pike,
the water-wolf of the British waters, will meet with more than its match. The
habits of the Silurus glanis are said to be most ferocious, and its growth,
provided there be a sufficient supply of food, very rapid. The body is less
elongated than the eel, and there are, stretching from the head, long tapering
barbels; the eyes are frog-like, and there are many other points of
resemblance to the frog. The new fish is like the eel in its habits, being a
wallowing fish, fond of burrowing in the mud, and hiding amongst the rotten
roots of trees. There are dark charges made against some of the largest
specimens of the Silurus glanis, in the stomachs of which it is reported that
portions of human bodies have been found. However, this is probably an
The following particulars regarding this new food fish have been printed
by the Acclimatisation Society, to whom the greatest praise is due for its
introduction:—Its appearance is not pleasant, the large flattened head having
a capacious mouth, which is capable of seizing the largest kind of prey; so
that if this fish be successfully propagated in our streams and lakes, the pike,
the water-wolf of the British waters, will meet with more than its match. The
habits of the Silurus glanis are said to be most ferocious, and its growth,
provided there be a sufficient supply of food, very rapid. The body is less
elongated than the eel, and there are, stretching from the head, long tapering
barbels; the eyes are frog-like, and there are many other points of
resemblance to the frog. The new fish is like the eel in its habits, being a
wallowing fish, fond of burrowing in the mud, and hiding amongst the rotten
roots of trees. There are dark charges made against some of the largest
specimens of the Silurus glanis, in the stomachs of which it is reported that
portions of human bodies have been found. However, this is probably an
Page 116
exaggeration. There can, however, be no doubt of the extraordinary appetite
and fierceness of this fish. In the floods of the Danube the silurus finds
plentiful prey in the multitude of frogs which pass into the river; but at other
times, fish, small animals, worms, indeed anything which comes near, afford
a supply of food; and there may be fear that, notwithstanding the valuable
qualities of the silurus as a means of supply to our tables, it may more than
balance its value in this way by the immense destruction of fish which is
needed for its support. It is said that the silurus, when the prey is plentiful,
will attain over fifty-six pounds in four years; and Englishmen who have
tasted it report that in flavour it is superior to the salmon. Specimens of the
wels have been brought alive from a distance of nearly two thousand miles to
the station of the society at Twickenham by the exertions of Sir Stephen
Lakeman and Mr. Lowe, a gentleman who takes a great interest in all
questions of natural science. In all, fourteen of these young fish were brought
from Kapochien, in Wallachia, where Sir Stephen Lakeman has an estate. The
Argich river, which flows past there, abounds in these and other valuable fish,
which are found more or less throughout central Europe and in Scandinavia.
In the Danube and many of its tributaries the number is abundant; and in
those wide waters the Silurus glanis is said to reach the enormous weight of
three hundred pounds.
and fierceness of this fish. In the floods of the Danube the silurus finds
plentiful prey in the multitude of frogs which pass into the river; but at other
times, fish, small animals, worms, indeed anything which comes near, afford
a supply of food; and there may be fear that, notwithstanding the valuable
qualities of the silurus as a means of supply to our tables, it may more than
balance its value in this way by the immense destruction of fish which is
needed for its support. It is said that the silurus, when the prey is plentiful,
will attain over fifty-six pounds in four years; and Englishmen who have
tasted it report that in flavour it is superior to the salmon. Specimens of the
wels have been brought alive from a distance of nearly two thousand miles to
the station of the society at Twickenham by the exertions of Sir Stephen
Lakeman and Mr. Lowe, a gentleman who takes a great interest in all
questions of natural science. In all, fourteen of these young fish were brought
from Kapochien, in Wallachia, where Sir Stephen Lakeman has an estate. The
Argich river, which flows past there, abounds in these and other valuable fish,
which are found more or less throughout central Europe and in Scandinavia.
In the Danube and many of its tributaries the number is abundant; and in
those wide waters the Silurus glanis is said to reach the enormous weight of
three hundred pounds.
Page 117
CHAPTER IV.
ANGLERS’ FISHES.
Fresh-Water Fish not of much Value—The Angler and his Equipment—Pleasures of the Country in
May—Anglers’ Fishes—Trout, Pike, Perch, and Carp—Gipsy Anglers—Angling Localities—Gold
Fish—The River Scenery of England—The Thames—Thames Anglers—Sea Angling—Various
Kinds of Sea-Fish—Proper kinds of Bait—The Tackle Necessary—The Island of Arran—Corry—
Goatfell, etc.
lthough it may be deemed necessary in a work like the present to devote
A some space to the subject, I do not set much store by the common
anglers’ fishes, so far, at least, as their food value is concerned; for
although we were to cultivate them to their highest pitch, and by means of
artificial spawning multiply them exceedingly, they would never (the salmon,
of course, excepted) form an article of any great commercial value in this
beef-eating country. In France, where the Church enjoins so many fasts and
has such strict sumptuary laws, the people are differently situated, and
require, especially in the inland districts, to have recourse to the meanest
produce of the rivers in order to carry out the injunctions of their priests. The
fresh waters are therefore assiduously cultivated in nearly all continental
countries; but the fresh-water fishes of the British Islands have at present but
a very slight commercial value, as they are not captured, either individually
or in the aggregate, for the purposes of commerce; but to persons fond of
angling they afford sport and healthful recreation, whether they are pursued
in the large English or Scottish lakes, or caught in the small rivulets that feed
our great salmon streams.
Although Britain is possessed of a seabord of 4000 miles, and a large
number of fine rivers and lakes, the total number of British fishes is
comparatively small (about 250 only), and the varieties which live in the
fresh water are therefore very limited; those that afford sport may be
numbered with ease on our ten fingers. Fishers who live in the vicinity of
large cities are obliged in consequence to content themselves with the
realisation of that old proverb which tells them that small fish are better than
no fish at all; hence there is a race of anglers who are contented to sit all day
in a punt on the Thames, happy when evening arrives to find their patience
rewarded with a fisher’s dozen of stupid gudgeons. But in the north, on the
ANGLERS’ FISHES.
Fresh-Water Fish not of much Value—The Angler and his Equipment—Pleasures of the Country in
May—Anglers’ Fishes—Trout, Pike, Perch, and Carp—Gipsy Anglers—Angling Localities—Gold
Fish—The River Scenery of England—The Thames—Thames Anglers—Sea Angling—Various
Kinds of Sea-Fish—Proper kinds of Bait—The Tackle Necessary—The Island of Arran—Corry—
Goatfell, etc.
lthough it may be deemed necessary in a work like the present to devote
A some space to the subject, I do not set much store by the common
anglers’ fishes, so far, at least, as their food value is concerned; for
although we were to cultivate them to their highest pitch, and by means of
artificial spawning multiply them exceedingly, they would never (the salmon,
of course, excepted) form an article of any great commercial value in this
beef-eating country. In France, where the Church enjoins so many fasts and
has such strict sumptuary laws, the people are differently situated, and
require, especially in the inland districts, to have recourse to the meanest
produce of the rivers in order to carry out the injunctions of their priests. The
fresh waters are therefore assiduously cultivated in nearly all continental
countries; but the fresh-water fishes of the British Islands have at present but
a very slight commercial value, as they are not captured, either individually
or in the aggregate, for the purposes of commerce; but to persons fond of
angling they afford sport and healthful recreation, whether they are pursued
in the large English or Scottish lakes, or caught in the small rivulets that feed
our great salmon streams.
Although Britain is possessed of a seabord of 4000 miles, and a large
number of fine rivers and lakes, the total number of British fishes is
comparatively small (about 250 only), and the varieties which live in the
fresh water are therefore very limited; those that afford sport may be
numbered with ease on our ten fingers. Fishers who live in the vicinity of
large cities are obliged in consequence to content themselves with the
realisation of that old proverb which tells them that small fish are better than
no fish at all; hence there is a race of anglers who are contented to sit all day
in a punt on the Thames, happy when evening arrives to find their patience
rewarded with a fisher’s dozen of stupid gudgeons. But in the north, on the
Page 118
lakes of Cumberland or on the Highland lochs of Scotland, such tame sport
would be laughed at. Are there not charr in the Derwent and splendid trout in
Loch Awe? and these require to be pursued with a zeal, and involve an
amount of labour not understood by anglers who punt for gudgeon or who
haunt the East India Docks for perch, or the angler who only knows the usual
run of Thames fish—barbel, roach, dace, and gudgeon. To kill a sixteen-
pound salmon on a Welsh or Highland stream is to be named a knight among
anglers; indeed, there are men who never lift a rod except to kill a salmon;
such, however, like the Duke of Roxburghe, are the giants of the profession.
For sport there is no fish like the monarch of the brook, and great anglers will
not waste time on any fish less noble. An angler, with a moderate-sized fish
of the salmon kind at the end of his line, is not in the enjoyment of a sinecure,
although he would not for any kind of reward allow his work to be done by
deputy. I have seen a gentleman play a fish for four hours rather than yield his
rod to the attendant gillie, who could have landed the fish in half-an-hour’s
time. It is a thrilling moment to find that, for the first time, one has hooked a
salmon, and the event produces a nervousness that certainly does not tend to
the speedy landing of the fish. The first idea, naturally enough, is to haul our
scaly friend out of the water by sheer force; but this plan has speedily to be
abandoned, for the fish, making an astonished dash, rushes away up stream in
fine style, taking out with it no end of “rope;” then when once it obtains a bite
of its bridle away it goes sulking into some rocky hiding-place. In a brief time
it comes out again with renewed vigour, determined as it would seem to try
your mettle; and so it dashes about till you become so fatigued as not to care
whether you land it or not. It is impossible to say how long an angler may
have to “play” a salmon or a large grilse; but if it sinks itself to the bottom of
a deep pool, it may be a business of hours to get it safe into the landing-net, if
the fish be not altogether lost, as in its exertions to escape it may so chafe the
line as to cause it to snap and thus regain its liberty; and during the progress
of the battle the angler has certainly to wade, aye and be pulled once or twice
through the stream, so that he comes in for a thorough drenching, and may, as
many have to do, go home after a hard day’s work without being rewarded by
the capture of a single fish.
There is abundance of good salmon-angling to be had in the season in the
north of Scotland, where there are always a great variety of fishings to be let
at prices suitable for all pockets; and there is nothing better either for health
or recreation than a day on a salmon stream. There are one or two places on
would be laughed at. Are there not charr in the Derwent and splendid trout in
Loch Awe? and these require to be pursued with a zeal, and involve an
amount of labour not understood by anglers who punt for gudgeon or who
haunt the East India Docks for perch, or the angler who only knows the usual
run of Thames fish—barbel, roach, dace, and gudgeon. To kill a sixteen-
pound salmon on a Welsh or Highland stream is to be named a knight among
anglers; indeed, there are men who never lift a rod except to kill a salmon;
such, however, like the Duke of Roxburghe, are the giants of the profession.
For sport there is no fish like the monarch of the brook, and great anglers will
not waste time on any fish less noble. An angler, with a moderate-sized fish
of the salmon kind at the end of his line, is not in the enjoyment of a sinecure,
although he would not for any kind of reward allow his work to be done by
deputy. I have seen a gentleman play a fish for four hours rather than yield his
rod to the attendant gillie, who could have landed the fish in half-an-hour’s
time. It is a thrilling moment to find that, for the first time, one has hooked a
salmon, and the event produces a nervousness that certainly does not tend to
the speedy landing of the fish. The first idea, naturally enough, is to haul our
scaly friend out of the water by sheer force; but this plan has speedily to be
abandoned, for the fish, making an astonished dash, rushes away up stream in
fine style, taking out with it no end of “rope;” then when once it obtains a bite
of its bridle away it goes sulking into some rocky hiding-place. In a brief time
it comes out again with renewed vigour, determined as it would seem to try
your mettle; and so it dashes about till you become so fatigued as not to care
whether you land it or not. It is impossible to say how long an angler may
have to “play” a salmon or a large grilse; but if it sinks itself to the bottom of
a deep pool, it may be a business of hours to get it safe into the landing-net, if
the fish be not altogether lost, as in its exertions to escape it may so chafe the
line as to cause it to snap and thus regain its liberty; and during the progress
of the battle the angler has certainly to wade, aye and be pulled once or twice
through the stream, so that he comes in for a thorough drenching, and may, as
many have to do, go home after a hard day’s work without being rewarded by
the capture of a single fish.
There is abundance of good salmon-angling to be had in the season in the
north of Scotland, where there are always a great variety of fishings to be let
at prices suitable for all pockets; and there is nothing better either for health
or recreation than a day on a salmon stream. There are one or two places on
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Tweed frequented by anglers who take a fishing as a sort of joint-stock
company, and who, when they are not angling, talk politics, make poetry,
bandy about their polite chaff, and generally “go in” as they say for any
amount of amusement. These societies are of course very select, and not
generally accessible to strangers, being of the nature of a club. The plan
which every angler ought to adopt on going to a strange water is to place
himself under the guidance of some shrewd native of the place, who will
show him all the best pools and aid him with his advice as to what flies he
ought to use, and give him many useful hints on other points as well. Anglers,
however, must divide their attention, for it is quite as interesting (not to speak
of convenience) for some men to spend a day on the Thames killing barbel or
roach as it is to others to kill a ten-pound salmon on the Tweed or the Spey. It
is good sport also to troll for pike in the Lodden or to capture grayling in
beautiful Dovedale. And so pleasant has of late years become the sport that it
is no uncommon sight to see a gentle-born lady handling a salmon-rod with
as much vigour as grace on some one of our picturesque Highland streams. In
fact, angling is a recreation that can be made to suit all classes, from the child
with his stick and crooked pin to the gentleman with his well-mounted rod
and elaborate tackle, who hies away in his yacht to the fiords of Norway in
search of salmon that weigh from twenty to forty pounds and require a day to
capture. For those, however, who desire to stay at home there is abundant
angling all the year round. From New-Year’s Day to Christmas there needs be
no stoppage of the sport; even the weather should never stop an enthusiastic
angler; but on very bad days, when it is not possible to go out of doors, there
is the study of the fish, and their natural and economic history, which ought to
be interesting to all who use the angle, and to the majority of mankind
besides; and there is spread out around the angler the interesting book of
nature inviting him to perusal. He can see the white seal of winter opened,
and observe the balmy spring put forth its vernal power; note the turbid
streams of winter as they are slackening their volume of water; see the
swelling buds and the bursting leaves; admire the cowslip and the primrose
grow into blossom almost as he looks at them; hear the sweet notes of the
cuckoo, and the unceasing carol of noisier birds; watch the sportive lamb or
the timid hare; and chronicle the ever-changing seasons as they roll away on
their everlasting journey of progress.
Without pretending to rival the hundred and one guides to angling that now
flood the market, I shall take a glance at a few of the more popular of the
company, and who, when they are not angling, talk politics, make poetry,
bandy about their polite chaff, and generally “go in” as they say for any
amount of amusement. These societies are of course very select, and not
generally accessible to strangers, being of the nature of a club. The plan
which every angler ought to adopt on going to a strange water is to place
himself under the guidance of some shrewd native of the place, who will
show him all the best pools and aid him with his advice as to what flies he
ought to use, and give him many useful hints on other points as well. Anglers,
however, must divide their attention, for it is quite as interesting (not to speak
of convenience) for some men to spend a day on the Thames killing barbel or
roach as it is to others to kill a ten-pound salmon on the Tweed or the Spey. It
is good sport also to troll for pike in the Lodden or to capture grayling in
beautiful Dovedale. And so pleasant has of late years become the sport that it
is no uncommon sight to see a gentle-born lady handling a salmon-rod with
as much vigour as grace on some one of our picturesque Highland streams. In
fact, angling is a recreation that can be made to suit all classes, from the child
with his stick and crooked pin to the gentleman with his well-mounted rod
and elaborate tackle, who hies away in his yacht to the fiords of Norway in
search of salmon that weigh from twenty to forty pounds and require a day to
capture. For those, however, who desire to stay at home there is abundant
angling all the year round. From New-Year’s Day to Christmas there needs be
no stoppage of the sport; even the weather should never stop an enthusiastic
angler; but on very bad days, when it is not possible to go out of doors, there
is the study of the fish, and their natural and economic history, which ought to
be interesting to all who use the angle, and to the majority of mankind
besides; and there is spread out around the angler the interesting book of
nature inviting him to perusal. He can see the white seal of winter opened,
and observe the balmy spring put forth its vernal power; note the turbid
streams of winter as they are slackening their volume of water; see the
swelling buds and the bursting leaves; admire the cowslip and the primrose
grow into blossom almost as he looks at them; hear the sweet notes of the
cuckoo, and the unceasing carol of noisier birds; watch the sportive lamb or
the timid hare; and chronicle the ever-changing seasons as they roll away on
their everlasting journey of progress.
Without pretending to rival the hundred and one guides to angling that now
flood the market, I shall take a glance at a few of the more popular of the
Page 120
anglers’ fishes; not, however, in any scientific or other order of precedence,
but beginning with the trout, seeing that the salmon is discussed in a separate
division of this work.
Of all our fresh-water fishes, the one that is most plentiful, and the one that
is most worthy of notice by anglers, is the trout. It can be fished for with the
simplest possible kind of rod in the most tiny stream, or be captured by
elaborate apparatus on the great lochs of Scotland. There are so many
varieties of it as to suit all tastes; there are well-flavoured burn trout, not so
large as a small herring, and there are lake giants that, when placed in the
scales, will pull down a twenty pound weight with the greatest ease. The
usual run of river trout are about six or eight ounces in weight; a pound trout
is an excellent reward for the patient angler. Where a trouting stream flows
through a rich and fertile district of country, with abundant drainage, the trout
are usually well-conditioned and large, and of good flavour; but when the
country through which the stream flows is poor and rocky, with no drains
carrying in food to enrich the stream, the fish will, as a matter of course, be
lanky and flavourless; they may be numerous, but they will be of small size.
It is curious, too, to note the difference of the fish of the same stream: some
of the trout taken in Tweed, and in other rivers as well, are sharp in their
colour, have fine fat plump thick shoulders, great depth of belly, and beautiful
pink flesh of excellent flavour; others again are lean and flavourless. The
colour of trout is of course dependent on the quality and abundance of its
food; those are best which exist on ground-feeding, living upon worms and
such fresh-water crustaceans as are within reach. Fly-taking fish—those that
indulge in the feed of ephemeræ that takes place a few times every day—are
comparatively poor in flesh and weak in flavour. As to where fishers should
resort, must be left to themselves. I was once beguiled out to the Dipple, but
it was a hungry sort of river, where the trout were on the average about three
ounces and scarce enough; although I must say that for a few minutes, when
“the feed” was on the water, there was an enormous display of fish, but they
preferred to remain in their native stream, a tributary of the Clyde I think. The
mountain streams and lochs of Scotland, or the placid and picturesque lakes
of Cumberland and Westmorland, are the paradise of anglers.
For trout-fishing we would name Scotland as being before all other
countries. “What,” it has been asked, “is a Scottish stream without its trout?”
Doubtless, if a river has no trout it is without one of its greatest charms, and it
is pleasant to record that, except in the neighbourhood of very large seats of
but beginning with the trout, seeing that the salmon is discussed in a separate
division of this work.
Of all our fresh-water fishes, the one that is most plentiful, and the one that
is most worthy of notice by anglers, is the trout. It can be fished for with the
simplest possible kind of rod in the most tiny stream, or be captured by
elaborate apparatus on the great lochs of Scotland. There are so many
varieties of it as to suit all tastes; there are well-flavoured burn trout, not so
large as a small herring, and there are lake giants that, when placed in the
scales, will pull down a twenty pound weight with the greatest ease. The
usual run of river trout are about six or eight ounces in weight; a pound trout
is an excellent reward for the patient angler. Where a trouting stream flows
through a rich and fertile district of country, with abundant drainage, the trout
are usually well-conditioned and large, and of good flavour; but when the
country through which the stream flows is poor and rocky, with no drains
carrying in food to enrich the stream, the fish will, as a matter of course, be
lanky and flavourless; they may be numerous, but they will be of small size.
It is curious, too, to note the difference of the fish of the same stream: some
of the trout taken in Tweed, and in other rivers as well, are sharp in their
colour, have fine fat plump thick shoulders, great depth of belly, and beautiful
pink flesh of excellent flavour; others again are lean and flavourless. The
colour of trout is of course dependent on the quality and abundance of its
food; those are best which exist on ground-feeding, living upon worms and
such fresh-water crustaceans as are within reach. Fly-taking fish—those that
indulge in the feed of ephemeræ that takes place a few times every day—are
comparatively poor in flesh and weak in flavour. As to where fishers should
resort, must be left to themselves. I was once beguiled out to the Dipple, but
it was a hungry sort of river, where the trout were on the average about three
ounces and scarce enough; although I must say that for a few minutes, when
“the feed” was on the water, there was an enormous display of fish, but they
preferred to remain in their native stream, a tributary of the Clyde I think. The
mountain streams and lochs of Scotland, or the placid and picturesque lakes
of Cumberland and Westmorland, are the paradise of anglers.
For trout-fishing we would name Scotland as being before all other
countries. “What,” it has been asked, “is a Scottish stream without its trout?”
Doubtless, if a river has no trout it is without one of its greatest charms, and it
is pleasant to record that, except in the neighbourhood of very large seats of
Page 121
population, trout are still plentiful in Scotland. It is true the railway, and other
modes of conveyance, have carried of late years a perfect army of anglers
into its most picturesque nooks and corners, and therefore fish are not quite
so plentiful as they were thirty years ago, in the old coaching days, when it
was possible to fill a washing-tub in the space of half an hour with lovely
half-pound trout from a few pools on a burn near Moffat. But there are still
plenty of trout; indeed there is a noted fisher who can fill his basket even in
streams that, being near the large cities, have been too often fished; but then it
is given to him to be a man of great skill in his vocation, and moreover
capable of instructing others, for he has written a work that in some degree
has revolutionised the art of angling.
The place to try an angler is a fine Border stream or a grand Highland loch;
but I shall not presume to lay down minute directions as to how to angle, for
an angler, like a poet, must be born, he can scarcely be bred, and no amount
of book lore will confer upon a man the magic power of luring the wary trout
from its crystalline home. The best anglers, and I may add fish-poachers, are
the gipsies. A gipsy will raise fish when no other human being can move
them. If encamped near a stream, a gipsy band are sure to have fish as a
portion of their daily food; and how beautifully they can broil a trout or boil a
grilse those only who have had the fortune to dine with them can say. Your
gipsy is a rare good fisher, and with half a rod can rob the river of a few
dozens of trout in a very brief space of time, and he can do so while men with
elaborate “fishing machines,” fitted up with costly tackle, continue to flog the
water without obtaining more than a questionable nibble, just as if the fish
knew that they were greenhorns, and took a pleasure in chaffing them. Mr.
Cheek, who wrote a capital book for the guidance of what I may call Thames
anglers, says that the best way to learn is to see other anglers at work—which
is better than all the written instructions that can be given, one hour’s
practical information going farther than a folio volume of written advice. It is
all in vain for men to fancy that a suit of new Tweeds, a fair acquaintance
with Stoddart or Stewart, and a large amount of angling “slang,” will make
them fishers. There is more than that required. Besides the natural taste, there
is wanted a large measure of patience and skill; and the proper place to
acquire these best virtues of the angler is among the brawling hill streams of
Scotland, or on the expansive bosom of some of the great Cumberland lakes,
while trying for a few delicious charr. A congregation of fish brought together
by means of a scatter of food and an angler’s taking advantage of the piscine
modes of conveyance, have carried of late years a perfect army of anglers
into its most picturesque nooks and corners, and therefore fish are not quite
so plentiful as they were thirty years ago, in the old coaching days, when it
was possible to fill a washing-tub in the space of half an hour with lovely
half-pound trout from a few pools on a burn near Moffat. But there are still
plenty of trout; indeed there is a noted fisher who can fill his basket even in
streams that, being near the large cities, have been too often fished; but then it
is given to him to be a man of great skill in his vocation, and moreover
capable of instructing others, for he has written a work that in some degree
has revolutionised the art of angling.
The place to try an angler is a fine Border stream or a grand Highland loch;
but I shall not presume to lay down minute directions as to how to angle, for
an angler, like a poet, must be born, he can scarcely be bred, and no amount
of book lore will confer upon a man the magic power of luring the wary trout
from its crystalline home. The best anglers, and I may add fish-poachers, are
the gipsies. A gipsy will raise fish when no other human being can move
them. If encamped near a stream, a gipsy band are sure to have fish as a
portion of their daily food; and how beautifully they can broil a trout or boil a
grilse those only who have had the fortune to dine with them can say. Your
gipsy is a rare good fisher, and with half a rod can rob the river of a few
dozens of trout in a very brief space of time, and he can do so while men with
elaborate “fishing machines,” fitted up with costly tackle, continue to flog the
water without obtaining more than a questionable nibble, just as if the fish
knew that they were greenhorns, and took a pleasure in chaffing them. Mr.
Cheek, who wrote a capital book for the guidance of what I may call Thames
anglers, says that the best way to learn is to see other anglers at work—which
is better than all the written instructions that can be given, one hour’s
practical information going farther than a folio volume of written advice. It is
all in vain for men to fancy that a suit of new Tweeds, a fair acquaintance
with Stoddart or Stewart, and a large amount of angling “slang,” will make
them fishers. There is more than that required. Besides the natural taste, there
is wanted a large measure of patience and skill; and the proper place to
acquire these best virtues of the angler is among the brawling hill streams of
Scotland, or on the expansive bosom of some of the great Cumberland lakes,
while trying for a few delicious charr. A congregation of fish brought together
by means of a scatter of food and an angler’s taking advantage of the piscine
Page 122
convention over its diet of worms, is no more angling than a battue is sport.
An American that I have heard of has a fish-manufactory in Connecticut,
where he can shovel the animals out by the hundred; but then he does not go
in for sport, his idea—a thoroughly American one—is money! But despite
this exceedingly commercial idea, there are a few anglers in America, and as
there are much water and many game fishes, there is plenty of sport. In North
America there are to be found in large quantities both the true salmon and the
brook trout; and as a great number of the American fishes visit the fresh and
salt water alternately, they, by reason of their strength and size, afford
excellent employment either to the river or sea angler. One of the best of the
American fishes is called the Mackinaw salmon.
ANGLERS’ FISHES.
1. Great lake trout (Salmo ferox). 2. Salmo fario. 3. Trout.
To come back, in the meantime, to Scotland and the trout, and where to
find them, I may mention that that particular fish is the stock in trade of the
streams and lochs of Scotland,—Scotland, the “land of the mountain and the
An American that I have heard of has a fish-manufactory in Connecticut,
where he can shovel the animals out by the hundred; but then he does not go
in for sport, his idea—a thoroughly American one—is money! But despite
this exceedingly commercial idea, there are a few anglers in America, and as
there are much water and many game fishes, there is plenty of sport. In North
America there are to be found in large quantities both the true salmon and the
brook trout; and as a great number of the American fishes visit the fresh and
salt water alternately, they, by reason of their strength and size, afford
excellent employment either to the river or sea angler. One of the best of the
American fishes is called the Mackinaw salmon.
ANGLERS’ FISHES.
1. Great lake trout (Salmo ferox). 2. Salmo fario. 3. Trout.
To come back, in the meantime, to Scotland and the trout, and where to
find them, I may mention that that particular fish is the stock in trade of the
streams and lochs of Scotland,—Scotland, the “land of the mountain and the
Page 123
flood,”—and there is an ever-abiding abundance of water, for the lochs and
streams of that country are numberless. One county alone (Sutherland, to wit)
contains a thousand lochs, and one parish in that county has in it two hundred
sheets of water, and all of these abounding with fine trout, affording rich
sport to the angler—rewarding all who persevere with full baskets. As I have
already hinted, the fisher must study his locality and glean advice from well-
informed residents. The gipsies of a district can usually give capital advice as
to the kind of bait that will please best. Many a time have anglers been seen
flogging away at a stream or lake that was troutless, or at their wit’s end as to
which of their flies would please the dainty palate of my lord the resident
trout. But I shall not further dogmatise on such matters; most people who are
given to angling are quite as wise as the writer of these remarks; and there are
as fine trout in England, I daresay, as there are in Scotland; indeed there are a
thousand streams in this Great Britain, Ireland, and Wales of ours, where we
can find fish—there are splendid trout even in the Thames. Then there are the
Dove and the Severn, as well as rivers that are much farther away, so that on
his second day from London an active angler may be whipping the Spey for
salmon, or trolling on Loch Awe for the large trout that inhabit that sheet of
water. The change of scene is of itself a delight, no matter what river the
visitor may choose. At the same time the physical exertion undergone by the
angler flushes his cheek with the hue of health, and imparts to his frame a
strength and elasticity known only to such as are familiar with country scenes
and pure air. May and the Mayfly are held to inaugurate the angler’s year; for
although a few of the keenest sportsmen keep on angling all the year round,
most of them lay down their rod about the end of October, and do not think of
again resuming it till they can smell the sweet fragrance of the advancing
summer. Although few of our busy men of law or commerce are able to
forestall the regular holiday period of August and September, yet a few do
manage a run to the country at the charming time of May, when the days are
not too hot for enjoyment nor too short for country industry. In August and
September the landscape is preparing for the sleep of winter, whilst in May it
is being robed by nature for the fêtes of summer, and, despite the sneers of
some poets and naturalists, is new and charming in the highest degree. Town
living people should visit the country in May, and see and feel its industry,
pastoral and simple as it is, and at the same time view the charms of its
scenery in all its vivid freshness and fragrance.
streams of that country are numberless. One county alone (Sutherland, to wit)
contains a thousand lochs, and one parish in that county has in it two hundred
sheets of water, and all of these abounding with fine trout, affording rich
sport to the angler—rewarding all who persevere with full baskets. As I have
already hinted, the fisher must study his locality and glean advice from well-
informed residents. The gipsies of a district can usually give capital advice as
to the kind of bait that will please best. Many a time have anglers been seen
flogging away at a stream or lake that was troutless, or at their wit’s end as to
which of their flies would please the dainty palate of my lord the resident
trout. But I shall not further dogmatise on such matters; most people who are
given to angling are quite as wise as the writer of these remarks; and there are
as fine trout in England, I daresay, as there are in Scotland; indeed there are a
thousand streams in this Great Britain, Ireland, and Wales of ours, where we
can find fish—there are splendid trout even in the Thames. Then there are the
Dove and the Severn, as well as rivers that are much farther away, so that on
his second day from London an active angler may be whipping the Spey for
salmon, or trolling on Loch Awe for the large trout that inhabit that sheet of
water. The change of scene is of itself a delight, no matter what river the
visitor may choose. At the same time the physical exertion undergone by the
angler flushes his cheek with the hue of health, and imparts to his frame a
strength and elasticity known only to such as are familiar with country scenes
and pure air. May and the Mayfly are held to inaugurate the angler’s year; for
although a few of the keenest sportsmen keep on angling all the year round,
most of them lay down their rod about the end of October, and do not think of
again resuming it till they can smell the sweet fragrance of the advancing
summer. Although few of our busy men of law or commerce are able to
forestall the regular holiday period of August and September, yet a few do
manage a run to the country at the charming time of May, when the days are
not too hot for enjoyment nor too short for country industry. In August and
September the landscape is preparing for the sleep of winter, whilst in May it
is being robed by nature for the fêtes of summer, and, despite the sneers of
some poets and naturalists, is new and charming in the highest degree. Town
living people should visit the country in May, and see and feel its industry,
pastoral and simple as it is, and at the same time view the charms of its
scenery in all its vivid freshness and fragrance.
Page 124
Some anglers delight in pike-catching, others try for perch; but give me the
trout, of which there is a large variety, and all worth catching. In Loch Awe,
for instance, there is the great lake trout, which, combined with the beauty of
the scenery, has sufficed to draw to that neighbourhood some of our best
anglers. The trout of Loch Awe, as is well known, are very ferocious, hence
their scientific name of Salmo ferox. This trout attains to great dimensions;
individuals weighing twenty pounds have been often captured; but its flavour
is indifferent and the flesh is coarse, and not of a prepossessing colour. This
kind of trout is found in nearly all the large and deep lochs of Scotland. It was
discovered scientifically about the end of last century by a Glasgow
merchant, who was fond of sending samples of it to his friends as a proof of
his prowess as an angler. The usual way of taking the great lake trout is to
engage a boat to fish from, which must be rowed gently through the water.
The best bait is a small trout, with at least half-a-dozen strong hooks
projecting from it, and the tackle requires to be prodigiously strong, as the
fish is a most powerful one, although not quite so active as some others of the
trout kind, but it roves about in these deep waters enacting the parts of the
bully and the cannibal to all lesser creatures, and driving before it even the
hungry pike. Persons residing near the great lochs capture these large trout by
setting night lines for them. As has been already mentioned, they are
exceedingly voracious, and have been known to be dragged for long
distances, and even after losing hold of the bait to seize it again with great
eagerness, and so have been finally captured. These great lake trout are also
to be found in other countries.
In Lochleven, at Kinross, in the county of Fife, twenty-two miles from
Edinburgh, there will be found localised that beautiful trout which is peculiar
to this one loch, and which I have already referred to as one of the mysterious
fishes of Scotland. This fish—although its quality is said to have been
degenerated by the drainage of the lake in 1830, at which period it was
reduced by draining to a third of its former dimensions—is of considerable
commercial value; it cannot be bought in Edinburgh under two shillings a
pound weight; and if it was properly cultivated might yield a large revenue. I
have not been able to obtain recent statistics of “the take” of Lochleven trout,
but in former years during the seven months of the fishing season it used to
range from fifteen thousand to twenty thousand pounds weight, and at the
time referred to all trout under three-quarters of a pound in weight were
thrown back into the water by order of the lessee. Eighty-five dozen of these
trout, of which there is a large variety, and all worth catching. In Loch Awe,
for instance, there is the great lake trout, which, combined with the beauty of
the scenery, has sufficed to draw to that neighbourhood some of our best
anglers. The trout of Loch Awe, as is well known, are very ferocious, hence
their scientific name of Salmo ferox. This trout attains to great dimensions;
individuals weighing twenty pounds have been often captured; but its flavour
is indifferent and the flesh is coarse, and not of a prepossessing colour. This
kind of trout is found in nearly all the large and deep lochs of Scotland. It was
discovered scientifically about the end of last century by a Glasgow
merchant, who was fond of sending samples of it to his friends as a proof of
his prowess as an angler. The usual way of taking the great lake trout is to
engage a boat to fish from, which must be rowed gently through the water.
The best bait is a small trout, with at least half-a-dozen strong hooks
projecting from it, and the tackle requires to be prodigiously strong, as the
fish is a most powerful one, although not quite so active as some others of the
trout kind, but it roves about in these deep waters enacting the parts of the
bully and the cannibal to all lesser creatures, and driving before it even the
hungry pike. Persons residing near the great lochs capture these large trout by
setting night lines for them. As has been already mentioned, they are
exceedingly voracious, and have been known to be dragged for long
distances, and even after losing hold of the bait to seize it again with great
eagerness, and so have been finally captured. These great lake trout are also
to be found in other countries.
In Lochleven, at Kinross, in the county of Fife, twenty-two miles from
Edinburgh, there will be found localised that beautiful trout which is peculiar
to this one loch, and which I have already referred to as one of the mysterious
fishes of Scotland. This fish—although its quality is said to have been
degenerated by the drainage of the lake in 1830, at which period it was
reduced by draining to a third of its former dimensions—is of considerable
commercial value; it cannot be bought in Edinburgh under two shillings a
pound weight; and if it was properly cultivated might yield a large revenue. I
have not been able to obtain recent statistics of “the take” of Lochleven trout,
but in former years during the seven months of the fishing season it used to
range from fifteen thousand to twenty thousand pounds weight, and at the
time referred to all trout under three-quarters of a pound in weight were
thrown back into the water by order of the lessee. Eighty-five dozen of these
Page 125
fine trout have been known to be taken at a single haul, while from twenty to
thirty dozen used to be a very common take. As to perch, they used to be
caught in thousands. Little has or can be said about Lochleven trout, except
that they are a speciality. Some learned people (but I take leave to differ from
them) consider the Lochleven fish to be identical with Salmo fario, but never
in any of my piscatorial wanderings have I found its equal in colour, flavour,
or shape. It has been compared with the Fario Lemanus of the Lake of
Geneva, and having handled both fishes I must allow that there is very little
difference between them; but still there are differences. Boats can be hired at
Kinross for an hour or two’s fishing on Lochleven. Mr. Barnet, the editor of
the local paper, himself a keen fisher, will, I have no doubt, put gentlemen in
the way of enjoying a day’s pike or trout fishing on the loch.
I need not go over all the varieties of fresh-water trout seriatim, for their
name is legion, and every book on angling contains lists of those that are
peculiar to the districts treated upon. If anglers’ fishes ever become valuable
as food, it will be by the cultivation of our great lochs. With such a vast
expanse of water as is contained in some of these lakes, and having ample
river accommodation at hand for spawning purposes, there could be no doubt
that artificial breeding, if properly gone about, would be successful. The
Lochleven trout in particular might be made a subject of piscicultural
experiment; it is already of great money value commercially, and could be
cultivated so as to become a considerable source of revenue to the proprietor
of the lake and amusement to the angler.
thirty dozen used to be a very common take. As to perch, they used to be
caught in thousands. Little has or can be said about Lochleven trout, except
that they are a speciality. Some learned people (but I take leave to differ from
them) consider the Lochleven fish to be identical with Salmo fario, but never
in any of my piscatorial wanderings have I found its equal in colour, flavour,
or shape. It has been compared with the Fario Lemanus of the Lake of
Geneva, and having handled both fishes I must allow that there is very little
difference between them; but still there are differences. Boats can be hired at
Kinross for an hour or two’s fishing on Lochleven. Mr. Barnet, the editor of
the local paper, himself a keen fisher, will, I have no doubt, put gentlemen in
the way of enjoying a day’s pike or trout fishing on the loch.
I need not go over all the varieties of fresh-water trout seriatim, for their
name is legion, and every book on angling contains lists of those that are
peculiar to the districts treated upon. If anglers’ fishes ever become valuable
as food, it will be by the cultivation of our great lochs. With such a vast
expanse of water as is contained in some of these lakes, and having ample
river accommodation at hand for spawning purposes, there could be no doubt
that artificial breeding, if properly gone about, would be successful. The
Lochleven trout in particular might be made a subject of piscicultural
experiment; it is already of great money value commercially, and could be
cultivated so as to become a considerable source of revenue to the proprietor
of the lake and amusement to the angler.
Page 126
JACK IN HIS ELEMENT.
There are some pretty big pike in Lochleven; I lately examined a very large
one, weighing sixteen pounds, that had been feeding very industriously on the
dainty trout of the loch. As every angler knows, the pike affords capital sport,
and may be taken in many different ways. Pike spawn in March and April,
when the fish leaves its hiding-place in the deep water and retires for
procreative purposes into shallow creeks or ditches. The pike yields a very
large quantity of roe on the average, and the young fish are not long in being
hatched. Endowed with great feeding power, pike grow rapidly from the first,
attaining a length of twenty-two inches. Before that period a young pike is
called a jack, and its increase of weight is at the rate of about four pounds a
year when well supplied with food. The appetite of this fish is very great, and,
from its being so fierce, it has been called the pirate of the rivers. It is not
easily satisfied with food, and numerous extraordinary stories of the pike’s
powers of eating and digesting have been from time to time related. I
remember, when at school at Haddington (seventeen miles from Edinburgh),
There are some pretty big pike in Lochleven; I lately examined a very large
one, weighing sixteen pounds, that had been feeding very industriously on the
dainty trout of the loch. As every angler knows, the pike affords capital sport,
and may be taken in many different ways. Pike spawn in March and April,
when the fish leaves its hiding-place in the deep water and retires for
procreative purposes into shallow creeks or ditches. The pike yields a very
large quantity of roe on the average, and the young fish are not long in being
hatched. Endowed with great feeding power, pike grow rapidly from the first,
attaining a length of twenty-two inches. Before that period a young pike is
called a jack, and its increase of weight is at the rate of about four pounds a
year when well supplied with food. The appetite of this fish is very great, and,
from its being so fierce, it has been called the pirate of the rivers. It is not
easily satisfied with food, and numerous extraordinary stories of the pike’s
powers of eating and digesting have been from time to time related. I
remember, when at school at Haddington (seventeen miles from Edinburgh),
Page 127
of seeing a pike that inhabited a hole in the “Lang Cram” (a part of the river
Tyne), which was nearly triangular in shape, supposed to be the exact pattern
of its hiding-place, and which devoured every kind of fish or animal that
came in its way. It was caught several times, but always managed to escape,
and must have weighed at least twenty-five pounds. Upon one occasion it
was hooked by a little boy, who fished for it with a mouse, when it rewarded
him for his cleverness by dragging him into the water; and had help not been
at hand the boy would assuredly have been drowned, as the water at that
particular spot was deep. As to the voracity of this fish many particulars have
been given. Mr. Jesse, in one of his works, says that a pike of the weight of
five pounds has been known to eat a hundred gudgeon in three weeks; and I
have myself seen them killed in the neighbourhood of a shoal of parr, and,
notwithstanding their rapidity of digestion, I have seen four or five fish taken
out of the stomach of each. Mr. Stoddart, one of our chief angling authorities,
has calculated the pike to be amongst the most deadly enemies of the infant
salmon. He tells us that the pike of the Teviot, a tributary of the Tweed, are
very fond of eating young smolts, and says that, in a stretch of water ten
miles long, where there is good feeding, there will be at least a thousand pike,
and that these during a period of sixty days will consume about a quarter of a
million of young salmon!
One would almost suppose that some of the stories about the voracity of
pike had been invented; if only half of them be true, this fish has certainly
well earned its title of shark of the fresh water. There is, for instance, the
well-known tale of the poor mule, which a pike was seen to take by the nose
and pull into the water; but it is more likely I think that the mule pulled out
the pike. Pennant, however, relates a story of a pike that is known to be true.
On the Duke of Sutherland’s Canal at Trentham, a pike seized the head of a
swan that was feeding under water, and gorged as much of it as killed both. A
servant, perceiving the swan with its head below the surface for a longer time
than usual, went to see what was wrong, and found both swan and pike dead.
A large pike, if it has the chance, will think nothing of biting its captor; there
are several authentic instances of this having been done. The pike is a long-
lived fish, grows to a large size, and attains a prodigious weight. There is a
narrative extant about one that was said to be two centuries and a half old,
which weighed three hundred and fifty pounds, and was seventeen feet long.
There is abundant evidence of the size of pike: individuals have been
captured in Scotland, so we are told in the Scots Magazine, that weighed
Tyne), which was nearly triangular in shape, supposed to be the exact pattern
of its hiding-place, and which devoured every kind of fish or animal that
came in its way. It was caught several times, but always managed to escape,
and must have weighed at least twenty-five pounds. Upon one occasion it
was hooked by a little boy, who fished for it with a mouse, when it rewarded
him for his cleverness by dragging him into the water; and had help not been
at hand the boy would assuredly have been drowned, as the water at that
particular spot was deep. As to the voracity of this fish many particulars have
been given. Mr. Jesse, in one of his works, says that a pike of the weight of
five pounds has been known to eat a hundred gudgeon in three weeks; and I
have myself seen them killed in the neighbourhood of a shoal of parr, and,
notwithstanding their rapidity of digestion, I have seen four or five fish taken
out of the stomach of each. Mr. Stoddart, one of our chief angling authorities,
has calculated the pike to be amongst the most deadly enemies of the infant
salmon. He tells us that the pike of the Teviot, a tributary of the Tweed, are
very fond of eating young smolts, and says that, in a stretch of water ten
miles long, where there is good feeding, there will be at least a thousand pike,
and that these during a period of sixty days will consume about a quarter of a
million of young salmon!
One would almost suppose that some of the stories about the voracity of
pike had been invented; if only half of them be true, this fish has certainly
well earned its title of shark of the fresh water. There is, for instance, the
well-known tale of the poor mule, which a pike was seen to take by the nose
and pull into the water; but it is more likely I think that the mule pulled out
the pike. Pennant, however, relates a story of a pike that is known to be true.
On the Duke of Sutherland’s Canal at Trentham, a pike seized the head of a
swan that was feeding under water, and gorged as much of it as killed both. A
servant, perceiving the swan with its head below the surface for a longer time
than usual, went to see what was wrong, and found both swan and pike dead.
A large pike, if it has the chance, will think nothing of biting its captor; there
are several authentic instances of this having been done. The pike is a long-
lived fish, grows to a large size, and attains a prodigious weight. There is a
narrative extant about one that was said to be two centuries and a half old,
which weighed three hundred and fifty pounds, and was seventeen feet long.
There is abundant evidence of the size of pike: individuals have been
captured in Scotland, so we are told in the Scots Magazine, that weighed
Page 128
seventy-nine pounds. In the London newspapers of 1765 an account is given
of the draining of a pool, twenty-seven feet deep, at the Lilishall Limeworks,
near Newport, which had not been fished for many years, and from which a
gigantic pike was taken that weighed one hundred and seventy pounds, being
heavier than a man of twelve stone! I have seen scores of pike which weighed
upwards of half a stone, and a good many double that weight, but, as in the
case of the salmon, the weight is now on the descending ratio, the giants of
the tribe having been apparently all captured. Formerly there used to be great
hauls of this fish taken out of the water. Whether or not a pike be good for
food depends greatly on where it has been fed, what it has eaten, and how it
has been cooked. In fact, as I have already endeavoured to show, the animals
of the water are in respect of food not unlike those of the land—their flavour
is largely dependent on their feeding; and pike that have been luxuriating on
Lochleven trout, or feeding daintily for a few months on young salmon,
cannot be very bad fare. As a general rule, however, pike are not highly
esteemed as a dish even when cooked à la Walton, who recommended them
to be roasted, and basted during the process with claret, anchovies, and butter.
Old Isaac says a dish of pike so prepared is too good for any but anglers or
very honest men. The pike is a comparatively ugly fish as regards its shape,
but at certain seasons is very brilliant in colour. It is extensively distributed,
and is found over the greater part of Europe, and also in America and Asia.
The mascalogne, Esox estor, is the name of the largest American pike; it is
found only in the great lakes and waters of the St. Lawrence basin, and grows
to a very large size, thirty pounds being a common enough weight, but
individuals have been captured ranging from sixty to eighty pounds. The
mascalogne, like all its tribe, is a bold and voracious fish. There is also the
northern pickerel, another American pike, which does not grow so large as
the above, but is quite as fierce and bold as our own pike; and as the fish is
not good for food, although an excellent game fish, affording no end of sport,
I need not recommend the acclimatisation of any of these American savages.
The carp family (Cyprinidæ) is very numerous, embracing among its
members the barbel, the gudgeon, the carp-bream, the white-bream, the red-
eye, the roach, the bleak, the dace, and the well-known minnow. There is one
of the family which is of a beautiful colour, and with which all are familiar—
I mean the golden carp, which may be seen floating in its crystal prison in
nearly every home of taste, and which swarms in the ponds at Hampton Court
and in the tropical waters of the Crystal Palace at Sydenham. The gold and
of the draining of a pool, twenty-seven feet deep, at the Lilishall Limeworks,
near Newport, which had not been fished for many years, and from which a
gigantic pike was taken that weighed one hundred and seventy pounds, being
heavier than a man of twelve stone! I have seen scores of pike which weighed
upwards of half a stone, and a good many double that weight, but, as in the
case of the salmon, the weight is now on the descending ratio, the giants of
the tribe having been apparently all captured. Formerly there used to be great
hauls of this fish taken out of the water. Whether or not a pike be good for
food depends greatly on where it has been fed, what it has eaten, and how it
has been cooked. In fact, as I have already endeavoured to show, the animals
of the water are in respect of food not unlike those of the land—their flavour
is largely dependent on their feeding; and pike that have been luxuriating on
Lochleven trout, or feeding daintily for a few months on young salmon,
cannot be very bad fare. As a general rule, however, pike are not highly
esteemed as a dish even when cooked à la Walton, who recommended them
to be roasted, and basted during the process with claret, anchovies, and butter.
Old Isaac says a dish of pike so prepared is too good for any but anglers or
very honest men. The pike is a comparatively ugly fish as regards its shape,
but at certain seasons is very brilliant in colour. It is extensively distributed,
and is found over the greater part of Europe, and also in America and Asia.
The mascalogne, Esox estor, is the name of the largest American pike; it is
found only in the great lakes and waters of the St. Lawrence basin, and grows
to a very large size, thirty pounds being a common enough weight, but
individuals have been captured ranging from sixty to eighty pounds. The
mascalogne, like all its tribe, is a bold and voracious fish. There is also the
northern pickerel, another American pike, which does not grow so large as
the above, but is quite as fierce and bold as our own pike; and as the fish is
not good for food, although an excellent game fish, affording no end of sport,
I need not recommend the acclimatisation of any of these American savages.
The carp family (Cyprinidæ) is very numerous, embracing among its
members the barbel, the gudgeon, the carp-bream, the white-bream, the red-
eye, the roach, the bleak, the dace, and the well-known minnow. There is one
of the family which is of a beautiful colour, and with which all are familiar—
I mean the golden carp, which may be seen floating in its crystal prison in
nearly every home of taste, and which swarms in the ponds at Hampton Court
and in the tropical waters of the Crystal Palace at Sydenham. The gold and
Page 129
silver fish are natives of China, whence they were introduced into this
country by the Portuguese about the end of the seventeenth century, and have
become, especially of late years, so common as to be hawked about the
streets for sale. In China, as we can read, every person of fashion keeps gold-
fish by way of having a little amusement. They are contained either in the
small basins that decorate the courts of the Chinese houses, or in porcelain
vases made on purpose; and the most beautiful kinds are taken from a small
mountain-lake in the province of Che-Kyang, where they grow to a
comparatively large size, some attaining a length of eighteen inches and a
comparative bulk, the general run of them being equal in size to our herrings.
These lovely fish afford great delight to the Chinese ladies, who tend and
cultivate them with great care. They keep them in very large basins, and a
common earthen pan is generally placed at the bottom of these in a reversed
position, and so perforated with holes as to afford shelter to the fish from the
heat and glare of the sun. Green stuff of some kind is also thrown upon the
water to keep it cool, and it (the water) must be changed at least every two
days, and the fish, as a general rule, must never be touched by the hand. Great
quantities of gold-fish are often bred in ponds adjacent to factories, where the
waste steam being let in the water is kept at a warmish temperature. At the
manufacturing town of Dundee they became at one time a complete nuisance
in some of the factories, having penetrated into the steam and water pipes,
and occasionally brought the works to a complete stand. In England the
golden carp usually spawns between May and July, the particular time being
greatly regulated by the warmth of the season. The time of spawning may be
known by the change of habit which occurs in this fish. It sinks at once into
deep water instead of basking on the top, as usual; previous to which the fish
are restive and quick in their movements, throwing themselves out of the
water, etc. It may be stated here, to prevent disappointment, that golden carp
never spawn in a transparent vessel. When the spawn is hatched the fish are
very black in colour, some darker than others: these become of a golden hue,
while those of a lighter shade become silver-coloured. As is the case with the
salmon, it is some time before this change occurs, some colouring at the end
of one year, and others not till two or three seasons have come and gone.
These beautiful prisoners seldom live long in their crystal cells, although the
prison is beautiful enough, one would fancy:—
country by the Portuguese about the end of the seventeenth century, and have
become, especially of late years, so common as to be hawked about the
streets for sale. In China, as we can read, every person of fashion keeps gold-
fish by way of having a little amusement. They are contained either in the
small basins that decorate the courts of the Chinese houses, or in porcelain
vases made on purpose; and the most beautiful kinds are taken from a small
mountain-lake in the province of Che-Kyang, where they grow to a
comparatively large size, some attaining a length of eighteen inches and a
comparative bulk, the general run of them being equal in size to our herrings.
These lovely fish afford great delight to the Chinese ladies, who tend and
cultivate them with great care. They keep them in very large basins, and a
common earthen pan is generally placed at the bottom of these in a reversed
position, and so perforated with holes as to afford shelter to the fish from the
heat and glare of the sun. Green stuff of some kind is also thrown upon the
water to keep it cool, and it (the water) must be changed at least every two
days, and the fish, as a general rule, must never be touched by the hand. Great
quantities of gold-fish are often bred in ponds adjacent to factories, where the
waste steam being let in the water is kept at a warmish temperature. At the
manufacturing town of Dundee they became at one time a complete nuisance
in some of the factories, having penetrated into the steam and water pipes,
and occasionally brought the works to a complete stand. In England the
golden carp usually spawns between May and July, the particular time being
greatly regulated by the warmth of the season. The time of spawning may be
known by the change of habit which occurs in this fish. It sinks at once into
deep water instead of basking on the top, as usual; previous to which the fish
are restive and quick in their movements, throwing themselves out of the
water, etc. It may be stated here, to prevent disappointment, that golden carp
never spawn in a transparent vessel. When the spawn is hatched the fish are
very black in colour, some darker than others: these become of a golden hue,
while those of a lighter shade become silver-coloured. As is the case with the
salmon, it is some time before this change occurs, some colouring at the end
of one year, and others not till two or three seasons have come and gone.
These beautiful prisoners seldom live long in their crystal cells, although the
prison is beautiful enough, one would fancy:—
Page 130
“I ask, what warrant fixed them (like a spell
Of witchcraft fixed them) in the crystal cell;
To wheel with languid motion round and round,
Beautiful, yet in mournful durance bound?
Their peace, perhaps, our slightest footstep marr’d,
Or their quick sense our sweetest music jarr’d;
And whither could they dart, if seized with fear?
No sheltering stone, no tangled root was near.
When fire or taper ceased to cheer the room,
They wore away the night in starless gloom;
And when the sun first dawned upon the streams,
How faint their portion of his vital beams!
Thus, and unable to complain, they fared,
While not one joy of ours by them was shared.”
Gold-fish ought not to be purchased except from some very respectable
dealer. I have known repeated cases where the whole of the fish bought have
died within an hour or two of being taken home. These golden carp, which
are reared for sale, are usually spawned and bred in warmish water, and they
ought in consequence to be acclimatised or “tempered” by the dealer before
they are parted with. Parties buying ought to be particular as to this, and
ascertain if the fish they have bought have been tempered.
Returning to the common carp, I may speak of it as being a most useful
pond-fish. It is a sort of vegetarian, and it may be classed among the least
carnivorous fishes; it feeds chiefly upon vegetables or decaying organic
matter, and very few of them prey upon their kind, while some, it is thought,
pass the winter in a torpid state. There is a rhyme which tells us that
Turkeys, carp, hops, pickerel, and beer,
Came into England all in one year.
But this couplet must, I think, be wrong, as some of these items were in use
long before the carp was known; indeed, it is not at all certain when this fish
was first introduced into England, or where it was brought from, but I think it
extremely possible that it was originally brought here from Germany. In
ancient times there used to be immense ponds filled with carp in Prussia,
Of witchcraft fixed them) in the crystal cell;
To wheel with languid motion round and round,
Beautiful, yet in mournful durance bound?
Their peace, perhaps, our slightest footstep marr’d,
Or their quick sense our sweetest music jarr’d;
And whither could they dart, if seized with fear?
No sheltering stone, no tangled root was near.
When fire or taper ceased to cheer the room,
They wore away the night in starless gloom;
And when the sun first dawned upon the streams,
How faint their portion of his vital beams!
Thus, and unable to complain, they fared,
While not one joy of ours by them was shared.”
Gold-fish ought not to be purchased except from some very respectable
dealer. I have known repeated cases where the whole of the fish bought have
died within an hour or two of being taken home. These golden carp, which
are reared for sale, are usually spawned and bred in warmish water, and they
ought in consequence to be acclimatised or “tempered” by the dealer before
they are parted with. Parties buying ought to be particular as to this, and
ascertain if the fish they have bought have been tempered.
Returning to the common carp, I may speak of it as being a most useful
pond-fish. It is a sort of vegetarian, and it may be classed among the least
carnivorous fishes; it feeds chiefly upon vegetables or decaying organic
matter, and very few of them prey upon their kind, while some, it is thought,
pass the winter in a torpid state. There is a rhyme which tells us that
Turkeys, carp, hops, pickerel, and beer,
Came into England all in one year.
But this couplet must, I think, be wrong, as some of these items were in use
long before the carp was known; indeed, it is not at all certain when this fish
was first introduced into England, or where it was brought from, but I think it
extremely possible that it was originally brought here from Germany. In
ancient times there used to be immense ponds filled with carp in Prussia,
Page 131
Saxony, Bohemia, Mecklenburg, and Holstein, and the fish was bred and
brought to market with as much regularity as if it had been a fruit or a
vegetable. The carp yields its spawn in great quantities, no fewer than
700,000 eggs having been found in a fish of moderate weight (ten pounds);
and, being a hardy fish, it is easily cultivated, so that it would be profitable to
breed in ponds for the fishmarkets of populous places, and the fish-salesmen
assure us that there would be a large demand for good fresh carp. It is
necessary, according to the best authorities, to have the ponds in suites of
three—viz., a spawning-pond, a nursery, and a receptacle for the large fish—
and to regulate the numbers of breeding fish according to the surface of
water. It is not my intention to go minutely into the construction of carp-
ponds; but I may be allowed to say that it is always best to select such a spot
for their site as will give the engineer as little trouble as possible. Twelve
acres of water divided into three parts would allow a splendid series of ponds
—the first to be three acres in extent, the second an acre more, and the third
to be five acres; and here it may be again observed that, with water as with
land, a given space can only yield a given amount of produce, therefore the
ponds must not be overstocked with brood. Two hundred carp, twenty tench,
and twenty jack per acre is an ample stock to begin breeding with. A very
profitable annual return would be obtained from these twelve acres of water;
and, as many country gentlemen have even larger sheets than twelve acres, I
recommend this plan of stocking them with carp to their attention. There is
only the expense of construction to look to, as an under-keeper or gardener
could do all that was necessary in looking after the fish. A gentleman having
a large estate in Saxony, on which were situated no less than twenty ponds,
some of them as large as twenty-seven acres, found that his stock of fish
added greatly to his income. Some of the carp weighed fifty pounds each, and
upon the occasion of draining one of his ponds, a supply of fish weighing five
thousand pounds was taken out; and for good carp it would be no
exaggeration to say that sixpence per pound weight could easily be obtained,
which, for a quantity like that of this Saxon gentleman, would amount to a
sum of £125 sterling. Now, I have the authority of an eminent fish-salesman
for stating that ten times the quantity here indicated could be disposed of
among the Jews and Catholics of London in a week, and, could a regular
supply be obtained, an unlimited quantity might be sold.
I have been writing about Highland streams and northern lochs; but the
river scenery of England is, in its way, equally beautiful, and no river is more
brought to market with as much regularity as if it had been a fruit or a
vegetable. The carp yields its spawn in great quantities, no fewer than
700,000 eggs having been found in a fish of moderate weight (ten pounds);
and, being a hardy fish, it is easily cultivated, so that it would be profitable to
breed in ponds for the fishmarkets of populous places, and the fish-salesmen
assure us that there would be a large demand for good fresh carp. It is
necessary, according to the best authorities, to have the ponds in suites of
three—viz., a spawning-pond, a nursery, and a receptacle for the large fish—
and to regulate the numbers of breeding fish according to the surface of
water. It is not my intention to go minutely into the construction of carp-
ponds; but I may be allowed to say that it is always best to select such a spot
for their site as will give the engineer as little trouble as possible. Twelve
acres of water divided into three parts would allow a splendid series of ponds
—the first to be three acres in extent, the second an acre more, and the third
to be five acres; and here it may be again observed that, with water as with
land, a given space can only yield a given amount of produce, therefore the
ponds must not be overstocked with brood. Two hundred carp, twenty tench,
and twenty jack per acre is an ample stock to begin breeding with. A very
profitable annual return would be obtained from these twelve acres of water;
and, as many country gentlemen have even larger sheets than twelve acres, I
recommend this plan of stocking them with carp to their attention. There is
only the expense of construction to look to, as an under-keeper or gardener
could do all that was necessary in looking after the fish. A gentleman having
a large estate in Saxony, on which were situated no less than twenty ponds,
some of them as large as twenty-seven acres, found that his stock of fish
added greatly to his income. Some of the carp weighed fifty pounds each, and
upon the occasion of draining one of his ponds, a supply of fish weighing five
thousand pounds was taken out; and for good carp it would be no
exaggeration to say that sixpence per pound weight could easily be obtained,
which, for a quantity like that of this Saxon gentleman, would amount to a
sum of £125 sterling. Now, I have the authority of an eminent fish-salesman
for stating that ten times the quantity here indicated could be disposed of
among the Jews and Catholics of London in a week, and, could a regular
supply be obtained, an unlimited quantity might be sold.
I have been writing about Highland streams and northern lochs; but the
river scenery of England is, in its way, equally beautiful, and no river is more
Page 132
charming than the Thames. It is a classic stream, and its praises have been
sung by the poets and celebrated by the historian. After Mrs. S. C. Hall and
Thorne, it were vain to repeat its praises:—
“Glide gently, thus for ever glide,
O Thames! that anglers all may see
As lovely visions by thy side,
As now, fair river, come to me.
Oh, glide, fair stream, for ever so
Thy quiet soul on all bestowing,
Till all our minds for ever flow
As thy deep waters are now flowing.”
The Thames takes its rise in Gloucestershire, about three miles from the
town of Cirencester; and at that place, and for some miles of its course, it is
known as the Isis, and not till the waters of the Thame join it in Oxfordshire
is it known as the Thames. This celebrated river is small at first, and flows
through some beautiful scenery and highly-cultivated country; its banks are
studded with castles and palaces, beautiful towns and snug villages; while
well-stored gardens and cultivated fields give smiling evidence of plenty all
along its course. When we consider that the Thames flows past Windsor,
Hampton Court, and Richmond; that it laves the grassy lawns of
Twickenham, waters the gardens of Kew, and that it bears upon its bosom the
gigantic commerce of London—we can at once realise its importance, and
can understand its being called the king of British rivers, although it is neither
so long, nor does it contain so voluminous a body of water as some other of
our British streams. The total length of the river Thames is 215 miles, and the
area of the country it waters is 6160 square miles. It has as affluents a great
many fine streams, including the river Lodden, as also the Wey and the Mole.
I am not entitled to consider it here in its picturesque aspects—my business
with it is piscatorial, and I am able to certify that it is rich in fish of a certain
kind—
sung by the poets and celebrated by the historian. After Mrs. S. C. Hall and
Thorne, it were vain to repeat its praises:—
“Glide gently, thus for ever glide,
O Thames! that anglers all may see
As lovely visions by thy side,
As now, fair river, come to me.
Oh, glide, fair stream, for ever so
Thy quiet soul on all bestowing,
Till all our minds for ever flow
As thy deep waters are now flowing.”
The Thames takes its rise in Gloucestershire, about three miles from the
town of Cirencester; and at that place, and for some miles of its course, it is
known as the Isis, and not till the waters of the Thame join it in Oxfordshire
is it known as the Thames. This celebrated river is small at first, and flows
through some beautiful scenery and highly-cultivated country; its banks are
studded with castles and palaces, beautiful towns and snug villages; while
well-stored gardens and cultivated fields give smiling evidence of plenty all
along its course. When we consider that the Thames flows past Windsor,
Hampton Court, and Richmond; that it laves the grassy lawns of
Twickenham, waters the gardens of Kew, and that it bears upon its bosom the
gigantic commerce of London—we can at once realise its importance, and
can understand its being called the king of British rivers, although it is neither
so long, nor does it contain so voluminous a body of water as some other of
our British streams. The total length of the river Thames is 215 miles, and the
area of the country it waters is 6160 square miles. It has as affluents a great
many fine streams, including the river Lodden, as also the Wey and the Mole.
I am not entitled to consider it here in its picturesque aspects—my business
with it is piscatorial, and I am able to certify that it is rich in fish of a certain
kind—
Page 133
“The bright-eyed perch with fins of Tyrian dye,
The silver eel in shining volumes rolled,
The yellow carp in scales bedropp’d with gold,
Swift trout diversified with crimson stains,
And pike, the tyrants of the watery plains.”
Considering that all its best fishing points are accessible to an immense
population, many of whom are afflicted with a mania for angling, it is quite
wonderful that there is a single fish of any description left in it; and yet but a
year or two ago, the “pen of the war” bagged a seven-pound trout near
Walton Bridge! I may be allowed just to run over a few Thames localities,
and note what fish may be taken from them. Above Teddington at different
places an occasional trout may be pulled out, but, although the finest trout in
the world may be got in the Thames, they are, unfortunately, so scarce in the
meantime, that it is hardly worth while to lose one’s time in the all but vain
endeavour to lure them from their home. Pike fishing or trolling will reward
the Thames angler better than trouting. There are famous pike to be taken
every here and there—in the deep pools and at the weirs: and, as the pike is
voracious, a moderately good angler, with proper bait, is likely to have some
sport with this fish. But the speciality of the Thames, so far at least as most
anglers are concerned, is the quantity of fish of the carp kind which it
contains, as also perch. This latter fish may be taken with great certainty
about Maidenhead, Cookham, Pangbourne, Walton, Labham, and Wallingford
Road; and a kindred fish, the pope, in great plenty, may be sought for in the
same localities. Then the bearded barbel is found in greater plenty in the
Thames than anywhere else, and, as it is a fish of some size and of much
courage, it affords great sport to the angler. The best way to take the barbel is
with the “Ledger,” and the best places for this kind of fishing are the deeps at
Kingston Bridge, Sunbury Lock, Halliford, Chertsey Weir, and in the deeps at
Bray, where many a time and oft have good hauls of barbel been taken. The
best times for the capture of this fish are late in the afternoon or very early in
the morning. Chub are also plentiful in the Thames; and Mr. Arthur Smith,
who wrote a guide to Thames anglers, specially recommended the island
above Goring for chub, also Marlow and the large island below Henley
Bridge. This fish can be taken with the fly, and gives tolerable sport. The
roach is a fish that abounds in all parts of the Thames, especially between
Windsor and Richmond; and in the proper season—September and October—
The silver eel in shining volumes rolled,
The yellow carp in scales bedropp’d with gold,
Swift trout diversified with crimson stains,
And pike, the tyrants of the watery plains.”
Considering that all its best fishing points are accessible to an immense
population, many of whom are afflicted with a mania for angling, it is quite
wonderful that there is a single fish of any description left in it; and yet but a
year or two ago, the “pen of the war” bagged a seven-pound trout near
Walton Bridge! I may be allowed just to run over a few Thames localities,
and note what fish may be taken from them. Above Teddington at different
places an occasional trout may be pulled out, but, although the finest trout in
the world may be got in the Thames, they are, unfortunately, so scarce in the
meantime, that it is hardly worth while to lose one’s time in the all but vain
endeavour to lure them from their home. Pike fishing or trolling will reward
the Thames angler better than trouting. There are famous pike to be taken
every here and there—in the deep pools and at the weirs: and, as the pike is
voracious, a moderately good angler, with proper bait, is likely to have some
sport with this fish. But the speciality of the Thames, so far at least as most
anglers are concerned, is the quantity of fish of the carp kind which it
contains, as also perch. This latter fish may be taken with great certainty
about Maidenhead, Cookham, Pangbourne, Walton, Labham, and Wallingford
Road; and a kindred fish, the pope, in great plenty, may be sought for in the
same localities. Then the bearded barbel is found in greater plenty in the
Thames than anywhere else, and, as it is a fish of some size and of much
courage, it affords great sport to the angler. The best way to take the barbel is
with the “Ledger,” and the best places for this kind of fishing are the deeps at
Kingston Bridge, Sunbury Lock, Halliford, Chertsey Weir, and in the deeps at
Bray, where many a time and oft have good hauls of barbel been taken. The
best times for the capture of this fish are late in the afternoon or very early in
the morning. Chub are also plentiful in the Thames; and Mr. Arthur Smith,
who wrote a guide to Thames anglers, specially recommended the island
above Goring for chub, also Marlow and the large island below Henley
Bridge. This fish can be taken with the fly, and gives tolerable sport. The
roach is a fish that abounds in all parts of the Thames, especially between
Windsor and Richmond; and in the proper season—September and October—
Page 134
it will be found in Teddington Weir, Sunbury, Blackwater, Walton Bridge,
Shepperton Lock, the Stank Pitch at Chertsey, and near Maidenhead, Marlow,
and Henley Bridges. At Teddington I may state that the dace is abundant, and
there is plenty of little fish of various kinds that can be had as bait at most of
the places we have named. In fact, in the Thames there is a superabundance
of sport of its kind, and plenty of accommodation for anglers, with wise
fishermen to teach them the art; and although the best sport that can be
enjoyed on this lovely stream is greatly different from the trout-fishing of
Wales or Scotland, it is good in its degree, and tends to health and high
spirits, and an anxiety to excel in his craft, as one can easily see who ventures
by the side of the water about Kew and Richmond.
“With hurried steps,
The anxious angler paces on, nor looks aside,
Lest some brother of the angle, ere he arrive,
Possess his favourite swim.”
Shepperton Lock, the Stank Pitch at Chertsey, and near Maidenhead, Marlow,
and Henley Bridges. At Teddington I may state that the dace is abundant, and
there is plenty of little fish of various kinds that can be had as bait at most of
the places we have named. In fact, in the Thames there is a superabundance
of sport of its kind, and plenty of accommodation for anglers, with wise
fishermen to teach them the art; and although the best sport that can be
enjoyed on this lovely stream is greatly different from the trout-fishing of
Wales or Scotland, it is good in its degree, and tends to health and high
spirits, and an anxiety to excel in his craft, as one can easily see who ventures
by the side of the water about Kew and Richmond.
“With hurried steps,
The anxious angler paces on, nor looks aside,
Lest some brother of the angle, ere he arrive,
Possess his favourite swim.”
Page 135
THAMES ANGLERS.—FROM AN OLD PICTURE.
I come now to the perch, a well-known because common fish, about which
a great deal has been written, and which is easily taken by the angler. There
are a great number of species of this fish, from the common perch of our own
canals and lochs to the “lates” of the Nile, or the beautiful golden-tailed
mesoprion, which swims in the seas of Japan and India and flashes out
brilliant rays of colour. The perch was assiduously cultivated in ancient Italy,
in the days when pisciculture was an adjunct of gastronomy, and was thought
to equal the mullet in flavour. In Britain, the fish, left to its natural growth
and no care being taken to flavour it artificially, is surpassed for table
purposes by the salmon and the trout; but perch being abundant afford plenty
of good fishing. The perch usually congregate in small shoals, and delight in
streams, or water with a clear bottom and with overhanging foliage to shelter
them from the overpowering heats of summer. These fish do not attain any
considerable weight, the one recorded as being taken in the Serpentine, in
Hyde Park, which weighed nine pounds, being still the largest on record.
I come now to the perch, a well-known because common fish, about which
a great deal has been written, and which is easily taken by the angler. There
are a great number of species of this fish, from the common perch of our own
canals and lochs to the “lates” of the Nile, or the beautiful golden-tailed
mesoprion, which swims in the seas of Japan and India and flashes out
brilliant rays of colour. The perch was assiduously cultivated in ancient Italy,
in the days when pisciculture was an adjunct of gastronomy, and was thought
to equal the mullet in flavour. In Britain, the fish, left to its natural growth
and no care being taken to flavour it artificially, is surpassed for table
purposes by the salmon and the trout; but perch being abundant afford plenty
of good fishing. The perch usually congregate in small shoals, and delight in
streams, or water with a clear bottom and with overhanging foliage to shelter
them from the overpowering heats of summer. These fish do not attain any
considerable weight, the one recorded as being taken in the Serpentine, in
Hyde Park, which weighed nine pounds, being still the largest on record.
Page 136
Perch of three and four pounds are by no means rare, and those of one pound
or so are quite common. The perch is a stupid kind of fish, and easily
captured. Many of the foreign varieties of perch attain an immense weight.
Some of the ancient writers tell us that the “lates” of the Nile attained a
weight of three hundred pounds; and then there is the vacti of the Ganges,
which is often caught five feet long. The perch, after it is three years old,
spawns about May. It may be described as rather a hardy fish, as we know it
will live a long time out of water, and can be kept alive among wet moss, so
that it may be easily transferred from pond to pond. Its hardy nature accounts
for its being found in so many northern lochs and rivers, as in the olden times
of slow conveyances it must have taken a long time to send the fish to the
great distances we know it must have been carried to. On the Continent,
living perch are a feature of nearly all the fishmarkets. The fish, packed in
moss and occasionally sprinkled with water, are carried from the country to
the cities, and if not sold are taken home and replaced in the ponds. This
particular fish, which is very prolific, might be “cultivated” to any extent. We
do not see why a fish-pond should not be as much a portion of a country
gentleman’s commissariat as his kitchen-garden or his cow-paddock. Perch
are useful in more ways than are generally known. The Laplanders make glue
and also jelly out of their skins. Exquisite dishes for fastidious gourmets can
be concocted from their milts, and choice ornaments can be formed out of
their scales. The sea-perch, as it is called (the basse), may be mentioned here.
Some varieties of it are very plentiful on the coast of America, where they
grow to a large size, and are much esteemed for their flavour. Another variety
of the perch is the common pike-perch, which might be acclimatised with
advantage in our seas, where it is at present unknown. It is common in the
Danube and the Elbe, as also in the Caspian and Black Seas. It is a fish that
grows rapidly and attains a considerable weight, and its flesh is most
agreeable. It is surprising that no pains are taken to acclimatise new varieties
of fish in Britain, although it could be easily accomplished. There is, for
instance, the black basse of the Huron, which might be advantageously
introduced; and there are many other fishes, both of the salt and fresh water,
which would flourish in this country and add to our commissariat. I have
chronicled in another place the introduction of the Silurus glanis, and I would
have been only too glad to have recorded the introduction of a dozen other
fish.
or so are quite common. The perch is a stupid kind of fish, and easily
captured. Many of the foreign varieties of perch attain an immense weight.
Some of the ancient writers tell us that the “lates” of the Nile attained a
weight of three hundred pounds; and then there is the vacti of the Ganges,
which is often caught five feet long. The perch, after it is three years old,
spawns about May. It may be described as rather a hardy fish, as we know it
will live a long time out of water, and can be kept alive among wet moss, so
that it may be easily transferred from pond to pond. Its hardy nature accounts
for its being found in so many northern lochs and rivers, as in the olden times
of slow conveyances it must have taken a long time to send the fish to the
great distances we know it must have been carried to. On the Continent,
living perch are a feature of nearly all the fishmarkets. The fish, packed in
moss and occasionally sprinkled with water, are carried from the country to
the cities, and if not sold are taken home and replaced in the ponds. This
particular fish, which is very prolific, might be “cultivated” to any extent. We
do not see why a fish-pond should not be as much a portion of a country
gentleman’s commissariat as his kitchen-garden or his cow-paddock. Perch
are useful in more ways than are generally known. The Laplanders make glue
and also jelly out of their skins. Exquisite dishes for fastidious gourmets can
be concocted from their milts, and choice ornaments can be formed out of
their scales. The sea-perch, as it is called (the basse), may be mentioned here.
Some varieties of it are very plentiful on the coast of America, where they
grow to a large size, and are much esteemed for their flavour. Another variety
of the perch is the common pike-perch, which might be acclimatised with
advantage in our seas, where it is at present unknown. It is common in the
Danube and the Elbe, as also in the Caspian and Black Seas. It is a fish that
grows rapidly and attains a considerable weight, and its flesh is most
agreeable. It is surprising that no pains are taken to acclimatise new varieties
of fish in Britain, although it could be easily accomplished. There is, for
instance, the black basse of the Huron, which might be advantageously
introduced; and there are many other fishes, both of the salt and fresh water,
which would flourish in this country and add to our commissariat. I have
chronicled in another place the introduction of the Silurus glanis, and I would
have been only too glad to have recorded the introduction of a dozen other
fish.
Page 137
As I have said so much about the Scottish lochs, it would be but fair to say
a few words about those of England; but in good honest truth it would be
superfluous to descant at the present day on the beauties of Windermere, or
the general lake scenery of Cumberland and Westmorland: it has been
described by hundreds of tourists, and its praises have been sung by its own
poets—the lake poets. It is with its fish that we have business, and honesty
compels us to give the charr a bad character. It is not by any means a game
fish, so far as sport is concerned; nor is it great in size or rich in flavour. But
potted charr is a rare breakfast delicacy. This fish, which is said by Agassiz to
be identical with the ombre chevalier of Switzerland, is rarely found to weigh
more than a pound; specimens are sometimes taken exceeding that weight,
but they are scarce. The charr is found to be pretty general in its distribution,
and is found in many of the Scottish lochs. It spawns about the end of the
year, some of the varieties depositing their eggs in the shallow parts of the
lake, while others proceed a short way up some of the tributary streams. In
November great shoals of charr may be seen in the rivers Rothay and
Brathay, particularly the latter, with the view of spawning. The charr, we are
told by Yarrell, afford but scant amusement to the angler, and are always to be
found in the deepest parts of the water in the lochs which they inhabit. “The
best way to capture them is to trail a very long line after a boat, using a
minnow for a bait, with a large bullet of lead two or three feet above the bait
to sink it deep in the water; by this mode a few charr may be taken in the
beginning of summer, at which period they are in the height of perfection
both in colour and flavour.”
As I am on the subject of anglers’ fishes, the reader will perhaps allow me
to suggest that “no end of sport” may be obtained in the sea; that capital sea-
angling may be enjoyed all the year round, and all round the British coasts;
and that there are fighting fishes in the waters of the great deep that will
occasionally try both the cunning and the nerve of the best anglers. The
greatest charm of sea-angling, however, lies in its simplicity, and the
readiness with which it can be engaged in, together with the comparatively
homely and inexpensive nature of the instruments required. A party living at
the seaside can either fish off the rocks or hire a boat, and purchase or obtain
the loan (for a slight consideration) of such simple tackle as is necessary;
though it must not be too simple, for even sea-fish will not stand the insult of
supposing they can be caught as a matter of course with anything; and as the
a few words about those of England; but in good honest truth it would be
superfluous to descant at the present day on the beauties of Windermere, or
the general lake scenery of Cumberland and Westmorland: it has been
described by hundreds of tourists, and its praises have been sung by its own
poets—the lake poets. It is with its fish that we have business, and honesty
compels us to give the charr a bad character. It is not by any means a game
fish, so far as sport is concerned; nor is it great in size or rich in flavour. But
potted charr is a rare breakfast delicacy. This fish, which is said by Agassiz to
be identical with the ombre chevalier of Switzerland, is rarely found to weigh
more than a pound; specimens are sometimes taken exceeding that weight,
but they are scarce. The charr is found to be pretty general in its distribution,
and is found in many of the Scottish lochs. It spawns about the end of the
year, some of the varieties depositing their eggs in the shallow parts of the
lake, while others proceed a short way up some of the tributary streams. In
November great shoals of charr may be seen in the rivers Rothay and
Brathay, particularly the latter, with the view of spawning. The charr, we are
told by Yarrell, afford but scant amusement to the angler, and are always to be
found in the deepest parts of the water in the lochs which they inhabit. “The
best way to capture them is to trail a very long line after a boat, using a
minnow for a bait, with a large bullet of lead two or three feet above the bait
to sink it deep in the water; by this mode a few charr may be taken in the
beginning of summer, at which period they are in the height of perfection
both in colour and flavour.”
As I am on the subject of anglers’ fishes, the reader will perhaps allow me
to suggest that “no end of sport” may be obtained in the sea; that capital sea-
angling may be enjoyed all the year round, and all round the British coasts;
and that there are fighting fishes in the waters of the great deep that will
occasionally try both the cunning and the nerve of the best anglers. The
greatest charm of sea-angling, however, lies in its simplicity, and the
readiness with which it can be engaged in, together with the comparatively
homely and inexpensive nature of the instruments required. A party living at
the seaside can either fish off the rocks or hire a boat, and purchase or obtain
the loan (for a slight consideration) of such simple tackle as is necessary;
though it must not be too simple, for even sea-fish will not stand the insult of
supposing they can be caught as a matter of course with anything; and as the
Page 138
larger kinds of hooks are often scarce at mere fishing villages, it is better to
carry a few to the scene of action.
“Well then, what sport does the sea afford?” will most likely be the first
question put by those who are unacquainted with sea-angling. I answer,
anything and everything in the shape of fish or sea-monster, from a sprat to a
whale. This is literally true. It is not an unfrequent occurrence for tourists in
Orkney, or other places in Scotland, to assist at a whale-battue; and some of
my readers may remember a very graphic description of an Orcadian whale-
hunt, given in Blackwood’s Magazine a few years ago, by the late Professor
Aytoun, who was Sheriff and Admiral of Orkney. The kind of sea-fish,
however, that are most frequently taken by the angler, both on the coasts of
England and Scotland, are the whiting, the common cod, the beautiful poor or
power cod, and the mackerel; there is also the abundant coal-fish, or sea-
salmon as I call it, from its handsome shape. This fish is taken in amazing
quantities, and in all its stages of growth. It is known by various names, such
as sillock, piltock, cudden, poddly, etc.; indeed most of our fishes have
different names in different localities; but I shall keep to the proper name so
as to avoid mistakes. The merest children are able, by means of the roughest
machinery, to catch any quantity of young coal-fish; they can be taken in our
harbours, and at the sea-end of our piers and landing-places. The whiting is
also very plentiful, so far as angling is concerned, as indeed are most of the
Gadidæ. It feeds voraciously, and will seize upon anything in the shape of
bait; several full-grown pilchards have been more than once taken from the
stomach of a four-pound fish. Whiting can be caught at all periods of the
year, but it is of course most plentiful in the breeding season, when it
approaches the shores for the purpose of depositing its spawn—that is in
January and February. The common codfish is found on all parts of our coast,
and the sea-anglers, if they hit on a good locality—and this can be rendered a
certainty—are sure to make a very heavy basket.
carry a few to the scene of action.
“Well then, what sport does the sea afford?” will most likely be the first
question put by those who are unacquainted with sea-angling. I answer,
anything and everything in the shape of fish or sea-monster, from a sprat to a
whale. This is literally true. It is not an unfrequent occurrence for tourists in
Orkney, or other places in Scotland, to assist at a whale-battue; and some of
my readers may remember a very graphic description of an Orcadian whale-
hunt, given in Blackwood’s Magazine a few years ago, by the late Professor
Aytoun, who was Sheriff and Admiral of Orkney. The kind of sea-fish,
however, that are most frequently taken by the angler, both on the coasts of
England and Scotland, are the whiting, the common cod, the beautiful poor or
power cod, and the mackerel; there is also the abundant coal-fish, or sea-
salmon as I call it, from its handsome shape. This fish is taken in amazing
quantities, and in all its stages of growth. It is known by various names, such
as sillock, piltock, cudden, poddly, etc.; indeed most of our fishes have
different names in different localities; but I shall keep to the proper name so
as to avoid mistakes. The merest children are able, by means of the roughest
machinery, to catch any quantity of young coal-fish; they can be taken in our
harbours, and at the sea-end of our piers and landing-places. The whiting is
also very plentiful, so far as angling is concerned, as indeed are most of the
Gadidæ. It feeds voraciously, and will seize upon anything in the shape of
bait; several full-grown pilchards have been more than once taken from the
stomach of a four-pound fish. Whiting can be caught at all periods of the
year, but it is of course most plentiful in the breeding season, when it
approaches the shores for the purpose of depositing its spawn—that is in
January and February. The common codfish is found on all parts of our coast,
and the sea-anglers, if they hit on a good locality—and this can be rendered a
certainty—are sure to make a very heavy basket.
Page 139
THE ANGLER FISH.
The pollack, or, as it is called in Scotland lythe, also affords capital sport;
and the mackerel-herring and conger-eel can also be taken in considerable
quantities. I can strongly recommend the lythe-fishing to gentlemen who are
blasés of salmon or pike, or who do not find excitement even among the birds
of lone St. Kilda. Then, as will afterwards be described, there is the extensive
family of the flat fish, embracing brill, plaice, flounders, soles, and turbot.
The latter is quite a classic fish, and has long been an object of worship
among gastronomists; it has been known to attain an enormous size. Upon
one occasion an individual, which measured six feet across, and weighed one
hundred and ninety pounds, was caught near Whitby. The usual mode of
capturing flat fish is by means of the trawl-net, but many varieties of them
may be caught with a handline. A day’s sea-angling will be chequered by
many little adventures. There are various minor monsters of the deep that
vary the monotony of the day by occasionally devouring the bait. A tadpole-
fish, better known as the sea-devil or “the angler,” may be hooked, or the
The pollack, or, as it is called in Scotland lythe, also affords capital sport;
and the mackerel-herring and conger-eel can also be taken in considerable
quantities. I can strongly recommend the lythe-fishing to gentlemen who are
blasés of salmon or pike, or who do not find excitement even among the birds
of lone St. Kilda. Then, as will afterwards be described, there is the extensive
family of the flat fish, embracing brill, plaice, flounders, soles, and turbot.
The latter is quite a classic fish, and has long been an object of worship
among gastronomists; it has been known to attain an enormous size. Upon
one occasion an individual, which measured six feet across, and weighed one
hundred and ninety pounds, was caught near Whitby. The usual mode of
capturing flat fish is by means of the trawl-net, but many varieties of them
may be caught with a handline. A day’s sea-angling will be chequered by
many little adventures. There are various minor monsters of the deep that
vary the monotony of the day by occasionally devouring the bait. A tadpole-
fish, better known as the sea-devil or “the angler,” may be hooked, or the
Page 140
fisher may have a visit from a hammer-headed shark or a pile-fish, which
adds greatly to the excitement; and if “the dogs” should be at all plentiful, it
is a chance if a single fish be got out of the sea in its integrity. So voracious
are this species of the Squalidæ, that I have often enough pulled a mere
skeleton into the boat, instead of a plump cod of ten or twelve pounds weight.
I shall now say a few words about the machinery of
capture. The tackle in use for handline sea-fishing is
much the same everywhere, and that which I describe
will suit almost any locality. It consists of a frame of
four pieces of woodwork about a foot and a half in
length, fastened together in the shape of such a
machine as ladies use for certain worsted work. Round
this is wound a thin cord, generally tanned, of from ten
to twenty fathoms in length. To the extreme end of this
line is attached a leaden sinker, the weight of which
varies according as the current of the tide is slow or rapid. About two feet
above the sinker is a cross piece of whalebone or iron, to the extremities of
which the strings on which the hooks are dressed are attached. Sometimes a
third hook is affixed to an outrigger, about two feet above the other hooks.
The length of the cords to which the lower hooks are attached should be such
as to allow them to hang about six inches higher than the bottom of the
sinker. In some parts of the Western Highlands a rod consisting of thin fir is
used, but from the length of line required it is rather a clumsy instrument, as
after the fish has been struck the rod has to be laid down in the boat, and the
line to be hauled in by hand.
As to bait, it is quite impossible to lay down
any strict rule. The bait which is the favourite in
one bay or bank is scouted by the fish of other
localities. At times almost anything will do:
numbers of mackerel have been taken with a little
bit of red cloth attached to the hook; on certain
occasions the fish are so voracious that they will
swallow the naked iron! On the English coasts,
and among the Western Islands of Scotland, the
most deadly bait that is used is boiled limpets,
which require to be partially chewed by the fisher
before placing them on the hooks; in other places mussels are the favourites,
adds greatly to the excitement; and if “the dogs” should be at all plentiful, it
is a chance if a single fish be got out of the sea in its integrity. So voracious
are this species of the Squalidæ, that I have often enough pulled a mere
skeleton into the boat, instead of a plump cod of ten or twelve pounds weight.
I shall now say a few words about the machinery of
capture. The tackle in use for handline sea-fishing is
much the same everywhere, and that which I describe
will suit almost any locality. It consists of a frame of
four pieces of woodwork about a foot and a half in
length, fastened together in the shape of such a
machine as ladies use for certain worsted work. Round
this is wound a thin cord, generally tanned, of from ten
to twenty fathoms in length. To the extreme end of this
line is attached a leaden sinker, the weight of which
varies according as the current of the tide is slow or rapid. About two feet
above the sinker is a cross piece of whalebone or iron, to the extremities of
which the strings on which the hooks are dressed are attached. Sometimes a
third hook is affixed to an outrigger, about two feet above the other hooks.
The length of the cords to which the lower hooks are attached should be such
as to allow them to hang about six inches higher than the bottom of the
sinker. In some parts of the Western Highlands a rod consisting of thin fir is
used, but from the length of line required it is rather a clumsy instrument, as
after the fish has been struck the rod has to be laid down in the boat, and the
line to be hauled in by hand.
As to bait, it is quite impossible to lay down
any strict rule. The bait which is the favourite in
one bay or bank is scouted by the fish of other
localities. At times almost anything will do:
numbers of mackerel have been taken with a little
bit of red cloth attached to the hook; on certain
occasions the fish are so voracious that they will
swallow the naked iron! On the English coasts,
and among the Western Islands of Scotland, the
most deadly bait that is used is boiled limpets,
which require to be partially chewed by the fisher
before placing them on the hooks; in other places mussels are the favourites,
Page 141
and in others the worms procured among the mud of the shore. The limpet
has this one advantage, that it is easily fixed on the hook, and keeps its hold
tenaciously. A very excellent bait for the larger kinds of fish is the soft parts
of the body of small crabs, which are gathered for that purpose at low tide
under the stones; a good place for procuring them is a mussel-bed. The best
time for fishing is immediately before ebb or flow. The hooks being baited,
the line is run over the side of the boat until the lead touches the bottom,
when it is drawn up a little, so as to keep the baits out of reach of the crabs,
who gnaw and destroy both bait and tackle. The line is held firmly and lightly
outside the boat, the other hand, inside the boat, also having a grip of the line.
The moment a fish is felt to strike, the line is jerked down by the hand inside,
thus bringing it sharply across the gunwale and fixing the hook. A little
experience will soon enable the angler to determine the weight of the fish,
and according as it is light or heavy must he quickly or slowly haul in his
line. When the fish reaches the surface, he should, if practicable, seize it with
his hand, as it is apt, on feeling itself out of water, to wriggle off. A landing-
clip or gaff, such as is used in salmon-fishing, is useful, as, in the event of
hooking a conger or a ray, there is much difficulty, and even some danger.
In fishing for lythe—the most exciting of all sea-angling—a very strong
cord is used, on which, in order to prevent the fouling of the line, one or two
stout swivels are attached. The hooks also cannot be too strong; those used
for cod or ling fishing are very suitable. The baits in general use are the body
of a small eel, about half a foot in length, skinned and tied to the shaft; or a
strip of red cloth, or a red or white feather similarly attached. A piece of lead
is fixed on the line at a short distance above the hook.
The boat must be rowed or sailed at a moderate rate, and from five or ten
fathoms of the line allowed to trail behind. The boat end of the line should be
turned once or twice round the arm, and held tightly in the hand; if the line
were fastened to the boat, there is every chance that a large lythe—they are
frequently caught upwards of thirty pounds weight—would snap the tackle.
The fish, when hooked, gives considerable play, and rather strongly objects to
being lifted into the boat. The clip or gaff is in this case always necessary. In
fishing for lythe, mackerel and dogfish are not unfrequently caught. The best
place for prosecuting this sport is in the neighbourhood of a rocky shore; and
the best times of the day are the early morning and evening. This fish will
also take readily during any period of a dull but not gloomy day.
has this one advantage, that it is easily fixed on the hook, and keeps its hold
tenaciously. A very excellent bait for the larger kinds of fish is the soft parts
of the body of small crabs, which are gathered for that purpose at low tide
under the stones; a good place for procuring them is a mussel-bed. The best
time for fishing is immediately before ebb or flow. The hooks being baited,
the line is run over the side of the boat until the lead touches the bottom,
when it is drawn up a little, so as to keep the baits out of reach of the crabs,
who gnaw and destroy both bait and tackle. The line is held firmly and lightly
outside the boat, the other hand, inside the boat, also having a grip of the line.
The moment a fish is felt to strike, the line is jerked down by the hand inside,
thus bringing it sharply across the gunwale and fixing the hook. A little
experience will soon enable the angler to determine the weight of the fish,
and according as it is light or heavy must he quickly or slowly haul in his
line. When the fish reaches the surface, he should, if practicable, seize it with
his hand, as it is apt, on feeling itself out of water, to wriggle off. A landing-
clip or gaff, such as is used in salmon-fishing, is useful, as, in the event of
hooking a conger or a ray, there is much difficulty, and even some danger.
In fishing for lythe—the most exciting of all sea-angling—a very strong
cord is used, on which, in order to prevent the fouling of the line, one or two
stout swivels are attached. The hooks also cannot be too strong; those used
for cod or ling fishing are very suitable. The baits in general use are the body
of a small eel, about half a foot in length, skinned and tied to the shaft; or a
strip of red cloth, or a red or white feather similarly attached. A piece of lead
is fixed on the line at a short distance above the hook.
The boat must be rowed or sailed at a moderate rate, and from five or ten
fathoms of the line allowed to trail behind. The boat end of the line should be
turned once or twice round the arm, and held tightly in the hand; if the line
were fastened to the boat, there is every chance that a large lythe—they are
frequently caught upwards of thirty pounds weight—would snap the tackle.
The fish, when hooked, gives considerable play, and rather strongly objects to
being lifted into the boat. The clip or gaff is in this case always necessary. In
fishing for lythe, mackerel and dogfish are not unfrequently caught. The best
place for prosecuting this sport is in the neighbourhood of a rocky shore; and
the best times of the day are the early morning and evening. This fish will
also take readily during any period of a dull but not gloomy day.
Page 142
The most amusing kind of sea-angling is fly-fishing for small
lythe and saithe (coal-fish). The tackle is exceedingly simple: a
rod consisting of a pliant branch about eight feet in length; a line
of light cord of the same length, and a small hook roughly busked
with a small white, red, or black feather. The fly is dragged on the
surface as the boat is rowed along, and the moment the fish is
struck it is swung into the boat. The fry of the lythe and saithe
may also be fished for from rocks and pier-heads, using the same
tackle. A very ingenious plan for securing a number of these little
fish is carried on in the Firth of Clyde and elsewhere. A boat
similar in shape to a salmon-coble, with a crew of two—one to
row and one to fish—goes out along the shore in the evening,
when the sea is perfectly calm or nearly so. The fisher has charge
of half-a-dozen rods or more, similar to the one already
mentioned. These rods project across the square stern of the boat,
and their near ends are inserted into the interstices of a seat of
wattled boughs, on which the fisher sits, not steadily, but
bumping gently up and down, communicating a trembling motion
to the flies. The course of the coble is always close in shore, and,
if the fish are taking well, the same ground may be fished over
many times during the course of the evening.
As to set-line-fishing, it can only be practised in places where the tide
recedes to a considerable distance. The cord used is of no defined length, and
at certain distances along its entire extent are affixed corks to prevent the
hooks sinking in the sand or mud. The shore-end is generally anchored to a
stone, and the further end fastened to the top of a stout staff firmly fixed in
the beach, and generally attached also to a stone to prevent it drifting ashore
in the event of being loosened from its socket. From the staff almost to the
shore, hooks are tied along the line at distances of a yard. The hooks are
baited at low tide, and on the return of next low tide the line is examined.
This is neither a satisfactory nor sure method of fishing, as many of the fish
wriggle themselves free, and clear the hook of the bait, and many, after being
caught, fall a prey to dogfish, etc., so that the disappointed fisher, on
examining his line, too often finds a row of baitless hooks, alternating with
the half-devoured bodies of haddocks, flounders, saithe, and other shore fish.
I may just name another mode of obtaining sport, which is by spearing flat
fish, such as flounders, dab, plaice, etc. No rule can be laid down on this
lythe and saithe (coal-fish). The tackle is exceedingly simple: a
rod consisting of a pliant branch about eight feet in length; a line
of light cord of the same length, and a small hook roughly busked
with a small white, red, or black feather. The fly is dragged on the
surface as the boat is rowed along, and the moment the fish is
struck it is swung into the boat. The fry of the lythe and saithe
may also be fished for from rocks and pier-heads, using the same
tackle. A very ingenious plan for securing a number of these little
fish is carried on in the Firth of Clyde and elsewhere. A boat
similar in shape to a salmon-coble, with a crew of two—one to
row and one to fish—goes out along the shore in the evening,
when the sea is perfectly calm or nearly so. The fisher has charge
of half-a-dozen rods or more, similar to the one already
mentioned. These rods project across the square stern of the boat,
and their near ends are inserted into the interstices of a seat of
wattled boughs, on which the fisher sits, not steadily, but
bumping gently up and down, communicating a trembling motion
to the flies. The course of the coble is always close in shore, and,
if the fish are taking well, the same ground may be fished over
many times during the course of the evening.
As to set-line-fishing, it can only be practised in places where the tide
recedes to a considerable distance. The cord used is of no defined length, and
at certain distances along its entire extent are affixed corks to prevent the
hooks sinking in the sand or mud. The shore-end is generally anchored to a
stone, and the further end fastened to the top of a stout staff firmly fixed in
the beach, and generally attached also to a stone to prevent it drifting ashore
in the event of being loosened from its socket. From the staff almost to the
shore, hooks are tied along the line at distances of a yard. The hooks are
baited at low tide, and on the return of next low tide the line is examined.
This is neither a satisfactory nor sure method of fishing, as many of the fish
wriggle themselves free, and clear the hook of the bait, and many, after being
caught, fall a prey to dogfish, etc., so that the disappointed fisher, on
examining his line, too often finds a row of baitless hooks, alternating with
the half-devoured bodies of haddocks, flounders, saithe, and other shore fish.
I may just name another mode of obtaining sport, which is by spearing flat
fish, such as flounders, dab, plaice, etc. No rule can be laid down on this
Page 143
method of fishing. It has been carried on
successfully by means of a common pitchfork, but
some gentlemen go the length of having fine
spears made for the purpose, very long and with
very sharp prongs; others, again, use a three-
pronged farm-yard “graip,” which has been
known to do as much real work as more elaborate
utensils specially contrived for the purpose. The
simplest directions I can give to those who try this style of fishing are just to
spear all the fish they can see, but the general plan is to stab in the dark with
the kind of instrument delineated above. At the mouths of most of the large
English rivers there is usually abundance of all the minor kinds of flat fish.
Lobsters and crabs can be taken at certain rocky
places of the coast; mussels can be picked from
the rocks, and cockles can be dug for in the sand.
Shrimps can also be taken, and various other
wonders of the sea and its shores may be picked
up. After a storm a great number of curious fishes
and shells may be gathered, and some of these are
very valuable as specimens of natural history. The apparatus for capturing
lobsters and crabs is like a cage, and is generally made of wicker work, with
an aperture at the top or the side for the animal to enter by; it can be baited
with any sort of garbage that is at hand. Having been so baited, the lobster-
pot is sunk into the water, and left for a season, till, tempted by the mess
within, the game enters and is caged. Those who would induce crabs to enter
their pots must set them with fresh bait; lobsters, on the other hand, will look
at nothing but garbage. Very frequently rock-cod, saithe, and other fish, are
found to have entered the pots, intent both on foul and fresh food. Shell-fish
for bait can be taken by means of a wooden box or old wicker basket sunk
near a rocky place, and filled with garbage of some kind; the whelks and
small crabs are sure to patronise the mass extensively, and can thus be
obtained at convenience. It is impossible to tell in the limits of a brief chapter
one-half of the fishing wonders that can be accomplished during a sojourn at
the seaside. A visit to some quaint old fishing town, on the recurrence of “the
year’s vacation sabbath,” as some of our poets now call the annual month’s
holiday, might be made greatly productive of real knowledge; there are ten
successfully by means of a common pitchfork, but
some gentlemen go the length of having fine
spears made for the purpose, very long and with
very sharp prongs; others, again, use a three-
pronged farm-yard “graip,” which has been
known to do as much real work as more elaborate
utensils specially contrived for the purpose. The
simplest directions I can give to those who try this style of fishing are just to
spear all the fish they can see, but the general plan is to stab in the dark with
the kind of instrument delineated above. At the mouths of most of the large
English rivers there is usually abundance of all the minor kinds of flat fish.
Lobsters and crabs can be taken at certain rocky
places of the coast; mussels can be picked from
the rocks, and cockles can be dug for in the sand.
Shrimps can also be taken, and various other
wonders of the sea and its shores may be picked
up. After a storm a great number of curious fishes
and shells may be gathered, and some of these are
very valuable as specimens of natural history. The apparatus for capturing
lobsters and crabs is like a cage, and is generally made of wicker work, with
an aperture at the top or the side for the animal to enter by; it can be baited
with any sort of garbage that is at hand. Having been so baited, the lobster-
pot is sunk into the water, and left for a season, till, tempted by the mess
within, the game enters and is caged. Those who would induce crabs to enter
their pots must set them with fresh bait; lobsters, on the other hand, will look
at nothing but garbage. Very frequently rock-cod, saithe, and other fish, are
found to have entered the pots, intent both on foul and fresh food. Shell-fish
for bait can be taken by means of a wooden box or old wicker basket sunk
near a rocky place, and filled with garbage of some kind; the whelks and
small crabs are sure to patronise the mass extensively, and can thus be
obtained at convenience. It is impossible to tell in the limits of a brief chapter
one-half of the fishing wonders that can be accomplished during a sojourn at
the seaside. A visit to some quaint old fishing town, on the recurrence of “the
year’s vacation sabbath,” as some of our poets now call the annual month’s
holiday, might be made greatly productive of real knowledge; there are ten
Page 144
thousand wonders of the shore which can be studied besides those laid down
in books.
As will be noted, I have avoided as much as possible the naming of
localities, preferring to state the general practice. In all seaside towns and
fishing villages there are usually three or four old fishermen who will be glad
to do little favours for the curious in fish lore—to hire out boats, give the use
of tackle, and point out good localities in which to fish. For such as have a
few weeks at their disposal, I would suggest the western sea-lochs of
Scotland as affording superb sport in all the varieties of sea-angling. Fish of
all kinds, great and small, are to be found in tolerable quantity, and there is
likewise the still greater inducement of fine scenery, cheap lodgings, and
moderate living expenses. But the entire change of scene is the grand
medicine; nothing would do an exhausted London or Manchester man more
good than a month on Lochfyne, where he could not only angle in the great
water for amusement, but also watch the commercial fishers, and enjoy the
finely-flavoured herring of that loch as a portion of his daily food. If persons
in search of sea-angling wish to combine the enjoyment of picturesque
scenery with their pleasant labours on the water, they cannot do better than
select, as I did, the rural village of Corry, on the Island of Arran, as a centre
from which to conduct their operations.
May I be allowed to say a few words about this wonderful island, just by
way of a whet to the eye-appetite of those who have never seen it? Our
angler, having arrived at Glasgow, can go down the Clyde by steamboat
direct to Arran. There is another and a quicker way—viz. by railway to
Ardossan and steamboat to Brodick, but most strangers prefer the river; and
let me say here, without fear of contradiction, there is no pleasure river equal
to the Clyde, especially as regards accessibility. The steamers from Glasgow
peer at stated intervals into every nook and cranny of the water, and, on the
Saturdays especially, deposit perfect armies of people at various towns and
villages below Greenock, who are thus enabled to pass the Sunday in the
bright open air by the clear waters of this great stream. Any kind of lodging is
put up with for the sake of being “down the water;” and all sorts of people—
merchants even of high degree and “Glasgow bodies” of lower social
standing—are contented, chiefly no doubt at the instigation of their better
halves, to sojourn in places that when at home they would think quite
unsuitable for even the Matties of their households. The banks of the Clyde
have become wonderfully populous within the last twenty-five years—
in books.
As will be noted, I have avoided as much as possible the naming of
localities, preferring to state the general practice. In all seaside towns and
fishing villages there are usually three or four old fishermen who will be glad
to do little favours for the curious in fish lore—to hire out boats, give the use
of tackle, and point out good localities in which to fish. For such as have a
few weeks at their disposal, I would suggest the western sea-lochs of
Scotland as affording superb sport in all the varieties of sea-angling. Fish of
all kinds, great and small, are to be found in tolerable quantity, and there is
likewise the still greater inducement of fine scenery, cheap lodgings, and
moderate living expenses. But the entire change of scene is the grand
medicine; nothing would do an exhausted London or Manchester man more
good than a month on Lochfyne, where he could not only angle in the great
water for amusement, but also watch the commercial fishers, and enjoy the
finely-flavoured herring of that loch as a portion of his daily food. If persons
in search of sea-angling wish to combine the enjoyment of picturesque
scenery with their pleasant labours on the water, they cannot do better than
select, as I did, the rural village of Corry, on the Island of Arran, as a centre
from which to conduct their operations.
May I be allowed to say a few words about this wonderful island, just by
way of a whet to the eye-appetite of those who have never seen it? Our
angler, having arrived at Glasgow, can go down the Clyde by steamboat
direct to Arran. There is another and a quicker way—viz. by railway to
Ardossan and steamboat to Brodick, but most strangers prefer the river; and
let me say here, without fear of contradiction, there is no pleasure river equal
to the Clyde, especially as regards accessibility. The steamers from Glasgow
peer at stated intervals into every nook and cranny of the water, and, on the
Saturdays especially, deposit perfect armies of people at various towns and
villages below Greenock, who are thus enabled to pass the Sunday in the
bright open air by the clear waters of this great stream. Any kind of lodging is
put up with for the sake of being “down the water;” and all sorts of people—
merchants even of high degree and “Glasgow bodies” of lower social
standing—are contented, chiefly no doubt at the instigation of their better
halves, to sojourn in places that when at home they would think quite
unsuitable for even the Matties of their households. The banks of the Clyde
have become wonderfully populous within the last twenty-five years—
Page 145
villages have expanded into towns, hamlets have grown into villages, and
single cottages into hamlets. Now the railway to Greenock is insufficient as a
daily travelling aid to persons whose half hours are of large commercial
value; and as a consequence, a new line of rails has been constructed to come
upon the water at Wemyss Bay, about twelve miles below Greenock. To your
thorough business man time is money, and if he is alternately able to leave his
place of business and his place of pleasure half an hour later each way, he is
all the better pleased with both. To speculators in want of an idea I would say:
Rush to the Clyde, and buy up every inch of land that can be had within a
mile of the water, build upon it, and from the half million of human beings
who tenant Glasgow and the surrounding towns I will engage to find two
competing occupants for every house that can be put up. Building has
progressed even in Arran, and this too in despite of the late Duke of
Hamilton’s dislike to strangers, so that there is now a population on the island
of about 6000. A friend of mine says that such an important entity as a duke
has no right to do as he likes with his own, and consequently that Arran ought
to be built upon, and the blackcocks and other game birds be left to take their
chance. Even with such limited accommodation as can be now obtained,
Arran is a delightful summer residence; were it to be generally built upon, it
would realise from ground-rents alone an annual fortune to his Grace the
Duke of Hamilton, who owns the greater part of it, and he might have capital
shooting into the bargain.
Arran, I may state to all who are ignorant of the fact, is a very paradise for
geologists; and amateur globe-makers—persons who think they are better at
constructing worlds than the Great Architect who preceded them all—are
particularly fond of that island, being, as they suppose, quite able to find upon
it materiel sufficient for the erection of the largest possible “theories.”
Figures, it is said, can be made to prove either side of a cause; so can stones.
Each geologist can build up his own pet world from the same set of rocks;
and so active geologists proceed to stucco over with their own compositions
—“adumbrate” a friend calls the process—the sublime works of the greatest
of all designers. None of the sciences have given rise to so much controversy
as the science of geology. I make no pretensions to much geologic
knowledge, although I do know a little more than the man who wondered if
the granite boulders which he saw on a brae-side were on their way up or
down the hill, and argued that it was a moot point. What I would like to see
would be a good work on geology, divested entirely of the learned and
single cottages into hamlets. Now the railway to Greenock is insufficient as a
daily travelling aid to persons whose half hours are of large commercial
value; and as a consequence, a new line of rails has been constructed to come
upon the water at Wemyss Bay, about twelve miles below Greenock. To your
thorough business man time is money, and if he is alternately able to leave his
place of business and his place of pleasure half an hour later each way, he is
all the better pleased with both. To speculators in want of an idea I would say:
Rush to the Clyde, and buy up every inch of land that can be had within a
mile of the water, build upon it, and from the half million of human beings
who tenant Glasgow and the surrounding towns I will engage to find two
competing occupants for every house that can be put up. Building has
progressed even in Arran, and this too in despite of the late Duke of
Hamilton’s dislike to strangers, so that there is now a population on the island
of about 6000. A friend of mine says that such an important entity as a duke
has no right to do as he likes with his own, and consequently that Arran ought
to be built upon, and the blackcocks and other game birds be left to take their
chance. Even with such limited accommodation as can be now obtained,
Arran is a delightful summer residence; were it to be generally built upon, it
would realise from ground-rents alone an annual fortune to his Grace the
Duke of Hamilton, who owns the greater part of it, and he might have capital
shooting into the bargain.
Arran, I may state to all who are ignorant of the fact, is a very paradise for
geologists; and amateur globe-makers—persons who think they are better at
constructing worlds than the Great Architect who preceded them all—are
particularly fond of that island, being, as they suppose, quite able to find upon
it materiel sufficient for the erection of the largest possible “theories.”
Figures, it is said, can be made to prove either side of a cause; so can stones.
Each geologist can build up his own pet world from the same set of rocks;
and so active geologists proceed to stucco over with their own compositions
—“adumbrate” a friend calls the process—the sublime works of the greatest
of all designers. None of the sciences have given rise to so much controversy
as the science of geology. I make no pretensions to much geologic
knowledge, although I do know a little more than the man who wondered if
the granite boulders which he saw on a brae-side were on their way up or
down the hill, and argued that it was a moot point. What I would like to see
would be a good work on geology, divested entirely of the learned and
Page 146
scientific slang which usually make such books entirely useless to ninety-nine
out of every hundred persons who attempt to read them. I would like,
moreover, a work that would not bully us with a ready-made theory.
Arran is a rugged island, and, as I have said, is full of interesting and
almost unique geologic features. There is a mountain upon it which it is a
kind of necessity for all visitors to ascend. It is called Goatfell—its proper
name being Goath-Bhein, or hill of winds. At Corry I was told of persons
who had ascended Goatfell and come down again—the mountain is 2865 feet
high—in less than three hours; but I very soon found that I could not do the
going up from Corry in that period of time, not to speak of the coming down,
which to some people, especially if, like myself, they carry about with them a
solid weight of fourteen stones, is still more fatiguing; but then I had the
disadvantage of a wet forenoon, necessitating an occasional sojourn beneath a
granite boulder in order that we—that is, myself and a friend who essayed the
ascent with me—might keep ourselves tolerably dry. It was toilsome, too,
wading up to the knees in heather, even although the heather was in its fullest
bloom; but by perseverance and the good guiding of an intelligent shepherd
whom we took with us as a guide, and who knew the best paths, we did in
time reach the top, and must confess that we obtained upon our arrival an
exceeding rich reward, the view from the summit being very grand and
extensive, embracing what I may be allowed to call a sublimely-painted
diorama of portions of the three kingdoms.
It would be commonplace indeed to say of the view from the top of
Goatfell that it was either beautiful, picturesque, or sublime, for it is grand—I
might say a mysterious combination of all these qualities; for it cannot be
contemplated without a certain feeling of awe gradually becoming incidental
to the situation. We obtain, first of all, in the distance, a faint and dreamlike
view of mountains in Ireland,—away, however, over a far expanse of sea.
Nearer at hand, looking another way, the giant crag of Ailsa rises
perpendicular from the water, and we can almost hear the screaming of the
myriads of wild fowl which float over it like a cloud. Then at our feet lie in
rich profusion the green islands of the Clyde—Bute and the Cumbraes close
at hand; Argyle, with its lovely bays of glassy water, farther away; and more
distant still, the cragged peaks of Skye. Opening up from all parts of the river,
which glitters brilliantly in the sun, there may be discovered glimpses of
lovely scenery—hill-tops melting into clouds, and lofty mountains so
abundantly clothed with wood that the very branches dip into the water. Here
out of every hundred persons who attempt to read them. I would like,
moreover, a work that would not bully us with a ready-made theory.
Arran is a rugged island, and, as I have said, is full of interesting and
almost unique geologic features. There is a mountain upon it which it is a
kind of necessity for all visitors to ascend. It is called Goatfell—its proper
name being Goath-Bhein, or hill of winds. At Corry I was told of persons
who had ascended Goatfell and come down again—the mountain is 2865 feet
high—in less than three hours; but I very soon found that I could not do the
going up from Corry in that period of time, not to speak of the coming down,
which to some people, especially if, like myself, they carry about with them a
solid weight of fourteen stones, is still more fatiguing; but then I had the
disadvantage of a wet forenoon, necessitating an occasional sojourn beneath a
granite boulder in order that we—that is, myself and a friend who essayed the
ascent with me—might keep ourselves tolerably dry. It was toilsome, too,
wading up to the knees in heather, even although the heather was in its fullest
bloom; but by perseverance and the good guiding of an intelligent shepherd
whom we took with us as a guide, and who knew the best paths, we did in
time reach the top, and must confess that we obtained upon our arrival an
exceeding rich reward, the view from the summit being very grand and
extensive, embracing what I may be allowed to call a sublimely-painted
diorama of portions of the three kingdoms.
It would be commonplace indeed to say of the view from the top of
Goatfell that it was either beautiful, picturesque, or sublime, for it is grand—I
might say a mysterious combination of all these qualities; for it cannot be
contemplated without a certain feeling of awe gradually becoming incidental
to the situation. We obtain, first of all, in the distance, a faint and dreamlike
view of mountains in Ireland,—away, however, over a far expanse of sea.
Nearer at hand, looking another way, the giant crag of Ailsa rises
perpendicular from the water, and we can almost hear the screaming of the
myriads of wild fowl which float over it like a cloud. Then at our feet lie in
rich profusion the green islands of the Clyde—Bute and the Cumbraes close
at hand; Argyle, with its lovely bays of glassy water, farther away; and more
distant still, the cragged peaks of Skye. Opening up from all parts of the river,
which glitters brilliantly in the sun, there may be discovered glimpses of
lovely scenery—hill-tops melting into clouds, and lofty mountains so
abundantly clothed with wood that the very branches dip into the water. Here
Page 147
and there, distance no doubt lending enchantment to the view, we can see
deep glens and gloomy ravines, with trickling brooks and a rare wealth of
foliage, penetrated ever and anon by flashing sunbeams that light up the
picture for a moment and then leave it darker and grander than before.
Pastoral hill-sides too we can see covered with kine; while every here and
there steamboats dot the water and show their hazy trail of smoke. Lochfyne,
covered with tiny skiffs, is in view, the waters yielding up their wealth of
nourishment to the industrious fisherman. There too are the winding Kyles of
Bute, as much worthy of being immortalised in verse as the well-sung Isles of
Greece. The eye loves to linger on the soft-looking waters of the inland seas;
and again and again we gaze upon the Cobbler as he keeps watch over the
waters of Loch Long, or scan the placid expanse of Lochfyne.
The late Miss Catharine Sinclair very happily said that a portion of
Lochfyne is fine only in name, and I can well agree with her while looking at
the rocky sides of Cantyre; but giving reins to the imagination, we can fill up
the scene and picture the savages of a few thousand years ago fishing from
the rocks with their bone-tipt spears, and hauling the produce of their skill out
of the waters with rough branches of trees; and, as time flies onward, we can
note in our mind’s eye the rude canoes as they progress into ships becoming
instruments of commerce and tokens of civilisation. At our very feet are the
immense masses of granite that form the mountain on which we stand; and
near at hand, towering up alongside, are the cones of two other hills, forming
with Goatfell a silent council of three that seem to be ever engaged in
mysterious communing. The silence on the mountain-tops is wonderful,
indeed oppressive: there is not a sound to relieve the ear except perhaps a roar
of water, howling and hissing and boiling in endless torture in one of the
valleys; and as the wind fitfully moans as it soughs adown some weird vale,
half hidden from us by the clouds that float over it, the scene looks
“So wondrous wild, the whole might seem
The scenery of a fairy dream.”
Looking around, one could feel that the island has a history, if we could but
ascertain it. Books have been written about Arran, and the stone period and
the metallurgic period, as illustrated by the antiquities of the place, have been
canvassed with a keen zest; in fact, Arran is, if that be possible, more
interesting to the antiquary than the geologist. Its chambered cairns and
deep glens and gloomy ravines, with trickling brooks and a rare wealth of
foliage, penetrated ever and anon by flashing sunbeams that light up the
picture for a moment and then leave it darker and grander than before.
Pastoral hill-sides too we can see covered with kine; while every here and
there steamboats dot the water and show their hazy trail of smoke. Lochfyne,
covered with tiny skiffs, is in view, the waters yielding up their wealth of
nourishment to the industrious fisherman. There too are the winding Kyles of
Bute, as much worthy of being immortalised in verse as the well-sung Isles of
Greece. The eye loves to linger on the soft-looking waters of the inland seas;
and again and again we gaze upon the Cobbler as he keeps watch over the
waters of Loch Long, or scan the placid expanse of Lochfyne.
The late Miss Catharine Sinclair very happily said that a portion of
Lochfyne is fine only in name, and I can well agree with her while looking at
the rocky sides of Cantyre; but giving reins to the imagination, we can fill up
the scene and picture the savages of a few thousand years ago fishing from
the rocks with their bone-tipt spears, and hauling the produce of their skill out
of the waters with rough branches of trees; and, as time flies onward, we can
note in our mind’s eye the rude canoes as they progress into ships becoming
instruments of commerce and tokens of civilisation. At our very feet are the
immense masses of granite that form the mountain on which we stand; and
near at hand, towering up alongside, are the cones of two other hills, forming
with Goatfell a silent council of three that seem to be ever engaged in
mysterious communing. The silence on the mountain-tops is wonderful,
indeed oppressive: there is not a sound to relieve the ear except perhaps a roar
of water, howling and hissing and boiling in endless torture in one of the
valleys; and as the wind fitfully moans as it soughs adown some weird vale,
half hidden from us by the clouds that float over it, the scene looks
“So wondrous wild, the whole might seem
The scenery of a fairy dream.”
Looking around, one could feel that the island has a history, if we could but
ascertain it. Books have been written about Arran, and the stone period and
the metallurgic period, as illustrated by the antiquities of the place, have been
canvassed with a keen zest; in fact, Arran is, if that be possible, more
interesting to the antiquary than the geologist. Its chambered cairns and
Page 148
cromlechs are silent monuments of great events, as also are its standing-
stones; and the place is rich in those grey monoliths that would speak to us, if
we could but interpret their silent eloquence, of deeds achieved ages ago by
the valiant warriors of a long past time. There are vestiges of a prehistoric age
in Arran that indicate a population as long before the Celtic period as that age
preceded our own. There have doubtless been heroes on Mauchrie Moor
worthy to have their praises sung in Ossianic strains; for scattered all over the
island there are marks and tokens and scathed ruins that give rise to profound
speculations as to the past history of this dark and mountainous island. And
the irresistible conclusion of any amount of imagining is, that Arran is not
alone the paradise of the geologist, but is the heaven of the botanist as well,
while the antiquary may find in its moors and glens rich memorials indicating
even in the present age the great and troubled life which the huge mass of
rock and its gigantic and peaked protuberances have passed through as time
with an invisible pencil was recording its history.
Having sufficiently studied the changing scenery, and rested and refreshed
ourselves with some oat cakes and whisky, my friend proposed that we
should do our speculation on the geology and history of the island at home
over the dinner-table, or under the mild influence of the cup that not
inebriates. This was a sensible proposal, especially as the rain was becoming
more than a mere indication, and the shepherd, who knew the dangers of the
hill-top in wet clothes, impatient; so I gave way, the more especially as
beautiful views do not last for ever: the bright scene fades and the colours
deaden—the sea looks gloomy, the mists gather, the rain falls, and the wind
dashes the falling water rudely in our face, giving us warning to hurry away
before worse befalls us.
When we again reached the plateau from which the rocky dome of Goatfell
takes its rise, the fair sun once more shone out, and we had to note the
botanical wealth of the island, and especially how rich in heaths and ferns are
the slopes of the mountain. Indeed the same may be said of all the Clyde
islands. Cantyre is rich in ferns also. A botanical friend, while I was lingering
on a recent occasion in a bend of Lochfyne, waiting for that prince of river
steamers the newest Iona, picked up in a few minutes seven different
varieties, and told me that he had no doubt of finding double that number had
we had time to look for them. Our shepherd guide, while descending with us
from the mountain, seemed to hint that the reason why Arran was not more
generally allowed to be built upon by the late duke was because of the game.
stones; and the place is rich in those grey monoliths that would speak to us, if
we could but interpret their silent eloquence, of deeds achieved ages ago by
the valiant warriors of a long past time. There are vestiges of a prehistoric age
in Arran that indicate a population as long before the Celtic period as that age
preceded our own. There have doubtless been heroes on Mauchrie Moor
worthy to have their praises sung in Ossianic strains; for scattered all over the
island there are marks and tokens and scathed ruins that give rise to profound
speculations as to the past history of this dark and mountainous island. And
the irresistible conclusion of any amount of imagining is, that Arran is not
alone the paradise of the geologist, but is the heaven of the botanist as well,
while the antiquary may find in its moors and glens rich memorials indicating
even in the present age the great and troubled life which the huge mass of
rock and its gigantic and peaked protuberances have passed through as time
with an invisible pencil was recording its history.
Having sufficiently studied the changing scenery, and rested and refreshed
ourselves with some oat cakes and whisky, my friend proposed that we
should do our speculation on the geology and history of the island at home
over the dinner-table, or under the mild influence of the cup that not
inebriates. This was a sensible proposal, especially as the rain was becoming
more than a mere indication, and the shepherd, who knew the dangers of the
hill-top in wet clothes, impatient; so I gave way, the more especially as
beautiful views do not last for ever: the bright scene fades and the colours
deaden—the sea looks gloomy, the mists gather, the rain falls, and the wind
dashes the falling water rudely in our face, giving us warning to hurry away
before worse befalls us.
When we again reached the plateau from which the rocky dome of Goatfell
takes its rise, the fair sun once more shone out, and we had to note the
botanical wealth of the island, and especially how rich in heaths and ferns are
the slopes of the mountain. Indeed the same may be said of all the Clyde
islands. Cantyre is rich in ferns also. A botanical friend, while I was lingering
on a recent occasion in a bend of Lochfyne, waiting for that prince of river
steamers the newest Iona, picked up in a few minutes seven different
varieties, and told me that he had no doubt of finding double that number had
we had time to look for them. Our shepherd guide, while descending with us
from the mountain, seemed to hint that the reason why Arran was not more
generally allowed to be built upon by the late duke was because of the game.
Page 149
I had heard before that the duke thought of keeping the Island of Arran as a
gigantic game-preserve; indeed it is admirably suited for such a purpose,
having an area of 165 square miles, and being entirely isolated from any
poaching population. Our guide, on being asked, was quite of my opinion as
to the declining grouse supplies: we are overshooting our game birds in the
very same way as we have been overfishing our salmon. Where are the
grouse? can only be answered by the death-dealing brigade of sportsmen,
gamekeepers, and gillies, who every “twelfth” assemble on the hills and
moors to perform their annual shooting task. The grand brag over all the
cohort of guns is who will have the biggest bag; and now, what with
overshooting and the mysterious disease that ever and anon attacks the birds,
we are likely to run out of grouse. What a calamity! not only to real
sportsmen, but to all others who have extensive tracts of moor or mountain
land, the only wealth of which has hitherto been the stock of game. Once
upon a time the capercailzie abounded in the Island of Arran, and in many
places of Scotland besides; but that bird has long been very scarce, and
renewed attempts to breed it have not as yet resulted in any great success. The
wild boar was at one time also to be found on the island, and there are still a
few wild deer that rush with fleet steps about the mountainsides; and on rare
occasions, although not very lately, eagles have been seen on the mountain-
tops, where ptarmigan are yet occasionally found. Arran is lavishly populated
with grouse and black game, while on the lowland parts partridges and
pheasants have been bred by the duke.
We were exceedingly glad, after our hot and toilsome forenoon’s work, to
refresh our bodies with cold water, and then to sit down to our homely dinner
of stewed mutton and well-boiled potatoes, which, it is needless to say, we ate
with decided relish. During this rest we became still better acquainted with
our landlady. She had passed nearly all her life on the island as a domestic
servant, and now, when she had fallen into “the sere the yellow leaf,” she had,
by “good speaking,” and the payment of a rent of one pound a year, obtained
permission to reside in her present little cottage, which, when it was handed
over to her, was ruined and roofless: she had, therefore, to put on a straw
roof, and is bound to keep it in repair. “How did she live?” my friend asked.
“Well, sir, I don’t live very well; I’m not in good health and can’t see to do
much with my needle. I have some sewing work at which I can earn a penny
a day. It is called ‘veining,’ and is used to trim ladies’ underclothing.
Occasionally I let my bit place to Glasgow gentlemen, who come down by
gigantic game-preserve; indeed it is admirably suited for such a purpose,
having an area of 165 square miles, and being entirely isolated from any
poaching population. Our guide, on being asked, was quite of my opinion as
to the declining grouse supplies: we are overshooting our game birds in the
very same way as we have been overfishing our salmon. Where are the
grouse? can only be answered by the death-dealing brigade of sportsmen,
gamekeepers, and gillies, who every “twelfth” assemble on the hills and
moors to perform their annual shooting task. The grand brag over all the
cohort of guns is who will have the biggest bag; and now, what with
overshooting and the mysterious disease that ever and anon attacks the birds,
we are likely to run out of grouse. What a calamity! not only to real
sportsmen, but to all others who have extensive tracts of moor or mountain
land, the only wealth of which has hitherto been the stock of game. Once
upon a time the capercailzie abounded in the Island of Arran, and in many
places of Scotland besides; but that bird has long been very scarce, and
renewed attempts to breed it have not as yet resulted in any great success. The
wild boar was at one time also to be found on the island, and there are still a
few wild deer that rush with fleet steps about the mountainsides; and on rare
occasions, although not very lately, eagles have been seen on the mountain-
tops, where ptarmigan are yet occasionally found. Arran is lavishly populated
with grouse and black game, while on the lowland parts partridges and
pheasants have been bred by the duke.
We were exceedingly glad, after our hot and toilsome forenoon’s work, to
refresh our bodies with cold water, and then to sit down to our homely dinner
of stewed mutton and well-boiled potatoes, which, it is needless to say, we ate
with decided relish. During this rest we became still better acquainted with
our landlady. She had passed nearly all her life on the island as a domestic
servant, and now, when she had fallen into “the sere the yellow leaf,” she had,
by “good speaking,” and the payment of a rent of one pound a year, obtained
permission to reside in her present little cottage, which, when it was handed
over to her, was ruined and roofless: she had, therefore, to put on a straw
roof, and is bound to keep it in repair. “How did she live?” my friend asked.
“Well, sir, I don’t live very well; I’m not in good health and can’t see to do
much with my needle. I have some sewing work at which I can earn a penny
a day. It is called ‘veining,’ and is used to trim ladies’ underclothing.
Occasionally I let my bit place to Glasgow gentlemen, who come down by
Page 150
the Saturday steamboat. The few shillings that I will get from you, if you stay
out the week, will be money to me. A gentleman living in Edinburgh is kind
enough to pay my rent, and when my beds are let, I sleep in the garret.” Such
are the short and simple annals of the poor; and I could not help being
impressed with this example of patient womanhood, who, rather than be a
recipient of parish relief, would toil on from day to day, acting over again
Hood’s song of the shirt, in order to the earning of a “sair-won penny fee.”
I have just indicated by the little story of this woman the one drawback of
the island—the scarcity of house accommodation, and consequently of good
lodgings. To give my readers a practical idea of how matters stand, let me
relate the experience of my last visit, when, accompanied by the same friend,
I made a hurried run down to the island one Saturday evening to make some
inquiries anent the Western herring-fishery.
CORRY HARBOUR.
out the week, will be money to me. A gentleman living in Edinburgh is kind
enough to pay my rent, and when my beds are let, I sleep in the garret.” Such
are the short and simple annals of the poor; and I could not help being
impressed with this example of patient womanhood, who, rather than be a
recipient of parish relief, would toil on from day to day, acting over again
Hood’s song of the shirt, in order to the earning of a “sair-won penny fee.”
I have just indicated by the little story of this woman the one drawback of
the island—the scarcity of house accommodation, and consequently of good
lodgings. To give my readers a practical idea of how matters stand, let me
relate the experience of my last visit, when, accompanied by the same friend,
I made a hurried run down to the island one Saturday evening to make some
inquiries anent the Western herring-fishery.
CORRY HARBOUR.
Page 151
We had been landed from the steamboat on a massive grey boulder, on the
sides of which, thick as was the atmosphere, we observed dozens of limpets
and crowds of “buckies,” and other sea-ware, giving us token of ample
employment when we could obtain leisure for a more minute survey of the
rocks and stray stones which sprinkle the sea-beach of Corry. In the
meantime, that is just after landing, the great, the momentous question on this
and every other Saturday night is—is the inn full? A hurried scramble over
the jagged stones, and a rush past the very picturesque residence of Mr.
Douglas’ pigs, brought us to the inn, and at once decided the question. Mrs.
Jamison, the landlady, shook her lawn-bedizened head—the inn, alas, was
full, overflowing in fact, for a gentleman had engaged the coach-house! It
was feared, too, that every house in the village was in a like predicament, and
further inquiry soon confirmed this to us rather awful statement, and so I was
left standing at the inn-door, with a bitingly shrewd companion, to solve this
problem—Given the barest possible accommodation throughout all Corry for
only forty-eight strangers, how to shake fifty into the village, so that each
might have somewhere to lay his head? This is a problem, I suspect, that few
can answer. What was to be done? The steamboat had gone! Were we then to
tramp on to Brodick, with more than a suspicion of a rainy night in the moist
atmosphere, or try a shake-down of clean straw in a lime quarry? It might
have come to that, and as both of us had before then camped out for a night
by the sheltered side of a haystack, we might have arranged, fortified by the
aid of a dram, or perhaps two, to pass a tolerable night in the lime cavern
beside a very canny-looking horse-of-all-work that we caught a glimpse of
through the gloom of the place while peeping into it.
But a Douglas to the rescue! And who is Douglas? it will be asked. Well,
the ever-active Douglas in his own person combines the offices of boatman,
quarrier, postman, butcher, grocer, and general merchant, and is, in fact, to
use a Scotch phrase, the “Johnny A’things” of the village—a dealer in—
“Meal, barley, butter, and cheese;
Soap, starch, blue, and peas;
Train-oil, tobacco, pipes, and teas;
And whisky and loch leeches.”
It fortunately occurred that a modest maiden lady, a very “civil-spoken”
woman indeed, by name Grace Macalister, had been disappointed of two
sides of which, thick as was the atmosphere, we observed dozens of limpets
and crowds of “buckies,” and other sea-ware, giving us token of ample
employment when we could obtain leisure for a more minute survey of the
rocks and stray stones which sprinkle the sea-beach of Corry. In the
meantime, that is just after landing, the great, the momentous question on this
and every other Saturday night is—is the inn full? A hurried scramble over
the jagged stones, and a rush past the very picturesque residence of Mr.
Douglas’ pigs, brought us to the inn, and at once decided the question. Mrs.
Jamison, the landlady, shook her lawn-bedizened head—the inn, alas, was
full, overflowing in fact, for a gentleman had engaged the coach-house! It
was feared, too, that every house in the village was in a like predicament, and
further inquiry soon confirmed this to us rather awful statement, and so I was
left standing at the inn-door, with a bitingly shrewd companion, to solve this
problem—Given the barest possible accommodation throughout all Corry for
only forty-eight strangers, how to shake fifty into the village, so that each
might have somewhere to lay his head? This is a problem, I suspect, that few
can answer. What was to be done? The steamboat had gone! Were we then to
tramp on to Brodick, with more than a suspicion of a rainy night in the moist
atmosphere, or try a shake-down of clean straw in a lime quarry? It might
have come to that, and as both of us had before then camped out for a night
by the sheltered side of a haystack, we might have arranged, fortified by the
aid of a dram, or perhaps two, to pass a tolerable night in the lime cavern
beside a very canny-looking horse-of-all-work that we caught a glimpse of
through the gloom of the place while peeping into it.
But a Douglas to the rescue! And who is Douglas? it will be asked. Well,
the ever-active Douglas in his own person combines the offices of boatman,
quarrier, postman, butcher, grocer, and general merchant, and is, in fact, to
use a Scotch phrase, the “Johnny A’things” of the village—a dealer in—
“Meal, barley, butter, and cheese;
Soap, starch, blue, and peas;
Train-oil, tobacco, pipes, and teas;
And whisky and loch leeches.”
It fortunately occurred that a modest maiden lady, a very “civil-spoken”
woman indeed, by name Grace Macalister, had been disappointed of two
Page 152
Glasgow gentlemen, who had engaged her whole house, and so the two
benighted travellers from the east were accepted, at the instigation of the
aforesaid Mr. Douglas, in lieu of them. Taking possession of our lodgings at
once, we formed ourselves into a committee of supply, which resulted in a
prompt expenditure of a sum of six shillings and threepence, the particulars
of which, for the benefit of my readers, and to show how primitive we had all
at once become, I beg to subjoin—namely, bread, 7d.; mutton, 2s. 4d.; butter,
6½d.; tea, 6d.; sugar, 3d.; milk, ½d.; herring, 2d. This sum, with
eighteenpence added for whisky, threepence for potatoes, and one penny for a
candle, represented the total commissariat expenses of two persons in Corry
for five wholesome but homely meals. Our bed cost us one shilling each per
night, and our attendance and washing were charged at the rate of a shilling a
day, so long as we used the Hotel Macalister, but even this did not very much
swell the grand total of the bill, which, at such rates, was by no means heavy
at the end of our holiday ramble over Arran, especially when it is considered
that the Arran season does not very greatly exceed one hundred days. Our
quarters were certainly primitive enough—namely, half of a thatched cottage,
or rather hut we may call it, consisting of one apartment containing two beds,
four chairs, a small table, and a little cupboard. The beds were curtained by a
series of blue striped cotton fragments of three different patterns of an old
Scotch kind, and the walls were papered with five different kinds of paper;
but the low roof was the greatest treat of all—it was covered with old
numbers of the Witness newspaper, at the time when it was edited by Hugh
Miller, and these had, no doubt, been left in the cottage by previous travellers.
The floor was covered with fragments of canvas laid down as a carpet. Many
tourists would perhaps turn up their noses at this humble cottage, but to my
friend and myself it was a delightful change.
I have not space in which to particularise all the beauties of Arran, but I
must say a word or two about Glen Sannox. Near the golden beach of Sannox
Bay is situated the solitary churchyard of Corry, with its long grass waving
rank over the graves, and its borders of fuchsias laden with brilliant blossoms.
There was, we observed, on peeping over the wall, a new-made grave, that of
an orphan girl who had been drowned while bathing. Passing the churchyard
—there was once a church at the place, but all trace of it, save one stone built
into the wall of the churchyard, has long passed away—we came upon a
brawling stream, which led us up to the ruins of what had been a barytes-mill.
The stones lay around in great masses, as if they had been suddenly
benighted travellers from the east were accepted, at the instigation of the
aforesaid Mr. Douglas, in lieu of them. Taking possession of our lodgings at
once, we formed ourselves into a committee of supply, which resulted in a
prompt expenditure of a sum of six shillings and threepence, the particulars
of which, for the benefit of my readers, and to show how primitive we had all
at once become, I beg to subjoin—namely, bread, 7d.; mutton, 2s. 4d.; butter,
6½d.; tea, 6d.; sugar, 3d.; milk, ½d.; herring, 2d. This sum, with
eighteenpence added for whisky, threepence for potatoes, and one penny for a
candle, represented the total commissariat expenses of two persons in Corry
for five wholesome but homely meals. Our bed cost us one shilling each per
night, and our attendance and washing were charged at the rate of a shilling a
day, so long as we used the Hotel Macalister, but even this did not very much
swell the grand total of the bill, which, at such rates, was by no means heavy
at the end of our holiday ramble over Arran, especially when it is considered
that the Arran season does not very greatly exceed one hundred days. Our
quarters were certainly primitive enough—namely, half of a thatched cottage,
or rather hut we may call it, consisting of one apartment containing two beds,
four chairs, a small table, and a little cupboard. The beds were curtained by a
series of blue striped cotton fragments of three different patterns of an old
Scotch kind, and the walls were papered with five different kinds of paper;
but the low roof was the greatest treat of all—it was covered with old
numbers of the Witness newspaper, at the time when it was edited by Hugh
Miller, and these had, no doubt, been left in the cottage by previous travellers.
The floor was covered with fragments of canvas laid down as a carpet. Many
tourists would perhaps turn up their noses at this humble cottage, but to my
friend and myself it was a delightful change.
I have not space in which to particularise all the beauties of Arran, but I
must say a word or two about Glen Sannox. Near the golden beach of Sannox
Bay is situated the solitary churchyard of Corry, with its long grass waving
rank over the graves, and its borders of fuchsias laden with brilliant blossoms.
There was, we observed, on peeping over the wall, a new-made grave, that of
an orphan girl who had been drowned while bathing. Passing the churchyard
—there was once a church at the place, but all trace of it, save one stone built
into the wall of the churchyard, has long passed away—we came upon a
brawling stream, which led us up to the ruins of what had been a barytes-mill.
The stones lay around in great masses, as if they had been suddenly
Page 153
undermined by the passing stream, and had fallen cemented as they stood. In
a year or two they will be grown over with weeds, and in a century hence
some persons may ingeniously speculate on the ruins, and give a learned
disquisition as to what building once stood there, and its uses. My friend and
I wondered what it had been, but an old man told us all about it; and, strange
to say, in the course of conversation, we found this old resident reciting
scraps of Ossian’s poems. He told us, too, that the bard had died in the very
parish in which we were standing. He believed Ossian to have been a great
priest and teacher of the people, and this was an idea that was quite new to us.
We had heard before, or rather read, that the poet was by some esteemed a
great warrior, and by others a necromancer—perhaps to esteem him a teacher
is right enough; his poems, at any rate, were at one time as familiar in the
mouths of the West Highlanders as household words.
The scenery of Arran would certainly inspire a poet. As we penetrated into
Glen Sannox it became most interesting, whether we noted the brawling and
bubbling brook, or the rich carpet of heath and wild flowers upon which we
trod. The luxuriance of its wild flowers is remarkable, and of its rabbits
equally so. As we proceed up the glen, the lofty hills with their granitic scars
frown down upon us, and one with a coroneted brow looks kingly among the
others, as the mist floats upon their shoulders, like a waving mantle, and with
their bold and rugged precipices they seem as if they had just been suddenly
shot out from the bosom of the earth. Glen Sannox is sublime indeed; its
magnitude is remarkable, and it is so hemmed in with hills as to look at once,
even without any details, or the aid of history, a fitting hiding-place for the
gallant Bruce and his devoted followers. About three miles north from this
glen we can view—and, we venture to say, not without astonishment—the
falling fragments of the broken mountain; a stream of large stones that lie
crowded on the declivity of the hill, till they in one long trail reach the ocean.
But to enumerate a tithe even of the scenic and antiquarian beauties of the
island would require—nay, it has obtained, and more than once—a volume. I
could dwell upon the blue rock near Corry, and picture the overhanging cliffs
of the neighbourhood mantled o’er with ivy. The visitor might enter some of
the caves which have been scooped out by the sea, or wander among the rock
pools of the indented shore, rich with treasures wherewith to feed the greedy
eye of the naturalist, and view the ladies, with kilted coats, doing their daily
lessons from Glaucus, collecting pretty shells, bottling anemones, or
gathering sea-weeds wherewith to ornament their botanic albums. At last,
a year or two they will be grown over with weeds, and in a century hence
some persons may ingeniously speculate on the ruins, and give a learned
disquisition as to what building once stood there, and its uses. My friend and
I wondered what it had been, but an old man told us all about it; and, strange
to say, in the course of conversation, we found this old resident reciting
scraps of Ossian’s poems. He told us, too, that the bard had died in the very
parish in which we were standing. He believed Ossian to have been a great
priest and teacher of the people, and this was an idea that was quite new to us.
We had heard before, or rather read, that the poet was by some esteemed a
great warrior, and by others a necromancer—perhaps to esteem him a teacher
is right enough; his poems, at any rate, were at one time as familiar in the
mouths of the West Highlanders as household words.
The scenery of Arran would certainly inspire a poet. As we penetrated into
Glen Sannox it became most interesting, whether we noted the brawling and
bubbling brook, or the rich carpet of heath and wild flowers upon which we
trod. The luxuriance of its wild flowers is remarkable, and of its rabbits
equally so. As we proceed up the glen, the lofty hills with their granitic scars
frown down upon us, and one with a coroneted brow looks kingly among the
others, as the mist floats upon their shoulders, like a waving mantle, and with
their bold and rugged precipices they seem as if they had just been suddenly
shot out from the bosom of the earth. Glen Sannox is sublime indeed; its
magnitude is remarkable, and it is so hemmed in with hills as to look at once,
even without any details, or the aid of history, a fitting hiding-place for the
gallant Bruce and his devoted followers. About three miles north from this
glen we can view—and, we venture to say, not without astonishment—the
falling fragments of the broken mountain; a stream of large stones that lie
crowded on the declivity of the hill, till they in one long trail reach the ocean.
But to enumerate a tithe even of the scenic and antiquarian beauties of the
island would require—nay, it has obtained, and more than once—a volume. I
could dwell upon the blue rock near Corry, and picture the overhanging cliffs
of the neighbourhood mantled o’er with ivy. The visitor might enter some of
the caves which have been scooped out by the sea, or wander among the rock
pools of the indented shore, rich with treasures wherewith to feed the greedy
eye of the naturalist, and view the ladies, with kilted coats, doing their daily
lessons from Glaucus, collecting pretty shells, bottling anemones, or
gathering sea-weeds wherewith to ornament their botanic albums. At last,
Page 154
after a long day’s work of wandering and climbing, we long for a quiet seat
and a refreshing cup of tea, and by and by, when the night shuts us out from
active labour, we hie us to our box bed, in order to stretch our wearied limbs
in Miss Macalister’s well-lavendered sheets; and, as we are just attempting to
coax the balmy goddess to close our eyes with her soft fingers, we hear the
landlady in her garret reading her nightly chapter from her Gaelic Bible, with
that genuine droning sound incidental to the West Highland voice.
I have more than once after nightfall passed a quiet half-hour at our cottage
door inhaling the saline breath of the mighty sea. The look-out at midnight is
very beautiful: the Cumbrae light looked like a monitor telling us that even at
that dread hour we were watched over. On the opposite coast of Ayr a huge
ironwork threw a lurid glare upon the bosom of the sea, and almost at my feet
the restless waves were playing a mournful dirge on the boulder-crowded
beach. I could see along the water to Holy Island, and could almost feel the
silence that at that moment would render the cave of old Saint Molio a
wondrous place for holding a feast of the imagination, the viands being
brought forward from a far-back time, and the island again peopled with the
quaint races that had passed a brief span of life upon its shores—who had
been warmed by the same sun as had that day shone upon me, and whose
nights had been illumined by the same moon that was now shimmering its
soft radiance upon the liquid bosom of the sparkling waters.
and a refreshing cup of tea, and by and by, when the night shuts us out from
active labour, we hie us to our box bed, in order to stretch our wearied limbs
in Miss Macalister’s well-lavendered sheets; and, as we are just attempting to
coax the balmy goddess to close our eyes with her soft fingers, we hear the
landlady in her garret reading her nightly chapter from her Gaelic Bible, with
that genuine droning sound incidental to the West Highland voice.
I have more than once after nightfall passed a quiet half-hour at our cottage
door inhaling the saline breath of the mighty sea. The look-out at midnight is
very beautiful: the Cumbrae light looked like a monitor telling us that even at
that dread hour we were watched over. On the opposite coast of Ayr a huge
ironwork threw a lurid glare upon the bosom of the sea, and almost at my feet
the restless waves were playing a mournful dirge on the boulder-crowded
beach. I could see along the water to Holy Island, and could almost feel the
silence that at that moment would render the cave of old Saint Molio a
wondrous place for holding a feast of the imagination, the viands being
brought forward from a far-back time, and the island again peopled with the
quaint races that had passed a brief span of life upon its shores—who had
been warmed by the same sun as had that day shone upon me, and whose
nights had been illumined by the same moon that was now shimmering its
soft radiance upon the liquid bosom of the sparkling waters.
Page 155
CHAPTER V.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE SALMON.
The Salmon our best-known Fish—Controversies and Anomalies—Food of Salmon—The Parr
Controversy—Experiments by Shaw, Young, and Hogg—Grilse: its Rate of Growth—Do Salmon
make Two Voyages to the Sea in each Year?—The Best Way of marking Young Salmon—Enemies
of the Fish—Avarice of the Lessees—The Rhine Salmon—Size of Fish—Killing of Grilse—Rivers
Tay, Spey, Tweed, Severn, etc.—The Tay Fisheries—Report on English Fisheries—Upper and
Lower Proprietors.
o many books have been written during the last few years about this
S beautiful and valuable animal that I do not require to occupy a very large
portion of this work with either its natural or economic history; for of the
two hundred and fifty kinds of fish which inhabit the rivers and seas of
Britain, the salmon (Salmo salar) is the one about which we know more than
any other, and chiefly for these reasons:—It is of greater value as property
than any other fish; its large size better admits of observation than smaller
members of the fish tribe; and, in consequence of its migratory instinct, we
have access to it at those seasons of its life when to observe its habits is the
certain road to information. And yet, with all these advantages, or rather in
consequence of them, there has been a vast amount of controversy, oral and
written, as to the birth, breeding, and growth of the salmon. There have been
controversies as to the impregnation of its eggs, as to the growth of the fish
from the parr to the smolt stage; also as to the kind of food it eats, how long it
remains in the salt water, and whether it makes one or two voyages to the sea
per annum. There has likewise been a grilse controversy, as well as a rate-of-
growth quarrel. These scientific and literary combats have been fought at
intervals, and, to speak generally, have exhibited the temper and the learning
of the combatants in about equal proportions. The dates of these controversies
are not so easily fixed as might be desired, seeing that they are either
scattered at intervals throughout the Transactions of learned societies, buried
in heavy encyclopædias, or altogether lost in the columns of newspapers. It is
scarcely an exaggeration to say that during the past quarter of a century there
has been a committee of inquiry either in the House of Lords or Commons, a
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE SALMON.
The Salmon our best-known Fish—Controversies and Anomalies—Food of Salmon—The Parr
Controversy—Experiments by Shaw, Young, and Hogg—Grilse: its Rate of Growth—Do Salmon
make Two Voyages to the Sea in each Year?—The Best Way of marking Young Salmon—Enemies
of the Fish—Avarice of the Lessees—The Rhine Salmon—Size of Fish—Killing of Grilse—Rivers
Tay, Spey, Tweed, Severn, etc.—The Tay Fisheries—Report on English Fisheries—Upper and
Lower Proprietors.
o many books have been written during the last few years about this
S beautiful and valuable animal that I do not require to occupy a very large
portion of this work with either its natural or economic history; for of the
two hundred and fifty kinds of fish which inhabit the rivers and seas of
Britain, the salmon (Salmo salar) is the one about which we know more than
any other, and chiefly for these reasons:—It is of greater value as property
than any other fish; its large size better admits of observation than smaller
members of the fish tribe; and, in consequence of its migratory instinct, we
have access to it at those seasons of its life when to observe its habits is the
certain road to information. And yet, with all these advantages, or rather in
consequence of them, there has been a vast amount of controversy, oral and
written, as to the birth, breeding, and growth of the salmon. There have been
controversies as to the impregnation of its eggs, as to the growth of the fish
from the parr to the smolt stage; also as to the kind of food it eats, how long it
remains in the salt water, and whether it makes one or two voyages to the sea
per annum. There has likewise been a grilse controversy, as well as a rate-of-
growth quarrel. These scientific and literary combats have been fought at
intervals, and, to speak generally, have exhibited the temper and the learning
of the combatants in about equal proportions. The dates of these controversies
are not so easily fixed as might be desired, seeing that they are either
scattered at intervals throughout the Transactions of learned societies, buried
in heavy encyclopædias, or altogether lost in the columns of newspapers. It is
scarcely an exaggeration to say that during the past quarter of a century there
has been a committee of inquiry either in the House of Lords or Commons, a
Page 156
royal commission, a blue book, or an Act of Parliament, every year on behalf
of the salmon, besides numerous publications by private individuals.
Although no person now believes the assertion of the Billingsgate
naturalist, that salmon-eggs come to maturity in a period of forty-eight hours,
or that other authority who told the world that as soon as the fish burst from
the ovum—a smolt six inches long coming out of a pea!—it was conducted to
the sea by its parents, there is much of the romantic in the history of this
monarch of the brook, and about the manner in which the varied disputed
points have been solved, if indeed some of these points be yet completely
settled.
I shall not again enter into the impregnation theory, having said as much as
was necessary about that portion of my subject in a previous division of this
work; but will proceed at once to give a summary of the parr controversy, and
a few statements about the grilse and the full-grown fish as well.
According to the state of knowledge
some five-and-thirty years ago—and I need
not go further back at present—the smolt
was said to be the first stage of salmon-life,
and the abounding parr was thought to be a
distinct fish. Now we know better, and are
able to regulate our salmon-
fisheries accordingly. The
spawn deposited by the
parent fish in October,
November, and December,
lies in the river till about
April or May, when it
quickens into life. I have
already described the changes apparent in the salmon-egg from the time of its
fructification till the birth of the fish. The infant fry are of course very
helpless, and are seldom seen during the first week or two of their existence,
when they carry about with them as a provision for food a portion of the egg
from whence they emanated. At that time the fish is about half an inch in size,
and presents such a very singular appearance that no person seeing it would
ever believe that it would grow into a fine grilse or salmon. About fifty days
is required for the animal to assume the shape of a perfect fish; before that
time it might be taken for anything else than a young salmon. The engravings
of the salmon, besides numerous publications by private individuals.
Although no person now believes the assertion of the Billingsgate
naturalist, that salmon-eggs come to maturity in a period of forty-eight hours,
or that other authority who told the world that as soon as the fish burst from
the ovum—a smolt six inches long coming out of a pea!—it was conducted to
the sea by its parents, there is much of the romantic in the history of this
monarch of the brook, and about the manner in which the varied disputed
points have been solved, if indeed some of these points be yet completely
settled.
I shall not again enter into the impregnation theory, having said as much as
was necessary about that portion of my subject in a previous division of this
work; but will proceed at once to give a summary of the parr controversy, and
a few statements about the grilse and the full-grown fish as well.
According to the state of knowledge
some five-and-thirty years ago—and I need
not go further back at present—the smolt
was said to be the first stage of salmon-life,
and the abounding parr was thought to be a
distinct fish. Now we know better, and are
able to regulate our salmon-
fisheries accordingly. The
spawn deposited by the
parent fish in October,
November, and December,
lies in the river till about
April or May, when it
quickens into life. I have
already described the changes apparent in the salmon-egg from the time of its
fructification till the birth of the fish. The infant fry are of course very
helpless, and are seldom seen during the first week or two of their existence,
when they carry about with them as a provision for food a portion of the egg
from whence they emanated. At that time the fish is about half an inch in size,
and presents such a very singular appearance that no person seeing it would
ever believe that it would grow into a fine grilse or salmon. About fifty days
is required for the animal to assume the shape of a perfect fish; before that
time it might be taken for anything else than a young salmon. The engravings
Page 157
on this and the succeeding pages, which are exactly half the size of life, show
the progress of the salmon during the first two years of its existence, at the
end of which time it is certain to have changed into a smolt. After eating up
its umbilical bag, which it takes a period of from twenty to forty days to
accomplish, the young salmon may be seen about its birthplace, timid and
weak, hiding about the stones, and always apparently of the same colour as
the surroundings of its sheltering place. The transverse bars of the parr very
speedily become apparent, and the fish begins to grow with considerable
rapidity, especially if it is to be a twelvemonth’s smolt, and this is very
speedily seen at such a good point of observation as the Stormontfield ponds.
The smallest of the specimens given in the preceding page represents a parr at
the age of two months; the next in size shows the same fish two months
older; and the remaining fish is six months old. The young fish continue to
grow for a little longer than two years before the whole number make the
change from parr to smolt and seek the salt water. Half of the quantity of any
one hatching, however, begin to change at a little over twelve months from
the date of their coming to life; and thus there is the extraordinary anomaly,
as I shall by and by show, of fish of the same hatching being at one and the
same time parr of half an ounce in weight and grilse weighing four pounds.
The smolts of the first year return from the sea whilst their brothers and
sisters are timidly disporting in the breeding shallows of the upper streams,
having no desire for change, and totally unable to endure the salt water,
which would at once kill them. The sea-feeding must be favourable, and the
condition of the fish well suited to the salt water, to ensure such rapid growth
—a rapidity which every visit of the fish to the ocean serves but to confirm.
Various fish, while in the grilse stage, have been marked to prove this; and at
every migration they returned to their breeding stream with added weight and
improved health. What the salmon feeds upon while in the salt water is not
well known, as the digestion of that fish is so rapid as to prevent the
discovery of food in their stomachs when they are captured and opened.
Guesses have been made, and it is likely that these approximate to the truth;
but the old story of the rapid voyage of the salmon to the North Pole and back
again turns out, like the theory upon which was built up the herring-migration
romance, to be a mere myth.
None of our naturalists have yet attempted to elucidate that mystery of
salmon life which converts one-half of the fish into sea-going smolts while as
yet the other moiety remain as parr. It has been investigated so far at the
the progress of the salmon during the first two years of its existence, at the
end of which time it is certain to have changed into a smolt. After eating up
its umbilical bag, which it takes a period of from twenty to forty days to
accomplish, the young salmon may be seen about its birthplace, timid and
weak, hiding about the stones, and always apparently of the same colour as
the surroundings of its sheltering place. The transverse bars of the parr very
speedily become apparent, and the fish begins to grow with considerable
rapidity, especially if it is to be a twelvemonth’s smolt, and this is very
speedily seen at such a good point of observation as the Stormontfield ponds.
The smallest of the specimens given in the preceding page represents a parr at
the age of two months; the next in size shows the same fish two months
older; and the remaining fish is six months old. The young fish continue to
grow for a little longer than two years before the whole number make the
change from parr to smolt and seek the salt water. Half of the quantity of any
one hatching, however, begin to change at a little over twelve months from
the date of their coming to life; and thus there is the extraordinary anomaly,
as I shall by and by show, of fish of the same hatching being at one and the
same time parr of half an ounce in weight and grilse weighing four pounds.
The smolts of the first year return from the sea whilst their brothers and
sisters are timidly disporting in the breeding shallows of the upper streams,
having no desire for change, and totally unable to endure the salt water,
which would at once kill them. The sea-feeding must be favourable, and the
condition of the fish well suited to the salt water, to ensure such rapid growth
—a rapidity which every visit of the fish to the ocean serves but to confirm.
Various fish, while in the grilse stage, have been marked to prove this; and at
every migration they returned to their breeding stream with added weight and
improved health. What the salmon feeds upon while in the salt water is not
well known, as the digestion of that fish is so rapid as to prevent the
discovery of food in their stomachs when they are captured and opened.
Guesses have been made, and it is likely that these approximate to the truth;
but the old story of the rapid voyage of the salmon to the North Pole and back
again turns out, like the theory upon which was built up the herring-migration
romance, to be a mere myth.
None of our naturalists have yet attempted to elucidate that mystery of
salmon life which converts one-half of the fish into sea-going smolts while as
yet the other moiety remain as parr. It has been investigated so far at the
Page 158
breeding-
ponds at
Stormontfiel
d, but
without
resolving the
question.
There is
another
point of doubt as to salmon life which I shall also have a word to say about—
namely, whether or not that fish makes two visits annually to the sea; likewise
whether it be probable that a smolt remains in the salt water for nearly a year
before it becomes a grilse. As a salmon only stays, as is popularly supposed, a
very short time in the salt water, and as it is one of the quickest swimming
fishes we have, so that it is able to reach a distant river in a very short space
of time, it is most desirable that we should know what it does with itself when
it is not migrating from one water to the other; because, according to the
opinion of some naturalists, it would speedily become so deteriorated in the
river as to be unequal to the slightest exertion.
The mere facts in the biography of the salmon are not very numerous; it is
the fiction and mystery with which the life of this particular fish has been
invested by those ignorant of its history that has made it a greater object of
interest than it would otherwise have become. This will be obvious as I
briefly trace the amount of controversy and state the arguments which have
been expended on the three divisions of its life.
The Parr Controversy.—None of the controversies concerning the growth
of the salmon have been so hotly carried on or have proved so fertile in
argument as the parr dispute. At certain seasons of the year, most notably in
the months of spring and early summer, our salmon streams and their
tributaries become crowded, as if by magic, with a pretty little fish, known in
Scotland as the parr, and in England as the brandling, the peel, the samlet, etc.
The parr was at one time so wonderfully plentiful, that farmers and cottars
who resided near a salmon river used not unfrequently, after filling the family
frying-pan, to feed their pigs with the dainty little fish! Countless thousands
were annually killed by juvenile anglers, and even so lately as twenty years
ago it never occurred either to country gentlemen or their farmers that these
parr were young salmon. Indeed, the young of the salmon, as then recognised,
ponds at
Stormontfiel
d, but
without
resolving the
question.
There is
another
point of doubt as to salmon life which I shall also have a word to say about—
namely, whether or not that fish makes two visits annually to the sea; likewise
whether it be probable that a smolt remains in the salt water for nearly a year
before it becomes a grilse. As a salmon only stays, as is popularly supposed, a
very short time in the salt water, and as it is one of the quickest swimming
fishes we have, so that it is able to reach a distant river in a very short space
of time, it is most desirable that we should know what it does with itself when
it is not migrating from one water to the other; because, according to the
opinion of some naturalists, it would speedily become so deteriorated in the
river as to be unequal to the slightest exertion.
The mere facts in the biography of the salmon are not very numerous; it is
the fiction and mystery with which the life of this particular fish has been
invested by those ignorant of its history that has made it a greater object of
interest than it would otherwise have become. This will be obvious as I
briefly trace the amount of controversy and state the arguments which have
been expended on the three divisions of its life.
The Parr Controversy.—None of the controversies concerning the growth
of the salmon have been so hotly carried on or have proved so fertile in
argument as the parr dispute. At certain seasons of the year, most notably in
the months of spring and early summer, our salmon streams and their
tributaries become crowded, as if by magic, with a pretty little fish, known in
Scotland as the parr, and in England as the brandling, the peel, the samlet, etc.
The parr was at one time so wonderfully plentiful, that farmers and cottars
who resided near a salmon river used not unfrequently, after filling the family
frying-pan, to feed their pigs with the dainty little fish! Countless thousands
were annually killed by juvenile anglers, and even so lately as twenty years
ago it never occurred either to country gentlemen or their farmers that these
parr were young salmon. Indeed, the young of the salmon, as then recognised,
Page 159
was only known as a smolt or smout. Parr were thought, as I have already
said, to be distinct fish of the minor or dwarf kind. Some large-headed
anglers, however, had their doubts about the little parr, and naturalists found
it difficult to procure specimens of the fish with ova or milt in them. Dr.
Knox, the anatomist, asserted that the parr was a hybrid belonging to no
particular species of fish, but a mixture of many; and it is curious enough that
although this fish was declared over and over again to be a separate species,
no one ever found a female parr containing roe. The universal exclamation of
naturalists for many a long year was always: It is a quite distinct species, and
not the young of any larger fish. The above drawing represents a parr, the
engraving being exactly half the size of life.
PARR ONE YEAR OLD.
Half the natural size.
This “distinct-species” dogma might have been still prevalent, had not the
question been taken in hand and solved by practical men. Before mentioning
the experiments of Shaw and Young, it will be curious to note the varieties of
opinion which were evoked during the parr controversy, which has existed in
one shape or another for something like two hundred years. As a proof of the
difficulty of arriving at a correct conclusion amidst the conflict of evidence, I
may cite the opinion of Yarrell, who held the parr to be a distinct fish. “That
the parr,” he says, “is not the young of the salmon, or, indeed, of any other of
the large species of Salmonidæ, as still considered by some, is sufficiently
obvious from the circumstance that parr by hundreds may be taken in the
rivers all the summer, long after the fry of the year of the larger migratory
species have gone down to the sea.” Mr. Yarrell also says, “The smolt or
young salmon is by the fishermen of some rivers called ‘a laspring;’” and
explains, “The laspring of some rivers is the young of the true salmon; but in
others, as I know from having had specimens sent me, the laspring is really
only a parr.” Mr. Yarrell further states the prevalence of an opinion “that
parrs were hybrids, and all of them males.” Many gentlemen who would not
said, to be distinct fish of the minor or dwarf kind. Some large-headed
anglers, however, had their doubts about the little parr, and naturalists found
it difficult to procure specimens of the fish with ova or milt in them. Dr.
Knox, the anatomist, asserted that the parr was a hybrid belonging to no
particular species of fish, but a mixture of many; and it is curious enough that
although this fish was declared over and over again to be a separate species,
no one ever found a female parr containing roe. The universal exclamation of
naturalists for many a long year was always: It is a quite distinct species, and
not the young of any larger fish. The above drawing represents a parr, the
engraving being exactly half the size of life.
PARR ONE YEAR OLD.
Half the natural size.
This “distinct-species” dogma might have been still prevalent, had not the
question been taken in hand and solved by practical men. Before mentioning
the experiments of Shaw and Young, it will be curious to note the varieties of
opinion which were evoked during the parr controversy, which has existed in
one shape or another for something like two hundred years. As a proof of the
difficulty of arriving at a correct conclusion amidst the conflict of evidence, I
may cite the opinion of Yarrell, who held the parr to be a distinct fish. “That
the parr,” he says, “is not the young of the salmon, or, indeed, of any other of
the large species of Salmonidæ, as still considered by some, is sufficiently
obvious from the circumstance that parr by hundreds may be taken in the
rivers all the summer, long after the fry of the year of the larger migratory
species have gone down to the sea.” Mr. Yarrell also says, “The smolt or
young salmon is by the fishermen of some rivers called ‘a laspring;’” and
explains, “The laspring of some rivers is the young of the true salmon; but in
others, as I know from having had specimens sent me, the laspring is really
only a parr.” Mr. Yarrell further states the prevalence of an opinion “that
parrs were hybrids, and all of them males.” Many gentlemen who would not
Page 160
admit that parr were salmon in their first stage have lived to change their
opinion.
My friend Mr. Robert Buist, the intelligent and very obliging conservator
of the Stormontfield breeding-ponds, is one of the gentlemen who now finds,
from the results of most accurate experiments conducted under his own
personal superintendence, that he was in error in holding the parr to be a
distinct fish. A very eminent living naturalist, who has now seen all the stages
of the question, said at one time that the parr had no connection whatever
with the migratory salmon; and also that “males are found so far advanced as
to have the milt flow on being handled; but at the same time, and indeed all
the females which I have examined, had the roe in a backward state, and they
have not been discovered spawning in any of the shallow streams or lesser
rivulets, like the trout.” Such extracts could be multiplied to almost any
extent, but I can only give one more, and it is from the same writer. After
minutely describing the anatomy of the fish, he thus sums up: “In this state,
therefore, I have no hesitation in considering the parr not only distinct, but
one of the best and most constantly marked species we have.”
The first person who “took a thought about the matter”—i.e. as to whether
the parr was or was not the young of the salmon—and arrived at any solid
conclusion, was James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, who, in his usual
eccentric way, took some steps to verify his opinions. He had, while herding
his sheep, many opportunities of watching the fishing-streams, and, like most
of his class, he wielded his fishing-rod with considerable dexterity. While
angling in the tributaries of some of the Border salmon-streams he had often
caught the parr as it was changing into the smolt stage, and had, after close
observation, come to the conclusion that the little parr was none other than
the infant salmon. Mr. Hogg did not keep his discovery a secret, and the more
his facts were controverted by the naturalists of the day the louder became his
proclamations. He had suspected all his life that parr were salmon in their
first stage. He would catch a parr with a few straggling scales upon it; he
would look at this fish and think it queer; instantly he would catch another a
little better covered with silver scales, but all loose, and not adhering to the
body. Again he would catch a smolt, manifestly a smolt, all covered with the
white silver scales, yet still rather loose upon its skin, and these would come
off in his hand. On removing these he found the parr, with the blue finger
marks below the new scales; and that these were young salmon then became
as manifest to the shepherd as that a lamb, if suffered to live, would become a
opinion.
My friend Mr. Robert Buist, the intelligent and very obliging conservator
of the Stormontfield breeding-ponds, is one of the gentlemen who now finds,
from the results of most accurate experiments conducted under his own
personal superintendence, that he was in error in holding the parr to be a
distinct fish. A very eminent living naturalist, who has now seen all the stages
of the question, said at one time that the parr had no connection whatever
with the migratory salmon; and also that “males are found so far advanced as
to have the milt flow on being handled; but at the same time, and indeed all
the females which I have examined, had the roe in a backward state, and they
have not been discovered spawning in any of the shallow streams or lesser
rivulets, like the trout.” Such extracts could be multiplied to almost any
extent, but I can only give one more, and it is from the same writer. After
minutely describing the anatomy of the fish, he thus sums up: “In this state,
therefore, I have no hesitation in considering the parr not only distinct, but
one of the best and most constantly marked species we have.”
The first person who “took a thought about the matter”—i.e. as to whether
the parr was or was not the young of the salmon—and arrived at any solid
conclusion, was James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, who, in his usual
eccentric way, took some steps to verify his opinions. He had, while herding
his sheep, many opportunities of watching the fishing-streams, and, like most
of his class, he wielded his fishing-rod with considerable dexterity. While
angling in the tributaries of some of the Border salmon-streams he had often
caught the parr as it was changing into the smolt stage, and had, after close
observation, come to the conclusion that the little parr was none other than
the infant salmon. Mr. Hogg did not keep his discovery a secret, and the more
his facts were controverted by the naturalists of the day the louder became his
proclamations. He had suspected all his life that parr were salmon in their
first stage. He would catch a parr with a few straggling scales upon it; he
would look at this fish and think it queer; instantly he would catch another a
little better covered with silver scales, but all loose, and not adhering to the
body. Again he would catch a smolt, manifestly a smolt, all covered with the
white silver scales, yet still rather loose upon its skin, and these would come
off in his hand. On removing these he found the parr, with the blue finger
marks below the new scales; and that these were young salmon then became
as manifest to the shepherd as that a lamb, if suffered to live, would become a
Page 161
sheep. Wondering at this, he marked a great number of the lesser fish, and
offered rewards (characteristically enough of whisky) to the peasantry to
bring him any fish that had evidently undergone the change predicted by him.
Whenever this conclusion was settled in his mind, the Shepherd at once
proclaimed his new-gained knowledge. “What will the fishermen of Scotland
think,” said he, “when I assure them, on the faith of long experience and
observation, and on the word of one who can have no interest in instilling an
untruth into their minds, that every insignificant parr with which the Cockney
fisher fills his basket is a salmon lost?” These crude attempts of the impulsive
shepherd of Ettrick—and he was hotly opposed by Mr. Buist, now of
Stormontfield—were not without their fruits; indeed they were so successful
as quite to convince him that parr were young salmon in their first stage.
As I have had occasion to mention the opinions of James Hogg on the
salmon question, I may be allowed to state here that the following amusing
bit of dialogue on the habits of the salmon once took place between the
Ettrick Shepherd and a friend:—
Shepherd—“I maintain that ilka saumon comes aye back again frae the sea
till spawn in its ain water.”
Friend—“Toots, toots, Jamie! hoo can it manage till do that; hoo, in the
name o’ wonder, can a fish, travelling up a turbid water frae the sea, know
when it reaches the entrance to its birthplace, or that it has arrived at the
tributary that was its cradle?”
Shepherd—“Man, the great wonder to me is no hoo the fish get back, but
hoo they find their way till the sea first ava, seein’ that they’ve never been
there afore!”
The parr question, however, was determined in a rather more formal mode
than that adopted by the author of “Bonny Kilmenny.” Mr. Shaw, a forester in
the employment of the Duke of Buccleuch, took up the case of the parr in
1833, and succeeded in solving the problem. In order that he might watch the
progressive growth of the parr, Mr. Shaw began by capturing seven of these
little fishes on the 11th of July 1833; these he placed in a pond supplied by a
stream of excellent water, where they grew and flourished apace till early in
April 1834, between which date and the 17th of the following May they
became smolts; and all who saw them on that day when they were caught by
Mr. Shaw were thoroughly convinced that they were true salmon smolts. In
March 1835 Mr. Shaw repeated his experiments with twelve parrs of a larger
offered rewards (characteristically enough of whisky) to the peasantry to
bring him any fish that had evidently undergone the change predicted by him.
Whenever this conclusion was settled in his mind, the Shepherd at once
proclaimed his new-gained knowledge. “What will the fishermen of Scotland
think,” said he, “when I assure them, on the faith of long experience and
observation, and on the word of one who can have no interest in instilling an
untruth into their minds, that every insignificant parr with which the Cockney
fisher fills his basket is a salmon lost?” These crude attempts of the impulsive
shepherd of Ettrick—and he was hotly opposed by Mr. Buist, now of
Stormontfield—were not without their fruits; indeed they were so successful
as quite to convince him that parr were young salmon in their first stage.
As I have had occasion to mention the opinions of James Hogg on the
salmon question, I may be allowed to state here that the following amusing
bit of dialogue on the habits of the salmon once took place between the
Ettrick Shepherd and a friend:—
Shepherd—“I maintain that ilka saumon comes aye back again frae the sea
till spawn in its ain water.”
Friend—“Toots, toots, Jamie! hoo can it manage till do that; hoo, in the
name o’ wonder, can a fish, travelling up a turbid water frae the sea, know
when it reaches the entrance to its birthplace, or that it has arrived at the
tributary that was its cradle?”
Shepherd—“Man, the great wonder to me is no hoo the fish get back, but
hoo they find their way till the sea first ava, seein’ that they’ve never been
there afore!”
The parr question, however, was determined in a rather more formal mode
than that adopted by the author of “Bonny Kilmenny.” Mr. Shaw, a forester in
the employment of the Duke of Buccleuch, took up the case of the parr in
1833, and succeeded in solving the problem. In order that he might watch the
progressive growth of the parr, Mr. Shaw began by capturing seven of these
little fishes on the 11th of July 1833; these he placed in a pond supplied by a
stream of excellent water, where they grew and flourished apace till early in
April 1834, between which date and the 17th of the following May they
became smolts; and all who saw them on that day when they were caught by
Mr. Shaw were thoroughly convinced that they were true salmon smolts. In
March 1835 Mr. Shaw repeated his experiments with twelve parrs of a larger
Page 162
size, taken also from the river. On being transferred to the pond, these so
speedily acquired the scales of the smolt that Mr. Shaw assumed a period of
two years as being the time at which the change took place from the parr to
the smolt. The late Mr. Young of Invershin, a well-known authority on
salmon life, was experimenting at the same time as Mr. Shaw, and for the
same purpose—namely, to determine if parr were the young of the salmon,
and, if so, at what period they became smolts and proceeded to the sea. Well,
Mr. Shaw said two years, and Mr. Young, who was at that time manager of
the Duke of Sutherland’s fisheries, said the change took place in twelve
months; others, again, who took an interest in the controversy, said that three
years elapsed before the change was made. The various parties interested held
each their own opinion, and it may even be said that the disputation still goes
on; for although a numerous array of facts bearing on the migration have
been gathered, we are still in ignorance of any regulating principle on which
the migratory change is based, or to account for the impulse which impels a
brood of fish to proceed to sea divided into two moieties. Mr. Shaw watched
his young fry with unceasing care, and described their growth with great
minuteness, for a period extending over two years, when his parrs became
smolts. Mr. Young, in a letter from Invershin, dated January 1853, says,
pointedly enough—“The fry remain in the river one whole year, from the
time they are hatched to the time they assume their silvery coat and take their
first departure for the sea. All the experiments we have made on the ova and
fry of the salmon have exactly corresponded to the same effects, and none of
them have taken longer in arriving at the smolt than the first year.”
Mr. Buist, in one of his letters on the progress of artificial breeding at the
Stormontfield ponds, says: “There is at present a mystery as regards the
progress of the young salmon. There can be no doubt that all in our ponds are
really and truly the offspring of salmon; no other fish, not even the seed of
them, could by any possibility get into the ponds. Now we see that about one
half have gone off as smolts, returning in their season as grilses; the other half
remain as parrs, and the milt in the males is as much developed, in proportion
to the size of the fish, as their brethren of the same age seven to ten pounds
weight, whilst these same parrs in the ponds do not exceed one ounce in
weight. This is an anomaly in nature which I fear cannot be cleared up at
present. I hope, however, by proper attention, some light may be thrown upon
it from our experiments next spring. The female parrs in the pond have their
ova so undeveloped that the granulations can scarcely be discovered by a lens
speedily acquired the scales of the smolt that Mr. Shaw assumed a period of
two years as being the time at which the change took place from the parr to
the smolt. The late Mr. Young of Invershin, a well-known authority on
salmon life, was experimenting at the same time as Mr. Shaw, and for the
same purpose—namely, to determine if parr were the young of the salmon,
and, if so, at what period they became smolts and proceeded to the sea. Well,
Mr. Shaw said two years, and Mr. Young, who was at that time manager of
the Duke of Sutherland’s fisheries, said the change took place in twelve
months; others, again, who took an interest in the controversy, said that three
years elapsed before the change was made. The various parties interested held
each their own opinion, and it may even be said that the disputation still goes
on; for although a numerous array of facts bearing on the migration have
been gathered, we are still in ignorance of any regulating principle on which
the migratory change is based, or to account for the impulse which impels a
brood of fish to proceed to sea divided into two moieties. Mr. Shaw watched
his young fry with unceasing care, and described their growth with great
minuteness, for a period extending over two years, when his parrs became
smolts. Mr. Young, in a letter from Invershin, dated January 1853, says,
pointedly enough—“The fry remain in the river one whole year, from the
time they are hatched to the time they assume their silvery coat and take their
first departure for the sea. All the experiments we have made on the ova and
fry of the salmon have exactly corresponded to the same effects, and none of
them have taken longer in arriving at the smolt than the first year.”
Mr. Buist, in one of his letters on the progress of artificial breeding at the
Stormontfield ponds, says: “There is at present a mystery as regards the
progress of the young salmon. There can be no doubt that all in our ponds are
really and truly the offspring of salmon; no other fish, not even the seed of
them, could by any possibility get into the ponds. Now we see that about one
half have gone off as smolts, returning in their season as grilses; the other half
remain as parrs, and the milt in the males is as much developed, in proportion
to the size of the fish, as their brethren of the same age seven to ten pounds
weight, whilst these same parrs in the ponds do not exceed one ounce in
weight. This is an anomaly in nature which I fear cannot be cleared up at
present. I hope, however, by proper attention, some light may be thrown upon
it from our experiments next spring. The female parrs in the pond have their
ova so undeveloped that the granulations can scarcely be discovered by a lens
Page 163
of some power. It is strange that both Young’s and Shaw’s theories are likely
to prove correct, though seemingly so contradictory, and the much-disputed
point settled, that parrs (such as ours at least) are truly the young of the
salmon.”
It is quite certain that parr are young salmon, and that a parr becomes a
smolt and goes to the sea, although there are still to be found, no doubt, a few
wrong-headed people who will not be convinced on the point, but pridefully
maintain all the old salmon theories and prejudices. With them the parr is still
a distinct fish, the smolt is the true young of Salmo salar in its first stage, and
a grilse is just a grilse and nothing more. However, these old-world people
will in time pass away (there is no hope of convincing them), and then the
modern views of salmon biography, founded as they are on laborious
personal investigation, will ultimately prevail.
The Smolt and Grilse.—But the great parr mystery is still unsolved—that
is to say, no one knows on what principle the transformation is accomplished;
how it is that only half of a brood ripen into smolts at the end of a year, the
other moiety taking double that period to arrive at the same stage of progress.
Some scientific visitors to the Stormontfield ponds say that this anomaly is
natural enough, and that similar ratios of growth may be observed among all
animals; but it is curious that just exactly the half of a brood—and the eggs
be it remembered all from adult salmon, and therefore similar in ripeness and
other conditions—should change into smolts at the end of a year, leaving a
moiety in the ponds as parr for another twelvemonth.
The most remarkable phase in the life of the salmon is its extraordinary
instinct for change. After the parr has become a smolt, it is found that the
desire to visit the sea is so intense, especially in pond-bred fish, as to cause
them to leap from their place of confinement, in the hope of attaining at once
their salt-water goal; and of course the instinct of river-bred fish is equally
strong on this point—they all rush to the sea at their proper season. There are
various opinions as to the cause of the migratory instinct in the salmon. Some
people say it finds in the sea those rich feeding-grounds which enable it to
add so rapidly to its weight. It is quite certain that the fish attains its primest
condition while it is in the salt water; those caught in the estuaries by means
of stake or bag nets being richer in quality, and esteemed far before the river
fish. The moment the salmon enters the fresh water it begins to decrease in
weight and fall from its high condition. It is a curious fact, and a wise
provision of nature, that the eel, which is also a migratory fish, descends to
to prove correct, though seemingly so contradictory, and the much-disputed
point settled, that parrs (such as ours at least) are truly the young of the
salmon.”
It is quite certain that parr are young salmon, and that a parr becomes a
smolt and goes to the sea, although there are still to be found, no doubt, a few
wrong-headed people who will not be convinced on the point, but pridefully
maintain all the old salmon theories and prejudices. With them the parr is still
a distinct fish, the smolt is the true young of Salmo salar in its first stage, and
a grilse is just a grilse and nothing more. However, these old-world people
will in time pass away (there is no hope of convincing them), and then the
modern views of salmon biography, founded as they are on laborious
personal investigation, will ultimately prevail.
The Smolt and Grilse.—But the great parr mystery is still unsolved—that
is to say, no one knows on what principle the transformation is accomplished;
how it is that only half of a brood ripen into smolts at the end of a year, the
other moiety taking double that period to arrive at the same stage of progress.
Some scientific visitors to the Stormontfield ponds say that this anomaly is
natural enough, and that similar ratios of growth may be observed among all
animals; but it is curious that just exactly the half of a brood—and the eggs
be it remembered all from adult salmon, and therefore similar in ripeness and
other conditions—should change into smolts at the end of a year, leaving a
moiety in the ponds as parr for another twelvemonth.
The most remarkable phase in the life of the salmon is its extraordinary
instinct for change. After the parr has become a smolt, it is found that the
desire to visit the sea is so intense, especially in pond-bred fish, as to cause
them to leap from their place of confinement, in the hope of attaining at once
their salt-water goal; and of course the instinct of river-bred fish is equally
strong on this point—they all rush to the sea at their proper season. There are
various opinions as to the cause of the migratory instinct in the salmon. Some
people say it finds in the sea those rich feeding-grounds which enable it to
add so rapidly to its weight. It is quite certain that the fish attains its primest
condition while it is in the salt water; those caught in the estuaries by means
of stake or bag nets being richer in quality, and esteemed far before the river
fish. The moment the salmon enters the fresh water it begins to decrease in
weight and fall from its high condition. It is a curious fact, and a wise
provision of nature, that the eel, which is also a migratory fish, descends to
Page 164
spawn in the sea as the salmon is ascending to the river-head for the same
purpose; were the fact different, and both fish to spawn in the river, the roe of
the salmon would be completely eaten up. In due time then, we find the
silver-coated host leaving the rippling cradle of its birth, and adventuring on
the more powerful stream, by which it is borne to the sea-fed estuary, or the
briny ocean itself. And this picturesque tour is repeated year after year, being
apparently the grand essential of salmon life.
SMOLT TWO YEARS OLD.
Half the natural size.
It is pleasant, rod in hand, on a breezy spring day, while trying to coax “the
monarch of the brook” from his sheltering pool, to watch this annual
migration, and to note the passage of the bright-mailed army adown the
majestic river, that hurries on by busy corn-mill and sweeps with a
murmuring sound past hoar and ruined towers, washing the pleasant lawns of
country magnates or laving the cowslips on the village meadow, and as it
rolls ceaselessly ocean-ward, giving a more picturesque aspect to the quaint
agricultural villages and farm homesteads which it passes in its course.
During the whole length of its pilgrimage the army of smolts pays a tribute to
its enemies in gradual decimation: it is attacked at every point of vantage; at
one place the smolts are taken prisoners by the hundred in some well-
contrived net, at another picked off singly by some juvenile angler. The smolt
is greedily devoured by the trout, the pike, and various other enemies, which
lie constantly in waiting for it, sure of a rich feast at this annually-recurring
migration. But the giant and fierce battle which this infantile tribe has to fight
is at the point where the salt water begins to mingle with the stream, where
are assembled hosts of greedy monsters of the sea of all shapes and sizes,
from the porpoise and seal down to the young coal-fish, who dart with
inconceivable rapidity upon the defenceless shoal and play havoc with the
numbers.
purpose; were the fact different, and both fish to spawn in the river, the roe of
the salmon would be completely eaten up. In due time then, we find the
silver-coated host leaving the rippling cradle of its birth, and adventuring on
the more powerful stream, by which it is borne to the sea-fed estuary, or the
briny ocean itself. And this picturesque tour is repeated year after year, being
apparently the grand essential of salmon life.
SMOLT TWO YEARS OLD.
Half the natural size.
It is pleasant, rod in hand, on a breezy spring day, while trying to coax “the
monarch of the brook” from his sheltering pool, to watch this annual
migration, and to note the passage of the bright-mailed army adown the
majestic river, that hurries on by busy corn-mill and sweeps with a
murmuring sound past hoar and ruined towers, washing the pleasant lawns of
country magnates or laving the cowslips on the village meadow, and as it
rolls ceaselessly ocean-ward, giving a more picturesque aspect to the quaint
agricultural villages and farm homesteads which it passes in its course.
During the whole length of its pilgrimage the army of smolts pays a tribute to
its enemies in gradual decimation: it is attacked at every point of vantage; at
one place the smolts are taken prisoners by the hundred in some well-
contrived net, at another picked off singly by some juvenile angler. The smolt
is greedily devoured by the trout, the pike, and various other enemies, which
lie constantly in waiting for it, sure of a rich feast at this annually-recurring
migration. But the giant and fierce battle which this infantile tribe has to fight
is at the point where the salt water begins to mingle with the stream, where
are assembled hosts of greedy monsters of the sea of all shapes and sizes,
from the porpoise and seal down to the young coal-fish, who dart with
inconceivable rapidity upon the defenceless shoal and play havoc with the
numbers.
Page 165
Many naturalists dispute most lustily the assertion that the smolt returns to
the parental waters as a grilse the same year that it visits the sea; and some
writers have maintained that the young fish makes a grand tour to the North
Pole before it makes up its mind to “hark back.” It has been pretty well
proved, however, that the grilse may have been the young smolt of the same
year. A most remarkable fact in the history of grilse is, that we kill them in
thousands before they have an opportunity of perpetuating their kind; indeed
on some rivers the annual slaughter of grilse is so enormous as palpably to
affect the “takes” of the big fish. It has been asserted, likewise, that the grilse
is a distinct fish, and not the young of the salmon in its early stage. There has
been a controversy as to the rate at which the salmon increases in weight; and
there have been numerous disputes about what its instinct had taught it to
“eat, drink, and avoid.”
It has been authoritatively settled, however, that grilse become salmon;
and, notwithstanding a recent opening up of this old sore, I hold the
experiments conducted by his Grace the Duke of Athole and the late Mr.
Young of Invershin to be quite conclusive. The latter gentleman, in his little
work on the salmon, after alluding to various points in the growth of the fish,
says:—“My next attempt was to ascertain the rate of their growth during their
short stay in salt water, and for this purpose we marked spawned grilses, as
near as we could get to four pounds weight; these we had no trouble in
getting with a net in the pools below the spawning-beds, where they had
congregated together to rest, after the fatigues of depositing their seed. All the
fish above four pounds weight, as well as any under that size, were returned
to the river unmarked, and the others marked by inserting copper wire rings
into certain parts of their fins: this was done in a manner so as not to interrupt
the fish in their swimming operations nor be troublesome to them in any way.
After their journey to sea and back again, we found that the four pound
grilses had grown into beautiful salmon, varying from nine to fourteen
pounds weight. I repeated this experiment for several years, and on the whole
found the results the same, and, as in the former marking, found the majority
returning in about eight weeks; and we have never among our markings
found a marked grilse go to sea and return a grilse, for they have invariably
returned salmon.”
The late Duke of Athole took a considerable interest in the grilse question,
and kept a complete record of all the fish that he had caused to be marked;
and in his Journal there is a striking instance of rapidity of growth. A fish
the parental waters as a grilse the same year that it visits the sea; and some
writers have maintained that the young fish makes a grand tour to the North
Pole before it makes up its mind to “hark back.” It has been pretty well
proved, however, that the grilse may have been the young smolt of the same
year. A most remarkable fact in the history of grilse is, that we kill them in
thousands before they have an opportunity of perpetuating their kind; indeed
on some rivers the annual slaughter of grilse is so enormous as palpably to
affect the “takes” of the big fish. It has been asserted, likewise, that the grilse
is a distinct fish, and not the young of the salmon in its early stage. There has
been a controversy as to the rate at which the salmon increases in weight; and
there have been numerous disputes about what its instinct had taught it to
“eat, drink, and avoid.”
It has been authoritatively settled, however, that grilse become salmon;
and, notwithstanding a recent opening up of this old sore, I hold the
experiments conducted by his Grace the Duke of Athole and the late Mr.
Young of Invershin to be quite conclusive. The latter gentleman, in his little
work on the salmon, after alluding to various points in the growth of the fish,
says:—“My next attempt was to ascertain the rate of their growth during their
short stay in salt water, and for this purpose we marked spawned grilses, as
near as we could get to four pounds weight; these we had no trouble in
getting with a net in the pools below the spawning-beds, where they had
congregated together to rest, after the fatigues of depositing their seed. All the
fish above four pounds weight, as well as any under that size, were returned
to the river unmarked, and the others marked by inserting copper wire rings
into certain parts of their fins: this was done in a manner so as not to interrupt
the fish in their swimming operations nor be troublesome to them in any way.
After their journey to sea and back again, we found that the four pound
grilses had grown into beautiful salmon, varying from nine to fourteen
pounds weight. I repeated this experiment for several years, and on the whole
found the results the same, and, as in the former marking, found the majority
returning in about eight weeks; and we have never among our markings
found a marked grilse go to sea and return a grilse, for they have invariably
returned salmon.”
The late Duke of Athole took a considerable interest in the grilse question,
and kept a complete record of all the fish that he had caused to be marked;
and in his Journal there is a striking instance of rapidity of growth. A fish
Page 166
marked by his Grace was caught at a place forty miles distant from the sea; it
travelled to the salt water, fed, and returned in the short space of thirty-seven
days. The following is his entry regarding this particular fish:—“On referring
to my Journal, I find that I caught this fish as a kelt this year, on the 31st of
March, with the rod, about two miles above Dunkeld Bridge, at which time it
weighed exactly ten pounds; so that, in the short space of five weeks and two
days, it had gained the almost incredible increase of eleven pounds and a
quarter; for, when weighed here on its arrival, it was twenty-one pounds and a
quarter.” There could be no doubt, Mr. Young thinks, of the accuracy of this
statement, for his Grace was most correct in his observations, having tickets
made for the purpose, and numbered from one upwards, and the number and
date appertaining to each fish was carefully registered for reference.
As the fish grew so rapidly during their visit to the salt water, people began
to wonder what they fed on, and where they went. A hypothesis was started of
their visiting the North Pole; but it was certain, from the short duration of
their visit to the salt water that they could proceed to no great distance from
the mouth of the river which admitted them to the sea. Hundreds of fish were
dissected in order to ascertain what they fed upon; but only on very rare
occasions could any traces of food be found in their stomachs. What, then, do
the salmon live upon? was asked. It is quite clear that salmon obtain in the
sea some kind of food for which they have a peculiar liking, and upon which
they rapidly grow fat; and it is very well known that after they return to the
fresh water they begin to lose their flesh and fall off in condition. The rapid
growth of the fish seems to imply that its digestion must be rapid, and may
perhaps account for there never being food in its stomach when found;
although I am bound to mention that one gentleman who writes on this
subject accounts for the emptiness of the stomach by asserting that the
salmon vomits at the moment of being taken. The codfish again is frequently
found with its stomach crowded; in fact, I have seen the stomach of a large
cod which formed quite a small museum, having a large variety of articles
“on board,” as the fisherman said who caught it. Salmon seldom now attain a
weight of more than from fifteen to eighteen pounds. Long ago sixty-pound
fish were by no means rare, and twelve years back salmon weighing thirty
and forty pounds used frequently to be seen on our fishmongers’ counters. In
the golden age of the fisheries salmon are said to have been very plentiful,
and attainable for food by all classes of the community, the price being a
mere trifle; but railways now carry away our sea produce with such rapidity
travelled to the salt water, fed, and returned in the short space of thirty-seven
days. The following is his entry regarding this particular fish:—“On referring
to my Journal, I find that I caught this fish as a kelt this year, on the 31st of
March, with the rod, about two miles above Dunkeld Bridge, at which time it
weighed exactly ten pounds; so that, in the short space of five weeks and two
days, it had gained the almost incredible increase of eleven pounds and a
quarter; for, when weighed here on its arrival, it was twenty-one pounds and a
quarter.” There could be no doubt, Mr. Young thinks, of the accuracy of this
statement, for his Grace was most correct in his observations, having tickets
made for the purpose, and numbered from one upwards, and the number and
date appertaining to each fish was carefully registered for reference.
As the fish grew so rapidly during their visit to the salt water, people began
to wonder what they fed on, and where they went. A hypothesis was started of
their visiting the North Pole; but it was certain, from the short duration of
their visit to the salt water that they could proceed to no great distance from
the mouth of the river which admitted them to the sea. Hundreds of fish were
dissected in order to ascertain what they fed upon; but only on very rare
occasions could any traces of food be found in their stomachs. What, then, do
the salmon live upon? was asked. It is quite clear that salmon obtain in the
sea some kind of food for which they have a peculiar liking, and upon which
they rapidly grow fat; and it is very well known that after they return to the
fresh water they begin to lose their flesh and fall off in condition. The rapid
growth of the fish seems to imply that its digestion must be rapid, and may
perhaps account for there never being food in its stomach when found;
although I am bound to mention that one gentleman who writes on this
subject accounts for the emptiness of the stomach by asserting that the
salmon vomits at the moment of being taken. The codfish again is frequently
found with its stomach crowded; in fact, I have seen the stomach of a large
cod which formed quite a small museum, having a large variety of articles
“on board,” as the fisherman said who caught it. Salmon seldom now attain a
weight of more than from fifteen to eighteen pounds. Long ago sixty-pound
fish were by no means rare, and twelve years back salmon weighing thirty
and forty pounds used frequently to be seen on our fishmongers’ counters. In
the golden age of the fisheries salmon are said to have been very plentiful,
and attainable for food by all classes of the community, the price being a
mere trifle; but railways now carry away our sea produce with such rapidity
Page 167
to far-off cities and populous towns, where there is an increasing demand that
the price has risen to such a point as to make this fish a luxury for the rich,
and so induce the capture of salmon of all weights. On all these points there
has been a great amount of disputation, chiefly carried on in the Transactions
of learned societies, and not therefore accessible to the general reader.
It is supposed by some writers that the salmon makes two voyages in each
year to the sea, and this is quite possible, as we may judge from the data
already given on this point; but sometimes the salmon, although it can swim
with great rapidity, takes many weeks to accomplish its journey because of
the state of the river. If there is not sufficient water to flood the course, the
fish have to remain in the various pools they may reach till the state of the
water admits of their proceeding on their journey either to or from the sea.
The salmon, like all other fish, is faithful to its old haunts; and it is known, in
cases where more than one salmon-stream falls into the same firth, that the
fish of one stream will not enter another, and where the stream has various
tributaries suitable for breeding purposes, the fish breeding in a particular
tributary invariably return to it.
But, in reference to the idea of a double visit to the salt water, may we not
ask—particularly as we have the dates of the marked fish for our guidance—
what a salmon that is known to be only five weeks away on its sea visit does
with itself the rest of the year? A salmon, for instance, spawning about “the
den of Airlie,” on the Isla, some way beyond Perth, has not to make a very
long journey before it reaches the salt water, and travelling at a rapid rate
would soon accomplish it; but supposing the fish took forty days for its
passage there and back, and allowing a period of six weeks for spawning and
rest, there are still many months of its annual life unaccounted for. It cannot,
according to the ideas of some writers, remain in the river forty-seven weeks,
because it would become so low in condition from the want of a proper
supply of nourishing food that it would die. It is this fact that has led to the
supposition of a double journey to the sea. The Rev. Dugald Williamson, who
wrote a pamphlet on this subject, entertains no doubt about the double
journey. “Salmon migrate twice in the course of the year, and the instinct
which drives them from the sea in summer impels them to the sea in spring.
Let the vernal direction of the propensity be opposed, let a salmon be seized
as it descends and confined in a fresh-water pond or lake, and what is its fate?
Before preparing to quit the river it had suffered severely in strength, bulk,
and general health, and, imprisoned in an atmosphere which had become
the price has risen to such a point as to make this fish a luxury for the rich,
and so induce the capture of salmon of all weights. On all these points there
has been a great amount of disputation, chiefly carried on in the Transactions
of learned societies, and not therefore accessible to the general reader.
It is supposed by some writers that the salmon makes two voyages in each
year to the sea, and this is quite possible, as we may judge from the data
already given on this point; but sometimes the salmon, although it can swim
with great rapidity, takes many weeks to accomplish its journey because of
the state of the river. If there is not sufficient water to flood the course, the
fish have to remain in the various pools they may reach till the state of the
water admits of their proceeding on their journey either to or from the sea.
The salmon, like all other fish, is faithful to its old haunts; and it is known, in
cases where more than one salmon-stream falls into the same firth, that the
fish of one stream will not enter another, and where the stream has various
tributaries suitable for breeding purposes, the fish breeding in a particular
tributary invariably return to it.
But, in reference to the idea of a double visit to the salt water, may we not
ask—particularly as we have the dates of the marked fish for our guidance—
what a salmon that is known to be only five weeks away on its sea visit does
with itself the rest of the year? A salmon, for instance, spawning about “the
den of Airlie,” on the Isla, some way beyond Perth, has not to make a very
long journey before it reaches the salt water, and travelling at a rapid rate
would soon accomplish it; but supposing the fish took forty days for its
passage there and back, and allowing a period of six weeks for spawning and
rest, there are still many months of its annual life unaccounted for. It cannot,
according to the ideas of some writers, remain in the river forty-seven weeks,
because it would become so low in condition from the want of a proper
supply of nourishing food that it would die. It is this fact that has led to the
supposition of a double journey to the sea. The Rev. Dugald Williamson, who
wrote a pamphlet on this subject, entertains no doubt about the double
journey. “Salmon migrate twice in the course of the year, and the instinct
which drives them from the sea in summer impels them to the sea in spring.
Let the vernal direction of the propensity be opposed, let a salmon be seized
as it descends and confined in a fresh-water pond or lake, and what is its fate?
Before preparing to quit the river it had suffered severely in strength, bulk,
and general health, and, imprisoned in an atmosphere which had become
Page 168
unwholesome, it soon begins to languish, and in the course of the season
expires: the experiment has been tried, and the result is well known. This
being an ascertained and unquestionable fact, is it a violent or unfair
inference that a similar result obtains in the case of those salmon that are
forced back, from whatever cause, to the sea, that the salt-water element is as
fatal to the pregnant fish of autumn as the fresh-water element is to the spent
fish in spring?... If there is any truth in these conjectures, they suggest the
most powerful reasons for resisting or removing obstructions in the estuary of
a river.” The riddle of this double migration of the salmon is likely still to
puzzle us. It is said that the impelling force of the migratory instinct is, that
the fish is preyed upon in the salt water by a species of crustaceous insect,
which forces it to seek the fresh waters of its native river; again, that while
the fresh water destroys these sea-lice a new kind infests it in the river, thus
necessitating a return to the sea. My own experience leads me to believe that
salmon can exist perfectly well in the fresh water for months at a time,
suffering but little deterioration in weight, but never, so far as I could
ascertain, growing while in the fresh streams, although it is certain they feed.
It is a well-known fact that the parr cannot live in salt water. I have both tried
the experiment myself and seen it tried by others; the parr invariably die
when placed in contact with the sea-water.
Mr. William Brown, in his painstaking account of The Natural History of
the Salmon, also bears his testimony on this part of the salmon question:
—“Until the parr takes on the smolt scales, it shows no inclination to leave
the fresh water. It cannot live in salt water. This fact was put to the test at the
ponds, by placing some parrs in salt water—the water being brought fresh
from the sea at Carnoustie; and immediately on being immersed in it the fish
appeared distressed, the fins standing stiff out, the parr-marks becoming a
brilliant ultramarine colour, and the belly and sides of a bright orange. The
water was often renewed, but they all died, the last that died living nearly five
hours. After being an hour in the salt water, they appeared very weak and
unable to rise from the bottom of the vessel which contained them, the body
of the fish swelling to a considerable extent. This change of colour in the fish
could not be attributed to the colour of the vessel which held them, for on
being taken out they still retained the same brilliant colours.”
All controversies relating to the growth of salmon may now be held as
settled. It has been proved that the parr is the young of the salmon; the
various changes which it undergoes during its growth have been ascertained,
expires: the experiment has been tried, and the result is well known. This
being an ascertained and unquestionable fact, is it a violent or unfair
inference that a similar result obtains in the case of those salmon that are
forced back, from whatever cause, to the sea, that the salt-water element is as
fatal to the pregnant fish of autumn as the fresh-water element is to the spent
fish in spring?... If there is any truth in these conjectures, they suggest the
most powerful reasons for resisting or removing obstructions in the estuary of
a river.” The riddle of this double migration of the salmon is likely still to
puzzle us. It is said that the impelling force of the migratory instinct is, that
the fish is preyed upon in the salt water by a species of crustaceous insect,
which forces it to seek the fresh waters of its native river; again, that while
the fresh water destroys these sea-lice a new kind infests it in the river, thus
necessitating a return to the sea. My own experience leads me to believe that
salmon can exist perfectly well in the fresh water for months at a time,
suffering but little deterioration in weight, but never, so far as I could
ascertain, growing while in the fresh streams, although it is certain they feed.
It is a well-known fact that the parr cannot live in salt water. I have both tried
the experiment myself and seen it tried by others; the parr invariably die
when placed in contact with the sea-water.
Mr. William Brown, in his painstaking account of The Natural History of
the Salmon, also bears his testimony on this part of the salmon question:
—“Until the parr takes on the smolt scales, it shows no inclination to leave
the fresh water. It cannot live in salt water. This fact was put to the test at the
ponds, by placing some parrs in salt water—the water being brought fresh
from the sea at Carnoustie; and immediately on being immersed in it the fish
appeared distressed, the fins standing stiff out, the parr-marks becoming a
brilliant ultramarine colour, and the belly and sides of a bright orange. The
water was often renewed, but they all died, the last that died living nearly five
hours. After being an hour in the salt water, they appeared very weak and
unable to rise from the bottom of the vessel which contained them, the body
of the fish swelling to a considerable extent. This change of colour in the fish
could not be attributed to the colour of the vessel which held them, for on
being taken out they still retained the same brilliant colours.”
All controversies relating to the growth of salmon may now be held as
settled. It has been proved that the parr is the young of the salmon; the
various changes which it undergoes during its growth have been ascertained,
Page 169
and the increase of bulk and weight which accrues in a given period is now
well understood. But we still require much information as to the “habits” of
fish of the salmon kind.
In a recent conversation with Mr. Marshall of Stormontfield, while
comparing notes on some of the disputed points of salmon growth, we both
came to the conclusion that the following dates, founded on the experiments
conducted at Stormontfield, might be taken as marking the chief stages in the
life of a salmon. An egg deposited in the breeding-boxes say in December
1852 yielded a fish in April 1853; that fish remained as a parr till a little later
than the same period of 1854, when, being seized with its migratory instinct,
and having upon it the protecting scales of the smolt, it departed from the
pond into the river Tay on its way to the sea, having previously had conferred
upon it a certain mark by which it could be known if recaptured on its return.
It was recaptured as a grilse within less than three months of its departure
(July), and weighed about four pounds. Being marked once more, it was
again sent away to endure the dangers of the deep; and lo! was once more
taken, this time a salmon of the goodly weight of ten pounds! But there
comes in here the question if it was the same fish, for it is said that the smolt
in some cases remains a whole winter in the sea, and therefore that the fish I
have been alluding to was a smolt that had never come back as a grilse. I
have a theory that half of the brood of smolts sent to sea do remain over the
winter and come back as salmon, while the others come back almost
immediately as grilse. It is possible, however, that any particular fish may
lose its river for a season, and be in some other water for a time as a grilse,
and then finding its birth-stream come once again to its “procreant cradle.”
The rapidity of salmon growth, however, I consider to be undoubtedly
proved.
A good deal has been said in various quarters about the best way of
marking a young salmon so that at some future stage of its life it may be
easily identified. Cutting off the dead fin is not thought a good plan of
marking, because such a mark may be accidentally imitated and so mislead
those interested, or it may be wilfully imitated by persons wishing to mislead.
Of the smolts sent away from the Stormontfield ponds during May 1855,
1300 were marked in a rather common way—viz. by cutting off the second
dorsal fin—and twenty-two of these marked fish were taken as grilse during
that same summer, the first being caught on the 7th of July, when it weighed
three pounds. Mr. Buist, who took charge of the experiments, was quite
well understood. But we still require much information as to the “habits” of
fish of the salmon kind.
In a recent conversation with Mr. Marshall of Stormontfield, while
comparing notes on some of the disputed points of salmon growth, we both
came to the conclusion that the following dates, founded on the experiments
conducted at Stormontfield, might be taken as marking the chief stages in the
life of a salmon. An egg deposited in the breeding-boxes say in December
1852 yielded a fish in April 1853; that fish remained as a parr till a little later
than the same period of 1854, when, being seized with its migratory instinct,
and having upon it the protecting scales of the smolt, it departed from the
pond into the river Tay on its way to the sea, having previously had conferred
upon it a certain mark by which it could be known if recaptured on its return.
It was recaptured as a grilse within less than three months of its departure
(July), and weighed about four pounds. Being marked once more, it was
again sent away to endure the dangers of the deep; and lo! was once more
taken, this time a salmon of the goodly weight of ten pounds! But there
comes in here the question if it was the same fish, for it is said that the smolt
in some cases remains a whole winter in the sea, and therefore that the fish I
have been alluding to was a smolt that had never come back as a grilse. I
have a theory that half of the brood of smolts sent to sea do remain over the
winter and come back as salmon, while the others come back almost
immediately as grilse. It is possible, however, that any particular fish may
lose its river for a season, and be in some other water for a time as a grilse,
and then finding its birth-stream come once again to its “procreant cradle.”
The rapidity of salmon growth, however, I consider to be undoubtedly
proved.
A good deal has been said in various quarters about the best way of
marking a young salmon so that at some future stage of its life it may be
easily identified. Cutting off the dead fin is not thought a good plan of
marking, because such a mark may be accidentally imitated and so mislead
those interested, or it may be wilfully imitated by persons wishing to mislead.
Of the smolts sent away from the Stormontfield ponds during May 1855,
1300 were marked in a rather common way—viz. by cutting off the second
dorsal fin—and twenty-two of these marked fish were taken as grilse during
that same summer, the first being caught on the 7th of July, when it weighed
three pounds. Mr. Buist, who took charge of the experiments, was quite
Page 170
convinced that a much larger number of the marked fish than twenty-two was
caught, but many of the fishermen, having an aversion to the system of pond-
breeding, took no pains to discover whether or not the grilse they caught had
the pond-mark, and so the chance of still further verifying the rate of salmon
growth was lost. A reward offered by Mr. Buist of 2s. per pound weight for
each grilse that might be brought to his office, led to an imitation of the mark
and the perpetration of several petty frauds in order to get the money. The
mark was frequently imitated, and one or two fish were brought to Mr. Buist
which almost deceived him into the belief of their being some of the real
marked fish. As Mr. Buist says—“So cunningly had this deception been gone
about, that a casual observer might have been deceived. When the fin was cut
off the recent wound was far too palpable; and to hide this the man cut a
piece of skin from another fish and fixed it upon the wounded part. I
examined this fish, which was lying alongside of an undoubted pond-marked
fish, which had the skin and scales grown over the cut, and I am satisfied that
it would be impossible to imitate the true mark by any process except by
marking the fish while young.”[5] Peter Marshall and also Mr. Buist agree
with me in saying that the number of fish taken, each being minus the dead
fin, was a sufficient proof that these fish were really the pond-bred ones
returned as grilse. It is impossible that twenty or thirty grilse could have all
been accidentally maimed within a few weeks, and each present the same—
the very same appearance. Various other plans of marking were tried by the
authorities at Stormontfield, some of which were partially successful, and
added another link to the chain of evidence, which proves at any rate that
many individual fish have grown from the smolt to the grilse state in the
course of a very few weeks.
caught, but many of the fishermen, having an aversion to the system of pond-
breeding, took no pains to discover whether or not the grilse they caught had
the pond-mark, and so the chance of still further verifying the rate of salmon
growth was lost. A reward offered by Mr. Buist of 2s. per pound weight for
each grilse that might be brought to his office, led to an imitation of the mark
and the perpetration of several petty frauds in order to get the money. The
mark was frequently imitated, and one or two fish were brought to Mr. Buist
which almost deceived him into the belief of their being some of the real
marked fish. As Mr. Buist says—“So cunningly had this deception been gone
about, that a casual observer might have been deceived. When the fin was cut
off the recent wound was far too palpable; and to hide this the man cut a
piece of skin from another fish and fixed it upon the wounded part. I
examined this fish, which was lying alongside of an undoubted pond-marked
fish, which had the skin and scales grown over the cut, and I am satisfied that
it would be impossible to imitate the true mark by any process except by
marking the fish while young.”[5] Peter Marshall and also Mr. Buist agree
with me in saying that the number of fish taken, each being minus the dead
fin, was a sufficient proof that these fish were really the pond-bred ones
returned as grilse. It is impossible that twenty or thirty grilse could have all
been accidentally maimed within a few weeks, and each present the same—
the very same appearance. Various other plans of marking were tried by the
authorities at Stormontfield, some of which were partially successful, and
added another link to the chain of evidence, which proves at any rate that
many individual fish have grown from the smolt to the grilse state in the
course of a very few weeks.
Page 171
FISHES OF THE SALMON FAMILY.
1. Salmon. 2. Grilse. 3. Sea-trout. 4. Herling.
Leaving the salmon as an object of natural history, and looking at it as an
article of commerce, I find that there exists a considerable dread of its speedy
extinction, which, taking into account the state of the fisheries, is not at all to
be wondered at. The English salmon-fisheries have utterly declined; the Irish
fisheries are decaying; and the eagerness with which the Scotch people are
rushing to Parliament for new laws indicates a fear of a similar fate
overtaking the fisheries of the North. The “breeches-pocket” view of the
question has recently become of considerable importance, in consequence of
this fear of failing supplies; for the commerce carried on in this particular fish
has been at the rate of over £100,000 a year; and although our salmon-
fisheries are not nearly equal in value to the herring and white fisheries, still
the individual salmon is our most tangible fish, and brings to its owner a
larger sum of money than any other member of the fish family. Indeed, of late
years this “monarch of the brook” has become emphatically the rich man’s
fish; its price for table purposes, at certain seasons of the year, being only
compatible with a large income; and liberty to play one’s rod on a salmon
river is a privilege paid for at a high figure per annum. Such facts at once
1. Salmon. 2. Grilse. 3. Sea-trout. 4. Herling.
Leaving the salmon as an object of natural history, and looking at it as an
article of commerce, I find that there exists a considerable dread of its speedy
extinction, which, taking into account the state of the fisheries, is not at all to
be wondered at. The English salmon-fisheries have utterly declined; the Irish
fisheries are decaying; and the eagerness with which the Scotch people are
rushing to Parliament for new laws indicates a fear of a similar fate
overtaking the fisheries of the North. The “breeches-pocket” view of the
question has recently become of considerable importance, in consequence of
this fear of failing supplies; for the commerce carried on in this particular fish
has been at the rate of over £100,000 a year; and although our salmon-
fisheries are not nearly equal in value to the herring and white fisheries, still
the individual salmon is our most tangible fish, and brings to its owner a
larger sum of money than any other member of the fish family. Indeed, of late
years this “monarch of the brook” has become emphatically the rich man’s
fish; its price for table purposes, at certain seasons of the year, being only
compatible with a large income; and liberty to play one’s rod on a salmon
river is a privilege paid for at a high figure per annum. Such facts at once
Page 172
elevate Salmo salar to the highest regions of luxury: certainly, salmon can no
longer find a place on the tables of the poor; for we shall never again hear of
its selling at twopence per pound, or of farm-servants bargaining not to be
compelled to eat it oftener than twice a week.
At every stage of its career the salmon is surrounded by enemies. At the
very moment of spawning, the female is watched by a horde of devourers,
who instinctively flock to the breeding-grounds in order to feast on the ova.
The hungry pike, the lethargic perch, the greedy trout, the very salmon itself,
are lying in wait, all agape for the palatable roe, and greedily swallowing
whatever quantity the current carries down. Then the water-fowl eagerly
pounces on the precious deposit the moment it has been forsaken by the fish;
and if it escape being gobbled up by such cormorants, the spawn may be
washed away by a flood, or the position of the bed may be altered, and the
ova be destroyed perhaps for want of water. As an instance of the loss
incidental to salmon-spawning in the natural way, I may just mention that a
whitling of about three-quarters of a pound weight has been taken in the Tay
with three hundred impregnated salmon ova in its stomach! If this fish had
been allowed to dine and breakfast at this rate during the whole of the
spawning season it would have been difficult to estimate the loss our fisheries
sustained by his voracity. No sooner do the eggs ripen, and the young fish
come to life, than they are exposed, in their defenceless state, to be preyed
upon by all the enemies already enumerated; while as parr they have been
taken out of our streams in such quantities as to be made available for the
purposes of pig-feeding and as manure! Some economists estimate that only
one egg out of every thousand ever becomes a full-grown salmon. Mr.
Thomas Tod Stoddart calculated that one hundred and fifty millions of
salmon ova are annually deposited in the river Tay; of which only fifty
millions, or one-third, come to life and attain the parr stage; that twenty
millions of these parrs in time become smolts, and that their number is
ultimately diminished to 100,000; of which 70,000 are caught, the other
30,000 being left for breeding purposes. Sir Humphrey Davy calculates that if
a salmon produce 17,000 roe, only 800 of these will arrive at maturity. It is
well, therefore, that the female fish yields 1000 eggs for each pound of her
weight; for a lesser degree of fecundity, keeping in view the enormous waste
of life indicated by these figures, would long since—especially taking into
account the various very destructive modes of fishing that used a few years
ago to be in use—have resulted in the utter extinction of this valuable fish.
longer find a place on the tables of the poor; for we shall never again hear of
its selling at twopence per pound, or of farm-servants bargaining not to be
compelled to eat it oftener than twice a week.
At every stage of its career the salmon is surrounded by enemies. At the
very moment of spawning, the female is watched by a horde of devourers,
who instinctively flock to the breeding-grounds in order to feast on the ova.
The hungry pike, the lethargic perch, the greedy trout, the very salmon itself,
are lying in wait, all agape for the palatable roe, and greedily swallowing
whatever quantity the current carries down. Then the water-fowl eagerly
pounces on the precious deposit the moment it has been forsaken by the fish;
and if it escape being gobbled up by such cormorants, the spawn may be
washed away by a flood, or the position of the bed may be altered, and the
ova be destroyed perhaps for want of water. As an instance of the loss
incidental to salmon-spawning in the natural way, I may just mention that a
whitling of about three-quarters of a pound weight has been taken in the Tay
with three hundred impregnated salmon ova in its stomach! If this fish had
been allowed to dine and breakfast at this rate during the whole of the
spawning season it would have been difficult to estimate the loss our fisheries
sustained by his voracity. No sooner do the eggs ripen, and the young fish
come to life, than they are exposed, in their defenceless state, to be preyed
upon by all the enemies already enumerated; while as parr they have been
taken out of our streams in such quantities as to be made available for the
purposes of pig-feeding and as manure! Some economists estimate that only
one egg out of every thousand ever becomes a full-grown salmon. Mr.
Thomas Tod Stoddart calculated that one hundred and fifty millions of
salmon ova are annually deposited in the river Tay; of which only fifty
millions, or one-third, come to life and attain the parr stage; that twenty
millions of these parrs in time become smolts, and that their number is
ultimately diminished to 100,000; of which 70,000 are caught, the other
30,000 being left for breeding purposes. Sir Humphrey Davy calculates that if
a salmon produce 17,000 roe, only 800 of these will arrive at maturity. It is
well, therefore, that the female fish yields 1000 eggs for each pound of her
weight; for a lesser degree of fecundity, keeping in view the enormous waste
of life indicated by these figures, would long since—especially taking into
account the various very destructive modes of fishing that used a few years
ago to be in use—have resulted in the utter extinction of this valuable fish.
Page 173
SALMON-WATCHER’S TOWER ON THE RHINE.
The root of the evil as regards the scarcity of salmon is to be found in the
avarice of the lessees of fisheries, who have overfished the rivers to an
alarming extent. The increased value of all kinds of fish food during late
years has engendered in these parties a greed of money that leads to the
capture and sale of almost everything that bears the shape of fish. The tenant
of a salmon-fishery has but one desire, and that is to clear his rent and get as
much profit as he can. To achieve this end he takes all the fish that come to
his net, no matter of what size they may be. It is not his interest to let a single
one escape, because if he did so his neighbour above or below him on the
water would in all probability capture it. As a general rule, the tenant has no
care for future years; he has no personal interest in stocking the upper waters
with breeding fish. He is forced by the competition of his rivals to do all he
can in the way of slaughter; and were there not a legal pause of so many
hours in the course of the week, and a close-time of so many days in the year,
it is questionable if a score of fish would make their way past the engines
The root of the evil as regards the scarcity of salmon is to be found in the
avarice of the lessees of fisheries, who have overfished the rivers to an
alarming extent. The increased value of all kinds of fish food during late
years has engendered in these parties a greed of money that leads to the
capture and sale of almost everything that bears the shape of fish. The tenant
of a salmon-fishery has but one desire, and that is to clear his rent and get as
much profit as he can. To achieve this end he takes all the fish that come to
his net, no matter of what size they may be. It is not his interest to let a single
one escape, because if he did so his neighbour above or below him on the
water would in all probability capture it. As a general rule, the tenant has no
care for future years; he has no personal interest in stocking the upper waters
with breeding fish. He is forced by the competition of his rivals to do all he
can in the way of slaughter; and were there not a legal pause of so many
hours in the course of the week, and a close-time of so many days in the year,
it is questionable if a score of fish would make their way past the engines
Page 174
devoted to their capture. A watcher can stand on the bridge of Perth, and at
certain seasons can signal or count every fish that passes in the water below
him, and every fish passing can be caught by those on the look-out; and I
have seen the same watch kept on the Rhine,[6] and on other salmon rivers.
The accompanying sketch of a salmon-watcher’s tower on the great German
river may interest some of my readers who have never been on that beautiful
water.
This unhealthy competition will always continue till some new system be
adopted, such as converting each river into a joint-stock property, when the
united interests of the proprietors, both upper and lower, would be
considered. The trade in fresh salmon, which has culminated in some rivers
by the total extermination of the fish, dates from the time of Mr. Dempster’s
discovery of packing in ice. Half-a-century ago, when we had no railways,
and when even fast coaches were too slow for the transmission of sea-
produce, the markets were exceedingly local. Then salmon was so very cheap
as to be thought of no value as food, and was only looked upon by the
population with an eye of good-humoured toleration—nobody ever expected
to hear of it as a luxury at five shillings a pound weight. No Parisian market
existed then for foul fish, and fifty years ago people only poached for
amusement. But in the excessive poaching which now goes on during close-
time we have a minor cause nearly as productive of evil as the primary and
legal one; for of course it is legal for the tacksman of the station to kill all the
fish he can. Add to these causes the extraordinary quantities of infant fish
which are annually killed, coupled with that phase of insanity which leads to
the capture of grilse (salmon that have never spawned), and we obtain a
rough idea of the progress of destruction as it goes on in our salmon rivers.
Fifty or sixty years ago men caught a salmon or shot a pheasant for mere
sport, or at most for the supply of an individual want. Now poaching is a
trade or business entered into as a means of securing a weekly or annual
income; it has its complex machinery—its nets, guns, and other implements.
There are men who earn large wages at this illicit work, who take to “the
birds” in autumn and the fish in winter with the utmost regularity; and there
are middlemen and others who encourage them and aid them in disposing of
the stolen goods. A few men will band themselves together, and in the course
of a night or two sweep fish from off the spawning-beds which are totally
unfit for human food. There is a ready market always to be found even for
spawning fish. Few of my readers can have any idea of the immense number
certain seasons can signal or count every fish that passes in the water below
him, and every fish passing can be caught by those on the look-out; and I
have seen the same watch kept on the Rhine,[6] and on other salmon rivers.
The accompanying sketch of a salmon-watcher’s tower on the great German
river may interest some of my readers who have never been on that beautiful
water.
This unhealthy competition will always continue till some new system be
adopted, such as converting each river into a joint-stock property, when the
united interests of the proprietors, both upper and lower, would be
considered. The trade in fresh salmon, which has culminated in some rivers
by the total extermination of the fish, dates from the time of Mr. Dempster’s
discovery of packing in ice. Half-a-century ago, when we had no railways,
and when even fast coaches were too slow for the transmission of sea-
produce, the markets were exceedingly local. Then salmon was so very cheap
as to be thought of no value as food, and was only looked upon by the
population with an eye of good-humoured toleration—nobody ever expected
to hear of it as a luxury at five shillings a pound weight. No Parisian market
existed then for foul fish, and fifty years ago people only poached for
amusement. But in the excessive poaching which now goes on during close-
time we have a minor cause nearly as productive of evil as the primary and
legal one; for of course it is legal for the tacksman of the station to kill all the
fish he can. Add to these causes the extraordinary quantities of infant fish
which are annually killed, coupled with that phase of insanity which leads to
the capture of grilse (salmon that have never spawned), and we obtain a
rough idea of the progress of destruction as it goes on in our salmon rivers.
Fifty or sixty years ago men caught a salmon or shot a pheasant for mere
sport, or at most for the supply of an individual want. Now poaching is a
trade or business entered into as a means of securing a weekly or annual
income; it has its complex machinery—its nets, guns, and other implements.
There are men who earn large wages at this illicit work, who take to “the
birds” in autumn and the fish in winter with the utmost regularity; and there
are middlemen and others who encourage them and aid them in disposing of
the stolen goods. A few men will band themselves together, and in the course
of a night or two sweep fish from off the spawning-beds which are totally
unfit for human food. There is a ready market always to be found even for
spawning fish. Few of my readers can have any idea of the immense number
Page 175
of salmon which are destroyed by this cause, and at the very time when they
are at their greatest value, intent on the propagation of their kind. Indeed, on
the very spawning-bed itself, the “deadly leister” is hurled with unerring aim
and mighty force; and the slain fish, safely hidden in the poacher’s bag, is
carried off to be kippered and sold for the English market. A party will start at
nightfall, and, dividing into two companies, sweep the Tweed with a net from
shore to shore, and capture everything of the salmon kind that comes within
reach. The takes upon such occasions average from ten to forty fish. The first
night upon which my informant—a weaver—went out, the result was
seventeen large fish, three of which weighed ninety pounds. Upon the second
occasion the take was much larger, thirty-eight salmon of a smaller size being
the reward of their iniquity, weighing in the aggregate four hundred and forty
pounds, and producing in cash £8 sterling, divided among eleven people.
These stolen fish pass through numerous hands. A person comes at a given
time and takes away the spoil; all that the actual poacher obtains as his share
is a few pence per pound weight. They are bought from the thieves by
middlemen, who again dispose of them to certain salesmen—each party, of
course, obtaining a profit.
In former times, as at present, there were more ways of killing a salmon
than by angling for it. Parties used to be made up for the purpose of “burning
the water,” a practice which prevailed largely on the Tweed, and which
afforded good rough sport. The burning took place a little after sunset, when
an old boat was commissioned for the purpose, and flaming torches of
pinewood were lighted to lure the fish to their destruction. The leister, a sharp
iron fork, was used on these occasions with deadly power; rude mirth and
song were usually the order of the night; and the practice being illegal was
not without a spice of danger, or at least a chance of a ducking. Burning the
water, it must, however, be confessed, was more a picturesque way of
poaching than a means of adding legitimately to the produce of the fisheries
as a branch of commerce. It would have been well for the salmon-fisheries
had the arts of poaching never extended beyond the rude practice here alluded
to; but now poaching, as I have endeavoured to show, has become a business,
and countless thousands of the fish are swept off the breeding-beds and sold
to dealers. There is on most rivers an organised system of taking and
disposing of the fish; France, till very lately, affording the chief outlet for this
kind of food—an outlet, however, which a recent Act of Parliament has done
much to close up. Legislation on the salmon question has of late been greatly
are at their greatest value, intent on the propagation of their kind. Indeed, on
the very spawning-bed itself, the “deadly leister” is hurled with unerring aim
and mighty force; and the slain fish, safely hidden in the poacher’s bag, is
carried off to be kippered and sold for the English market. A party will start at
nightfall, and, dividing into two companies, sweep the Tweed with a net from
shore to shore, and capture everything of the salmon kind that comes within
reach. The takes upon such occasions average from ten to forty fish. The first
night upon which my informant—a weaver—went out, the result was
seventeen large fish, three of which weighed ninety pounds. Upon the second
occasion the take was much larger, thirty-eight salmon of a smaller size being
the reward of their iniquity, weighing in the aggregate four hundred and forty
pounds, and producing in cash £8 sterling, divided among eleven people.
These stolen fish pass through numerous hands. A person comes at a given
time and takes away the spoil; all that the actual poacher obtains as his share
is a few pence per pound weight. They are bought from the thieves by
middlemen, who again dispose of them to certain salesmen—each party, of
course, obtaining a profit.
In former times, as at present, there were more ways of killing a salmon
than by angling for it. Parties used to be made up for the purpose of “burning
the water,” a practice which prevailed largely on the Tweed, and which
afforded good rough sport. The burning took place a little after sunset, when
an old boat was commissioned for the purpose, and flaming torches of
pinewood were lighted to lure the fish to their destruction. The leister, a sharp
iron fork, was used on these occasions with deadly power; rude mirth and
song were usually the order of the night; and the practice being illegal was
not without a spice of danger, or at least a chance of a ducking. Burning the
water, it must, however, be confessed, was more a picturesque way of
poaching than a means of adding legitimately to the produce of the fisheries
as a branch of commerce. It would have been well for the salmon-fisheries
had the arts of poaching never extended beyond the rude practice here alluded
to; but now poaching, as I have endeavoured to show, has become a business,
and countless thousands of the fish are swept off the breeding-beds and sold
to dealers. There is on most rivers an organised system of taking and
disposing of the fish; France, till very lately, affording the chief outlet for this
kind of food—an outlet, however, which a recent Act of Parliament has done
much to close up. Legislation on the salmon question has of late been greatly
Page 176
extended, some powerful Acts of Parliament having been passed for the better
regulation of the various British salmon-fisheries.[7]
It is recorded that at one time great hauls of salmon could be taken either in
the rivers of Scotland or Ireland, and that in England salmon were also quite
plentiful. One miraculous draught is mentioned as having been taken out of
the river Thurso, on which occasion the enormous number of two thousand
five hundred fish were captured. We shall never again see such a haul, unless
we give the rivers a rest for a space of five years or so. A jubilee would
greatly help to restore the status quo. The discovery of packing in ice by Mr.
Dempster led, as was to be expected, to so large a trade in fresh salmon
between Scotland and England, that it at once effected a great rise in the price
of the fish. High prices had their usual consequence with the producer. Every
device was put in requisition to catch fish for London and the Continent; and
if this was the case at the beginning, it will be readily understood how rapidly
the fish-trade rose in importance as new modes of transit became common.
The demand and supply at once assumed such enormous proportions as to tell
with fatal effect on the fisheries; and the high prices led at the same time to
such extensive and organised poaching as I have attempted to describe, and
which, notwithstanding much police organisation, still exists.
At one time there were famous salmon in the Thames, and hopes are
entertained of fish being successfully cultivated in that river. It is certain that
much deleterious matter has been allowed to get into that stream and also into
that famous salmon river the Severn; and in the rivers of Cornwall I believe
the hope of ever breeding salmon has been entirely given up in consequence
of the poisonous matters which flow from the mines. Many rivers which were
known to contain salmon in abundance in the golden age of the fisheries are
now tenantless from matter by which they are polluted, such as the refuse of
gasworks, paper-mills, etc.
Another fertile source of harm to the salmon-fisheries are the fixed engines
of capture which so many people think it right to use, and which the Lord
Advocate’s Salmon Bill of 1862 left almost in statu quo, except that a little
power on this part of the salmon question is given to the commissioners
appointed to carry out the Act. Stake and bag nets in Scotland are known to
have been very destructive, as have the putchers, butts, and trumpets of the
English and Welsh rivers. It would be tedious to describe the different fixed
engines invented for the capture of salmon; what I desire to show is that they
regulation of the various British salmon-fisheries.[7]
It is recorded that at one time great hauls of salmon could be taken either in
the rivers of Scotland or Ireland, and that in England salmon were also quite
plentiful. One miraculous draught is mentioned as having been taken out of
the river Thurso, on which occasion the enormous number of two thousand
five hundred fish were captured. We shall never again see such a haul, unless
we give the rivers a rest for a space of five years or so. A jubilee would
greatly help to restore the status quo. The discovery of packing in ice by Mr.
Dempster led, as was to be expected, to so large a trade in fresh salmon
between Scotland and England, that it at once effected a great rise in the price
of the fish. High prices had their usual consequence with the producer. Every
device was put in requisition to catch fish for London and the Continent; and
if this was the case at the beginning, it will be readily understood how rapidly
the fish-trade rose in importance as new modes of transit became common.
The demand and supply at once assumed such enormous proportions as to tell
with fatal effect on the fisheries; and the high prices led at the same time to
such extensive and organised poaching as I have attempted to describe, and
which, notwithstanding much police organisation, still exists.
At one time there were famous salmon in the Thames, and hopes are
entertained of fish being successfully cultivated in that river. It is certain that
much deleterious matter has been allowed to get into that stream and also into
that famous salmon river the Severn; and in the rivers of Cornwall I believe
the hope of ever breeding salmon has been entirely given up in consequence
of the poisonous matters which flow from the mines. Many rivers which were
known to contain salmon in abundance in the golden age of the fisheries are
now tenantless from matter by which they are polluted, such as the refuse of
gasworks, paper-mills, etc.
Another fertile source of harm to the salmon-fisheries are the fixed engines
of capture which so many people think it right to use, and which the Lord
Advocate’s Salmon Bill of 1862 left almost in statu quo, except that a little
power on this part of the salmon question is given to the commissioners
appointed to carry out the Act. Stake and bag nets in Scotland are known to
have been very destructive, as have the putchers, butts, and trumpets of the
English and Welsh rivers. It would be tedious to describe the different fixed
engines invented for the capture of salmon; what I desire to show is that they
Page 177
have injured the fisheries. A controversy has been raging in Scotland for
some years back on this point of the salmon question, which, there can be no
doubt, will ultimately result in their entire extinction. That they have been a
most fruitful cause of injury to the fisheries has been proved by a long array
of facts and figures. A striking example of the effect of bag-nets occurred
with regard to the Tay. The system having been extended to that river, the
productiveness of the upper portions of the stream was very speedily affected;
and again, shortly after their removal, the fisheries became greatly more
productive, as will be seen by and by when it becomes necessary to deal with
the figures denoting the rental of that river.
Although I have already referred to it, it is most important to note here
much more particularly the fact that, with probably the solitary exception of
the Tweed (and there the deterioration has only recently been arrested), the
size and weight of salmon are annually diminishing, and, as some fishermen
think, their condition and flavour also. There can be no doubt that in the
golden age of the fisheries they attained much larger proportions than they do
now. I need scarcely quote in support of this opinion the fish mentioned by
Yarrell, which was exhibited by Mr. Groves, and weighed eighty-three
pounds; nor that alluded to by Pennant, which was only ten pounds lighter;
nor the fact that in all virgin salmon-rivers the fish average a greater weight
than any now taken in the British streams. It is within the memory of anglers
that fish of forty pounds were by no means rare in the Scottish rivers; that
salmon of thirty pounds and thirty-five pounds weight were quite common;
and that the general run of fish were in the aggregate many pounds heavier
than those of the present day. Mr. Anderson, the lessee of some of the best
salmon-fisheries on the Firth of Forth, a gentleman who is master of his
business, is of opinion that the average weight of fish now is reduced to about
sixteen pounds; and by the Tweed Tables, the average weight of those killed
by the net between July and September, though apparently on the increase, in
no month rises to fifteen pounds. How is it, then, that we have no giants of
the river in these days? The answer, I think, is simple and convincing. Let us
suppose, for example, that the fish grows at the rate of five pounds per
annum: it would, therefore, take ten years to achieve a growth of fifty pounds.
Now it is needless to say that, in British waters at any rate, we never either
see or hear of a fish of that weight. The fact is, we do not give our salmon
time to grow to that size. The greater portion of the fish that we kill are two
years old, or at the most three—fish running from eight pounds to sixteen
some years back on this point of the salmon question, which, there can be no
doubt, will ultimately result in their entire extinction. That they have been a
most fruitful cause of injury to the fisheries has been proved by a long array
of facts and figures. A striking example of the effect of bag-nets occurred
with regard to the Tay. The system having been extended to that river, the
productiveness of the upper portions of the stream was very speedily affected;
and again, shortly after their removal, the fisheries became greatly more
productive, as will be seen by and by when it becomes necessary to deal with
the figures denoting the rental of that river.
Although I have already referred to it, it is most important to note here
much more particularly the fact that, with probably the solitary exception of
the Tweed (and there the deterioration has only recently been arrested), the
size and weight of salmon are annually diminishing, and, as some fishermen
think, their condition and flavour also. There can be no doubt that in the
golden age of the fisheries they attained much larger proportions than they do
now. I need scarcely quote in support of this opinion the fish mentioned by
Yarrell, which was exhibited by Mr. Groves, and weighed eighty-three
pounds; nor that alluded to by Pennant, which was only ten pounds lighter;
nor the fact that in all virgin salmon-rivers the fish average a greater weight
than any now taken in the British streams. It is within the memory of anglers
that fish of forty pounds were by no means rare in the Scottish rivers; that
salmon of thirty pounds and thirty-five pounds weight were quite common;
and that the general run of fish were in the aggregate many pounds heavier
than those of the present day. Mr. Anderson, the lessee of some of the best
salmon-fisheries on the Firth of Forth, a gentleman who is master of his
business, is of opinion that the average weight of fish now is reduced to about
sixteen pounds; and by the Tweed Tables, the average weight of those killed
by the net between July and September, though apparently on the increase, in
no month rises to fifteen pounds. How is it, then, that we have no giants of
the river in these days? The answer, I think, is simple and convincing. Let us
suppose, for example, that the fish grows at the rate of five pounds per
annum: it would, therefore, take ten years to achieve a growth of fifty pounds.
Now it is needless to say that, in British waters at any rate, we never either
see or hear of a fish of that weight. The fact is, we do not give our salmon
time to grow to that size. The greater portion of the fish that we kill are two
years old, or at the most three—fish running from eight pounds to sixteen
Page 178
pounds in weight. It is clear that, if we go on for a year or two longer at the
rate of slaughter we have been indulging of late years, there will speedily not
be even a three-year-old fish to pull out of the water. It is very suggestive of
the state of the salmon-fisheries that we have now eaten down to our three-
year-olds.
Another fertile source of destruction is the killing of grilse; the grilse being
a virgin fish, its slaughter is just analogous to the killing of lambs without due
regulation as to quantity. In this respect, “the conduct of salmon proprietors is
as rational as high-farming with the help of tile-drains, liquid-manure, and
steam-power, would be for the purpose of eating corn in the blade.” As many
as 100,000 grilses have been taken from one river in a year—a notable
example of killing the goose for the golden egg. If we had an Act of
Parliament to prevent the capture of grilse, we should never want salmon.
The parr and smolt are protected. Why? Because they are the young of the
salmon. Well, so is grilse the young of the salmon, and grilse also are sadly in
want of protection.
rate of slaughter we have been indulging of late years, there will speedily not
be even a three-year-old fish to pull out of the water. It is very suggestive of
the state of the salmon-fisheries that we have now eaten down to our three-
year-olds.
Another fertile source of destruction is the killing of grilse; the grilse being
a virgin fish, its slaughter is just analogous to the killing of lambs without due
regulation as to quantity. In this respect, “the conduct of salmon proprietors is
as rational as high-farming with the help of tile-drains, liquid-manure, and
steam-power, would be for the purpose of eating corn in the blade.” As many
as 100,000 grilses have been taken from one river in a year—a notable
example of killing the goose for the golden egg. If we had an Act of
Parliament to prevent the capture of grilse, we should never want salmon.
The parr and smolt are protected. Why? Because they are the young of the
salmon. Well, so is grilse the young of the salmon, and grilse also are sadly in
want of protection.
Page 179
STAKE-NETS ON THE RIVER SOLWAY.
Recent debates in the House of Commons on the English and Scottish
Salmon Fisheries Bills brought out very distinctly the worst phase of the
salmon question—viz. the prevalence of stake and bag nets. These machines
have exercised a baneful influence on the fisheries, and have in numerous
instances intercepted about one-half of the salmon of particular rivers, before
they could reach their own waters. These nets are erected in the tideways, not
far from the shore, and as the fish are coasting along towards their own
particular spawning-ground, they are intercepted either in the chambers of the
bag-net, or in the meshes of the stake-net. It is said, too, that fish taken in the
tidal estuaries are in far finer condition than those caught in the fresh-water
division of the large salmon rivers; hence they are in greater demand, and
bring a slightly better price. There is no consideration among tacksmen of
river fishings, or proprietors of bag or stake nets, for the preservation of the
fish; it seems to be a rule with these gentlemen to kill all they can. It is
obvious that, if the upper proprietors of the waters were to act in the same
Recent debates in the House of Commons on the English and Scottish
Salmon Fisheries Bills brought out very distinctly the worst phase of the
salmon question—viz. the prevalence of stake and bag nets. These machines
have exercised a baneful influence on the fisheries, and have in numerous
instances intercepted about one-half of the salmon of particular rivers, before
they could reach their own waters. These nets are erected in the tideways, not
far from the shore, and as the fish are coasting along towards their own
particular spawning-ground, they are intercepted either in the chambers of the
bag-net, or in the meshes of the stake-net. It is said, too, that fish taken in the
tidal estuaries are in far finer condition than those caught in the fresh-water
division of the large salmon rivers; hence they are in greater demand, and
bring a slightly better price. There is no consideration among tacksmen of
river fishings, or proprietors of bag or stake nets, for the preservation of the
fish; it seems to be a rule with these gentlemen to kill all they can. It is
obvious that, if the upper proprietors of the waters were to act in the same
Page 180
spirit, and kill all the salmon that reached the breeding-grounds, that fine fish,
not unaptly called the “venison of the waters,” would very speedily become
extinct.
As may be known to most of my readers, the chief British salmon streams,
so far at least as productiveness is concerned, are the Tay, the Tweed, the
Spey, and the Esk. I have not space in which to sketch the whole of these
rivers, but I desire, on behalf of English readers particularly, to say a few
words about two of our Scottish salmon streams; and I select the Tay and the
Spey.
The Tay is equal to a basin of 2250 square miles, and it discharges, after a
run of about 150 miles, a greater volume of water than any other Scottish
river. “As ascertained by Dr. Anderson, the quantity which is carried forward
per second opposite the city of Perth averages no less than 3640 cubic feet.”
The main river and its affluents, and their varied tributaries, afford splendid
breeding-ground for the salmon. As an instance we may take the Earn. It
flows from Loch Earn in the far west of Perthshire, and is, when it leaves the
lake, a considerable river, and over the greater part of its course its current is
very rapid. A slight drawback to its capabilities as a fish-breeding river is the
fact of its sometimes overflowing its banks; but its tributaries afford plenty of
excellent ground for salmon-breeding. Indeed, on all the tributaries of the Tay
there is ample accommodation for the fish. I have in my mind’s eye some
excellent salmon-beds near Airlie Castle, on the Isla. The banks of the river
are overhung by foliage, and the salmon sport industriously in the deep pools,
resorting to the gravel at the proper season in order to dig beds in which to
deposit their eggs, and when in due time these are vivified and grow from the
fry to the parr state, I have seen the youthful “natives” catching them in
scores.
The Tay deserves special honour, for it must rank as the king of Scottish
rivers, receiving as it does the tribute of so many streams, and running its
course through such a variety of fine scenery. Loch Tay is generally
accounted the source of this river, but if it be considered that the loch is
chiefly fed by the river Dochart, the source of this latter river is actually the
fountain-head of the Tay. The Dochart rises in the extreme west of Perthshire,
and, after striking the base of the “mighty Ben More” and the Dochart Hills,
falls into Loch Tay at the village of Killin, before reaching which place it
assumes the dimensions of a considerable river. There is fine angling to be
had in the vicinity of Killin; indeed, the salmon rod-fisheries there are of
not unaptly called the “venison of the waters,” would very speedily become
extinct.
As may be known to most of my readers, the chief British salmon streams,
so far at least as productiveness is concerned, are the Tay, the Tweed, the
Spey, and the Esk. I have not space in which to sketch the whole of these
rivers, but I desire, on behalf of English readers particularly, to say a few
words about two of our Scottish salmon streams; and I select the Tay and the
Spey.
The Tay is equal to a basin of 2250 square miles, and it discharges, after a
run of about 150 miles, a greater volume of water than any other Scottish
river. “As ascertained by Dr. Anderson, the quantity which is carried forward
per second opposite the city of Perth averages no less than 3640 cubic feet.”
The main river and its affluents, and their varied tributaries, afford splendid
breeding-ground for the salmon. As an instance we may take the Earn. It
flows from Loch Earn in the far west of Perthshire, and is, when it leaves the
lake, a considerable river, and over the greater part of its course its current is
very rapid. A slight drawback to its capabilities as a fish-breeding river is the
fact of its sometimes overflowing its banks; but its tributaries afford plenty of
excellent ground for salmon-breeding. Indeed, on all the tributaries of the Tay
there is ample accommodation for the fish. I have in my mind’s eye some
excellent salmon-beds near Airlie Castle, on the Isla. The banks of the river
are overhung by foliage, and the salmon sport industriously in the deep pools,
resorting to the gravel at the proper season in order to dig beds in which to
deposit their eggs, and when in due time these are vivified and grow from the
fry to the parr state, I have seen the youthful “natives” catching them in
scores.
The Tay deserves special honour, for it must rank as the king of Scottish
rivers, receiving as it does the tribute of so many streams, and running its
course through such a variety of fine scenery. Loch Tay is generally
accounted the source of this river, but if it be considered that the loch is
chiefly fed by the river Dochart, the source of this latter river is actually the
fountain-head of the Tay. The Dochart rises in the extreme west of Perthshire,
and, after striking the base of the “mighty Ben More” and the Dochart Hills,
falls into Loch Tay at the village of Killin, before reaching which place it
assumes the dimensions of a considerable river. There is fine angling to be
had in the vicinity of Killin; indeed, the salmon rod-fisheries there are of
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some value, and trout can be taken in great plenty both in the Dochart and the
Lochay. Loch Tay contains abundance of fish, and, as that sheet of water is of
considerable size, there is ample room to ply the angle, either for salmon,
trout, or charr. The loch is about sixteen miles in length, and is overshadowed
on the north by Ben Lawers—one of the loftiest of our Scottish mountains.
The river Tay issues from the loch within a mile of Taymouth Castle, one of
the fine seats of the noble family of Breadalbane; and, after flowing eastward
for a few miles, its waters are augmented by those of the Lyon, whose source
is about twenty-six miles distant from its junction with the Tay. Passing over
several minor streams and proceeding eastwards, the next important tributary
of the Tay is the Tummel, the junction taking place at the ancient and once
famous burgh of Logierait. This river, which is the largest tributary of the
Tay, is the outlet of Loch Rannoch, situated in the extreme north-west of
Perthshire. The loch is well stocked with trout, and large specimens of the
Salmo ferox are frequently caught; but the true salmon (Salmo salar) is not
found either in Loch Rannoch or Loch Tummel, their ascent being checked
by the Falls of Tummel. Below the falls, however, there are several salmon-
fisheries, but they are not very productive. The Tay, after receiving the waters
of the Tummel and Garry at Logierait, flows onward through beautiful
scenery till it reaches Dunkeld, where it receives the tributary stream of the
Braan, which has for its source a small sheet of water named Loch Freuchie,
situated in Glen Quoich. The scenery around the junction of the Braan and
Tay is hallowed by numberless associations of bygone times. Passing beneath
the noble arches of Dunkeld Bridge, the Tay flows eastward till it is joined by
the Isla, when it again takes a southerly direction until it reaches Perth. On its
way thither it receives the tribute of the Almond, the Shochie, and the Ordie.
The Isla is a large and important stream, draining as it does a considerable
extent of country, and lending its aid both to miller and manufacturer. The
Almond is the next river in importance, but a tradition connected with it is
better known than the river itself. On Lynedoch Braes, which are near the
foot of the stream, dwelt the heroines of the poetic legend of Bessie Bell and
Mary Gray, in the house which they “biggit” with their own hands, and
“theekit ower wi’ rashes.” The Shochie and Ordie cannot claim the name of
rivers, but they are celebrated as being named in a prophecy attributed to
Thomas the Rhymer:—
Lochay. Loch Tay contains abundance of fish, and, as that sheet of water is of
considerable size, there is ample room to ply the angle, either for salmon,
trout, or charr. The loch is about sixteen miles in length, and is overshadowed
on the north by Ben Lawers—one of the loftiest of our Scottish mountains.
The river Tay issues from the loch within a mile of Taymouth Castle, one of
the fine seats of the noble family of Breadalbane; and, after flowing eastward
for a few miles, its waters are augmented by those of the Lyon, whose source
is about twenty-six miles distant from its junction with the Tay. Passing over
several minor streams and proceeding eastwards, the next important tributary
of the Tay is the Tummel, the junction taking place at the ancient and once
famous burgh of Logierait. This river, which is the largest tributary of the
Tay, is the outlet of Loch Rannoch, situated in the extreme north-west of
Perthshire. The loch is well stocked with trout, and large specimens of the
Salmo ferox are frequently caught; but the true salmon (Salmo salar) is not
found either in Loch Rannoch or Loch Tummel, their ascent being checked
by the Falls of Tummel. Below the falls, however, there are several salmon-
fisheries, but they are not very productive. The Tay, after receiving the waters
of the Tummel and Garry at Logierait, flows onward through beautiful
scenery till it reaches Dunkeld, where it receives the tributary stream of the
Braan, which has for its source a small sheet of water named Loch Freuchie,
situated in Glen Quoich. The scenery around the junction of the Braan and
Tay is hallowed by numberless associations of bygone times. Passing beneath
the noble arches of Dunkeld Bridge, the Tay flows eastward till it is joined by
the Isla, when it again takes a southerly direction until it reaches Perth. On its
way thither it receives the tribute of the Almond, the Shochie, and the Ordie.
The Isla is a large and important stream, draining as it does a considerable
extent of country, and lending its aid both to miller and manufacturer. The
Almond is the next river in importance, but a tradition connected with it is
better known than the river itself. On Lynedoch Braes, which are near the
foot of the stream, dwelt the heroines of the poetic legend of Bessie Bell and
Mary Gray, in the house which they “biggit” with their own hands, and
“theekit ower wi’ rashes.” The Shochie and Ordie cannot claim the name of
rivers, but they are celebrated as being named in a prophecy attributed to
Thomas the Rhymer:—
Page 182
“Says the Shochie to the Ordie
Where shall we meet?
At the cross of Perth,
When a’ men are asleep.”
The Isla, Almond, and the two rivers last named, in common with all the
tributaries of the Tay, afford excellent sport to the angler. The country
bordering the banks of this portion of the Tay is a mixture of pastoral and
agricultural. Rippling past the Stormontfield breeding-ponds, now a feature
of the river, and the palace of Scone, the Tay speedily reaches the links of
Perth’s fair city; and after being joined by the Earn, also an excellent salmon
stream, it widens into a broad estuary, and, speedily sweeping past the
manufacturing town of Dundee, is lost in the German Ocean.
SALMON-FISHING STATION AT WOODHAVEN ON TAY.
Where shall we meet?
At the cross of Perth,
When a’ men are asleep.”
The Isla, Almond, and the two rivers last named, in common with all the
tributaries of the Tay, afford excellent sport to the angler. The country
bordering the banks of this portion of the Tay is a mixture of pastoral and
agricultural. Rippling past the Stormontfield breeding-ponds, now a feature
of the river, and the palace of Scone, the Tay speedily reaches the links of
Perth’s fair city; and after being joined by the Earn, also an excellent salmon
stream, it widens into a broad estuary, and, speedily sweeping past the
manufacturing town of Dundee, is lost in the German Ocean.
SALMON-FISHING STATION AT WOODHAVEN ON TAY.
Page 183
A few local inquiries as to angling on the Tay will elicit more valuable
information than I can give here. At some places on the lower portion of the
water the aid of a boat (a Tay boat) is necessary, as the best pools are
otherwise inaccessible to the angler. The cost of a boat and man ranges, I
think, from three to six shillings, and on the smooth parts of the river one
man is generally enough for attendance. Some parts of the Tay are quite free
to all comers, especially about Kinfauns; and, if I mistake not, up all the way
from Perth to the breeding-ponds at Stormontfield. Perth forms a capital
centre for the angler: it is a good place in which to obtain information or
tackle, and it is easy to get away from the “Fair City” to places and streams of
note. And if the angler wants to “harl” the Tay itself, Perth is the very best
place to obtain instructions in the art of “harling,” which is very attractive.
The commercial fishings may be seen in operation at and below Perth: they
are carried on by means of the net and coble. A boat sails out with the net,
and taking in a sweep of the water returns, in its progress enclosing any of the
salmon kind that may be in that part of the river. The operation is usually
repeated several times each day at every fishing station.
The Tay salmon-fisheries are owned by various noblemen, gentlemen, and
corporations; and they yield a gross annual rent of nearly £17,000. To give an
idea of the individual value and the occasional fluctuations of even the best
fisheries, we may cite some of the figures connected with the rental of the
river Tay. Lord Gray, for instance, has drawn from his fisheries more than
£100,000 during the last thirty-five years. The salmon and grilse obtained for
this sum run from 10,000 to 28,000 a year. It has been frequently asserted that
our salmon-fisheries are a lottery, and in confirmation of this it may be stated
that in 1831, when 10,000 fish were taken, the rental of this fishery was
£4000; and that in 1842, when the capture was 28,453 fish, the rental was
£1000 less. Dividing the income for the two years, we have the following
result:—Averaging the fish at 5s. each gives as a loss to the tenant on the
10,000 year of £1500, while on the other year there is the large profit of
£4000! But the value of the Tay fisheries will be better estimated by
mentioning that in some seasons the number of fish taken from the mouth of
the Isla down to the sea has ranged from 70,000 to upwards of 100,000. Ten
of the fishing-stations between Perth and Newburgh used to produce an
annual rental of about (on the average) £700 each.
As to the much-discussed stake-net question, the following figures may be
quoted:—About the end of last century, before the existence of stake-nets, the
information than I can give here. At some places on the lower portion of the
water the aid of a boat (a Tay boat) is necessary, as the best pools are
otherwise inaccessible to the angler. The cost of a boat and man ranges, I
think, from three to six shillings, and on the smooth parts of the river one
man is generally enough for attendance. Some parts of the Tay are quite free
to all comers, especially about Kinfauns; and, if I mistake not, up all the way
from Perth to the breeding-ponds at Stormontfield. Perth forms a capital
centre for the angler: it is a good place in which to obtain information or
tackle, and it is easy to get away from the “Fair City” to places and streams of
note. And if the angler wants to “harl” the Tay itself, Perth is the very best
place to obtain instructions in the art of “harling,” which is very attractive.
The commercial fishings may be seen in operation at and below Perth: they
are carried on by means of the net and coble. A boat sails out with the net,
and taking in a sweep of the water returns, in its progress enclosing any of the
salmon kind that may be in that part of the river. The operation is usually
repeated several times each day at every fishing station.
The Tay salmon-fisheries are owned by various noblemen, gentlemen, and
corporations; and they yield a gross annual rent of nearly £17,000. To give an
idea of the individual value and the occasional fluctuations of even the best
fisheries, we may cite some of the figures connected with the rental of the
river Tay. Lord Gray, for instance, has drawn from his fisheries more than
£100,000 during the last thirty-five years. The salmon and grilse obtained for
this sum run from 10,000 to 28,000 a year. It has been frequently asserted that
our salmon-fisheries are a lottery, and in confirmation of this it may be stated
that in 1831, when 10,000 fish were taken, the rental of this fishery was
£4000; and that in 1842, when the capture was 28,453 fish, the rental was
£1000 less. Dividing the income for the two years, we have the following
result:—Averaging the fish at 5s. each gives as a loss to the tenant on the
10,000 year of £1500, while on the other year there is the large profit of
£4000! But the value of the Tay fisheries will be better estimated by
mentioning that in some seasons the number of fish taken from the mouth of
the Isla down to the sea has ranged from 70,000 to upwards of 100,000. Ten
of the fishing-stations between Perth and Newburgh used to produce an
annual rental of about (on the average) £700 each.
As to the much-discussed stake-net question, the following figures may be
quoted:—About the end of last century, before the existence of stake-nets, the
Page 184
average number of fish taken at the Kinfauns fishery was—salmon, 8720;
grilse, 1714. In the first ten years of the present century, the average annual
catch of salmon fell to 4666, and the grilse numbered 1616. After the stake-
nets were removed, and in the ten years from 1815 to 1824, the average
number of salmon caught was 9010 per annum, and of grilse 8709. I have
purposely avoided filling up my space with an accumulation of proof on this
point, but were further proof required of the deadly influence of stake and bag
nets on the salmon rivers, it could easily be had; indeed, ample testimony has,
from time to time, been recorded in Parliament, both against the stake-nets,
and that “chamber of horrors” for the salmon, the deadly bag. A stream like
the Tay ought to have a stock of breeding-fish sufficient to produce more than
100,000,000 of eggs, because the destruction of the spawn and the young fish
is so enormous as to require provision for a large amount of waste; hence the
value of artificial cultivation. By the natural system of spawning it is
supposed that only one egg in each thousand comes to the fisherman’s net as
a twenty-five pound fish.
The river Spey is an excellent salmon-producing stream; in fact, size
considered, it is the richest in Scotland, the fishings at Speymouth being
worth £12,000 per annum. The Spey is about a hundred and twenty miles on
its course before it falls into the sea, and some parts of the river are very
picturesque.
“Dipple, Dundurcus, Dandaleith, and Dalvey
Are the bonniest haughs on the run of the Spey.”
The stream is very rapid, having in its course a fall of twelve hundred feet; it
rushes on in one continuous gallop from its mountain well to the sea, giving
rise to the local proverb of there being “no standing water in Spey,” although
there are pools thirty feet deep. Still, as a rule, the river is shallow, having
generally a depth of about three feet; and there are places which, when the
water is a little low, may be crossed by a man on foot.
I have seen the rafts of wood coming down from the hills at the rate of ten
miles an hour; and the Spey is not only the most rapid, but also the wildest of
all our large Scottish rivers. “The cause of this is easily explained. The river
drains thirteen hundred miles of mountains, many of whose bases are more
than a thousand feet above the level of the sea. The Dulnain, draining the
grilse, 1714. In the first ten years of the present century, the average annual
catch of salmon fell to 4666, and the grilse numbered 1616. After the stake-
nets were removed, and in the ten years from 1815 to 1824, the average
number of salmon caught was 9010 per annum, and of grilse 8709. I have
purposely avoided filling up my space with an accumulation of proof on this
point, but were further proof required of the deadly influence of stake and bag
nets on the salmon rivers, it could easily be had; indeed, ample testimony has,
from time to time, been recorded in Parliament, both against the stake-nets,
and that “chamber of horrors” for the salmon, the deadly bag. A stream like
the Tay ought to have a stock of breeding-fish sufficient to produce more than
100,000,000 of eggs, because the destruction of the spawn and the young fish
is so enormous as to require provision for a large amount of waste; hence the
value of artificial cultivation. By the natural system of spawning it is
supposed that only one egg in each thousand comes to the fisherman’s net as
a twenty-five pound fish.
The river Spey is an excellent salmon-producing stream; in fact, size
considered, it is the richest in Scotland, the fishings at Speymouth being
worth £12,000 per annum. The Spey is about a hundred and twenty miles on
its course before it falls into the sea, and some parts of the river are very
picturesque.
“Dipple, Dundurcus, Dandaleith, and Dalvey
Are the bonniest haughs on the run of the Spey.”
The stream is very rapid, having in its course a fall of twelve hundred feet; it
rushes on in one continuous gallop from its mountain well to the sea, giving
rise to the local proverb of there being “no standing water in Spey,” although
there are pools thirty feet deep. Still, as a rule, the river is shallow, having
generally a depth of about three feet; and there are places which, when the
water is a little low, may be crossed by a man on foot.
I have seen the rafts of wood coming down from the hills at the rate of ten
miles an hour; and the Spey is not only the most rapid, but also the wildest of
all our large Scottish rivers. “The cause of this is easily explained. The river
drains thirteen hundred miles of mountains, many of whose bases are more
than a thousand feet above the level of the sea. The Dulnain, draining the
Page 185
southern part of the Monagh Lea Mountains, runs more than forty miles
before entering Spey; and the Avon, with a course as long, brings down the
waters of Glenavon, which lies between the most majestic mountains in
Britain. Besides these great tributaries, the Spey has the Truim, the Tromie,
the Feshie, the Fiddoch, and other affluents, swelling her volume with the
rapidly-descending waters of a mountainous country.” The river Spey is an
example of a well-managed stream, and in the late Duke of Richmond’s time
produced a very handsome revenue. It was well managed, because the duke
fished it himself; and, of course, it was his interest to have it well protected,
and to keep a handsome stock of breeding fish. For instance, in the years
1858 and 1859 the duke drew on the Spey for upwards of 107,000 salmon
and grilse, and the fish in that river are as plentiful as ever. On the Spey,
however, there is no confusion of upper and lower proprietors to fight against
and take umbrage at each other, the river belonging mostly to one proprietor.
Other Scottish rivers also yield, or did at one time yield, large annual sums in
the shape of rental; and on the larger salmon rivers of Scotland the income
derived by many of the “lairds” from the salmon forms a very welcome
addition to their land revenues. Mr. Johnstone, the lessee of the Esk fisheries
at Montrose, stated at a public meeting held some time ago in Edinburgh to
protest against the removal of stake-nets, that he estimated the Duke of
Sutherland’s fisheries at £6000 a year, and quoted his own rents as £4000 per
annum, giving him the privilege to fish on two different rivers, on one of
which he had eight miles of water, on the other six. The rents of the sea
salmon-fisheries of Scotland (stake and bag nets), which the recent bill of the
Lord Advocate proposed to abolish, range from £20 to £1000 per annum.
Princely rentals have been drawn from the salmon rivers of that division of
the United Kingdom.
The Tweed alone at one period gave to its proprietors an annual income of
£20,000; but although the price of fish has greatly increased of late years, the
rental fell at one time to about a fifth part of that sum, and the take of fish
sank from 40,000 to 4000. Persons interested in the salmon have been
watching very keenly during late years the effects of the legislation of 1857
and 1859 upon the Tweed fisheries, the rent of that river being now little
more than a third of what it once was. The principal changes introduced by
the two Tweed Acts of 1857 and 1859 may be shortly stated to be:—
1. The entire abolition of bag, stake, and other fixed nets of every
description in the river, and the restriction and regulation of stake-nets on the
before entering Spey; and the Avon, with a course as long, brings down the
waters of Glenavon, which lies between the most majestic mountains in
Britain. Besides these great tributaries, the Spey has the Truim, the Tromie,
the Feshie, the Fiddoch, and other affluents, swelling her volume with the
rapidly-descending waters of a mountainous country.” The river Spey is an
example of a well-managed stream, and in the late Duke of Richmond’s time
produced a very handsome revenue. It was well managed, because the duke
fished it himself; and, of course, it was his interest to have it well protected,
and to keep a handsome stock of breeding fish. For instance, in the years
1858 and 1859 the duke drew on the Spey for upwards of 107,000 salmon
and grilse, and the fish in that river are as plentiful as ever. On the Spey,
however, there is no confusion of upper and lower proprietors to fight against
and take umbrage at each other, the river belonging mostly to one proprietor.
Other Scottish rivers also yield, or did at one time yield, large annual sums in
the shape of rental; and on the larger salmon rivers of Scotland the income
derived by many of the “lairds” from the salmon forms a very welcome
addition to their land revenues. Mr. Johnstone, the lessee of the Esk fisheries
at Montrose, stated at a public meeting held some time ago in Edinburgh to
protest against the removal of stake-nets, that he estimated the Duke of
Sutherland’s fisheries at £6000 a year, and quoted his own rents as £4000 per
annum, giving him the privilege to fish on two different rivers, on one of
which he had eight miles of water, on the other six. The rents of the sea
salmon-fisheries of Scotland (stake and bag nets), which the recent bill of the
Lord Advocate proposed to abolish, range from £20 to £1000 per annum.
Princely rentals have been drawn from the salmon rivers of that division of
the United Kingdom.
The Tweed alone at one period gave to its proprietors an annual income of
£20,000; but although the price of fish has greatly increased of late years, the
rental fell at one time to about a fifth part of that sum, and the take of fish
sank from 40,000 to 4000. Persons interested in the salmon have been
watching very keenly during late years the effects of the legislation of 1857
and 1859 upon the Tweed fisheries, the rent of that river being now little
more than a third of what it once was. The principal changes introduced by
the two Tweed Acts of 1857 and 1859 may be shortly stated to be:—
1. The entire abolition of bag, stake, and other fixed nets of every
description in the river, and the restriction and regulation of stake-nets on the
Page 186
sea-coast, and no net except the common sweep-net, rowed out and
immediately drawn in again, has been allowed on the Tweed since 1857. 2.
The entire prohibition of leistering. 3. A slight increase of the weekly close-
time, and an increase of the annual close-time for nets by four weeks. 4. The
permission of rod-fishing for an extended period, so as to interest proprietors
to a greater degree in the protection of the river. And last, not least, the
absolute prohibition of killing unclean or unseasonable fish at any time of the
year, and an enactment that all such fish caught during the fishing season
should be returned to the water.
Much curiosity has existed as to the results achieved by the Tweed Acts,
the first really stringent code enforced on any British river; and although
statistics in such matters, unless taken over very extended periods, are not to
be too implicitly relied on, and much allowance must be made for the
variations caused by weather and unfavourable seasons during so short a
period as has elapsed, yet it is well worth while to ascertain what can be
learned concerning this experiment. With this view I have consulted the very
valuable and interesting series of tables which have been compiled and
printed for private circulation by Alexander Robertson, Esq., one of the
Tweed Commissioners, and a director of the Berwick Shipping Company. A
brief reference to the figures in these tables shows at once whether or not
there has been an improvement in the fishing. The total capture of salmon,
grilse, and trout, in Tweed for the six years preceding 1857 was 50,209
salmon, 153,515 grilse, and 294,418 trout; making a yearly average of 8368
salmon, 25,586 grilse, and 49,069 trout. In the six years succeeding the Act—
viz. 1858 to 1863—the total capture was 60,726 salmon, 124,182 grilse, and
175,538 trout; being an average of 10,121 salmon, 20,697 grilse, and 29,256
trout. These are improving figures, taking into account that the fishing season
had been curtailed by a period of four weeks. The total rent of the river in
1857 was about £5000; it is now above £7500, and is on the rise.
The English salmon-fisheries, generally speaking, have been allowed to
fall into so low a state that I fear it will be impossible to recruit them in a
moderate period of time without foreign aid. Some of the rivers, indeed, are
as nearly as possible salmonless. It is difficult to select an English river that
will in all respects compare with the Tay, but the Severn produces the finest
salmon of any of the English salmon rivers; and it is a noble stream,
containing many kinds of fish, which afford great sport to the angler. If the
river flowed in a direct course from its source to the sea, it would be eighty
immediately drawn in again, has been allowed on the Tweed since 1857. 2.
The entire prohibition of leistering. 3. A slight increase of the weekly close-
time, and an increase of the annual close-time for nets by four weeks. 4. The
permission of rod-fishing for an extended period, so as to interest proprietors
to a greater degree in the protection of the river. And last, not least, the
absolute prohibition of killing unclean or unseasonable fish at any time of the
year, and an enactment that all such fish caught during the fishing season
should be returned to the water.
Much curiosity has existed as to the results achieved by the Tweed Acts,
the first really stringent code enforced on any British river; and although
statistics in such matters, unless taken over very extended periods, are not to
be too implicitly relied on, and much allowance must be made for the
variations caused by weather and unfavourable seasons during so short a
period as has elapsed, yet it is well worth while to ascertain what can be
learned concerning this experiment. With this view I have consulted the very
valuable and interesting series of tables which have been compiled and
printed for private circulation by Alexander Robertson, Esq., one of the
Tweed Commissioners, and a director of the Berwick Shipping Company. A
brief reference to the figures in these tables shows at once whether or not
there has been an improvement in the fishing. The total capture of salmon,
grilse, and trout, in Tweed for the six years preceding 1857 was 50,209
salmon, 153,515 grilse, and 294,418 trout; making a yearly average of 8368
salmon, 25,586 grilse, and 49,069 trout. In the six years succeeding the Act—
viz. 1858 to 1863—the total capture was 60,726 salmon, 124,182 grilse, and
175,538 trout; being an average of 10,121 salmon, 20,697 grilse, and 29,256
trout. These are improving figures, taking into account that the fishing season
had been curtailed by a period of four weeks. The total rent of the river in
1857 was about £5000; it is now above £7500, and is on the rise.
The English salmon-fisheries, generally speaking, have been allowed to
fall into so low a state that I fear it will be impossible to recruit them in a
moderate period of time without foreign aid. Some of the rivers, indeed, are
as nearly as possible salmonless. It is difficult to select an English river that
will in all respects compare with the Tay, but the Severn produces the finest
salmon of any of the English salmon rivers; and it is a noble stream,
containing many kinds of fish, which afford great sport to the angler. If the
river flowed in a direct course from its source to the sea, it would be eighty
Page 187
miles in length; as it is, by various windings, it flows for two hundred miles.
It has many fine affluents, and in its course passes through some beautiful
scenery. It rises in Wales, high up the eastern side of Plinlimmon, at a place in
the moors called Maes Hafren, which gave at one time its title to the river,
Hafren being its ancient name. After flowing through several counties it falls
into the sea at Bristol Channel. Had the fisheries of the Severn been as free
from obstacles and as well preserved as those on the river Tay, they would
still have been of immense value, as it possesses some very fine breeding-
grounds. The Severn could be speedily restored to its primary condition as
one of our finest salmon streams; that is, if the various interests could be
consolidated, and artificial breeding be extensively carried on for a few years.
The Severn still possesses a tolerable stock of breeding-fish, which might be
turned to good account in a way similar to those at Stormontfield on the Tay.
Mr. Tod Stoddart, who is an authority on the salmon question, and
particularly on matters relating to angling, says that a river like the Tay or the
Tweed requires 15,000 pairs of breeding-fish to keep it in stock, the average
weight of the breeders to be ten pounds each. Proceeding on these data, and
taking the period of growth of the fish as previously stated, it may be
interesting if we inquire how soon a fine river like the Severn could be made
a property. Allowing that there is at present a considerable stock of breeding
fish in that river—say 10,000 pairs—and that for a period of two years these
should be allowed a jubilee, the river during that time to be carefully
watched; that plan alone would soon work a favourable change; but if
supplemented by an extensive resort to artificial nurture and protection, in the
course of three years the Severn would be, speaking roundly, a mine of fish
wealth. A series of ponds capable of breeding 1,000,000 fish might, I think,
be constructed for a sum of £2000; there ought of course to be two reception-
ponds, so that a brood could be hatched annually. [See plan in “Fish
Culture.”] Thus, in a year’s time, half a million of well-grown smolts would
be thrown into the river from the ponds alone, a moiety of which in the
course of ten weeks would be saleable grilse! Next year these would be
doubled, and added to the quantity naturally bred would soon stock even a
larger river than the Severn. There can be no doubt of the practicability of
such a scheme. What has been achieved in Ireland and at Stormontfield can
surely be accomplished in England. An ample return would be obtained for
the capital sunk, and in all probability a large profit besides.
It has many fine affluents, and in its course passes through some beautiful
scenery. It rises in Wales, high up the eastern side of Plinlimmon, at a place in
the moors called Maes Hafren, which gave at one time its title to the river,
Hafren being its ancient name. After flowing through several counties it falls
into the sea at Bristol Channel. Had the fisheries of the Severn been as free
from obstacles and as well preserved as those on the river Tay, they would
still have been of immense value, as it possesses some very fine breeding-
grounds. The Severn could be speedily restored to its primary condition as
one of our finest salmon streams; that is, if the various interests could be
consolidated, and artificial breeding be extensively carried on for a few years.
The Severn still possesses a tolerable stock of breeding-fish, which might be
turned to good account in a way similar to those at Stormontfield on the Tay.
Mr. Tod Stoddart, who is an authority on the salmon question, and
particularly on matters relating to angling, says that a river like the Tay or the
Tweed requires 15,000 pairs of breeding-fish to keep it in stock, the average
weight of the breeders to be ten pounds each. Proceeding on these data, and
taking the period of growth of the fish as previously stated, it may be
interesting if we inquire how soon a fine river like the Severn could be made
a property. Allowing that there is at present a considerable stock of breeding
fish in that river—say 10,000 pairs—and that for a period of two years these
should be allowed a jubilee, the river during that time to be carefully
watched; that plan alone would soon work a favourable change; but if
supplemented by an extensive resort to artificial nurture and protection, in the
course of three years the Severn would be, speaking roundly, a mine of fish
wealth. A series of ponds capable of breeding 1,000,000 fish might, I think,
be constructed for a sum of £2000; there ought of course to be two reception-
ponds, so that a brood could be hatched annually. [See plan in “Fish
Culture.”] Thus, in a year’s time, half a million of well-grown smolts would
be thrown into the river from the ponds alone, a moiety of which in the
course of ten weeks would be saleable grilse! Next year these would be
doubled, and added to the quantity naturally bred would soon stock even a
larger river than the Severn. There can be no doubt of the practicability of
such a scheme. What has been achieved in Ireland and at Stormontfield can
surely be accomplished in England. An ample return would be obtained for
the capital sunk, and in all probability a large profit besides.
Page 188
A recent report of the Inspectors of the English Fisheries embraces a
summary of the condition of ninety rivers; and I can gather from it that
considerable progress has already been made in arresting the decay of these
valuable properties, and that there is every prospect of the best rivers being
speedily repeopled with salmon to an extent that will secure them, under
proper regulations, from again falling into so low a condition. A careful
perusal of this report shows that fixed nets have been nearly abolished; that
portions of rivers not hitherto accessible to fish have been made so, passes
and gaps having been created by hundreds. Poachers have been caught and
punished with great success; and, according to a review of the report in the
Field, a journal which is well versed in fishery matters, “salmon have been
seen in large quantities in places where they have not been seen these forty
years.”
In reference to the Act for the regulation of the salmon-fisheries of England
and Wales of 1861, and its supplement of 1865, a good deal can be said as to
the increase of salmon, but it is perhaps best that Mr. Ffennell, one of the
Commissioners, should be allowed to say it for himself. The increase in the
productiveness of the English rivers then—and this is stated in the fourth
annual report of the inspectors—“far exceeds the anticipations of those who
were most sanguine in regard to the good results which might have been
expected from the operation of the Act of 1861; and the zeal of many who
from the first took an active part in administering the law has been greatly
stimulated by the telling effects of their exertion; while others, who may have
hesitated in the commencement from doubts of success, have been led on by
the force of good example, as well as by the more powerful incentive arising
from the many proofs so soon forthcoming that salmon can be abundantly
produced in the rivers of England.”
As to the amendment or rider to the Act of 1861, which was passed in the
present session (1865), its chief objects are to provide funds for the payment
of the wages of water-bailiffs, and of other expenses connected with the due
protection of the English salmon-fisheries, and for the appointment of a body
of able and responsible persons to whom the duties of raising and expending
such fund are to be entrusted. The first of these is attained by the annual
licensing of rods, nets, and other engines used in the capture of salmon, at
fixed sums, the proceeds of which licence-duties are to be expended (after the
formation of a river or rivers into a fishery district by order of the Secretary
of State) on the protection of the fisheries within that district only where such
summary of the condition of ninety rivers; and I can gather from it that
considerable progress has already been made in arresting the decay of these
valuable properties, and that there is every prospect of the best rivers being
speedily repeopled with salmon to an extent that will secure them, under
proper regulations, from again falling into so low a condition. A careful
perusal of this report shows that fixed nets have been nearly abolished; that
portions of rivers not hitherto accessible to fish have been made so, passes
and gaps having been created by hundreds. Poachers have been caught and
punished with great success; and, according to a review of the report in the
Field, a journal which is well versed in fishery matters, “salmon have been
seen in large quantities in places where they have not been seen these forty
years.”
In reference to the Act for the regulation of the salmon-fisheries of England
and Wales of 1861, and its supplement of 1865, a good deal can be said as to
the increase of salmon, but it is perhaps best that Mr. Ffennell, one of the
Commissioners, should be allowed to say it for himself. The increase in the
productiveness of the English rivers then—and this is stated in the fourth
annual report of the inspectors—“far exceeds the anticipations of those who
were most sanguine in regard to the good results which might have been
expected from the operation of the Act of 1861; and the zeal of many who
from the first took an active part in administering the law has been greatly
stimulated by the telling effects of their exertion; while others, who may have
hesitated in the commencement from doubts of success, have been led on by
the force of good example, as well as by the more powerful incentive arising
from the many proofs so soon forthcoming that salmon can be abundantly
produced in the rivers of England.”
As to the amendment or rider to the Act of 1861, which was passed in the
present session (1865), its chief objects are to provide funds for the payment
of the wages of water-bailiffs, and of other expenses connected with the due
protection of the English salmon-fisheries, and for the appointment of a body
of able and responsible persons to whom the duties of raising and expending
such fund are to be entrusted. The first of these is attained by the annual
licensing of rods, nets, and other engines used in the capture of salmon, at
fixed sums, the proceeds of which licence-duties are to be expended (after the
formation of a river or rivers into a fishery district by order of the Secretary
of State) on the protection of the fisheries within that district only where such
Page 189
licence-duties are raised, and in that district only are the licences available for
use; and the second, where a fishery district lies wholly in one county, by the
magistrates of that county in quarter-sessions at once appointing a board of
conservators for the district; but where a fishery district lies in several
counties, such appointment will be made by committees of the various courts
of quarter-sessions interested, under prescribed arrangements. In either case
after the appointment, the board of conservators will be a body corporate, and
have the entire control of the salmon-fisheries within their district. The Act
also provides for the issuing of a special commission to inquire into the titles
and rights of all “fixed engines” used in the capture of salmon throughout
England and Wales. These devices have since the late improvement in our
fisheries very much increased in number; but now such only may hereafter be
employed as are proved to the satisfaction of the Commissioners to have been
lawfully used in either of the years 1857, 1858, 1859, 1860, or 1861. There
are also other useful and necessary provisions in the Act, affording protection
to trout in the months of November, December, and January, when they
spawn, fixing a minimum penalty for a second offence; requiring all salmon
intended to be exported between the 3d September and 2d February to be
entered with the proper officer of customs; and in other minor but important
particulars amending the Act of 1861, with which the Act of 1865 is to be
understood as incorporated. The associations on the Severn, the Usk, and the
Yorkshire rivers have already taken up the Act, and intend applying, through
the court of quarter-sessions at their next October sessions, for the formation
of fishery districts, and the appointment of boards of conservators. It is
anticipated that in the lower part of the Severn £600, on the Wye £400, and
on the Usk £300, will be then derived from licences, and from the first year’s
revenue of these respective boards; and it is to be hoped that all necessary
preliminaries will be adjusted in time to permit the various boards of
conservators to enter upon their duties with the commencement of the next
open season.
As a guide to the productiveness in salmon of the different divisions of the
three kingdoms, the following table may be taken. It was furnished by
Messrs. Wm. Forbes Stuart and Co. of 104 Lower Thames Street, London,
and shows the quantity of salmon (i.e. the number of boxes weighing one
hundred and twelve pounds each) sent to London from 1850 to the end of the
open fisheries of 1865:—
Scotch. Irish. Dutch. Norwegian. Welsh.
use; and the second, where a fishery district lies wholly in one county, by the
magistrates of that county in quarter-sessions at once appointing a board of
conservators for the district; but where a fishery district lies in several
counties, such appointment will be made by committees of the various courts
of quarter-sessions interested, under prescribed arrangements. In either case
after the appointment, the board of conservators will be a body corporate, and
have the entire control of the salmon-fisheries within their district. The Act
also provides for the issuing of a special commission to inquire into the titles
and rights of all “fixed engines” used in the capture of salmon throughout
England and Wales. These devices have since the late improvement in our
fisheries very much increased in number; but now such only may hereafter be
employed as are proved to the satisfaction of the Commissioners to have been
lawfully used in either of the years 1857, 1858, 1859, 1860, or 1861. There
are also other useful and necessary provisions in the Act, affording protection
to trout in the months of November, December, and January, when they
spawn, fixing a minimum penalty for a second offence; requiring all salmon
intended to be exported between the 3d September and 2d February to be
entered with the proper officer of customs; and in other minor but important
particulars amending the Act of 1861, with which the Act of 1865 is to be
understood as incorporated. The associations on the Severn, the Usk, and the
Yorkshire rivers have already taken up the Act, and intend applying, through
the court of quarter-sessions at their next October sessions, for the formation
of fishery districts, and the appointment of boards of conservators. It is
anticipated that in the lower part of the Severn £600, on the Wye £400, and
on the Usk £300, will be then derived from licences, and from the first year’s
revenue of these respective boards; and it is to be hoped that all necessary
preliminaries will be adjusted in time to permit the various boards of
conservators to enter upon their duties with the commencement of the next
open season.
As a guide to the productiveness in salmon of the different divisions of the
three kingdoms, the following table may be taken. It was furnished by
Messrs. Wm. Forbes Stuart and Co. of 104 Lower Thames Street, London,
and shows the quantity of salmon (i.e. the number of boxes weighing one
hundred and twelve pounds each) sent to London from 1850 to the end of the
open fisheries of 1865:—
Scotch. Irish. Dutch. Norwegian. Welsh.
Page 190
1850 13,940 2,135 105 54 72
1851 11,593 4,141 203 214 40
1852 13,044 3,602 176 306 20
1853 19,485 5,052 401 1208 20
1854 23,194 6,333 345 None. 128
1855 18,197 4,101 227 None. 59
1856 15,438 6,568 68 5 200
1857 18,654 4,904 622 None. 220
1858 21,564 6,429 973 19 499
1859 15,630 4,855 922 None. 260
1860 15,870 3,803 849 40 438
1861 12,337 4,582 849 60 442
1862 22,796 7,841 568 87 454
1863 24,297 8,183 1,227 180 663
1864 22,603 8,344 1,204 837 752
1865 19,009 6,858 1,479 1069 868
287,651 87,731 10,218 4079 5135
One of the least understood, although one of the most hotly-contested parts
of the salmon question, is the relation between the upper and lower
proprietors. A great salmon river may pass through the estates or mark the
property boundaries of a large number of gentlemen; and some portions of
this river are sure to be much more valuable than others. As has been already
stated, some of the proprietors on the river Tay derive a large revenue from
their fisheries; while others only obtain a little angling, although they very
likely furnish the breeding-ground for a few thousands of the fish which aid
in producing the large rentals lower down. This part of the salmon question
has been so well argued by my friend Mr. Donald Bain, that I here reproduce
a portion of one of his letters on the subject:—
“Considering that at present the only chance of having fish in the rivers
depends upon the excellence and care of the breeding-grounds at the river-
heads, while the river-head proprietors, by disturbing the shingle (which
should be protected) at the period of depositing and hatching the roe, could
destroy all chance, and yet be legally unchallengeable, these river-head
proprietors are hardly recognised as proprietors at all, which therefore should
be altered.... I propose that the river, from its highest breeding-ground to its
mouth, and so far into the sea as private or public interests can extend, should
be made a common property and a common care; improved where
improvable, at the general expense of the whole proprietors along its banks;
fished, not savagely, and as if extermination were a laudable object, but
prudently, and with a view to permanent interests; the fish allowed to go
1851 11,593 4,141 203 214 40
1852 13,044 3,602 176 306 20
1853 19,485 5,052 401 1208 20
1854 23,194 6,333 345 None. 128
1855 18,197 4,101 227 None. 59
1856 15,438 6,568 68 5 200
1857 18,654 4,904 622 None. 220
1858 21,564 6,429 973 19 499
1859 15,630 4,855 922 None. 260
1860 15,870 3,803 849 40 438
1861 12,337 4,582 849 60 442
1862 22,796 7,841 568 87 454
1863 24,297 8,183 1,227 180 663
1864 22,603 8,344 1,204 837 752
1865 19,009 6,858 1,479 1069 868
287,651 87,731 10,218 4079 5135
One of the least understood, although one of the most hotly-contested parts
of the salmon question, is the relation between the upper and lower
proprietors. A great salmon river may pass through the estates or mark the
property boundaries of a large number of gentlemen; and some portions of
this river are sure to be much more valuable than others. As has been already
stated, some of the proprietors on the river Tay derive a large revenue from
their fisheries; while others only obtain a little angling, although they very
likely furnish the breeding-ground for a few thousands of the fish which aid
in producing the large rentals lower down. This part of the salmon question
has been so well argued by my friend Mr. Donald Bain, that I here reproduce
a portion of one of his letters on the subject:—
“Considering that at present the only chance of having fish in the rivers
depends upon the excellence and care of the breeding-grounds at the river-
heads, while the river-head proprietors, by disturbing the shingle (which
should be protected) at the period of depositing and hatching the roe, could
destroy all chance, and yet be legally unchallengeable, these river-head
proprietors are hardly recognised as proprietors at all, which therefore should
be altered.... I propose that the river, from its highest breeding-ground to its
mouth, and so far into the sea as private or public interests can extend, should
be made a common property and a common care; improved where
improvable, at the general expense of the whole proprietors along its banks;
fished, not savagely, and as if extermination were a laudable object, but
prudently, and with a view to permanent interests; the fish allowed to go
Page 191
unmolested to the breeding-grounds, at least so far as to secure a full brood,
and protected against destruction in returning when unfit for food; and the
expense and the profit to be divided pro rata, according to the mileage along
the banks; unless, in the judgment of intelligent and equitable men, a degree
of preference should be given in the case of grounds of acknowledged
excellence for breeding or feeding.
“It may be said it would be malicious in the proprietors of breeding-
grounds to consider it necessary to repair their gravel-walks with shingle
from the river at the very time when depositing or hatching the roe was going
on; but could it be prevented?—and would it be more inequitable than
anticipating every fish worth catching at the mouth of the river or along their
course, and allowing the proprietors of the head-waters no share?”
In the meantime, it is satisfactory to see that all classes of the community
are thoroughly aroused to the danger which menaces our king of fishes. There
must of course be a limit to the productiveness of even the most prolific
salmon river; and if this be overpassed and the capital stock be broken upon,
it is clear that a decrease will at once begin, and that the production must
annually become weaker, till the fish are in course of time completely
exterminated. Considering the constant enormous waste of fish life, there
ought at least, I think, to be twice as many fish left in a river as are taken out
of it. A care as to this would in time have a good effect.
An evident anxiety to improve the salmon-fisheries is now apparent, and
the problem to be solved is how to restore the status quo, and obtain a supply
of salmon equal to the demand. There are but two ways to a solution of the
question. The experience of the Tweed, though still imperfect, shows that the
decay of that river has been arrested, and that large salmon of some age—the
best and surest breeders—now abound in its waters, and that this result is in
the main to be attributed to improved legislation. The first thing therefore to
be done is to extend our legislation for all our salmon rivers in the same
direction that has been so successful on the Tweed; in other words, to
eradicate, as soon as may be, those dams, engines, and fixed nets still really
left untouched. The other, and as it seems to me the principal field for
improvement, is the adoption of artificial culture wherever it can be carried
out. Why should we not cultivate our water as we cultivate our land? Few
measures could be more effectual than some check on the annual destruction
of grilse; but, especially on the rivers in the hands of many proprietors, such
as the Tweed, it is not easy to say how this can be practically effected; but
and protected against destruction in returning when unfit for food; and the
expense and the profit to be divided pro rata, according to the mileage along
the banks; unless, in the judgment of intelligent and equitable men, a degree
of preference should be given in the case of grounds of acknowledged
excellence for breeding or feeding.
“It may be said it would be malicious in the proprietors of breeding-
grounds to consider it necessary to repair their gravel-walks with shingle
from the river at the very time when depositing or hatching the roe was going
on; but could it be prevented?—and would it be more inequitable than
anticipating every fish worth catching at the mouth of the river or along their
course, and allowing the proprietors of the head-waters no share?”
In the meantime, it is satisfactory to see that all classes of the community
are thoroughly aroused to the danger which menaces our king of fishes. There
must of course be a limit to the productiveness of even the most prolific
salmon river; and if this be overpassed and the capital stock be broken upon,
it is clear that a decrease will at once begin, and that the production must
annually become weaker, till the fish are in course of time completely
exterminated. Considering the constant enormous waste of fish life, there
ought at least, I think, to be twice as many fish left in a river as are taken out
of it. A care as to this would in time have a good effect.
An evident anxiety to improve the salmon-fisheries is now apparent, and
the problem to be solved is how to restore the status quo, and obtain a supply
of salmon equal to the demand. There are but two ways to a solution of the
question. The experience of the Tweed, though still imperfect, shows that the
decay of that river has been arrested, and that large salmon of some age—the
best and surest breeders—now abound in its waters, and that this result is in
the main to be attributed to improved legislation. The first thing therefore to
be done is to extend our legislation for all our salmon rivers in the same
direction that has been so successful on the Tweed; in other words, to
eradicate, as soon as may be, those dams, engines, and fixed nets still really
left untouched. The other, and as it seems to me the principal field for
improvement, is the adoption of artificial culture wherever it can be carried
out. Why should we not cultivate our water as we cultivate our land? Few
measures could be more effectual than some check on the annual destruction
of grilse; but, especially on the rivers in the hands of many proprietors, such
as the Tweed, it is not easy to say how this can be practically effected; but
Page 192
might not artificial breeding supply the deficiency caused by this slaughter of
the innocents? By means of pisciculture the French people have recreated
their fisheries; why should not we try what they have done? Let us by all
means clean our rivers by removing impurities of all kinds. Let us do our best
to prevent poaching; and, above all, let us take care not to encourage legal
“overfishing;” and, as gentlemen occasionally give their grouse a year of
jubilee, let me prescribe an occasional similar indulgence to the salmon.
Every little helps; and as we have now a considerable knowledge of the
natural history of the fish, we should avail ourselves of it not only in our
legislation, but also in the practical management of the fisheries. If in our
greed we still continue to overfish, after the numerous warnings we have had,
we must take the consequences in the probable extermination of the salmon
and its numerous congeners.
the innocents? By means of pisciculture the French people have recreated
their fisheries; why should not we try what they have done? Let us by all
means clean our rivers by removing impurities of all kinds. Let us do our best
to prevent poaching; and, above all, let us take care not to encourage legal
“overfishing;” and, as gentlemen occasionally give their grouse a year of
jubilee, let me prescribe an occasional similar indulgence to the salmon.
Every little helps; and as we have now a considerable knowledge of the
natural history of the fish, we should avail ourselves of it not only in our
legislation, but also in the practical management of the fisheries. If in our
greed we still continue to overfish, after the numerous warnings we have had,
we must take the consequences in the probable extermination of the salmon
and its numerous congeners.
Page 193
CHAPTER VI.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE HERRING.
Description of the Herring—The Old Theory of Migration—Geographical Distribution of the Herring
—Mr. John Cleghorn’s Ideas on the Natural History of the Herring—Mr. Mitchell on the National
Importance of that Fish—Commission of Inquiry into the Herring-Fishery—Growth of the Herring
—The Sprat—Should there be a Close-time?—Caprice of the Herring—The Fisheries—The
Lochfyne Fishery—The Pilchard—Herring Commerce—Mr. Methuen—The Brand—The Herring
Harvest—All Night at the Fishing—The Cure—The Curers—Herring Boats—Increase of Netting
—Are we Overfishing?—Proposal for more Statistics.
he common herring is one of our most beautiful and abundant fishes, and
T is so well known as scarcely to require description; but it has one or two
peculiarities of structure that may be briefly alluded to. Its belly, for
instance, is keeled (as the Scotch fisher folk call carinated), and is well
protected by strong scales, giving us reason to suppose that it is therefore a
ground-feeder; and having a very large pectoral fin, and an air-bag of more
than usual dimensions, it is thus endowed with a very rapid moving power. I
gather from personal observation of many herring stomachs—and the
stomach of the herring is unusually large—that this fish is a devouring feeder,
that it preys upon its own young or upon the roe of its congeners when other
food is scarce. Its lobes of roe or milt are larger in proportion to its body than
those of any other fish. The herring has a fine instinct for selecting a nursery
for its young, contriving, when not obstructed, to deposit its ova on such
bottoms as will ensure the adherence of its eggs and the favourable
nourishment of the young fish.
The herring is taken throughout the year in vast quantities, thus affording a
plentiful supply of cheap and wholesome food to the poorer classes, whilst its
capture and cure afford remunerative employment to a large body of
industrious people. It is greatly to be regretted, therefore, that recent
fluctuations in the quantity caught have given occasion for well-grounded
fears of an ultimate exhaustion of some of our largest shoals, or at all events
of so great a diminution of their producing power as probably to render one
or two of the best fisheries unproductive. This is nothing new, however, in the
history of the herring-fishery: various places can be pointed out, which,
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE HERRING.
Description of the Herring—The Old Theory of Migration—Geographical Distribution of the Herring
—Mr. John Cleghorn’s Ideas on the Natural History of the Herring—Mr. Mitchell on the National
Importance of that Fish—Commission of Inquiry into the Herring-Fishery—Growth of the Herring
—The Sprat—Should there be a Close-time?—Caprice of the Herring—The Fisheries—The
Lochfyne Fishery—The Pilchard—Herring Commerce—Mr. Methuen—The Brand—The Herring
Harvest—All Night at the Fishing—The Cure—The Curers—Herring Boats—Increase of Netting
—Are we Overfishing?—Proposal for more Statistics.
he common herring is one of our most beautiful and abundant fishes, and
T is so well known as scarcely to require description; but it has one or two
peculiarities of structure that may be briefly alluded to. Its belly, for
instance, is keeled (as the Scotch fisher folk call carinated), and is well
protected by strong scales, giving us reason to suppose that it is therefore a
ground-feeder; and having a very large pectoral fin, and an air-bag of more
than usual dimensions, it is thus endowed with a very rapid moving power. I
gather from personal observation of many herring stomachs—and the
stomach of the herring is unusually large—that this fish is a devouring feeder,
that it preys upon its own young or upon the roe of its congeners when other
food is scarce. Its lobes of roe or milt are larger in proportion to its body than
those of any other fish. The herring has a fine instinct for selecting a nursery
for its young, contriving, when not obstructed, to deposit its ova on such
bottoms as will ensure the adherence of its eggs and the favourable
nourishment of the young fish.
The herring is taken throughout the year in vast quantities, thus affording a
plentiful supply of cheap and wholesome food to the poorer classes, whilst its
capture and cure afford remunerative employment to a large body of
industrious people. It is greatly to be regretted, therefore, that recent
fluctuations in the quantity caught have given occasion for well-grounded
fears of an ultimate exhaustion of some of our largest shoals, or at all events
of so great a diminution of their producing power as probably to render one
or two of the best fisheries unproductive. This is nothing new, however, in the
history of the herring-fishery: various places can be pointed out, which,
Page 194
although now barren of herrings, were formerly frequented by large shoals,
that, from overfishing or other causes, have been dispersed.
This supposed overfishing of the herring has resulted chiefly from our
ignorance of the natural history of that fish—ignorance which has long
prevailed, and which we are only now beginning to overcome. Indeed, much
as the subject has been discussed during the last ten years, and great as the
light is that has been thrown on the natural and economic history of our fish,
considering the elemental difficulty which stands in the way of perfect
observation, there are yet persons who insist upon believing all the old
theories and romances pertaining to the lives of sea animals. We occasionally
hear of the great sea-serpent; the impression of St. Peter’s thumb is still to be
seen on the haddock; “Moby Dick,” a Tom Sayers among fighting whales,
still ranges through the squid fields of the Pacific Ocean; and I know an old
fisherman who once borrowed a comb from a polite mermaid!
Not very long ago, for instance, the old theory of the migration of the
herring to and from the Arctic Regions was gravely revived in an unexpected
quarter, as if that romance of fish-life was still believed by modern naturalists
to be the chief episode in the natural history of Clupea harengus; indeed in
the present edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica this migratory theory is
still sustained (see article “Ichthyology”). The original migration story—
which was invented by Pennant, or rather was constructed by him from the
theories of fishermen—old as it is, is worthy of being briefly recapitulated, as
affording a good point of view for a consideration of the natural and
economic history of the herring as now ascertained: it was to the effect that in
the inaccessible seas of the high northern latitudes herrings were found in
overwhelming abundance, securing within the icy Arctic Circle a bounteous
feeding-ground, and at the same time a quiet and safe retreat from their
numerous enemies. At the proper season, inspired by some commanding
impulse, vast bodies of this fish gathered themselves together into one great
army, and in numbers far exceeding the power of imagination to picture
departed for the waters of Europe and America. The particular division of this
great heer, which was destined annually to repopulate the British seas, and
afford a plenteous food-store for the people, was said to arrive at Iceland
about March, and to be of such amazing extent as to occupy a surface more
than equal to the dimensions of Great Britain and Ireland, but subdivided, by
a happy instinct, into battalions five or six miles in length and three or four in
breadth, each line or column being led, according to the ideas of fishermen,
that, from overfishing or other causes, have been dispersed.
This supposed overfishing of the herring has resulted chiefly from our
ignorance of the natural history of that fish—ignorance which has long
prevailed, and which we are only now beginning to overcome. Indeed, much
as the subject has been discussed during the last ten years, and great as the
light is that has been thrown on the natural and economic history of our fish,
considering the elemental difficulty which stands in the way of perfect
observation, there are yet persons who insist upon believing all the old
theories and romances pertaining to the lives of sea animals. We occasionally
hear of the great sea-serpent; the impression of St. Peter’s thumb is still to be
seen on the haddock; “Moby Dick,” a Tom Sayers among fighting whales,
still ranges through the squid fields of the Pacific Ocean; and I know an old
fisherman who once borrowed a comb from a polite mermaid!
Not very long ago, for instance, the old theory of the migration of the
herring to and from the Arctic Regions was gravely revived in an unexpected
quarter, as if that romance of fish-life was still believed by modern naturalists
to be the chief episode in the natural history of Clupea harengus; indeed in
the present edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica this migratory theory is
still sustained (see article “Ichthyology”). The original migration story—
which was invented by Pennant, or rather was constructed by him from the
theories of fishermen—old as it is, is worthy of being briefly recapitulated, as
affording a good point of view for a consideration of the natural and
economic history of the herring as now ascertained: it was to the effect that in
the inaccessible seas of the high northern latitudes herrings were found in
overwhelming abundance, securing within the icy Arctic Circle a bounteous
feeding-ground, and at the same time a quiet and safe retreat from their
numerous enemies. At the proper season, inspired by some commanding
impulse, vast bodies of this fish gathered themselves together into one great
army, and in numbers far exceeding the power of imagination to picture
departed for the waters of Europe and America. The particular division of this
great heer, which was destined annually to repopulate the British seas, and
afford a plenteous food-store for the people, was said to arrive at Iceland
about March, and to be of such amazing extent as to occupy a surface more
than equal to the dimensions of Great Britain and Ireland, but subdivided, by
a happy instinct, into battalions five or six miles in length and three or four in
breadth, each line or column being led, according to the ideas of fishermen,
Page 195
by herrings (probably the Allis and Twaite shad) of more than ordinary size
and sagacity. These heaven-directed strangers were next supposed to strike on
the Shetland Islands, where they divided of themselves, as we are told; one
division taking along the west side of Britain, whilst the other took the east
side, the result being an adequate and well-divided supply of this fine fish in
all our larger seas and rivers, as the herrings penetrated into every bay, and
filled all our inland lochs from Wick to Yarmouth. Mr. Pennant was not
contented with the development of this myth, but evidently felt constrained to
give éclat to his invention by inditing a few moral remarks just by way of a
tag. “Were we,” he says, “inclined to consider this migration of the herring in
a moral light, we might reflect with veneration and awe on the mighty power
which originally impressed on this useful body of His creatures the instinct
that directs and points out the course that blesses and enriches these islands,
which causes them at certain and invariable times to quit the vast polar
depths, and offer themselves to our expectant fleets. This impression was
given them that they might remove for the sake of depositing their spawn in
warmer seas, that would mature and vivify it more assuredly than those of the
frigid zone. It is not from defect of food that they set themselves in motion,
for they come to us full and fat, and on their return are almost universally
observed to be lean and miserable.”
Happily, the naturalists of the present day know a vast deal more of the
natural history of the herring than Mr. Pennant ever knew, and, on the
authority of the most able inquirers, it may be taken for granted that the
herring is a local and not a migratory fish. It has been repeatedly
demonstrated that the herring is a native of our immediate seas, and can be
caught all the year round on the coasts of the three kingdoms. The fishing
begins at the island of Lewis, in the Hebrides, in the month of May, and goes
on as the year advances, till in July it is being prosecuted off the coast of
Caithness; while in autumn and winter we find large supplies of herrings at
Yarmouth; and there is a winter fishery in the Firth of Forth: moreover, this
fish is found in the south long before it ought to be there, if we were to
believe in Pennant’s theory. It has been deduced, from a consideration of the
figures of the annual takes of many years, that the herring exists in distinct
races, which arrive at maturity month after month; and it is well known that
the herrings taken at Wick in July are quite different from those caught at
Dunbar in August or September: indeed I would go further and say that even
at Wick each month has its changing shoal, and that as one race ripens for
and sagacity. These heaven-directed strangers were next supposed to strike on
the Shetland Islands, where they divided of themselves, as we are told; one
division taking along the west side of Britain, whilst the other took the east
side, the result being an adequate and well-divided supply of this fine fish in
all our larger seas and rivers, as the herrings penetrated into every bay, and
filled all our inland lochs from Wick to Yarmouth. Mr. Pennant was not
contented with the development of this myth, but evidently felt constrained to
give éclat to his invention by inditing a few moral remarks just by way of a
tag. “Were we,” he says, “inclined to consider this migration of the herring in
a moral light, we might reflect with veneration and awe on the mighty power
which originally impressed on this useful body of His creatures the instinct
that directs and points out the course that blesses and enriches these islands,
which causes them at certain and invariable times to quit the vast polar
depths, and offer themselves to our expectant fleets. This impression was
given them that they might remove for the sake of depositing their spawn in
warmer seas, that would mature and vivify it more assuredly than those of the
frigid zone. It is not from defect of food that they set themselves in motion,
for they come to us full and fat, and on their return are almost universally
observed to be lean and miserable.”
Happily, the naturalists of the present day know a vast deal more of the
natural history of the herring than Mr. Pennant ever knew, and, on the
authority of the most able inquirers, it may be taken for granted that the
herring is a local and not a migratory fish. It has been repeatedly
demonstrated that the herring is a native of our immediate seas, and can be
caught all the year round on the coasts of the three kingdoms. The fishing
begins at the island of Lewis, in the Hebrides, in the month of May, and goes
on as the year advances, till in July it is being prosecuted off the coast of
Caithness; while in autumn and winter we find large supplies of herrings at
Yarmouth; and there is a winter fishery in the Firth of Forth: moreover, this
fish is found in the south long before it ought to be there, if we were to
believe in Pennant’s theory. It has been deduced, from a consideration of the
figures of the annual takes of many years, that the herring exists in distinct
races, which arrive at maturity month after month; and it is well known that
the herrings taken at Wick in July are quite different from those caught at
Dunbar in August or September: indeed I would go further and say that even
at Wick each month has its changing shoal, and that as one race ripens for
Page 196
capture another disappears, having fulfilled its mission of procreation. It is
certain that the herrings of these different seasons vary considerably in size
and appearance; and it is very well known that the herrings of different
localities are marked by distinctive features. Thus, the well-known Lochfyne
herring is essentially different in its flavour from that of the Firth of Forth,
and those taken in the Firth of Forth differ again in many particulars from
those caught off Yarmouth.
In fact, the herring never ventures far from the shore where it is taken, and
its condition, when it is caught, is just an index of the feeding it has enjoyed
in its particular locality. The superiority in flavour of the herring taken in our
great land-locked salt-water lochs is undoubted. Whether or not it results
from the depth and body of water, from more plentiful marine vegetation, or
from the greater variety of land food likely to be washed into these inland
seas, has not yet been determined; but it is certain that the herrings of our
western sea-lochs are infinitely superior to those captured in the more open
sea. It is natural that the animals of one feeding locality should differ from
those of another: land animals, it is well known, are easily affected by change
of food and place; and fish, I have no doubt, are governed by the same laws.
But on this part of the herring question I need scarcely waste any argument,
as there is but one writer who still persists in the old “theory” of migration.
He is the same gentleman who has doubts about a grilse becoming a salmon!
Moreover, it is now known, from the inquiries of the late Mr. Mitchell and
other authorities on the geographical distribution of the herring, that that fish
has never been noticed as being at all abundant in the Arctic Regions; and the
knowledge accumulated from recent investigations has dispelled many of
what may be termed the minor illusions once so prevalent about the life of the
herring and other fish. People, however, have been very slow to believe that
fish were subject to the same natural laws as other animals. In short, seeing
that the natural history of all kinds of fish has been largely mixed up with
tradition or romance, it is no wonder that many have been slow to discard
Pennant’s pretty story about the migratory instinct of the herring, and the
wonderful power of sustained and rapid travelling by which it reached and
returned from our coasts. Even Yarrell, as will by and by be shown, wrote in a
weak uncertain tone about this fish; indeed his account of it is not entitled to
very much consideration, being a mere compilation, or rather a series of
extracts, from other writers.
certain that the herrings of these different seasons vary considerably in size
and appearance; and it is very well known that the herrings of different
localities are marked by distinctive features. Thus, the well-known Lochfyne
herring is essentially different in its flavour from that of the Firth of Forth,
and those taken in the Firth of Forth differ again in many particulars from
those caught off Yarmouth.
In fact, the herring never ventures far from the shore where it is taken, and
its condition, when it is caught, is just an index of the feeding it has enjoyed
in its particular locality. The superiority in flavour of the herring taken in our
great land-locked salt-water lochs is undoubted. Whether or not it results
from the depth and body of water, from more plentiful marine vegetation, or
from the greater variety of land food likely to be washed into these inland
seas, has not yet been determined; but it is certain that the herrings of our
western sea-lochs are infinitely superior to those captured in the more open
sea. It is natural that the animals of one feeding locality should differ from
those of another: land animals, it is well known, are easily affected by change
of food and place; and fish, I have no doubt, are governed by the same laws.
But on this part of the herring question I need scarcely waste any argument,
as there is but one writer who still persists in the old “theory” of migration.
He is the same gentleman who has doubts about a grilse becoming a salmon!
Moreover, it is now known, from the inquiries of the late Mr. Mitchell and
other authorities on the geographical distribution of the herring, that that fish
has never been noticed as being at all abundant in the Arctic Regions; and the
knowledge accumulated from recent investigations has dispelled many of
what may be termed the minor illusions once so prevalent about the life of the
herring and other fish. People, however, have been very slow to believe that
fish were subject to the same natural laws as other animals. In short, seeing
that the natural history of all kinds of fish has been largely mixed up with
tradition or romance, it is no wonder that many have been slow to discard
Pennant’s pretty story about the migratory instinct of the herring, and the
wonderful power of sustained and rapid travelling by which it reached and
returned from our coasts. Even Yarrell, as will by and by be shown, wrote in a
weak uncertain tone about this fish; indeed his account of it is not entitled to
very much consideration, being a mere compilation, or rather a series of
extracts, from other writers.
Page 197
It was not till the year 1854 that anything like an authentic contradiction to
Pennant’s theory was obtained. Before that time one or two bold people
asserted that they had doubts about the migration story, and thought that the
herring must be a local animal, from the fact of its being found on the British
coasts all the year round; while one daring man said authoritatively, from
personal knowledge, that there were no herrings in the Arctic seas. During the
year I have mentioned, a paper, which was communicated to the Liverpool
Meeting of the British Association by Mr. Cleghorn of Wick, directed an
amount of public attention to the herring-fishery, which still continues, and
which, at the time, was thought sure ultimately to result in an authentic
inquiry into the natural and economic history of that fish. Such an
investigation has now been made by persons qualified to undertake the task,
and the result of their inquiries has been summed up in a most interesting
report, which, along with the evidence taken by the commissioners, I shall
have occasion to refer to in another part of the present chapter; the labours of
Cleghorn, Mitchell, and others, claiming priority of notice, as the ideas
promulgated by these gentlemen, although often hotly opposed and
combated, have gone a great way to guide public opinion on the subject, and
have evidently helped to influence recent investigators.
In his paper communicated to the British Association at Liverpool, Mr.
Cleghorn stated that, living at Wick, the chief seat of the fishery—“the
Amsterdam of Scotland” in fact—his attention had been directed to the
herring-fishery by the fluctuations in the annual take. That season (i.e. 1854)
there were 920 boats engaged in the fishing, and the produce was 95,680
barrels. On comparing the fishing of 1854 with that of 1825, it was found to
be 14,000 barrels short; and as compared with 1830, 57,000 barrels less. It
was found to be the smallest fishing since 1840, and 61,000 barrels short of
the previous year. Various surmises were hazarded as to the cause of the
deficiency, but the generally-received opinion was, that the falling off was
attributable to the two rough nights on which the boats did not put to sea,
while great shoals of herrings were on the coast. That this is an erroneous and
very partial view of the matter Mr. Cleghorn infers, because at all the stations
between Noss Head and Cape Wrath the fishing was a complete failure; and
the same may be said of Orkney and Shetland; while for the whole of
Scotland the shortcoming, perhaps, was one-third of the previous year.
Mr. Cleghorn—of whom it is proper to state that while in business in Wick
he suffered much local persecution for his views of the herring question—
Pennant’s theory was obtained. Before that time one or two bold people
asserted that they had doubts about the migration story, and thought that the
herring must be a local animal, from the fact of its being found on the British
coasts all the year round; while one daring man said authoritatively, from
personal knowledge, that there were no herrings in the Arctic seas. During the
year I have mentioned, a paper, which was communicated to the Liverpool
Meeting of the British Association by Mr. Cleghorn of Wick, directed an
amount of public attention to the herring-fishery, which still continues, and
which, at the time, was thought sure ultimately to result in an authentic
inquiry into the natural and economic history of that fish. Such an
investigation has now been made by persons qualified to undertake the task,
and the result of their inquiries has been summed up in a most interesting
report, which, along with the evidence taken by the commissioners, I shall
have occasion to refer to in another part of the present chapter; the labours of
Cleghorn, Mitchell, and others, claiming priority of notice, as the ideas
promulgated by these gentlemen, although often hotly opposed and
combated, have gone a great way to guide public opinion on the subject, and
have evidently helped to influence recent investigators.
In his paper communicated to the British Association at Liverpool, Mr.
Cleghorn stated that, living at Wick, the chief seat of the fishery—“the
Amsterdam of Scotland” in fact—his attention had been directed to the
herring-fishery by the fluctuations in the annual take. That season (i.e. 1854)
there were 920 boats engaged in the fishing, and the produce was 95,680
barrels. On comparing the fishing of 1854 with that of 1825, it was found to
be 14,000 barrels short; and as compared with 1830, 57,000 barrels less. It
was found to be the smallest fishing since 1840, and 61,000 barrels short of
the previous year. Various surmises were hazarded as to the cause of the
deficiency, but the generally-received opinion was, that the falling off was
attributable to the two rough nights on which the boats did not put to sea,
while great shoals of herrings were on the coast. That this is an erroneous and
very partial view of the matter Mr. Cleghorn infers, because at all the stations
between Noss Head and Cape Wrath the fishing was a complete failure; and
the same may be said of Orkney and Shetland; while for the whole of
Scotland the shortcoming, perhaps, was one-third of the previous year.
Mr. Cleghorn—of whom it is proper to state that while in business in Wick
he suffered much local persecution for his views of the herring question—
Page 198
says that he believes the fluctuations in the capture to be caused by
“overfishing,” as in the case of the salmon, the haddock, and other fish. The
points brought forward by Mr. Cleghorn in order to prove his case were as
follow:—1. That the herring is a native of waters in which it is found, and
never migrates. 2. That distinct races of it exist at different places. 3. That
twenty-seven years ago the extent of netting employed in the capture of the
fish was much less than what is now used, while the quantity of herrings
caught was, generally speaking, much greater. 4. There were fishing stations
extant some years ago which are now exhausted; a steady increase having
taken place in their produce up to a certain point, then violent fluctuations,
and then final extinction. 5. The races of herrings nearest our large cities have
disappeared first; and in districts where the tides are rapid, as among islands
and in lochs, where the fishing grounds are circumscribed, the fishings are
precarious and brief; while on the other hand, extensive seabords having
slack tides, with little accommodation for boats, are surer and of longer
continuance as fishing stations. 6. From these premises it follows that the
extinction of districts, and the fluctuations in the fisheries generally, are
attributable to overfishing. In the commercial portion of this chapter I shall
again have occasion to refer to Mr. Cleghorn’s investigations on the subject
of the netting employed, but it occurred to me to state Mr. Cleghorn’s theory
at this place, as it has been the key-note to much of the recent discussion on
the subject of the natural history of the herring.
Before the reading of Mr. Cleghorn’s statistics, the natural history of the
herring was not well understood even by naturalists; so difficult is it to make
observations in the laboratories of the sea. Only a few persons, till recently,
were intimate with the history of this fish, and knew that, instead of being a
migratory animal, as had been asserted by Anderson and Pennant, the herring
was as local to particular coasts as the salmon to particular rivers.
The late Mr. J. M. Mitchell, the Belgian Consul at Leith (who published a
work on the National Importance of the Herring), in a paper which he read
before the British Association at Oxford, three years ago, settled with much
care and very effectually the geographical part of the herring question. His
idea also is that the herring is a native of the coast on which it is found, and
that immediately after spawning the full-sized herrings make at once for the
deep waters of their own neighbourhood, where they feed till the spawning
season again induces them to seek the shallow water. Mr. Mitchell gives his
reasons, and states that the herrings resorting to the various localities have
“overfishing,” as in the case of the salmon, the haddock, and other fish. The
points brought forward by Mr. Cleghorn in order to prove his case were as
follow:—1. That the herring is a native of waters in which it is found, and
never migrates. 2. That distinct races of it exist at different places. 3. That
twenty-seven years ago the extent of netting employed in the capture of the
fish was much less than what is now used, while the quantity of herrings
caught was, generally speaking, much greater. 4. There were fishing stations
extant some years ago which are now exhausted; a steady increase having
taken place in their produce up to a certain point, then violent fluctuations,
and then final extinction. 5. The races of herrings nearest our large cities have
disappeared first; and in districts where the tides are rapid, as among islands
and in lochs, where the fishing grounds are circumscribed, the fishings are
precarious and brief; while on the other hand, extensive seabords having
slack tides, with little accommodation for boats, are surer and of longer
continuance as fishing stations. 6. From these premises it follows that the
extinction of districts, and the fluctuations in the fisheries generally, are
attributable to overfishing. In the commercial portion of this chapter I shall
again have occasion to refer to Mr. Cleghorn’s investigations on the subject
of the netting employed, but it occurred to me to state Mr. Cleghorn’s theory
at this place, as it has been the key-note to much of the recent discussion on
the subject of the natural history of the herring.
Before the reading of Mr. Cleghorn’s statistics, the natural history of the
herring was not well understood even by naturalists; so difficult is it to make
observations in the laboratories of the sea. Only a few persons, till recently,
were intimate with the history of this fish, and knew that, instead of being a
migratory animal, as had been asserted by Anderson and Pennant, the herring
was as local to particular coasts as the salmon to particular rivers.
The late Mr. J. M. Mitchell, the Belgian Consul at Leith (who published a
work on the National Importance of the Herring), in a paper which he read
before the British Association at Oxford, three years ago, settled with much
care and very effectually the geographical part of the herring question. His
idea also is that the herring is a native of the coast on which it is found, and
that immediately after spawning the full-sized herrings make at once for the
deep waters of their own neighbourhood, where they feed till the spawning
season again induces them to seek the shallow water. Mr. Mitchell gives his
reasons, and states that the herrings resorting to the various localities have
Page 199
marked differences in size, shape, or quality; those of each particular coast
having a distinct and specific character which cannot be mistaken; and so
well determined are those particulars that practical men, on seeing the
herrings, can at once pronounce the locality from whence they come; as,
indeed, is the case with salmon, turbot, and many other fishes and
crustaceans.
On the southern coast of Greenland the herring is a rare fish; and,
according to Crantz, only a small variety is found on the northern shore, nor
has it been observed in any number in the proper icy seas—as it would
undoubtedly have been had it resorted thither in such innumerable quantities
as was imagined by the naturalists of the last century. Another proof that the
herring is local to the coasts of Britain lies in the fact of the different varieties
brought to our own markets. As expert fishers know the salmon of particular
rivers, so do some men know the different localities of our herring from
merely glancing at the fish. A Lochfyne fish differs in appearance from a
herring taken off the coast of Caithness, while the latter again differs from
those taken by the Dunbar boats off the Isle of May. Experienced fishmongers
know the different localities of the same kinds of fish as easily as a farmer
will separate a Cheviot sheep from a Southdown. Thus they can at once
distinguish a Severn salmon from one caught in the Tweed or the Spey, and
they can tell at a glance a Lochfyne matie from a Firth of Forth one.
Turning now to the report of the commissioners appointed to inquire into
the operation of the Acts relating to trawling for herring on the west coast of
Scotland, we obtain some interesting information as to the spawning and
growth of the herring. Upon these branches of the subject the public have
hitherto been very ill informed. As has been already stated, Yarrell’s account
of this particular fish is a mere compilation from Dr. M’Culloch, W. H.
Maxwell, Dr. Parnell, and others, and is thus very disappointing. Again, the
account in the Naturalist’s Library is compressed into five small pages,
referring chiefly to authorities on the subject, with quotations from Yarrell! It
is only by searching in Blue Books, by perusing much newspaper writing of a
controversial kind, and by arduous personal inquiry, that I have been able to
complete anything like an accurate precis of the natural and economic history
of this very plentiful fish.
As to the periods at which herrings spawn, the commissioners appointed to
conduct the latest inquiry that has been made inform us that they met with
“singularly contradictory” statements, and after having collected a large
having a distinct and specific character which cannot be mistaken; and so
well determined are those particulars that practical men, on seeing the
herrings, can at once pronounce the locality from whence they come; as,
indeed, is the case with salmon, turbot, and many other fishes and
crustaceans.
On the southern coast of Greenland the herring is a rare fish; and,
according to Crantz, only a small variety is found on the northern shore, nor
has it been observed in any number in the proper icy seas—as it would
undoubtedly have been had it resorted thither in such innumerable quantities
as was imagined by the naturalists of the last century. Another proof that the
herring is local to the coasts of Britain lies in the fact of the different varieties
brought to our own markets. As expert fishers know the salmon of particular
rivers, so do some men know the different localities of our herring from
merely glancing at the fish. A Lochfyne fish differs in appearance from a
herring taken off the coast of Caithness, while the latter again differs from
those taken by the Dunbar boats off the Isle of May. Experienced fishmongers
know the different localities of the same kinds of fish as easily as a farmer
will separate a Cheviot sheep from a Southdown. Thus they can at once
distinguish a Severn salmon from one caught in the Tweed or the Spey, and
they can tell at a glance a Lochfyne matie from a Firth of Forth one.
Turning now to the report of the commissioners appointed to inquire into
the operation of the Acts relating to trawling for herring on the west coast of
Scotland, we obtain some interesting information as to the spawning and
growth of the herring. Upon these branches of the subject the public have
hitherto been very ill informed. As has been already stated, Yarrell’s account
of this particular fish is a mere compilation from Dr. M’Culloch, W. H.
Maxwell, Dr. Parnell, and others, and is thus very disappointing. Again, the
account in the Naturalist’s Library is compressed into five small pages,
referring chiefly to authorities on the subject, with quotations from Yarrell! It
is only by searching in Blue Books, by perusing much newspaper writing of a
controversial kind, and by arduous personal inquiry, that I have been able to
complete anything like an accurate precis of the natural and economic history
of this very plentiful fish.
As to the periods at which herrings spawn, the commissioners appointed to
conduct the latest inquiry that has been made inform us that they met with
“singularly contradictory” statements, and after having collected a large
Page 200
amount of valuable evidence, they arrived at the conclusion that herrings
spawn at two seasons of the year—viz. in the spring and autumn. They have
no evidence of a spawning during the solstitial months—viz. June and
December; but in nearly all the other months gravid herrings are found, and
the commissioners assert that a spring spawning certainly occurs in the latter
part of January, as also in the three following months, and the autumn
spawning in the latter end of July, and likewise in the following months up to
November: “Taking all parts of the British coast together, February and
March are the great months for the spring spawning, and August and
September for the autumn spawning.” The spawn, it may be stated in passing,
is deposited on the surface of the stones, shingle, and gravel, and on old
shells, at the various spawning places, and it adheres tenaciously to whatever
it happens to fall upon. This, as will be seen, brings us exactly back to Mr.
Cleghorn’s ideas of the herring existing in races at different places and in
separate bodies, and thereby rendering the fluctuations of the great series of
shoals at Wick more and more intelligible, especially when we take into
account the fact that winter shoals have recently been found at that place,
giving rise to what may ultimately prove a considerable addition to the great
autumn fishery yet carried on there. Indeed I consider this point proved, and
having taken great pains in sifting the evidence (of different spawning
seasons) given on the question, both oral and written, I feel entitled to say so
much.
As to the question of how long herrings take to grow, from the period of
the deposition of the egg, there are various opinions, for no naturalist or
practical fisherman has been able definitely to fix the time. There is reason to
believe, we are told in the report, that the eggs of herrings are hatched in, at
most, from two to three weeks after deposition. This is very rapid work when
we consider that the eggs of the salmon require to be left for a period of
ninety or a hundred days, even in favourable seasons, before they quicken
into life, and that the eggs of a considerable number of fish are known to take
a much longer period than three weeks to ripen. The rate of growth of the
herring, and the tie at which it begins to reproduce itself, are not yet well
understood; indeed, it seems particularly difficult to fix the period at which it
reaches the reproductive stage.[8] I have had young herrings of all sizes in my
possession, from those of an inch long upwards. The following are the
measurements of a few specimens which were procured about the end of
February 1861, and not one of which had any appearance of either roe or
spawn at two seasons of the year—viz. in the spring and autumn. They have
no evidence of a spawning during the solstitial months—viz. June and
December; but in nearly all the other months gravid herrings are found, and
the commissioners assert that a spring spawning certainly occurs in the latter
part of January, as also in the three following months, and the autumn
spawning in the latter end of July, and likewise in the following months up to
November: “Taking all parts of the British coast together, February and
March are the great months for the spring spawning, and August and
September for the autumn spawning.” The spawn, it may be stated in passing,
is deposited on the surface of the stones, shingle, and gravel, and on old
shells, at the various spawning places, and it adheres tenaciously to whatever
it happens to fall upon. This, as will be seen, brings us exactly back to Mr.
Cleghorn’s ideas of the herring existing in races at different places and in
separate bodies, and thereby rendering the fluctuations of the great series of
shoals at Wick more and more intelligible, especially when we take into
account the fact that winter shoals have recently been found at that place,
giving rise to what may ultimately prove a considerable addition to the great
autumn fishery yet carried on there. Indeed I consider this point proved, and
having taken great pains in sifting the evidence (of different spawning
seasons) given on the question, both oral and written, I feel entitled to say so
much.
As to the question of how long herrings take to grow, from the period of
the deposition of the egg, there are various opinions, for no naturalist or
practical fisherman has been able definitely to fix the time. There is reason to
believe, we are told in the report, that the eggs of herrings are hatched in, at
most, from two to three weeks after deposition. This is very rapid work when
we consider that the eggs of the salmon require to be left for a period of
ninety or a hundred days, even in favourable seasons, before they quicken
into life, and that the eggs of a considerable number of fish are known to take
a much longer period than three weeks to ripen. The rate of growth of the
herring, and the tie at which it begins to reproduce itself, are not yet well
understood; indeed, it seems particularly difficult to fix the period at which it
reaches the reproductive stage.[8] I have had young herrings of all sizes in my
possession, from those of an inch long upwards. The following are the
measurements of a few specimens which were procured about the end of
February 1861, and not one of which had any appearance of either roe or
Page 201
milt, while some (the smaller fish) were strongly serrated in the abdominal
line, and others, as they advanced in size, lost this distinguishing mark, and
were only very slightly serrated. The largest of these fish—and they must all
have been caught at one time—was eight inches long, nearly four inches in
circumference at the thickest part of the body, and weighed a little over two
ounces. The smallest of these herring-fry did not weigh a quarter of an ounce,
and was not quite three inches in length. One of them, again, that was six
inches long, only weighed three-quarters of an ounce; whilst another of the
same lot, four and a half inches long, weighed a quarter of an ounce exactly. I
do not propose at present to enter at great length into the sprat controversy;
but, if the sprat be the young of some one of the different species of herring,
as I take leave to think it is, then the question of its growth and natural
economy will become highly important. Some people say that the herring
must have attained the age of seven years before it can yield milt or roe,
whilst a period of three years has been also named as the ultimate time of this
event; but there are persons who think that the herring attains its reproductive
power in eighteen months, while others affirm that the fish grows to maturity
in little more than half that time. If the average size of a herring may be stated
as eleven and a half inches, individual fish of Clupea harengus have been
found measuring seventeen inches, and full fish have been taken only ten
inches in length, when should the example, noted above as being eight inches
long, reach its full growth? and how old was it at the time of its capture? And,
again, were the fish—all taken out of the same boat, be it observed, and
caught in the same shoal—all of one particular year’s hatching? Is this the
story of the parr over again, or is it the case that the fishermen had found a
shoal of mixed herrings—some being of one year’s spawning, some of
another? I confess to being puzzled, and may again remind the reader that my
largest fish had never spawned, and had not the faintest trace of milt or roe
within it. Then, again, as to the time when herrings spawn, I have over and
over again asserted in various quarters that they spawn in nearly every month
of the year—an assertion, as I have just shown, which has been proved by the
recent inquiry.
As to the place of spawning, development of the ova, and other
circumstances attendant on the increase of the herring, I promulgated the
following opinions some years ago, and I see no reason to alter them:—The
herring shoal keeps well together till the time of spawning, whatever the fish
may do after that event. Some naturalists think that the shoal breaks up after
line, and others, as they advanced in size, lost this distinguishing mark, and
were only very slightly serrated. The largest of these fish—and they must all
have been caught at one time—was eight inches long, nearly four inches in
circumference at the thickest part of the body, and weighed a little over two
ounces. The smallest of these herring-fry did not weigh a quarter of an ounce,
and was not quite three inches in length. One of them, again, that was six
inches long, only weighed three-quarters of an ounce; whilst another of the
same lot, four and a half inches long, weighed a quarter of an ounce exactly. I
do not propose at present to enter at great length into the sprat controversy;
but, if the sprat be the young of some one of the different species of herring,
as I take leave to think it is, then the question of its growth and natural
economy will become highly important. Some people say that the herring
must have attained the age of seven years before it can yield milt or roe,
whilst a period of three years has been also named as the ultimate time of this
event; but there are persons who think that the herring attains its reproductive
power in eighteen months, while others affirm that the fish grows to maturity
in little more than half that time. If the average size of a herring may be stated
as eleven and a half inches, individual fish of Clupea harengus have been
found measuring seventeen inches, and full fish have been taken only ten
inches in length, when should the example, noted above as being eight inches
long, reach its full growth? and how old was it at the time of its capture? And,
again, were the fish—all taken out of the same boat, be it observed, and
caught in the same shoal—all of one particular year’s hatching? Is this the
story of the parr over again, or is it the case that the fishermen had found a
shoal of mixed herrings—some being of one year’s spawning, some of
another? I confess to being puzzled, and may again remind the reader that my
largest fish had never spawned, and had not the faintest trace of milt or roe
within it. Then, again, as to the time when herrings spawn, I have over and
over again asserted in various quarters that they spawn in nearly every month
of the year—an assertion, as I have just shown, which has been proved by the
recent inquiry.
As to the place of spawning, development of the ova, and other
circumstances attendant on the increase of the herring, I promulgated the
following opinions some years ago, and I see no reason to alter them:—The
herring shoal keeps well together till the time of spawning, whatever the fish
may do after that event. Some naturalists think that the shoal breaks up after
Page 202
it spawns, and that the herring then live an individual life, till again
instinctively moved together for the grand purpose of procreating their kind.
It is quite clear, I think, that the herring moves into the shallow water because
of its increased temperature, and its being more fitted in consequence for the
speedy vivifying of the spawn. The same shoal will always gather over the
same spawning ground, and the fish will keep their position till they fulfil the
grand object of their life. The herrings will rise buoyantly to the top water
after they have spawned; before that they swim deep and hug the ground. The
herring, in my opinion, must have a rocky place to spawn upon, with a
vegetable growth of some kind to receive the roe; shoals may of course
accidentally spawn on soft ground. It is not accurately known how long a
period elapses till the spawn ripens into life. I think, however, that herring
spawn requires a period of about six weeks to ripen. It is known that young
herrings have appeared on a spawning ground in myriads within fifty days
after the departure of a shoal, and fishermen say that no spawn can be found
on the ground after the lapse of a few weeks from the visit of the gravid shoal
—that the eggs in fact have come to life, and that the fish are swimming
about; and some fishermen assert that the little whitebait is the herring in its
first stage.
It is generally known that the sprat (Clupea sprattus) is a most abundant
fish, so plentiful as to have been used at times for manure. The fact of its
great abundance has induced a belief that it is not a distinct species of fish,
but is, in reality, the young of the herring. It is true that many distinguishing
marks are pointed out as belonging only to the sprat—such as its serrated
belly, the relative position of the fins, etc. But there remains, on the other
side, the very striking fact of the sprat being rarely found with either milt or
roe; indeed, the only case I know of this fish having been found in a condition
to perpetuate its species was detailed by the late Mr. Mitchell, Belgian Consul
at Leith, who exhibited before one of the learned societies of Edinburgh a
pair of sprats having the roe and milt fully developed. Dr. Dod, an ancient
anatomist, says: “It is evident that sprats are young herrings. They appear
immediately after the herrings are gone, and seem to be the spawn just
vivified, if I may use the expression. A more undeniable proof of their being
so is in their anatomy; since, on the closest search, no difference but size can
be found between them.” After the nonsense which was at one time written
about the parr, and considering the anomalies of salmon growth, it would be
unsafe to dogmatise on the sprat question. As to the serrated belly, we might
instinctively moved together for the grand purpose of procreating their kind.
It is quite clear, I think, that the herring moves into the shallow water because
of its increased temperature, and its being more fitted in consequence for the
speedy vivifying of the spawn. The same shoal will always gather over the
same spawning ground, and the fish will keep their position till they fulfil the
grand object of their life. The herrings will rise buoyantly to the top water
after they have spawned; before that they swim deep and hug the ground. The
herring, in my opinion, must have a rocky place to spawn upon, with a
vegetable growth of some kind to receive the roe; shoals may of course
accidentally spawn on soft ground. It is not accurately known how long a
period elapses till the spawn ripens into life. I think, however, that herring
spawn requires a period of about six weeks to ripen. It is known that young
herrings have appeared on a spawning ground in myriads within fifty days
after the departure of a shoal, and fishermen say that no spawn can be found
on the ground after the lapse of a few weeks from the visit of the gravid shoal
—that the eggs in fact have come to life, and that the fish are swimming
about; and some fishermen assert that the little whitebait is the herring in its
first stage.
It is generally known that the sprat (Clupea sprattus) is a most abundant
fish, so plentiful as to have been used at times for manure. The fact of its
great abundance has induced a belief that it is not a distinct species of fish,
but is, in reality, the young of the herring. It is true that many distinguishing
marks are pointed out as belonging only to the sprat—such as its serrated
belly, the relative position of the fins, etc. But there remains, on the other
side, the very striking fact of the sprat being rarely found with either milt or
roe; indeed, the only case I know of this fish having been found in a condition
to perpetuate its species was detailed by the late Mr. Mitchell, Belgian Consul
at Leith, who exhibited before one of the learned societies of Edinburgh a
pair of sprats having the roe and milt fully developed. Dr. Dod, an ancient
anatomist, says: “It is evident that sprats are young herrings. They appear
immediately after the herrings are gone, and seem to be the spawn just
vivified, if I may use the expression. A more undeniable proof of their being
so is in their anatomy; since, on the closest search, no difference but size can
be found between them.” After the nonsense which was at one time written
about the parr, and considering the anomalies of salmon growth, it would be
unsafe to dogmatise on the sprat question. As to the serrated belly, we might
Page 203
look upon it as we do the tucks of a child’s frock—viz. as a provision for
growth. The fin-rays of this fish have also been cited in evidence as not being
the same in number as those of the herring, but as I can testify, from actual
counting, the fin-rays of the latter fish vary considerably, therefore the
number of fin-rays is not evidence in the case. The slaughter of sprats which
is annually carried on in our seas is, I suspect, as decided a killing of the
goose for the sake of the golden eggs as the grilse-slaughter which is annually
carried on in our salmon rivers.
The herring is found under four different conditions:—1st, Fry or sill; 2d,
Maties or fat herring; 3d, Full herring; 4th, Shotten or spent herring. All
herrings under five or six inches in length come under the first denomination.
The matie is the finest condition in which a herring can be used for food
purposes; and if the fishery could be so arranged, that is the time at which it
should be caught for consumption. At that period it is very fat, its feeding-
power being all developed on its body; the spawn is small, the growth of the
roe or milt not having yet demanded the whole of the nutriment taken by the
fish. A full herring is one in which the milt or roe is fully developed. The
maties develop into spawning herring with great rapidity—in the course of
three months, it is said. The herrings at the spawning season come together in
vast numbers, and proceed to their spawning places in the shallower and
consequently warmer parts of the sea. As Gilbert White says, “the two great
motives which regulate the brute creation are love and hunger; the one incites
them to perpetuate their kind, the latter induces them to preserve individuals.”
In obedience to these laws the herring congregate on our coast, for there only
they find an abundant supply of food to mature with the necessary rapidity
their milt and roe, as well as a sea-bottom fitted to receive their spawn; and
they are thus brought within the reach of man at what many persons consider
the wrong time of their life.
As to this division of the question, it has been said that it matters not at
what period you take a herring, whether it be old or young, without or with
spawn; that fish cannot again be caught, and will never spawn again; and it is
argued, therefore, that the taking of fish in “the family way” no more prevents
it from reproducing than if it had been killed in the condition of a matie. The
same argument was used in the case of the young salmon; and it was asked: If
you kill all your grilse, where are you to find your salmon? but I shall have
more to say on this part of my topic by and by.
growth. The fin-rays of this fish have also been cited in evidence as not being
the same in number as those of the herring, but as I can testify, from actual
counting, the fin-rays of the latter fish vary considerably, therefore the
number of fin-rays is not evidence in the case. The slaughter of sprats which
is annually carried on in our seas is, I suspect, as decided a killing of the
goose for the sake of the golden eggs as the grilse-slaughter which is annually
carried on in our salmon rivers.
The herring is found under four different conditions:—1st, Fry or sill; 2d,
Maties or fat herring; 3d, Full herring; 4th, Shotten or spent herring. All
herrings under five or six inches in length come under the first denomination.
The matie is the finest condition in which a herring can be used for food
purposes; and if the fishery could be so arranged, that is the time at which it
should be caught for consumption. At that period it is very fat, its feeding-
power being all developed on its body; the spawn is small, the growth of the
roe or milt not having yet demanded the whole of the nutriment taken by the
fish. A full herring is one in which the milt or roe is fully developed. The
maties develop into spawning herring with great rapidity—in the course of
three months, it is said. The herrings at the spawning season come together in
vast numbers, and proceed to their spawning places in the shallower and
consequently warmer parts of the sea. As Gilbert White says, “the two great
motives which regulate the brute creation are love and hunger; the one incites
them to perpetuate their kind, the latter induces them to preserve individuals.”
In obedience to these laws the herring congregate on our coast, for there only
they find an abundant supply of food to mature with the necessary rapidity
their milt and roe, as well as a sea-bottom fitted to receive their spawn; and
they are thus brought within the reach of man at what many persons consider
the wrong time of their life.
As to this division of the question, it has been said that it matters not at
what period you take a herring, whether it be old or young, without or with
spawn; that fish cannot again be caught, and will never spawn again; and it is
argued, therefore, that the taking of fish in “the family way” no more prevents
it from reproducing than if it had been killed in the condition of a matie. The
same argument was used in the case of the young salmon; and it was asked: If
you kill all your grilse, where are you to find your salmon? but I shall have
more to say on this part of my topic by and by.
Page 204
The herring breeds, then, and is caught in greater or lesser quantities,
during every month of the year. There is no general close-time for the herring
in Scotland. On one or two parts of the west coast it has hitherto been illegal
to capture this fish at certain seasons, although the restrictions are not
general. How is it that the time selected by fishermen for the capture of this
fish corresponds with the period when it is a crime to take a salmon? If a
gravid salmon be unwholesome, is a gravid herring good for food? Do not the
same physical laws affect both of these fish? There cannot be a doubt but that
at the period of spawning, this fish, as well as all other fish, is in its worst
condition so far as its food-yielding qualities are concerned, because at that
time of its life its whole nutritive power is exerted on behalf of its seed, and
its flesh is consequently lean and unpalatable. Yet it is a great fact that the
time which the herring selects in order to fulfil the grandest instinct of its
nature is the very time appointed by man for its capture! In fact, that is the
period when herrings are at a premium; they must be “full fish,” or they
cannot obtain the official brand; in other words, shotten herrings—i.e. fish
that have spawned—are not of much more than half the value of the others.
When it is taken into account that each pair of full fish (male and female) are
killed just as they are about to give us the chance of obtaining an increase of
the stock to the extent say of thirty thousand, the ultimate effect must be to
disturb and cripple the producing powers of the shoal to such a degree that it
will break up and find a new breeding-ground, safe for a time perhaps from
the spoliation of the greedy fishermen. The Lochfyne commissioners give as
a reason for their non-recommendation of a close-time the fact, that were
there to be a cessation from labour, the enemies of the herring would so
increase, that the jubilee given would be nugatory. But surely there is a great
want of logic in this argument! How is it that a close-time operates so
favourably in the case of the salmon—not only a seasonal close-time, but a
weekly one as well? Would not the herring, with its almost miraculous
breeding-power, increase in the same ratio, or even in a greater ratio than its
enemies, especially if, as the commissioners tell us and we believe, it is
engaged in multiplying its kind during ten months of the year? Are not the
enemies of the herring at work during the fishing season as well as at other
periods? I could understand the logic of denying a close-time on the ground
that, as the herring never ceases breeding, it is impossible to fix a correct
period. But, according to the deliverance made by the commissioners in the
natural history portion of their inquiry, a close-time is quite possible. I have
ever been of opinion, notwithstanding the practical difficulties that would
during every month of the year. There is no general close-time for the herring
in Scotland. On one or two parts of the west coast it has hitherto been illegal
to capture this fish at certain seasons, although the restrictions are not
general. How is it that the time selected by fishermen for the capture of this
fish corresponds with the period when it is a crime to take a salmon? If a
gravid salmon be unwholesome, is a gravid herring good for food? Do not the
same physical laws affect both of these fish? There cannot be a doubt but that
at the period of spawning, this fish, as well as all other fish, is in its worst
condition so far as its food-yielding qualities are concerned, because at that
time of its life its whole nutritive power is exerted on behalf of its seed, and
its flesh is consequently lean and unpalatable. Yet it is a great fact that the
time which the herring selects in order to fulfil the grandest instinct of its
nature is the very time appointed by man for its capture! In fact, that is the
period when herrings are at a premium; they must be “full fish,” or they
cannot obtain the official brand; in other words, shotten herrings—i.e. fish
that have spawned—are not of much more than half the value of the others.
When it is taken into account that each pair of full fish (male and female) are
killed just as they are about to give us the chance of obtaining an increase of
the stock to the extent say of thirty thousand, the ultimate effect must be to
disturb and cripple the producing powers of the shoal to such a degree that it
will break up and find a new breeding-ground, safe for a time perhaps from
the spoliation of the greedy fishermen. The Lochfyne commissioners give as
a reason for their non-recommendation of a close-time the fact, that were
there to be a cessation from labour, the enemies of the herring would so
increase, that the jubilee given would be nugatory. But surely there is a great
want of logic in this argument! How is it that a close-time operates so
favourably in the case of the salmon—not only a seasonal close-time, but a
weekly one as well? Would not the herring, with its almost miraculous
breeding-power, increase in the same ratio, or even in a greater ratio than its
enemies, especially if, as the commissioners tell us and we believe, it is
engaged in multiplying its kind during ten months of the year? Are not the
enemies of the herring at work during the fishing season as well as at other
periods? I could understand the logic of denying a close-time on the ground
that, as the herring never ceases breeding, it is impossible to fix a correct
period. But, according to the deliverance made by the commissioners in the
natural history portion of their inquiry, a close-time is quite possible. I have
ever been of opinion, notwithstanding the practical difficulties that would
Page 205
have to be encountered in carrying it out, that the want of a close-time,
especially for the larger kinds of sea-fish, is one of the causes which are so
obviously affecting the supplies. It is certain also, from chemical and sanitary
investigation, that all fish are unwholesome at the period of spawning; the
salmon at that time of its life is looked upon as being little better than carrion.
But, without dwelling on this phase of the question, or considering the effect
of unwholesome fish on the public health, I must point out most strongly that
the want of a well-defined close-time is one of the greatest and severest of
our fish-destroying agencies. We give our grouse a breathing space; nay, we
sometimes afford to that bird a whole jubilee year; we do not shoot our hares
during certain months of the year, nor do we select their breeding season as
the proper time to kill our oxen or our sheep; but we do not at dinner-time
object to an entrée composed of cod-roe, and we evidently rather believe in
the propriety of killing only our seed-laden herrings! This lavish destruction
of fish-life has arisen in great part from the well-known fecundity of all kinds
of sea-fish, some of which yield their eggs by the million, and this has given
rise to the idea that it is impossible to exhaust the shoals. But when it is
considered that this wonderful fecundity is met by an unparalleled destruction
of the seed and also of the young fish, we need not be astonished at the ever-
recurring complaint of scarcity. A recent, but no doubt exaggerated complaint,
sets forth that the beam-trawl is one of the most destructive engines employed
in the sea, five hundred tons of spawn being said to be destroyed by the
trawlers in twenty-four hours. It is well known also that tons of broken fish
and spawn are sold in the south as manure for the land at threepence per
bushel! There can be no doubt that there is annually an enormous waste of
fish-life, through the accidental destruction of very large quantities of spawn,
herring-spawn as well as all other kinds.
As to the food of the herring, the report already alluded to tells us that it
“consists of crustacea, varying in size from microscopic dimensions to those
of a shrimp, and of small fish, particularly sandeels. While in the matie
condition, they feed voraciously, and not unfrequently their stomachs are
found immensely distended with crustacea and sandeels, in a more or less
digested condition.” I have personally examined the stomachs of many
herrings, and have found in them the remains of all kinds of food procurable
in the place frequented by the particular animal examined—including
herring-roe, young herrings, sprats, etc.; but the sandeel seems to be its
favourite food.
especially for the larger kinds of sea-fish, is one of the causes which are so
obviously affecting the supplies. It is certain also, from chemical and sanitary
investigation, that all fish are unwholesome at the period of spawning; the
salmon at that time of its life is looked upon as being little better than carrion.
But, without dwelling on this phase of the question, or considering the effect
of unwholesome fish on the public health, I must point out most strongly that
the want of a well-defined close-time is one of the greatest and severest of
our fish-destroying agencies. We give our grouse a breathing space; nay, we
sometimes afford to that bird a whole jubilee year; we do not shoot our hares
during certain months of the year, nor do we select their breeding season as
the proper time to kill our oxen or our sheep; but we do not at dinner-time
object to an entrée composed of cod-roe, and we evidently rather believe in
the propriety of killing only our seed-laden herrings! This lavish destruction
of fish-life has arisen in great part from the well-known fecundity of all kinds
of sea-fish, some of which yield their eggs by the million, and this has given
rise to the idea that it is impossible to exhaust the shoals. But when it is
considered that this wonderful fecundity is met by an unparalleled destruction
of the seed and also of the young fish, we need not be astonished at the ever-
recurring complaint of scarcity. A recent, but no doubt exaggerated complaint,
sets forth that the beam-trawl is one of the most destructive engines employed
in the sea, five hundred tons of spawn being said to be destroyed by the
trawlers in twenty-four hours. It is well known also that tons of broken fish
and spawn are sold in the south as manure for the land at threepence per
bushel! There can be no doubt that there is annually an enormous waste of
fish-life, through the accidental destruction of very large quantities of spawn,
herring-spawn as well as all other kinds.
As to the food of the herring, the report already alluded to tells us that it
“consists of crustacea, varying in size from microscopic dimensions to those
of a shrimp, and of small fish, particularly sandeels. While in the matie
condition, they feed voraciously, and not unfrequently their stomachs are
found immensely distended with crustacea and sandeels, in a more or less
digested condition.” I have personally examined the stomachs of many
herrings, and have found in them the remains of all kinds of food procurable
in the place frequented by the particular animal examined—including
herring-roe, young herrings, sprats, etc.; but the sandeel seems to be its
favourite food.
Page 206
One of the wonders connected with the natural history of the herring is the
capricious nature of the fish. It is always changing its habitat, and, according
to vulgar belief, from the most curious circumstances. I need not add to the
necessary length of this chapter by giving a great number of instances of the
capricious nature of the herring; but I must cite a few, in order to make my
recapitulation of herring history as complete as possible, and at the same time
it is proper to mention that superstition is brought to bear on this point. The
fishermen of St. Monance, in Fife, used to remove their church-bell during
the fishing season, as they affirmed that its ringing scared away the shoals of
herring from the bay! It has long been a favourite and popular idea that they
were driven away by the noise of gun-firing. The Swedes say that the
frequent firings of the British ships in the neighbourhood of Gothenburg
frightened the fish away from the place. In a similar manner and with equal
truth it was said that they had been driven away from the Baltic by the firing
of guns at the battle of Copenhagen! “Ordinary philosophy is never satisfied,”
says Dr. M’Culloch, “unless it can find a solution for everything; and it is
satisfied for this reason with imaginary ones.” Thus in Long Island, one of the
Hebrides, it was asserted that the fish had been driven away by the kelp-
manufacture, some imaginary coincidence having been found between their
disappearance and the establishment of that business. But the kelp fires did
not drive them away from other shores, which they frequent and abandon
indifferently, without regard to that work. A member of the House of
Commons, in a debate on a Tithe Bill in 1835, stated that a clergyman, having
obtained a living on the coast of Ireland, signified his intention of taking the
tithe of fish, which was, however, considered to be so utterly repugnant to
their privileges and feelings, that not a single herring had ever since visited
that part of the shore!
capricious nature of the fish. It is always changing its habitat, and, according
to vulgar belief, from the most curious circumstances. I need not add to the
necessary length of this chapter by giving a great number of instances of the
capricious nature of the herring; but I must cite a few, in order to make my
recapitulation of herring history as complete as possible, and at the same time
it is proper to mention that superstition is brought to bear on this point. The
fishermen of St. Monance, in Fife, used to remove their church-bell during
the fishing season, as they affirmed that its ringing scared away the shoals of
herring from the bay! It has long been a favourite and popular idea that they
were driven away by the noise of gun-firing. The Swedes say that the
frequent firings of the British ships in the neighbourhood of Gothenburg
frightened the fish away from the place. In a similar manner and with equal
truth it was said that they had been driven away from the Baltic by the firing
of guns at the battle of Copenhagen! “Ordinary philosophy is never satisfied,”
says Dr. M’Culloch, “unless it can find a solution for everything; and it is
satisfied for this reason with imaginary ones.” Thus in Long Island, one of the
Hebrides, it was asserted that the fish had been driven away by the kelp-
manufacture, some imaginary coincidence having been found between their
disappearance and the establishment of that business. But the kelp fires did
not drive them away from other shores, which they frequent and abandon
indifferently, without regard to that work. A member of the House of
Commons, in a debate on a Tithe Bill in 1835, stated that a clergyman, having
obtained a living on the coast of Ireland, signified his intention of taking the
tithe of fish, which was, however, considered to be so utterly repugnant to
their privileges and feelings, that not a single herring had ever since visited
that part of the shore!
Page 207
MEMBERS OF THE HERRING FAMILY.
1. Herring. 2. Sprat. 3. Pilchard.
The most prominent members of the Clupediæ are the common herring
(Clupea harengus); the sprat, or garvie (Clupea sprattus); and the pilchard, or
gipsy herring (Clupea pilchardus). The other members of this family are the
whitebait, the anchovy, and the Alice and Twaite shad; but these, although
affording material for speculation to naturalists (see chapter on “Fish
Growth”), are not of any commercial importance.
The fisheries for the common herring, the pilchard, and the sprat, are
carried on, with a brief interval, all the year round; but the great herring
season is during the autumn—from August to October—when the sea is
covered with boats in pursuit of that fine fish, and in some of its phases the
herring-fishery assumes an aspect that is decidedly picturesque. Every little
bay all round the island has its tiny fleet; the mountain closed lochs of the
Western Highlands have each a fishery; while at some of the more important
fishing-stations there are very large fleets assembled—as at Wick, Dunbar,
Ardrishaig, Stornoway, Peterhead, and Anstruther. The chief curers have
places of business in these towns, where they keep a large store of curing
1. Herring. 2. Sprat. 3. Pilchard.
The most prominent members of the Clupediæ are the common herring
(Clupea harengus); the sprat, or garvie (Clupea sprattus); and the pilchard, or
gipsy herring (Clupea pilchardus). The other members of this family are the
whitebait, the anchovy, and the Alice and Twaite shad; but these, although
affording material for speculation to naturalists (see chapter on “Fish
Growth”), are not of any commercial importance.
The fisheries for the common herring, the pilchard, and the sprat, are
carried on, with a brief interval, all the year round; but the great herring
season is during the autumn—from August to October—when the sea is
covered with boats in pursuit of that fine fish, and in some of its phases the
herring-fishery assumes an aspect that is decidedly picturesque. Every little
bay all round the island has its tiny fleet; the mountain closed lochs of the
Western Highlands have each a fishery; while at some of the more important
fishing-stations there are very large fleets assembled—as at Wick, Dunbar,
Ardrishaig, Stornoway, Peterhead, and Anstruther. The chief curers have
places of business in these towns, where they keep a large store of curing
Page 208
materials and a competent staff of coopers and others to aid them in their
business. Such boats as do not carry on a local fishery proceed from the
smaller fishing-villages to one or other of the centres of the herring trade. In
fact, wherever an enterprising curer sets up his stand, there the boats will
gather round him; and beside him will collect a mob of all kinds of
miscellaneous people—dealers in salt, sellers of barrel-staves, vendors of
“cutch,” Prussian herring-buyers, comely girls from the inland districts to gut,
and men from the Highlands anxious to officiate as “hired hands.” Itinerant
ministers and revivalists also come on the scene and preach occasional
sermons to the hundreds of devout Scotch people who are assembled; and
thus arises many a prosperous little town, or at least towns that might be
prosperous were the finny treasures of the sea always plentiful. As the chief
herring season comes on a kind of madness seizes on all engaged, ever so
remotely, in the trade; as for those more immediately concerned, they seem to
go completely “daft,” especially the younger hands. The old men, too, come
outside to view the annual preparations, and talk, with revived enthusiasm, to
their sons and grandsons about what they did twenty years agone; the young
men spread out the shoulder-of-mutton sails of their boats to view and repair
defects; and the wives and sweethearts, by patching and darning, contrive to
make old nets “look amaist as weel as new;” boilers bubble with the brown
catechu, locally called “cutch,” which is used as a preservative for the nets
and sails; while all along the coasts old boats are being cobbled up and new
ones are being built and launched.
The scene along the seabord from Buckhaven on the Firth of Forth to
Buckie on the Firth of Moray is one of active preparation, and all concerned
are hoping for a “lucky” fishing; “winsome” young lassies are praying for the
success of their sweethearts’ boats, because if the season turns out well they
will be married women at its close. Curers look sanguine, and the owners of
free boats seem happy. The little children too—those wonderful little children
one always finds in a fishing village, striving so manfully to fill up “daddy’s”
old clothes—participate in the excitement: they have their winter’s “shoon”
and “Sunday breeks” in perspective. At the quaint village of Gamrie, at
Macduff, or Buckie, the talk of old and young, on coach or rail, from morning
to night, is of herrings. There are comparisons and calculations about “crans”
and barrels, and “broke” and “splitbellies,” and “full fish” and “lanks,” and
reminiscences of great hauls of former years, and much figurative talk about
prices and freights, and the cost of telegraphic messages. Then, if the present
business. Such boats as do not carry on a local fishery proceed from the
smaller fishing-villages to one or other of the centres of the herring trade. In
fact, wherever an enterprising curer sets up his stand, there the boats will
gather round him; and beside him will collect a mob of all kinds of
miscellaneous people—dealers in salt, sellers of barrel-staves, vendors of
“cutch,” Prussian herring-buyers, comely girls from the inland districts to gut,
and men from the Highlands anxious to officiate as “hired hands.” Itinerant
ministers and revivalists also come on the scene and preach occasional
sermons to the hundreds of devout Scotch people who are assembled; and
thus arises many a prosperous little town, or at least towns that might be
prosperous were the finny treasures of the sea always plentiful. As the chief
herring season comes on a kind of madness seizes on all engaged, ever so
remotely, in the trade; as for those more immediately concerned, they seem to
go completely “daft,” especially the younger hands. The old men, too, come
outside to view the annual preparations, and talk, with revived enthusiasm, to
their sons and grandsons about what they did twenty years agone; the young
men spread out the shoulder-of-mutton sails of their boats to view and repair
defects; and the wives and sweethearts, by patching and darning, contrive to
make old nets “look amaist as weel as new;” boilers bubble with the brown
catechu, locally called “cutch,” which is used as a preservative for the nets
and sails; while all along the coasts old boats are being cobbled up and new
ones are being built and launched.
The scene along the seabord from Buckhaven on the Firth of Forth to
Buckie on the Firth of Moray is one of active preparation, and all concerned
are hoping for a “lucky” fishing; “winsome” young lassies are praying for the
success of their sweethearts’ boats, because if the season turns out well they
will be married women at its close. Curers look sanguine, and the owners of
free boats seem happy. The little children too—those wonderful little children
one always finds in a fishing village, striving so manfully to fill up “daddy’s”
old clothes—participate in the excitement: they have their winter’s “shoon”
and “Sunday breeks” in perspective. At the quaint village of Gamrie, at
Macduff, or Buckie, the talk of old and young, on coach or rail, from morning
to night, is of herrings. There are comparisons and calculations about “crans”
and barrels, and “broke” and “splitbellies,” and “full fish” and “lanks,” and
reminiscences of great hauls of former years, and much figurative talk about
prices and freights, and the cost of telegraphic messages. Then, if the present
Page 209
fishery be dull, hopes are expressed that the next one may be better. “Ony fish
this mornin’?” is the first salutation of one neighbour to another: the very
infants talk about “herrin’;” schoolboys steal them from the boats for the
purpose of aiding their negotiations with the gooseberry woman: while
wandering paupers are rewarded with one or two broken fish by good-natured
sailors, when “the take” has been so satisfactory as to warrant such largess. At
Wick the native population, augmented by four thousand strangers, wakens
into renewed life; it is like Doncaster on the approach of the St. Leger. The
summer-time of Wick’s existence begins with the fishery: the shops are
painted on their outsides and are replenished within; the milliner and the
tailor exhibit their newest fashions; the hardware merchant flourishes his
most attractive frying-pans; the grocer amplifies his stock; and so for a brief
period all is couleur de rose.
They are not all practical fishermen who go down to the sea for herring
during the great autumnal fishing season. By far the larger portion of those
engaged in the capture of this fish—particularly at the chief stations—are
what are called “hired hands,” a mixture of the farmer, the mechanic, and the
sailor; and this fact may account in some degree for a portion of the accidents
which are sure to occur in stormy seasons. Many of these men are mere
labourers at the herring-fishery, and have little skill in handling a boat; they
are many of them farmers in the Lewis, or small crofters in the Isle of Skye.
The real orthodox fisherman is a different being, and he is the same
everywhere. If you travel from Banff to Bayonne you find that fishermen are
unchangeable.
The men’s work is all performed at sea, and, so far as the capture of the
herring is concerned, there is no display of either skill or cunning. The legal
mode of capturing the herring is to take it by means of what is called a drift-
net. The herring-fishery, it must be borne in mind, is regulated by Act of
Parliament, by which the exact means and mode of capture are explicitly laid
down. A drift-net is an instrument made of fine twine worked into a series of
squares, each of which is an inch, so as to allow plenty of room for the escape
of young herrings. Nets for herring are measured by the barrel-bulk, and each
barrel will hold two nets, each net being fifty yards long and thirty-two feet
deep. The larger fishing-boats carry something like a mile of these nets;
some, at any rate, carry a drift which will extend two thousand yards in
length. These drifts are composed of many separate nets, fastened together by
means of what is called a back-rope, and each separate net of the series is
this mornin’?” is the first salutation of one neighbour to another: the very
infants talk about “herrin’;” schoolboys steal them from the boats for the
purpose of aiding their negotiations with the gooseberry woman: while
wandering paupers are rewarded with one or two broken fish by good-natured
sailors, when “the take” has been so satisfactory as to warrant such largess. At
Wick the native population, augmented by four thousand strangers, wakens
into renewed life; it is like Doncaster on the approach of the St. Leger. The
summer-time of Wick’s existence begins with the fishery: the shops are
painted on their outsides and are replenished within; the milliner and the
tailor exhibit their newest fashions; the hardware merchant flourishes his
most attractive frying-pans; the grocer amplifies his stock; and so for a brief
period all is couleur de rose.
They are not all practical fishermen who go down to the sea for herring
during the great autumnal fishing season. By far the larger portion of those
engaged in the capture of this fish—particularly at the chief stations—are
what are called “hired hands,” a mixture of the farmer, the mechanic, and the
sailor; and this fact may account in some degree for a portion of the accidents
which are sure to occur in stormy seasons. Many of these men are mere
labourers at the herring-fishery, and have little skill in handling a boat; they
are many of them farmers in the Lewis, or small crofters in the Isle of Skye.
The real orthodox fisherman is a different being, and he is the same
everywhere. If you travel from Banff to Bayonne you find that fishermen are
unchangeable.
The men’s work is all performed at sea, and, so far as the capture of the
herring is concerned, there is no display of either skill or cunning. The legal
mode of capturing the herring is to take it by means of what is called a drift-
net. The herring-fishery, it must be borne in mind, is regulated by Act of
Parliament, by which the exact means and mode of capture are explicitly laid
down. A drift-net is an instrument made of fine twine worked into a series of
squares, each of which is an inch, so as to allow plenty of room for the escape
of young herrings. Nets for herring are measured by the barrel-bulk, and each
barrel will hold two nets, each net being fifty yards long and thirty-two feet
deep. The larger fishing-boats carry something like a mile of these nets;
some, at any rate, carry a drift which will extend two thousand yards in
length. These drifts are composed of many separate nets, fastened together by
means of what is called a back-rope, and each separate net of the series is
Page 210
marked off by a buoy or bladder which is attached to it, the whole being sunk
in the sea by means of a leaden or other weight, and fastened to the boat by a
longer or shorter trail-rope, according to the depth in the water at which it is
expected to find the herrings. This formidable apparatus, which forms a great
perforated wall, being let into the sea immediately after sunset, floats or drifts
with the tide, so as to afford the herring an opportunity of striking against it,
and so becoming captured—in fact they are drowned in the nets. The boats
engaged in the drift-net fishing are of various sizes, and are strongly and
carefully built: the largest, being upwards of thirty-five feet keel, with a large
drift of nets and good sail and mast, will cost something like a sum of £200.
VIEW OF LOCHFYNE.
The other mode of fishing for herrings, which has existed for about a
quarter of a century, is illegal, although it is as nearly as possible the same as
is legally used to capture the pilchard on the coast of Cornwall. In the west of
Scotland, on Lochfyne in particular, where it is still to some extent practised,
it is called “trawling;” but the instrument of capture is in reality a “seine” net;
and, so far as the size of the mesh is concerned, is all right. The mode of
using this net I shall presently describe; in the meantime I may state that the
in the sea by means of a leaden or other weight, and fastened to the boat by a
longer or shorter trail-rope, according to the depth in the water at which it is
expected to find the herrings. This formidable apparatus, which forms a great
perforated wall, being let into the sea immediately after sunset, floats or drifts
with the tide, so as to afford the herring an opportunity of striking against it,
and so becoming captured—in fact they are drowned in the nets. The boats
engaged in the drift-net fishing are of various sizes, and are strongly and
carefully built: the largest, being upwards of thirty-five feet keel, with a large
drift of nets and good sail and mast, will cost something like a sum of £200.
VIEW OF LOCHFYNE.
The other mode of fishing for herrings, which has existed for about a
quarter of a century, is illegal, although it is as nearly as possible the same as
is legally used to capture the pilchard on the coast of Cornwall. In the west of
Scotland, on Lochfyne in particular, where it is still to some extent practised,
it is called “trawling;” but the instrument of capture is in reality a “seine” net;
and, so far as the size of the mesh is concerned, is all right. The mode of
using this net I shall presently describe; in the meantime I may state that the
Page 211
practice of “seining” has given cause to much disputation and many quarrels,
some of them resulting in violence and bloodshed; the whole dispute having
given rise to the recent Commission of Inquiry. It is worth while, I think, to
abridge the commissioners’ account of the cause of quarrel, and the
arguments used on both sides of the question. The drift-net men assert that
immature herrings are caught by the trawl, and that that mode of fishing
breaks up the shoals, and that these scatter and do not again unite, as also that
the seine destroys the spawn. A graver assertion is, that the trawled herrings
are not fit for curing in consequence of their being injured in the capture;
likewise that the seine-net fishers are given to brawling and mischief. The
assertion is also made that it is quite impossible for the two kinds of fishing
to be carried on together, especially in confined places like Lochfyne. The
real reason is, I think, brought in last—viz. that the great quantities of fish
taken on a sudden by the trawlers affect the markets and derange the prices—
all to the great detriment of the drift-net men. The trawlers are quite able to
answer all these questions both individually and by a general denial. They say
that it is not their interest to contract the width of the mesh, and that, in fact,
the trawl-net mesh is quite as large as the other. They assert that a seine-net is
not so much calculated to disturb a shoal of herrings as the drift-net, which is
of great length and at once obstructs the shoal. They deny that they have
interfered with the spawning-beds, and also state that they have no particular
interest in catching foul fish, as they sell their herrings chiefly in a fresh state,
and say that their fish are most adapted for the fresh market, likewise that
they can be cured as easily as herrings caught by the drift-nets. They
emphatically deny being brawlers, or that they wilfully injure the drift-nets;
and they assert that both kinds of fishing can perfectly well be carried on
simultaneously on the same fishing-ground. In fact the trawlers, in my
opinion, have thoroughly made out their case; and the commissioners, I am
very glad to record, have decided in their favour.
The pilchard is generally captured by means of the seine-net, and we never
hear of its being injured thereby. It is also cured in large quantities, the same
as the herring, although the modus operandi is somewhat different.
The pilchard was at one time, like the herring, thought to be a migratory
fish, but it has been found, as in the case of the common herring, to be a
native of our own seas. In some years the pilchard has been known to shed its
spawn in May, but the usual time is October, and Mr. Couch thinks that fish
do not breed twice in the same year. Their food, we are told by Mr. Couch, is
some of them resulting in violence and bloodshed; the whole dispute having
given rise to the recent Commission of Inquiry. It is worth while, I think, to
abridge the commissioners’ account of the cause of quarrel, and the
arguments used on both sides of the question. The drift-net men assert that
immature herrings are caught by the trawl, and that that mode of fishing
breaks up the shoals, and that these scatter and do not again unite, as also that
the seine destroys the spawn. A graver assertion is, that the trawled herrings
are not fit for curing in consequence of their being injured in the capture;
likewise that the seine-net fishers are given to brawling and mischief. The
assertion is also made that it is quite impossible for the two kinds of fishing
to be carried on together, especially in confined places like Lochfyne. The
real reason is, I think, brought in last—viz. that the great quantities of fish
taken on a sudden by the trawlers affect the markets and derange the prices—
all to the great detriment of the drift-net men. The trawlers are quite able to
answer all these questions both individually and by a general denial. They say
that it is not their interest to contract the width of the mesh, and that, in fact,
the trawl-net mesh is quite as large as the other. They assert that a seine-net is
not so much calculated to disturb a shoal of herrings as the drift-net, which is
of great length and at once obstructs the shoal. They deny that they have
interfered with the spawning-beds, and also state that they have no particular
interest in catching foul fish, as they sell their herrings chiefly in a fresh state,
and say that their fish are most adapted for the fresh market, likewise that
they can be cured as easily as herrings caught by the drift-nets. They
emphatically deny being brawlers, or that they wilfully injure the drift-nets;
and they assert that both kinds of fishing can perfectly well be carried on
simultaneously on the same fishing-ground. In fact the trawlers, in my
opinion, have thoroughly made out their case; and the commissioners, I am
very glad to record, have decided in their favour.
The pilchard is generally captured by means of the seine-net, and we never
hear of its being injured thereby. It is also cured in large quantities, the same
as the herring, although the modus operandi is somewhat different.
The pilchard was at one time, like the herring, thought to be a migratory
fish, but it has been found, as in the case of the common herring, to be a
native of our own seas. In some years the pilchard has been known to shed its
spawn in May, but the usual time is October, and Mr. Couch thinks that fish
do not breed twice in the same year. Their food, we are told by Mr. Couch, is
Page 212
small crustaceous animals, as their stomachs are frequently crammed with a
small kind of shrimp, and the supply of this kind of food is thought to be
enormous. When on the coast, the assemblage of pilchards assumes an
arrangement like that of a great army, and the vast shoal is known to be made
up by the coming together of smaller bodies of that fish, and these frequently
separate and rejoin, and are constantly shifting their position. The pilchard is
not now so numerous as it was a few years ago, but very large hauls are still
occasionally obtained. According to a recent statement in the Times, the
present pilchard season (1865) seems to have been a very bad one—“the
worst that has been experienced for upwards of twenty years. The great
majority of the boats have not nearly cleared their expenses.”
Great excitement prevails on the coast of Cornwall during the pilchard
season. Persons watch the water from the coast and signal to those who are in
search of the fish the moment they perceive indications of a shoal. These
watchers are locally called “huers,” and they are provided with signals of
white calico or branches of trees, with which to direct the course of the boat,
and to inform those in charge when they are upon the fish—the shoal being
best seen from the cliffs. The pilchards are captured by the seine-net—that is,
the shoal, or spot of a shoal, that has risen, is completely surrounded by a
wall of netting, the principal boat and its satellites the volyer and the lurker,
with the “stop-nets,” having so worked as quite to overlap each other’s wall
of canvas. The place where the joining of the two nets is formed is carefully
watched, to see that none of the fish escape at that place, and if it be too open,
the fish are beaten back with the oars of some of the persons attending—
about eighteen in all. In due time the seine is worked or hauled into shallow
water for the convenience of getting out the fish, and it may perhaps contain
pilchards sufficient to fill two thousand hogsheads. Generally speaking, four
or five seines will be at work together, giving employment to a great number
of the people, who may have been watching for the chance during many days.
When the tide falls the men commence to bring ashore the fish, a tuck-net
worked inside of the seine being used for safety; and the large shallow dipper
boats required for bringing the fish to the beach may be seen sunk to the
water’s edge with their burden, as successive bucketfuls are taken out of the
nets and emptied into these conveyance vessels. To give the reader an idea of
quantity, as connected with pilchard-fishing, I may state that it takes nearly
three thousand fish to fill a hogshead. I have heard of a shoal being captured
that took a fortnight to bring ashore. Ten thousand hogsheads of pilchards
small kind of shrimp, and the supply of this kind of food is thought to be
enormous. When on the coast, the assemblage of pilchards assumes an
arrangement like that of a great army, and the vast shoal is known to be made
up by the coming together of smaller bodies of that fish, and these frequently
separate and rejoin, and are constantly shifting their position. The pilchard is
not now so numerous as it was a few years ago, but very large hauls are still
occasionally obtained. According to a recent statement in the Times, the
present pilchard season (1865) seems to have been a very bad one—“the
worst that has been experienced for upwards of twenty years. The great
majority of the boats have not nearly cleared their expenses.”
Great excitement prevails on the coast of Cornwall during the pilchard
season. Persons watch the water from the coast and signal to those who are in
search of the fish the moment they perceive indications of a shoal. These
watchers are locally called “huers,” and they are provided with signals of
white calico or branches of trees, with which to direct the course of the boat,
and to inform those in charge when they are upon the fish—the shoal being
best seen from the cliffs. The pilchards are captured by the seine-net—that is,
the shoal, or spot of a shoal, that has risen, is completely surrounded by a
wall of netting, the principal boat and its satellites the volyer and the lurker,
with the “stop-nets,” having so worked as quite to overlap each other’s wall
of canvas. The place where the joining of the two nets is formed is carefully
watched, to see that none of the fish escape at that place, and if it be too open,
the fish are beaten back with the oars of some of the persons attending—
about eighteen in all. In due time the seine is worked or hauled into shallow
water for the convenience of getting out the fish, and it may perhaps contain
pilchards sufficient to fill two thousand hogsheads. Generally speaking, four
or five seines will be at work together, giving employment to a great number
of the people, who may have been watching for the chance during many days.
When the tide falls the men commence to bring ashore the fish, a tuck-net
worked inside of the seine being used for safety; and the large shallow dipper
boats required for bringing the fish to the beach may be seen sunk to the
water’s edge with their burden, as successive bucketfuls are taken out of the
nets and emptied into these conveyance vessels. To give the reader an idea of
quantity, as connected with pilchard-fishing, I may state that it takes nearly
three thousand fish to fill a hogshead. I have heard of a shoal being captured
that took a fortnight to bring ashore. Ten thousand hogsheads of pilchards
Page 213
have been known to be taken in one port in a day’s time. The convenience of
keeping the shoal in the water is obvious, as the fish need not be withdrawn
from it till it is convenient to salt them. The fish are salted in curing-houses,
great quantities of them being piled up into huge stacks, alternate layers of
salt and fish. During the process of curing a large quantity of useful oil
exudes from the heaps. The salting process is called “bulking,” and the fish
are built up into stacks with great regularity, where they are allowed to
remain for four weeks, after which they are washed and freed from the oil,
then packed into hogsheads, and sent to Spain and Italy, to be extensively
consumed during Lent, as well as at other fasting times. The hurry and bustle
at any of the little Cornwall ports during the manipulation of a few shoals of
pilchards must be seen, the excitement cannot be very well described.
The pilchard is, or rather it ought to be, the Sardinia of commerce, but its
place is usurped by the sprat, or garvie as we call it in Scotland, and
thousands of tin boxes of that fish are annually made up and sold as sardines.
I have already alluded to the sprat, so far as its natural history is concerned. It
is a fish that is very abundant in Scotland, especially in the Firth of Forth,
where for many years there has been a good sprat-fishery. We do not now
require to go to France for our sardines, as we can cure them at home in the
French style. The sprat-fishery for sardine-making is still, however, a
considerable maritime industry on the coast of France. In 1864 about 75,000
barrels of sprats were taken on the coast of Brittany, besides those sold fresh
and the quantities done up in oil as sardines. The process of curing with oil is
as follows:—The fish must be well washed in sea-water, after which they are
sprinkled with clean salt. The next process is to cut off the heads of the fish,
and take away the intestines, etc., after which they are again rinsed in the sea-
water, and hung up or laid out to dry in order to beautify. After this they are
placed for a very brief period in a pan of boiling oil, which completes the
cure. Before being packed in the neat little tin boxes in which we find them,
the sardines are laid down on a grating, in order to let the oil drain off—the
finishing process being the exposure of the box in a steam-chest for such a
period as the curer deems necessary. According to my informant, a thorough
cure is effected when the box appears convex on the two sides, only it is
necessary that this convexity should disappear as the box becomes cool. Ten
millions of boxes are annually sent away from the coast of Brittany, and these
are widely distributed, not only in Europe, but in Australia and America as
well. I have elsewhere mentioned the use of cod-roe in the French sprat-
keeping the shoal in the water is obvious, as the fish need not be withdrawn
from it till it is convenient to salt them. The fish are salted in curing-houses,
great quantities of them being piled up into huge stacks, alternate layers of
salt and fish. During the process of curing a large quantity of useful oil
exudes from the heaps. The salting process is called “bulking,” and the fish
are built up into stacks with great regularity, where they are allowed to
remain for four weeks, after which they are washed and freed from the oil,
then packed into hogsheads, and sent to Spain and Italy, to be extensively
consumed during Lent, as well as at other fasting times. The hurry and bustle
at any of the little Cornwall ports during the manipulation of a few shoals of
pilchards must be seen, the excitement cannot be very well described.
The pilchard is, or rather it ought to be, the Sardinia of commerce, but its
place is usurped by the sprat, or garvie as we call it in Scotland, and
thousands of tin boxes of that fish are annually made up and sold as sardines.
I have already alluded to the sprat, so far as its natural history is concerned. It
is a fish that is very abundant in Scotland, especially in the Firth of Forth,
where for many years there has been a good sprat-fishery. We do not now
require to go to France for our sardines, as we can cure them at home in the
French style. The sprat-fishery for sardine-making is still, however, a
considerable maritime industry on the coast of France. In 1864 about 75,000
barrels of sprats were taken on the coast of Brittany, besides those sold fresh
and the quantities done up in oil as sardines. The process of curing with oil is
as follows:—The fish must be well washed in sea-water, after which they are
sprinkled with clean salt. The next process is to cut off the heads of the fish,
and take away the intestines, etc., after which they are again rinsed in the sea-
water, and hung up or laid out to dry in order to beautify. After this they are
placed for a very brief period in a pan of boiling oil, which completes the
cure. Before being packed in the neat little tin boxes in which we find them,
the sardines are laid down on a grating, in order to let the oil drain off—the
finishing process being the exposure of the box in a steam-chest for such a
period as the curer deems necessary. According to my informant, a thorough
cure is effected when the box appears convex on the two sides, only it is
necessary that this convexity should disappear as the box becomes cool. Ten
millions of boxes are annually sent away from the coast of Brittany, and these
are widely distributed, not only in Europe, but in Australia and America as
well. I have elsewhere mentioned the use of cod-roe in the French sprat-
Page 214
fishery. The quantity used costs about £80,000 annually, and is brought from
Norway. Each boat engaged in the sprat-fishery will use from twelve to
twenty barrels! Will not the consumption of such a quantity of roe tell by and
by on the cod-fishery?
Sprats, whether they be young herrings or no, are very plentiful in the
winter months, and afford a supply of wholesome food of the fish kind to
many who are unable to procure more expensive kinds. When the fishing for
garvies (sprats) was stopped a few years ago by order of the Board of White
Fisheries, there was quite a sensation in Edinburgh; and an agitation was got
up that has resulted in a partial resumption of the fishing, which is of
considerable value—about £50,000 in the Firth of Forth alone.
Commerce in herring is entirely different from commerce in any other
article, particularly in Scotland. In fact the fishery, as at present conducted, is
just another way of gambling. The home “curers” and foreign buyers are the
persons who at present keep the herring-fishery from stagnating, and the
goods (i.e. the fish) are generally all bought and sold long before they are
captured. The way of dealing in herring is pretty much as follows:—Owners
of boats are engaged to fish by curers, the bargains being usually that the
curer will take two hundred crans of herring—and a cran, it may be stated, is
forty-five gallons of ungutted fish; for these two hundred crans a certain sum
per cran is paid according to arrangement, the bargain including as well a
definite sum of ready money by way of bounty, perhaps also an allowance of
spirits, and the use of ground for the drying of the nets. On the other hand, the
boat-owner provides a boat, nets, buoys, and all the apparatus of the fishery,
and engages a crew to fish; his crew may, perhaps, be relatives and part-
owners sharing the venture with him, but usually the crew consists of hired
men who get so much wages at the end of the season, and have no risk or
profit. This is the plan followed by free and independent fishermen who are
really owners of their own boats and apparatus. It will thus be seen that the
curer is bargaining for two hundred crans of fish months before he knows that
a single herring will be captured; for the bargain of next season is always
made at the close of the present one, and he has to pay out at once a large sum
by way of bounty, and provide barrels, salt, and other necessaries for the cure
before he knows even if the catch of the season just expiring will all be sold,
or how the markets will pulsate next year. On the other hand, the fisherman
has received his pay for his season’s fish, and very likely pocketed a sum of
from ten to thirty pounds as earnest-money for next year’s work. Then, again,
Norway. Each boat engaged in the sprat-fishery will use from twelve to
twenty barrels! Will not the consumption of such a quantity of roe tell by and
by on the cod-fishery?
Sprats, whether they be young herrings or no, are very plentiful in the
winter months, and afford a supply of wholesome food of the fish kind to
many who are unable to procure more expensive kinds. When the fishing for
garvies (sprats) was stopped a few years ago by order of the Board of White
Fisheries, there was quite a sensation in Edinburgh; and an agitation was got
up that has resulted in a partial resumption of the fishing, which is of
considerable value—about £50,000 in the Firth of Forth alone.
Commerce in herring is entirely different from commerce in any other
article, particularly in Scotland. In fact the fishery, as at present conducted, is
just another way of gambling. The home “curers” and foreign buyers are the
persons who at present keep the herring-fishery from stagnating, and the
goods (i.e. the fish) are generally all bought and sold long before they are
captured. The way of dealing in herring is pretty much as follows:—Owners
of boats are engaged to fish by curers, the bargains being usually that the
curer will take two hundred crans of herring—and a cran, it may be stated, is
forty-five gallons of ungutted fish; for these two hundred crans a certain sum
per cran is paid according to arrangement, the bargain including as well a
definite sum of ready money by way of bounty, perhaps also an allowance of
spirits, and the use of ground for the drying of the nets. On the other hand, the
boat-owner provides a boat, nets, buoys, and all the apparatus of the fishery,
and engages a crew to fish; his crew may, perhaps, be relatives and part-
owners sharing the venture with him, but usually the crew consists of hired
men who get so much wages at the end of the season, and have no risk or
profit. This is the plan followed by free and independent fishermen who are
really owners of their own boats and apparatus. It will thus be seen that the
curer is bargaining for two hundred crans of fish months before he knows that
a single herring will be captured; for the bargain of next season is always
made at the close of the present one, and he has to pay out at once a large sum
by way of bounty, and provide barrels, salt, and other necessaries for the cure
before he knows even if the catch of the season just expiring will all be sold,
or how the markets will pulsate next year. On the other hand, the fisherman
has received his pay for his season’s fish, and very likely pocketed a sum of
from ten to thirty pounds as earnest-money for next year’s work. Then, again,
Page 215
a certain number of curers who are men of capital will advance money to
young fishermen in order that they may purchase a boat and the necessary
quantity of netting to enable them to engage in the fishery—thus thirling the
boat to their service, very probably fixing an advantageous price per cran for
the herrings to be fished and supplied. Curers, again, who are not capitalists,
have to borrow from the buyers, because to compete with their fellows they
must be able to lend money for the purchase of boats and nets, or to advance
sums by way of bounty to the free boats; and thus a rotten unwholesome
system goes the round—fishermen, boat-builders, curers, and merchants all
hanging on each other, and evidencing that there is as much gambling in
herring-fishing as in horse-racing. The whole system of commerce connected
with this trade is decidedly unhealthy, and ought at once to be checked and
reconstructed if there be any logical method of doing it. At a port of three
hundred boats a sum of £145 was paid by the curers for “arles,” and spent in
the public-houses! More than £4000 was paid in bounties, and an advance of
nearly £7000 made on the various contracts, and all this money was paid
eight months before the fishing began. When the season is a favourable one
and plenty of fish are taken, then all goes well, and the evil day is postponed;
but if, as in one or two recent seasons, the take is poor, then there comes a
crash. One falls, and, like a row of bricks, the others all follow. At the large
fishing stations there are comparatively few of the boats that are thoroughly
free: they are tied up in some way between the buyers and curers, or they are
in pawn to some merchant who “backs” the nominal owner. The principal, or
at least the immediate sufferers by these arrangements are the hired men.
This “bounty,” as it is called, is a most reprehensible feature of herring
commerce, and although still the prevalent mode of doing business, has been
loudly declaimed against by all who have the real good of the fishermen at
heart. Often enough men who have obtained boats and nets on credit, and
hired persons to assist them during the fishery, are so unfortunate as not to
catch enough of herrings to pay their expenses. The curers for whom they
engaged to fish having retained most of the bounty money on account of
boats and nets, consequently the hired servants have frequently in such cases
to go home—sometimes to a great distance—penniless. It would be much
better if the old system of a share were re-introduced: in that case the hired
men would at least participate to the extent of the fishing, whether it were
good or bad. Boat-owners try of course to get as good terms as possible, as
well in the shape of price for herrings as in bounty and perquisites. For an
young fishermen in order that they may purchase a boat and the necessary
quantity of netting to enable them to engage in the fishery—thus thirling the
boat to their service, very probably fixing an advantageous price per cran for
the herrings to be fished and supplied. Curers, again, who are not capitalists,
have to borrow from the buyers, because to compete with their fellows they
must be able to lend money for the purchase of boats and nets, or to advance
sums by way of bounty to the free boats; and thus a rotten unwholesome
system goes the round—fishermen, boat-builders, curers, and merchants all
hanging on each other, and evidencing that there is as much gambling in
herring-fishing as in horse-racing. The whole system of commerce connected
with this trade is decidedly unhealthy, and ought at once to be checked and
reconstructed if there be any logical method of doing it. At a port of three
hundred boats a sum of £145 was paid by the curers for “arles,” and spent in
the public-houses! More than £4000 was paid in bounties, and an advance of
nearly £7000 made on the various contracts, and all this money was paid
eight months before the fishing began. When the season is a favourable one
and plenty of fish are taken, then all goes well, and the evil day is postponed;
but if, as in one or two recent seasons, the take is poor, then there comes a
crash. One falls, and, like a row of bricks, the others all follow. At the large
fishing stations there are comparatively few of the boats that are thoroughly
free: they are tied up in some way between the buyers and curers, or they are
in pawn to some merchant who “backs” the nominal owner. The principal, or
at least the immediate sufferers by these arrangements are the hired men.
This “bounty,” as it is called, is a most reprehensible feature of herring
commerce, and although still the prevalent mode of doing business, has been
loudly declaimed against by all who have the real good of the fishermen at
heart. Often enough men who have obtained boats and nets on credit, and
hired persons to assist them during the fishery, are so unfortunate as not to
catch enough of herrings to pay their expenses. The curers for whom they
engaged to fish having retained most of the bounty money on account of
boats and nets, consequently the hired servants have frequently in such cases
to go home—sometimes to a great distance—penniless. It would be much
better if the old system of a share were re-introduced: in that case the hired
men would at least participate to the extent of the fishing, whether it were
good or bad. Boat-owners try of course to get as good terms as possible, as
well in the shape of price for herrings as in bounty and perquisites. For an
Page 216
example of an engagement I may cite the case of a Burghhead boat, which
bargained for 15s. per cran, 20s. of engaging money (arles), ten gallons of
whisky, net-ground, net-driving—i.e. from the boat to the ground and back
again—and £20 of cash in the shape of a bounty.[9] At some places even
larger sums are asked for and obtained—as much as £54 in bounty and
perquisites. My idea is that there ought to be no “engagements,” no bounty,
and no perquisites. As each fishing comes round let the boats catch, and the
curers buy day by day as the fish arrive at the quay. This plan has already
been adopted at some fishing-towns, and is an obvious improvement on the
prevailing plan of gambling by means of “engagements” in advance.
In fact, this fishery is best described when it is called a lottery. No person
knows what the yield will be till the last moment: it may be abundant, or it
may be a total failure. Agriculturists are aware long before the reaping season
whether their crops are light or heavy, and they arrange accordingly; but if we
are to believe the fisherman, his harvest is entirely a matter of “luck.” It is
this belief in “luck” which is, in a great degree, the cause of our fisher-folk
not keeping pace with the times: they are greatly behind in all matters of
progress; our fishing towns look as if they were, so to speak, stereotyped. It is
a woeful time for the fisher-folk when the herrings fail them; for this great
harvest of the sea, which needs no tillage of the husbandman, the fruits of
which are reaped without either sowing seed or paying rent, is the chief
industry that the bulk of the coast population depend upon for a good sum of
money. The fishing is the bank, in which they have opened, and perhaps
exhausted, a cash-credit; for often enough the balance is on the wrong side of
the ledger, even after the fishing season has come and gone. In other words,
new boats have to be paid for out of the fishing; new clothes, new houses,
additional nets, and even weddings, are all dependent on the herring-fishery.
It is notable that after a favourable season the weddings among the fishing
populations are very numerous. The anxiety for a good season may be noted
all along the British coasts, from Newhaven to Yarmouth, or from Crail to
Wick.
The highest prices are paid for the early fish, contracts for these in a cured
state being sometimes fixed as high as forty-five shillings per barrel. These
are at once despatched to Germany, in the inland towns of which a prime salt
herring of the early cure is considered a great luxury, fetching sometimes the
handsome price of one shilling! Great quantities of cured herrings are sent to
Stettin or other German ports, and so eager are some of the merchants for an
bargained for 15s. per cran, 20s. of engaging money (arles), ten gallons of
whisky, net-ground, net-driving—i.e. from the boat to the ground and back
again—and £20 of cash in the shape of a bounty.[9] At some places even
larger sums are asked for and obtained—as much as £54 in bounty and
perquisites. My idea is that there ought to be no “engagements,” no bounty,
and no perquisites. As each fishing comes round let the boats catch, and the
curers buy day by day as the fish arrive at the quay. This plan has already
been adopted at some fishing-towns, and is an obvious improvement on the
prevailing plan of gambling by means of “engagements” in advance.
In fact, this fishery is best described when it is called a lottery. No person
knows what the yield will be till the last moment: it may be abundant, or it
may be a total failure. Agriculturists are aware long before the reaping season
whether their crops are light or heavy, and they arrange accordingly; but if we
are to believe the fisherman, his harvest is entirely a matter of “luck.” It is
this belief in “luck” which is, in a great degree, the cause of our fisher-folk
not keeping pace with the times: they are greatly behind in all matters of
progress; our fishing towns look as if they were, so to speak, stereotyped. It is
a woeful time for the fisher-folk when the herrings fail them; for this great
harvest of the sea, which needs no tillage of the husbandman, the fruits of
which are reaped without either sowing seed or paying rent, is the chief
industry that the bulk of the coast population depend upon for a good sum of
money. The fishing is the bank, in which they have opened, and perhaps
exhausted, a cash-credit; for often enough the balance is on the wrong side of
the ledger, even after the fishing season has come and gone. In other words,
new boats have to be paid for out of the fishing; new clothes, new houses,
additional nets, and even weddings, are all dependent on the herring-fishery.
It is notable that after a favourable season the weddings among the fishing
populations are very numerous. The anxiety for a good season may be noted
all along the British coasts, from Newhaven to Yarmouth, or from Crail to
Wick.
The highest prices are paid for the early fish, contracts for these in a cured
state being sometimes fixed as high as forty-five shillings per barrel. These
are at once despatched to Germany, in the inland towns of which a prime salt
herring of the early cure is considered a great luxury, fetching sometimes the
handsome price of one shilling! Great quantities of cured herrings are sent to
Stettin or other German ports, and so eager are some of the merchants for an
Page 217
early supply that in the beginning of the season they purchase quantities
unbranded, through the agency of the telegraph. On those parts of the coast
where the communication with large towns is easy, considerable quantities of
herring are purchased fresh, for transmission to Birmingham, Manchester,
and other inland cities. Buyers attend for that purpose, and send them off
frequently in an open truck, with only a slight covering to protect them from
the sun. It is needless to say that a fresh herring is looked upon as a luxury in
such places, and a demand exists that would exhaust any supply that could be
sent. During one day in last September what was thought to be a hopeless
glut of herrings arrived at Billingsgate; the consignment was so vast as quite
to alarm the salesmen of that market; but their fears were groundless, as
before noon every herring was sold. From ten to twelve thousand tons of
fresh herrings are sent from Dunbar alone, during the season, into inland
districts, being distributed by means of the railway, and also by cadgers.
Many of the Scottish herring-curers are men of enterprise and intelligence.
The late Mr. Methuen of Leith may be cited as an example of the class: he
was of humble parentage, but had the good fortune, by perseverance and
industry, to become the greatest herring-curer in the world. He raised his
gigantic business on a small foundation, which his father and he laid at
Burntisland in Fife. His business grew apace; his yards overflowed into the
streets, and his piles of barrels soon blocked up the passages. He gathered
knowledge of his business from all who could give it him; and in after years,
when his trade had grown to be the greatest of its kind, he found this
knowledge of great service to him. He was soon compelled, however, by the
extension of his connection, to seek larger head-quarters than he could obtain
at Burntisland. In 1833, therefore, he removed to Leith, the seaport of
Edinburgh, where he continued to carry on his business till the time of his
death. For thirty years he was at the head of the herring-trade in Britain, and
was so energetic and reputable in his dealings as really to command success,
in which, of course, he was materially aided by his rapidly-increasing capital.
He created curing-stations, and so forced business. Wherever he saw an
eligible spot, he marked it out as a place to cure in. His business widened and
widened, till thousands of the Scottish fishing-boats were ready to obey his
behests; and, not contented with what he had achieved in his own country, he
invaded England, and commenced stations along the east coast and on the
Isle of Man, having some time before established business relations on the
coast of Norway. Mr. Methuen took a warm interest in all questions
unbranded, through the agency of the telegraph. On those parts of the coast
where the communication with large towns is easy, considerable quantities of
herring are purchased fresh, for transmission to Birmingham, Manchester,
and other inland cities. Buyers attend for that purpose, and send them off
frequently in an open truck, with only a slight covering to protect them from
the sun. It is needless to say that a fresh herring is looked upon as a luxury in
such places, and a demand exists that would exhaust any supply that could be
sent. During one day in last September what was thought to be a hopeless
glut of herrings arrived at Billingsgate; the consignment was so vast as quite
to alarm the salesmen of that market; but their fears were groundless, as
before noon every herring was sold. From ten to twelve thousand tons of
fresh herrings are sent from Dunbar alone, during the season, into inland
districts, being distributed by means of the railway, and also by cadgers.
Many of the Scottish herring-curers are men of enterprise and intelligence.
The late Mr. Methuen of Leith may be cited as an example of the class: he
was of humble parentage, but had the good fortune, by perseverance and
industry, to become the greatest herring-curer in the world. He raised his
gigantic business on a small foundation, which his father and he laid at
Burntisland in Fife. His business grew apace; his yards overflowed into the
streets, and his piles of barrels soon blocked up the passages. He gathered
knowledge of his business from all who could give it him; and in after years,
when his trade had grown to be the greatest of its kind, he found this
knowledge of great service to him. He was soon compelled, however, by the
extension of his connection, to seek larger head-quarters than he could obtain
at Burntisland. In 1833, therefore, he removed to Leith, the seaport of
Edinburgh, where he continued to carry on his business till the time of his
death. For thirty years he was at the head of the herring-trade in Britain, and
was so energetic and reputable in his dealings as really to command success,
in which, of course, he was materially aided by his rapidly-increasing capital.
He created curing-stations, and so forced business. Wherever he saw an
eligible spot, he marked it out as a place to cure in. His business widened and
widened, till thousands of the Scottish fishing-boats were ready to obey his
behests; and, not contented with what he had achieved in his own country, he
invaded England, and commenced stations along the east coast and on the
Isle of Man, having some time before established business relations on the
coast of Norway. Mr. Methuen took a warm interest in all questions
Page 218
connected with the herring-fishery, and may be said to have carried on
business during the period when these fisheries were in their most prosperous
condition; in fact, he may be said to have seen the culmination of the trade.
He was foremost in action when an attempt was made to abolish the Fishery
Board for Scotland. His accurate acquaintance with the trade, and his
knowledge of the natural history of the fish, and the precise nature of his
statements as to the value of the Board, were the means of converting the
Government of his time, so that the Board was maintained in its integrity. Mr.
Methuen’s powers of observation were considerable; he once reasoned out by
a reference to some old letters the precise spot where a local shoal of herrings
was to be found. I have alluded to his plan of gathering knowledge from all
with whom he come in contact; he stored up such letters of his agents as
contained facts for future use, and often found them of service. At one of his
stations in the far North the fishing had been unsuccessful for the greater part
of the season, and there was no prospect of improvement, when he gave it his
consideration. Looking over his agent’s letters at said place for some years
back, he found, by a comparison of dates, that at a certain spot herrings were
to be found. He accordingly instructed his agent to send his boats to that spot.
The fishermen simply laughed at the idea of an individual sitting some
hundreds of miles away and telling them where to get fish. But as his orders
were positive, they had to obey, and the consequence was that they returned
the next morning loaded with herrings.
business during the period when these fisheries were in their most prosperous
condition; in fact, he may be said to have seen the culmination of the trade.
He was foremost in action when an attempt was made to abolish the Fishery
Board for Scotland. His accurate acquaintance with the trade, and his
knowledge of the natural history of the fish, and the precise nature of his
statements as to the value of the Board, were the means of converting the
Government of his time, so that the Board was maintained in its integrity. Mr.
Methuen’s powers of observation were considerable; he once reasoned out by
a reference to some old letters the precise spot where a local shoal of herrings
was to be found. I have alluded to his plan of gathering knowledge from all
with whom he come in contact; he stored up such letters of his agents as
contained facts for future use, and often found them of service. At one of his
stations in the far North the fishing had been unsuccessful for the greater part
of the season, and there was no prospect of improvement, when he gave it his
consideration. Looking over his agent’s letters at said place for some years
back, he found, by a comparison of dates, that at a certain spot herrings were
to be found. He accordingly instructed his agent to send his boats to that spot.
The fishermen simply laughed at the idea of an individual sitting some
hundreds of miles away and telling them where to get fish. But as his orders
were positive, they had to obey, and the consequence was that they returned
the next morning loaded with herrings.
Page 219
VIEW OF A CURING YARD.
Having explained the relation of the curers to the trade, I must now speak
of the cure—the greater number of the herrings caught on the coast of
Scotland being pickled in salt; a result originally, no doubt, of the want of
speedy modes of transit to large seats of population, where herrings would be
largely consumed if they could arrive in a sufficiently fresh state to be
palatable. At stations about Wick the quantity of herrings disposed of fresh is
comparatively small, so that by far the larger portion of the daily catch has to
be salted. This process during a good season employs a very large number of
persons, chiefly as coopers and gutters; and, as the barrels have to be
branded, by way of certificate of the quality of their contents, it is necessary
that the salting should be carefully done. As soon as the boats reach the
harbour—and as the fishing is appointed to be carried on after sunset they
arrive very early in the morning—the various crews commence to carry their
fish to the reception-troughs of the curers by whom they have been engaged.
A person in the interest of the curer checks the number of crans brought in,
Having explained the relation of the curers to the trade, I must now speak
of the cure—the greater number of the herrings caught on the coast of
Scotland being pickled in salt; a result originally, no doubt, of the want of
speedy modes of transit to large seats of population, where herrings would be
largely consumed if they could arrive in a sufficiently fresh state to be
palatable. At stations about Wick the quantity of herrings disposed of fresh is
comparatively small, so that by far the larger portion of the daily catch has to
be salted. This process during a good season employs a very large number of
persons, chiefly as coopers and gutters; and, as the barrels have to be
branded, by way of certificate of the quality of their contents, it is necessary
that the salting should be carefully done. As soon as the boats reach the
harbour—and as the fishing is appointed to be carried on after sunset they
arrive very early in the morning—the various crews commence to carry their
fish to the reception-troughs of the curers by whom they have been engaged.
A person in the interest of the curer checks the number of crans brought in,
Page 220
and sprinkles the fish from time to time with considerable quantities of salt.
As soon as a score or two of baskets have been emptied, the gutters set
earnestly to do their portion of the work, which is dirty and disagreeable in
the extreme. The gutters usually work in companies of about five—one or
two gutting, one or two carrying, and another packing. Basketfuls of the fish,
so soon as they are gutted, are carried to the back of the yard, and plunged
into a large tub, there to be roused and mixed up with salt; then the adroit and
active packer seizes a handful and arranges them with the greatest precision
in a barrel, a handful of salt being thrown over each layer as it is put in, so
that, in the short space of a few minutes, the large barrel is crammed full with
many hundred fish, all gutted, roused, and packed in a period of not more
than ten minutes. As the fish settle down in the barrel, more are added from
day to day, till it is thoroughly full and ready for the brand. On the proper
performance of these parts of the business, the quality of the cured fish very
much depends. The late Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, who was at one time
secretary to the Fishing Board, published plain instructions for taking and
curing herrings; he gives minute directions in all departments, and thus
speaks of the important duties of the coopers:—“During the period of the
curing, the cooper’s first employment in the morning should be to examine
every barrel packed on the previous day, in order to discover if any of them
have lost the pickle, so that he may have all such barrels immediately
repacked, salted, and pickled.... As already stated, the cooper in charge should
see that the gutters are furnished every morning with sharp knives. He should
be careful to strew salt among the herrings as they are turned into the gutting-
boxes; give a general but strict attention to the gutters, in order to insure that
they do their work properly; see that the herrings are properly sorted, and that
all the broken and injured fish are removed; and take care that the fish are
sufficiently and effectually roused. Then he should see that every barrel is
seasoned with water, and the hoops properly driven, before they are given to
the packers. He should likewise keep his eyes over the packers, to see that the
tiers of herrings are regularly laid and salted, and that a cover is placed on
every barrel immediately after it has been completely packed.”
I have a very few words to say about the brand: whether or not each barrel
of herrings should have stamped upon it a government mark indicative of its
quality has been one of the most fertile subjects of controversy in connection
with herring commerce. Now the brand—which was devised during the time
the British government paid a bounty to the curer as an encouragement to fish
As soon as a score or two of baskets have been emptied, the gutters set
earnestly to do their portion of the work, which is dirty and disagreeable in
the extreme. The gutters usually work in companies of about five—one or
two gutting, one or two carrying, and another packing. Basketfuls of the fish,
so soon as they are gutted, are carried to the back of the yard, and plunged
into a large tub, there to be roused and mixed up with salt; then the adroit and
active packer seizes a handful and arranges them with the greatest precision
in a barrel, a handful of salt being thrown over each layer as it is put in, so
that, in the short space of a few minutes, the large barrel is crammed full with
many hundred fish, all gutted, roused, and packed in a period of not more
than ten minutes. As the fish settle down in the barrel, more are added from
day to day, till it is thoroughly full and ready for the brand. On the proper
performance of these parts of the business, the quality of the cured fish very
much depends. The late Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, who was at one time
secretary to the Fishing Board, published plain instructions for taking and
curing herrings; he gives minute directions in all departments, and thus
speaks of the important duties of the coopers:—“During the period of the
curing, the cooper’s first employment in the morning should be to examine
every barrel packed on the previous day, in order to discover if any of them
have lost the pickle, so that he may have all such barrels immediately
repacked, salted, and pickled.... As already stated, the cooper in charge should
see that the gutters are furnished every morning with sharp knives. He should
be careful to strew salt among the herrings as they are turned into the gutting-
boxes; give a general but strict attention to the gutters, in order to insure that
they do their work properly; see that the herrings are properly sorted, and that
all the broken and injured fish are removed; and take care that the fish are
sufficiently and effectually roused. Then he should see that every barrel is
seasoned with water, and the hoops properly driven, before they are given to
the packers. He should likewise keep his eyes over the packers, to see that the
tiers of herrings are regularly laid and salted, and that a cover is placed on
every barrel immediately after it has been completely packed.”
I have a very few words to say about the brand: whether or not each barrel
of herrings should have stamped upon it a government mark indicative of its
quality has been one of the most fertile subjects of controversy in connection
with herring commerce. Now the brand—which was devised during the time
the British government paid a bounty to the curer as an encouragement to fish
Page 221
for herrings—is voluntary, and has to be paid for, and in time, there can be no
doubt, it will be altogether discontinued; and it would have been better
perhaps had it never existed, although its continuance has been advocated by
many excellent persons on the ground of its service to the fisheries. Other
kinds of goods have been able to command a market without the interference
of government—such as cotton and other textile fabrics, cheese, etc. Why
then could not we sell our herrings on the faith of the curer? Government is
not asked to brand our broadcloths, or our blankets, nor yet our steam-
engines; and I hope soon to see a total abolition of the brand on our herring-
barrels; but although I am an advocate for the total abolition of the brand I
wish the present Fishery Board continued: there is ample employment for all
the officers of that Board in acting as statisticians and police; we can never
obtain sufficient information about the capture and disposal of the fish, the
fluctuations of the fishery, etc. etc.
The following detailed description of the “herring-harvest,” as gathered in
the Moray Frith, may be of interest to the general reader. It is reprinted, by
permission, from a paper contributed by the author to the Cornhill Magazine:
—
The boats usually start for the fishing-ground an hour or two before sunset,
and are generally manned by four men and a boy, in addition to the owner or
skipper. The nets, which have been carried inland in the morning, in order
that they might be thoroughly dried, have been brought to the boat in a cart or
waggon. On board there is a keg of water and a bag of bread or hard biscuit;
and in addition to these simple necessaries, our boat contains a bottle of
whisky which we have presented by way of paying our footing. The name of
our skipper is Francis Sinclair, and a very gallant-looking fellow he is; and as
to his dress—why, his boots alone would ensure the success of a Surrey
melodrama; and neither Truefit nor Ross could satisfactorily imitate his beard
and whiskers. Having got safely on board—a rather difficult matter in a
crowded harbour, where the boats are elbowing each other for room—we
contrive, with some labour, to work our way out of the narrow-necked
harbour into the bay, along with the nine hundred and ninety-nine boats that
are to accompany us in our night’s avocation. The heights of Pulteneytown,
which command the quays, are covered with spectators admiring the pour-out
of the herring fleet and wishing with all their hearts “God speed” to the
venturers: old salts who have long retired from active seamanship are
counting their “takes” over again; and the curer is mentally reckoning up the
doubt, it will be altogether discontinued; and it would have been better
perhaps had it never existed, although its continuance has been advocated by
many excellent persons on the ground of its service to the fisheries. Other
kinds of goods have been able to command a market without the interference
of government—such as cotton and other textile fabrics, cheese, etc. Why
then could not we sell our herrings on the faith of the curer? Government is
not asked to brand our broadcloths, or our blankets, nor yet our steam-
engines; and I hope soon to see a total abolition of the brand on our herring-
barrels; but although I am an advocate for the total abolition of the brand I
wish the present Fishery Board continued: there is ample employment for all
the officers of that Board in acting as statisticians and police; we can never
obtain sufficient information about the capture and disposal of the fish, the
fluctuations of the fishery, etc. etc.
The following detailed description of the “herring-harvest,” as gathered in
the Moray Frith, may be of interest to the general reader. It is reprinted, by
permission, from a paper contributed by the author to the Cornhill Magazine:
—
The boats usually start for the fishing-ground an hour or two before sunset,
and are generally manned by four men and a boy, in addition to the owner or
skipper. The nets, which have been carried inland in the morning, in order
that they might be thoroughly dried, have been brought to the boat in a cart or
waggon. On board there is a keg of water and a bag of bread or hard biscuit;
and in addition to these simple necessaries, our boat contains a bottle of
whisky which we have presented by way of paying our footing. The name of
our skipper is Francis Sinclair, and a very gallant-looking fellow he is; and as
to his dress—why, his boots alone would ensure the success of a Surrey
melodrama; and neither Truefit nor Ross could satisfactorily imitate his beard
and whiskers. Having got safely on board—a rather difficult matter in a
crowded harbour, where the boats are elbowing each other for room—we
contrive, with some labour, to work our way out of the narrow-necked
harbour into the bay, along with the nine hundred and ninety-nine boats that
are to accompany us in our night’s avocation. The heights of Pulteneytown,
which command the quays, are covered with spectators admiring the pour-out
of the herring fleet and wishing with all their hearts “God speed” to the
venturers: old salts who have long retired from active seamanship are
counting their “takes” over again; and the curer is mentally reckoning up the
Page 222
morrow’s catch. Janet and Jeanie are smiling a kindly good-bye to “faither,”
and hoping for the safe return of Donald or Murdoch; and crowds of people
are scattered on the heights, all taking various degrees of interest in the scene,
which is stirringly picturesque to the eye of the tourist, and suggestive to the
thoughtful observer.
Bounding gaily over the waves, which are crisping and curling their crests
under the influence of the land-breeze, our shoulder-of-mutton sail filled with
a good capful of wind, we hug the rocky coast, passing the ruined tower
known as “the Old Man of Wick,” which serves as a capital landmark for the
fleet. Soon the red sun begins to dip into the golden west, burnishing the
waves with lustrous crimson and silver, and against the darkening eastern sky
the thousand sails of the herring-fleet blaze like sheets of flame. The shore
becomes more and more indistinct, and the beetling cliffs assume fantastic
and weird shapes, whilst the moaning waters rush into deep cavernous
recesses with a wild and monotonous sough, that falls on the ear with a
deeper and a deeper melancholy, broken only by the shrill wail of the herring-
gull. A dull hot haze settles on the scene, through which the coppery rays of
the sun penetrate, powerless to cast a shadow. The scene grows more and
more picturesque as the glowing sails of the fleet fade into grey specks dimly
seen. Anon the breeze freshens and our boat cleaves the water with redoubled
speed: we seem to sail farther and farther into the gloom, until the boundary-
line between sea and shore becomes lost to the sight.
We ought to have shot our nets before it became so dark, but our skipper,
being anxious to hit upon the right place, so as to save a second shooting,
tacked up and down, uncertain where to take up his station. We had studied
the movements of certain “wise men” of the fishery—men who are always
lucky, and who find out the fish when others fail; but our crew became
impatient when they began to smell the water, which had an oily gleam upon
it indicative of herring, and sent out from the bows of the boat bright
phosphorescent sparkles of light. The men several times thought they were
right over the fish, but the skipper knew better. At last, after a lengthened
cruise, our commander, who had been silent for half-an-hour, jumped up and
called to action. “Up, men, and at ’em,” was then the order of the night. The
preparations for shooting the nets at once began by our lowering sail.
Surrounding us on all sides was to be seen a moving world of boats; many
with their sails down, their nets floating in the water, and their crews at rest,
indulging in fitful snatches of sleep. Other boats again were still flitting
and hoping for the safe return of Donald or Murdoch; and crowds of people
are scattered on the heights, all taking various degrees of interest in the scene,
which is stirringly picturesque to the eye of the tourist, and suggestive to the
thoughtful observer.
Bounding gaily over the waves, which are crisping and curling their crests
under the influence of the land-breeze, our shoulder-of-mutton sail filled with
a good capful of wind, we hug the rocky coast, passing the ruined tower
known as “the Old Man of Wick,” which serves as a capital landmark for the
fleet. Soon the red sun begins to dip into the golden west, burnishing the
waves with lustrous crimson and silver, and against the darkening eastern sky
the thousand sails of the herring-fleet blaze like sheets of flame. The shore
becomes more and more indistinct, and the beetling cliffs assume fantastic
and weird shapes, whilst the moaning waters rush into deep cavernous
recesses with a wild and monotonous sough, that falls on the ear with a
deeper and a deeper melancholy, broken only by the shrill wail of the herring-
gull. A dull hot haze settles on the scene, through which the coppery rays of
the sun penetrate, powerless to cast a shadow. The scene grows more and
more picturesque as the glowing sails of the fleet fade into grey specks dimly
seen. Anon the breeze freshens and our boat cleaves the water with redoubled
speed: we seem to sail farther and farther into the gloom, until the boundary-
line between sea and shore becomes lost to the sight.
We ought to have shot our nets before it became so dark, but our skipper,
being anxious to hit upon the right place, so as to save a second shooting,
tacked up and down, uncertain where to take up his station. We had studied
the movements of certain “wise men” of the fishery—men who are always
lucky, and who find out the fish when others fail; but our crew became
impatient when they began to smell the water, which had an oily gleam upon
it indicative of herring, and sent out from the bows of the boat bright
phosphorescent sparkles of light. The men several times thought they were
right over the fish, but the skipper knew better. At last, after a lengthened
cruise, our commander, who had been silent for half-an-hour, jumped up and
called to action. “Up, men, and at ’em,” was then the order of the night. The
preparations for shooting the nets at once began by our lowering sail.
Surrounding us on all sides was to be seen a moving world of boats; many
with their sails down, their nets floating in the water, and their crews at rest,
indulging in fitful snatches of sleep. Other boats again were still flitting
Page 223
uneasily about; their skippers, like our own, anxious to shoot in the best
place, but as yet uncertain where to cast: they wait till they see indications of
fish in other nets. By and by we are ourselves ready, the sinker goes splash
into the water, the “dog” (a large bladder, or inflated skin of some kind, to
mark the far end of the train) is heaved overboard, and the nets, breadth after
breadth, follow as fast as the men can pay them out (each division being
marked by a large painted bladder), till the immense train sinks into the
water, forming a perforated wall a mile long and many feet in depth; the
“dog” and the marking bladders floating and dipping in a long zigzag line,
reminding one of the imaginary coils of the great sea-serpent.
Wrapped in the folds of a sail and rocked by the heaving waves we tried in
vain to snatch a brief nap, though those who are accustomed to such beds can
sleep well enough in a herring-boat. The skipper, too, slept with one eye
open; for the boat being his property, and the risk all his, he required to look
about him, as the nets are apt to become entangled with those belonging to
other fishermen, or to be torn away by surrounding boats. After three hours’
quietude, beneath a beautiful sky, the stars—
“Those eternal orbs that beautify the night”—
began to pale their fires, and the grey dawn appearing indicated that it was
time to take stock. On reckoning up we found that we had floated gently with
the tide till we were a long distance away from the harbour. The skipper had a
presentiment that there were fish in his nets; indeed the bobbing down of a
few of the bladders had made it almost a certainty; at any rate we resolved to
examine the drift, and see if there were any fish. It was a moment of
suspense, while, by means of the swing-rope, the boat was hauled up to the
nets. “Hurrah!” at last exclaimed Murdoch of the Isle of Skye, “there’s a lot
of fish, skipper, and no mistake.” Murdoch’s news was true; our nets were
silvery with herrings—so laden, in fact, that it took a long time to haul them
in. It was a beautiful sight to see the shimmering fish as they came up like a
sheet of silver from the water, each uttering a weak death-chirp as it was
flung to the bottom of the boat. Formerly the fish were left in the meshes of
the nets till the boat arrived in the harbour; but now, as the net is hauled on
board, they are at once shaken out. As our silvery treasure showers into the
boat we roughly guess our capture at fifty crans—a capital night’s work.
The herrings being all on board, our duty is now to “up sail” and get home:
the herrings cannot be too soon among the salt. As we make for the harbour,
place, but as yet uncertain where to cast: they wait till they see indications of
fish in other nets. By and by we are ourselves ready, the sinker goes splash
into the water, the “dog” (a large bladder, or inflated skin of some kind, to
mark the far end of the train) is heaved overboard, and the nets, breadth after
breadth, follow as fast as the men can pay them out (each division being
marked by a large painted bladder), till the immense train sinks into the
water, forming a perforated wall a mile long and many feet in depth; the
“dog” and the marking bladders floating and dipping in a long zigzag line,
reminding one of the imaginary coils of the great sea-serpent.
Wrapped in the folds of a sail and rocked by the heaving waves we tried in
vain to snatch a brief nap, though those who are accustomed to such beds can
sleep well enough in a herring-boat. The skipper, too, slept with one eye
open; for the boat being his property, and the risk all his, he required to look
about him, as the nets are apt to become entangled with those belonging to
other fishermen, or to be torn away by surrounding boats. After three hours’
quietude, beneath a beautiful sky, the stars—
“Those eternal orbs that beautify the night”—
began to pale their fires, and the grey dawn appearing indicated that it was
time to take stock. On reckoning up we found that we had floated gently with
the tide till we were a long distance away from the harbour. The skipper had a
presentiment that there were fish in his nets; indeed the bobbing down of a
few of the bladders had made it almost a certainty; at any rate we resolved to
examine the drift, and see if there were any fish. It was a moment of
suspense, while, by means of the swing-rope, the boat was hauled up to the
nets. “Hurrah!” at last exclaimed Murdoch of the Isle of Skye, “there’s a lot
of fish, skipper, and no mistake.” Murdoch’s news was true; our nets were
silvery with herrings—so laden, in fact, that it took a long time to haul them
in. It was a beautiful sight to see the shimmering fish as they came up like a
sheet of silver from the water, each uttering a weak death-chirp as it was
flung to the bottom of the boat. Formerly the fish were left in the meshes of
the nets till the boat arrived in the harbour; but now, as the net is hauled on
board, they are at once shaken out. As our silvery treasure showers into the
boat we roughly guess our capture at fifty crans—a capital night’s work.
The herrings being all on board, our duty is now to “up sail” and get home:
the herrings cannot be too soon among the salt. As we make for the harbour,
Page 224
we discern at once how rightly the term lottery has been applied to the
herring-fishery. Boats which fished quite near our own were empty; while
others again greatly exceeded our catch. “It is entirely chance work,” said our
skipper; “and although there may sometimes be millions of fish in the bay,
the whole fleet may not divide a hundred crans between them.” On some
occasions, however, the shoal is hit so exactly that the fleet may bring into the
harbour a quantity of fish that in the gross would be an ample fortune. So
heavy are the “takes” occasionally, that we have known the nets of many
boats to be torn away and lost through the sheer weight of the fish which
were enmeshed in them.
The favouring breeze soon carried us to the quay, where the boats were
already arriving in hundreds, and where we were warmly welcomed by the
wife of our skipper, who bestowed on us, as the lucky cause of the miraculous
draught, a very pleasant smile. When we arrived the cure was going on with
startling rapidity. The night had been a golden one for the fishers—calm and
beautiful, the water being merely rippled by the land-breeze. But it is not
always so in the Bay of Wick: the herring-fleet has been more than once
overtaken by a fierce storm, when valuable lives have been lost, and
thousands of pounds’ worth of netting and boats destroyed. On such
occasions the gladdening sights of the herring-fishery are changed to wailing
and sorrow. It is no wonder that the heavens are eagerly scanned as the boats
marshal their way out of the harbour, and the speck on the distant horizon
keenly watched as it grows into a mass of gloomy clouds. As the song says,
“Caller herrin’” represent the lives of men; and many a despairing wife and
mother can tell a sad tale of the havoc created by the summer gales on our
exposed northern coast.
From the heights of Pulteneytown, overlooking the quays and curers’
stations, one has before him, as it were, an extended plain, covered with
thousands and tens of thousands of barrels, interspersed at short distances
with the busy scene of delivery, of packing, and of salting, and all the bustle
and detail attendant on the cure. It is a scene difficult to describe, and has
ever struck those witnessing it for the first time with wonder and surprise.
Having visited Wick in the very heat of the season, and for the express
purpose of gaining correct information about this important branch of our
national industry, I am enabled to offer a slight description of the place and its
appurtenances. Travellers by the steamboat usually arrive at the very time the
“herring-drave” is making for the harbour; and a beautiful sight it is to see the
herring-fishery. Boats which fished quite near our own were empty; while
others again greatly exceeded our catch. “It is entirely chance work,” said our
skipper; “and although there may sometimes be millions of fish in the bay,
the whole fleet may not divide a hundred crans between them.” On some
occasions, however, the shoal is hit so exactly that the fleet may bring into the
harbour a quantity of fish that in the gross would be an ample fortune. So
heavy are the “takes” occasionally, that we have known the nets of many
boats to be torn away and lost through the sheer weight of the fish which
were enmeshed in them.
The favouring breeze soon carried us to the quay, where the boats were
already arriving in hundreds, and where we were warmly welcomed by the
wife of our skipper, who bestowed on us, as the lucky cause of the miraculous
draught, a very pleasant smile. When we arrived the cure was going on with
startling rapidity. The night had been a golden one for the fishers—calm and
beautiful, the water being merely rippled by the land-breeze. But it is not
always so in the Bay of Wick: the herring-fleet has been more than once
overtaken by a fierce storm, when valuable lives have been lost, and
thousands of pounds’ worth of netting and boats destroyed. On such
occasions the gladdening sights of the herring-fishery are changed to wailing
and sorrow. It is no wonder that the heavens are eagerly scanned as the boats
marshal their way out of the harbour, and the speck on the distant horizon
keenly watched as it grows into a mass of gloomy clouds. As the song says,
“Caller herrin’” represent the lives of men; and many a despairing wife and
mother can tell a sad tale of the havoc created by the summer gales on our
exposed northern coast.
From the heights of Pulteneytown, overlooking the quays and curers’
stations, one has before him, as it were, an extended plain, covered with
thousands and tens of thousands of barrels, interspersed at short distances
with the busy scene of delivery, of packing, and of salting, and all the bustle
and detail attendant on the cure. It is a scene difficult to describe, and has
ever struck those witnessing it for the first time with wonder and surprise.
Having visited Wick in the very heat of the season, and for the express
purpose of gaining correct information about this important branch of our
national industry, I am enabled to offer a slight description of the place and its
appurtenances. Travellers by the steamboat usually arrive at the very time the
“herring-drave” is making for the harbour; and a beautiful sight it is to see the
Page 225
magnificent fleet of boats belonging to the district, radiant in the light of the
rising sun, all steadily steering to the one point, ready to add a large quota to
the wealth of industrial Scotland. As we wend our way from the little jagged
rock at which we are landed by the small boat attendant on the steamer, we
obtain a glimpse of the one distinguishing feature of the town—the herring
commerce. On all sides we are surrounded by herring. On our left hand
countless basketfuls are being poured into the immense gutting-troughs, and
on the right hand there are countless basketfuls being carried from the three
or four hundred boats which are ranged on that particular side of the harbour;
and behind the troughs more basketfuls are being carried to the packers. The
very infants are seen studying the “gentle art;” and countless rows of the
breechless gamins de Wick are busy hooking up the silly “poddlies.” All
around the atmosphere is humid; the sailors are dripping, the herring-gutters
and packers are dripping, and every thing and person appears wet and
comfortless; and as you pace along you are nearly ankle-deep in brine.
Meantime the herrings are being shovelled about in the large shallow troughs
with immense wooden spades, and with very little ceremony. Brawny men
pour them from the baskets on their shoulders into the aforesaid troughs, and
other brawny men dash them about with more wooden spades, and then
sprinkle salt over each new parcel as it is poured in, till there is a sufficient
quantity to warrant the commencement of the important operation of gutting
and packing. Men are rushing wildly about with note-books, making
mysterious-looking entries. Carts are being filled with dripping nets ready to
hurry them off to the fields to dry. The screeching of saws among billet-
wood, and the plashing of the neighbouring water-wheel, add to the great
babel of sound that deafens you on every side. Flying about, blood-
bespattered and hideously picturesque, we observe the gutters; and on all
hands we may note thousands of herring-barrels, and piles of billet-wood
ready to convert into staves. At first sight every person looks mad—some
appear so from their costume, others from their manner—and the confusion
seems inextricable; but there is method in their madness, and even out of the
chaos of Wick harbour comes regularity, as I have endeavoured to show.
So soon as a sufficient quantity of fish has been brought from the boats and
emptied into the gutting-troughs, another of the great scenes commences—
viz. the process of evisceration. This is performed by females, hundreds of
whom annually find well-paid occupation at the gutting-troughs. It is a
bloody business; and the gaily-dressed and dashing females whom we had
rising sun, all steadily steering to the one point, ready to add a large quota to
the wealth of industrial Scotland. As we wend our way from the little jagged
rock at which we are landed by the small boat attendant on the steamer, we
obtain a glimpse of the one distinguishing feature of the town—the herring
commerce. On all sides we are surrounded by herring. On our left hand
countless basketfuls are being poured into the immense gutting-troughs, and
on the right hand there are countless basketfuls being carried from the three
or four hundred boats which are ranged on that particular side of the harbour;
and behind the troughs more basketfuls are being carried to the packers. The
very infants are seen studying the “gentle art;” and countless rows of the
breechless gamins de Wick are busy hooking up the silly “poddlies.” All
around the atmosphere is humid; the sailors are dripping, the herring-gutters
and packers are dripping, and every thing and person appears wet and
comfortless; and as you pace along you are nearly ankle-deep in brine.
Meantime the herrings are being shovelled about in the large shallow troughs
with immense wooden spades, and with very little ceremony. Brawny men
pour them from the baskets on their shoulders into the aforesaid troughs, and
other brawny men dash them about with more wooden spades, and then
sprinkle salt over each new parcel as it is poured in, till there is a sufficient
quantity to warrant the commencement of the important operation of gutting
and packing. Men are rushing wildly about with note-books, making
mysterious-looking entries. Carts are being filled with dripping nets ready to
hurry them off to the fields to dry. The screeching of saws among billet-
wood, and the plashing of the neighbouring water-wheel, add to the great
babel of sound that deafens you on every side. Flying about, blood-
bespattered and hideously picturesque, we observe the gutters; and on all
hands we may note thousands of herring-barrels, and piles of billet-wood
ready to convert into staves. At first sight every person looks mad—some
appear so from their costume, others from their manner—and the confusion
seems inextricable; but there is method in their madness, and even out of the
chaos of Wick harbour comes regularity, as I have endeavoured to show.
So soon as a sufficient quantity of fish has been brought from the boats and
emptied into the gutting-troughs, another of the great scenes commences—
viz. the process of evisceration. This is performed by females, hundreds of
whom annually find well-paid occupation at the gutting-troughs. It is a
bloody business; and the gaily-dressed and dashing females whom we had
Page 226
observed lounging about the curing-yards, waiting for the arrival of the fish,
are soon most wonderfully transmogrified. They of course put on a suit of
apparel adapted to the business they have in hand—generally of oilskin, and
often much worn. Behold them, then, about ten or eleven o’clock in the
forenoon, when the gutting scene is at its height, and after they have been at
work for an hour or so: their hands, their necks, their busts, their
“Dreadful faces throng’d, and fiery arms”—
their every bit about them, fore and aft, are spotted and besprinkled o’er with
little scarlet clots of gills and guts; or as Southey says of Don Roderick, after
the last and fatal fight—
“Their flanks incarnadined,
Their poitral smear’d with blood”—
See yonder trough, surrounded by a score of fierce eviscerators, two of them
wearing the badge of widowhood! How deftly they ply the knife! It is ever a
bob down to seize a herring, and a bob up to throw it into the basket, and the
operation is over. It is performed with lightning-like rapidity by a mere turn
of the hand, and thirty or forty fish are operated upon before you have time to
note sixty ticks of your watch. These ruthless widows seize upon the dead
herrings with such a fierceness as almost to denote revenge for their
husbands’ deaths; for they, alas! fell victims to the herring lottery, and the
widows scatter about the gills and guts as if they had no bowels of
compassion.
In addition to herrings that are pickled and those sold in a fresh state, great
quantities are made into what are called “bloaters,” or transformed into
“reds.” At Yarmouth immense quantities of bloaters and reds are annually
prepared for the English markets. The bloaters are very slightly cured and as
slightly smoked, being prepared for immediate sale; but the herrings brought
into Yarmouth are cured in various ways: the bloaters are for quick sale and
speedy consumption; then there is a special cure for fish sent to the
Mediterranean—“Straits-men” I think these are called; then there are the
black herrings, which have a really fine flavour. In fact the Yarmouth herrings
are so cured as to be suitable to particular markets. It may interest the general
reader to know that the name of “bloater” is derived from the herring
beginning to swell or bloat during the process of curing. Small logs of oak are
are soon most wonderfully transmogrified. They of course put on a suit of
apparel adapted to the business they have in hand—generally of oilskin, and
often much worn. Behold them, then, about ten or eleven o’clock in the
forenoon, when the gutting scene is at its height, and after they have been at
work for an hour or so: their hands, their necks, their busts, their
“Dreadful faces throng’d, and fiery arms”—
their every bit about them, fore and aft, are spotted and besprinkled o’er with
little scarlet clots of gills and guts; or as Southey says of Don Roderick, after
the last and fatal fight—
“Their flanks incarnadined,
Their poitral smear’d with blood”—
See yonder trough, surrounded by a score of fierce eviscerators, two of them
wearing the badge of widowhood! How deftly they ply the knife! It is ever a
bob down to seize a herring, and a bob up to throw it into the basket, and the
operation is over. It is performed with lightning-like rapidity by a mere turn
of the hand, and thirty or forty fish are operated upon before you have time to
note sixty ticks of your watch. These ruthless widows seize upon the dead
herrings with such a fierceness as almost to denote revenge for their
husbands’ deaths; for they, alas! fell victims to the herring lottery, and the
widows scatter about the gills and guts as if they had no bowels of
compassion.
In addition to herrings that are pickled and those sold in a fresh state, great
quantities are made into what are called “bloaters,” or transformed into
“reds.” At Yarmouth immense quantities of bloaters and reds are annually
prepared for the English markets. The bloaters are very slightly cured and as
slightly smoked, being prepared for immediate sale; but the herrings brought
into Yarmouth are cured in various ways: the bloaters are for quick sale and
speedy consumption; then there is a special cure for fish sent to the
Mediterranean—“Straits-men” I think these are called; then there are the
black herrings, which have a really fine flavour. In fact the Yarmouth herrings
are so cured as to be suitable to particular markets. It may interest the general
reader to know that the name of “bloater” is derived from the herring
beginning to swell or bloat during the process of curing. Small logs of oak are
Page 227
burned to produce the smoke, and the fish are all put on “spits” which are run
through the gills. The “spitters” of Yarmouth are quite as dexterous as the
gutters of Wick, a woman being able to spit a last per day. Like the gutters
and packers of Wick, the spitters of Yarmouth work in gangs. The fish, after
being hung and smoked, are packed in barrels, each containing seven hundred
and fifty fish.
The Yarmouth boats do not return to harbour every morning, like the
Scotch boats; being decked vessels of some size, from fifty to eighty tons,
costing about £1000, and having stowage for about fifty lasts of herrings,
they are enabled to remain at sea for some days, usually from three to six, and
of course they are able to use their small boats in the fishery, a man or two
being left in charge of the large vessel, while the majority of the hands are out
in the boats fishing. There has always been a busy herring-fishery at the port
of Yarmouth. A century ago upwards of two hundred vessels were fitted out
for the herring-fishery, and these afforded employment to a large number of
people—as many as six thousand being employed in one way or the other in
connection with the fishery. The Yarmouth boats or busses are not unlike the
boats once used in Scotland, which have been already described. They carry
from fifteen to twenty lasts of herrings (a last, counted fisherwise, is more
than 13,000 herrings, but nominally it is 10,000 fish), and are manned with
some fourteen men or boys.
There has been a long-continued controversy in Scotland as to the best
kind of fishing-boats, certain parties arguing that none but decked vessels
ought to be used, which we think would be a great mistake so long as the
fishing is carried on as at present. In the first place, there is no harbour
accommodation for a fleet of large decked vessels; the present herring-boats,
when not in use, are drawn up on the beach, where they can readily be
examined and repaired, and can be easily pushed into the water when again
required. In the second place, these herring-boats rarely go far from their
fishing-port; a voyage of from one to three hours carries them to the fishing-
place which they have selected—the chief fisheries being just off the coast;
and as they have only to spend a few hours on the fishing-ground before
returning to port, the present size of boat is in every way convenient for the
voyage. And, in the third place, the open boats have this advantage—viz. that
it is easier to fish from one of them than from a larger vessel—the great
length of the present drift of nets involving very severe labour, both in the
letting of the nets out from the boat and in hauling them in when laden with
through the gills. The “spitters” of Yarmouth are quite as dexterous as the
gutters of Wick, a woman being able to spit a last per day. Like the gutters
and packers of Wick, the spitters of Yarmouth work in gangs. The fish, after
being hung and smoked, are packed in barrels, each containing seven hundred
and fifty fish.
The Yarmouth boats do not return to harbour every morning, like the
Scotch boats; being decked vessels of some size, from fifty to eighty tons,
costing about £1000, and having stowage for about fifty lasts of herrings,
they are enabled to remain at sea for some days, usually from three to six, and
of course they are able to use their small boats in the fishery, a man or two
being left in charge of the large vessel, while the majority of the hands are out
in the boats fishing. There has always been a busy herring-fishery at the port
of Yarmouth. A century ago upwards of two hundred vessels were fitted out
for the herring-fishery, and these afforded employment to a large number of
people—as many as six thousand being employed in one way or the other in
connection with the fishery. The Yarmouth boats or busses are not unlike the
boats once used in Scotland, which have been already described. They carry
from fifteen to twenty lasts of herrings (a last, counted fisherwise, is more
than 13,000 herrings, but nominally it is 10,000 fish), and are manned with
some fourteen men or boys.
There has been a long-continued controversy in Scotland as to the best
kind of fishing-boats, certain parties arguing that none but decked vessels
ought to be used, which we think would be a great mistake so long as the
fishing is carried on as at present. In the first place, there is no harbour
accommodation for a fleet of large decked vessels; the present herring-boats,
when not in use, are drawn up on the beach, where they can readily be
examined and repaired, and can be easily pushed into the water when again
required. In the second place, these herring-boats rarely go far from their
fishing-port; a voyage of from one to three hours carries them to the fishing-
place which they have selected—the chief fisheries being just off the coast;
and as they have only to spend a few hours on the fishing-ground before
returning to port, the present size of boat is in every way convenient for the
voyage. And, in the third place, the open boats have this advantage—viz. that
it is easier to fish from one of them than from a larger vessel—the great
length of the present drift of nets involving very severe labour, both in the
letting of the nets out from the boat and in hauling them in when laden with
Page 228
fish. So long, therefore, as the herring-fishery is a coast one, the present style
of boat is the best that can be employed. If it were necessary for the boats to
go far out to sea, involving a voyage of days, then it would be proper to have
larger vessels, because it is absolutely necessary that the herrings should be
cured within a few hours of their being captured.
The following figures as to the catch of 1862 and 1863, and as to the
number of boats and people employed, are from the official returns of the
fishing of these two years; in fact I have made a complete though brief
abridgment of the whole papers, which, at the time I write, are the latest
published. The revenue derived under the Act for the branding of herrings,
passed in 1859, amounted to £5801: 12: 4 in 1862, being an increase of
£3157: 0: 4 over that of 1859; and in 1863 the brand fees produced the sum of
£4618: 16s. The returns of the herring-fishing of 1863, as compared with that
of 1862, which was, however, an extraordinarily good year, are as follow:—
Barrels. Barrels. Barrels.
1862. Cured, 830,904 Branded, 346,712 Ex., 494,910
1863. Do. 654,816½ Do. 276,880½ Do. 407,761½
The quantity of herrings branded out of the fishing of 1862 was, as seen
above, 346,712 barrels, a number greatly exceeding that of any previous year;
which shows not only that the fishing was very productive, but also the great
demand for branded herrings, the reliance of the Continent upon the brand
(the chief herring trade there being in barrels that have been branded), and the
steady improvement in the cure of the fish. The fishing of 1863, when
compared with those of 1860 and 1861—fishings of which the total amounts
are nearer to that of 1863 than that of 1862—also show this in a remarkable
degree; for we find from the returns that out of a cure in 1863 less by 26,377
barrels than the cure of 1860, there were branded 44,967 barrels more and
exported 29,791 barrels more than in 1860; that out of a cure in 1863 less by
14,012 barrels than the cure of 1861, there were branded 11,533 barrels more
and exported 17,448 barrels more than in 1861. A comparison of the rate per
cent which the quantity branded forms of the total quantity cured shows this
still more clearly. In 1860 the rate was 55½ per cent; in 1861 it was 58⅓ per
cent; in 1862, 59½; and in 1863 it was 62¼ per cent.
The quantity cured in 1862 exceeds, by upwards of 50,000 barrels, that of
any previous year’s fishing. The districts in which an increase of take was
chiefly obtained were Buckie, Banff, Fraserburgh, and Peterhead on the east
coast, and Stornoway and Inverary on the west. The total increase at these
of boat is the best that can be employed. If it were necessary for the boats to
go far out to sea, involving a voyage of days, then it would be proper to have
larger vessels, because it is absolutely necessary that the herrings should be
cured within a few hours of their being captured.
The following figures as to the catch of 1862 and 1863, and as to the
number of boats and people employed, are from the official returns of the
fishing of these two years; in fact I have made a complete though brief
abridgment of the whole papers, which, at the time I write, are the latest
published. The revenue derived under the Act for the branding of herrings,
passed in 1859, amounted to £5801: 12: 4 in 1862, being an increase of
£3157: 0: 4 over that of 1859; and in 1863 the brand fees produced the sum of
£4618: 16s. The returns of the herring-fishing of 1863, as compared with that
of 1862, which was, however, an extraordinarily good year, are as follow:—
Barrels. Barrels. Barrels.
1862. Cured, 830,904 Branded, 346,712 Ex., 494,910
1863. Do. 654,816½ Do. 276,880½ Do. 407,761½
The quantity of herrings branded out of the fishing of 1862 was, as seen
above, 346,712 barrels, a number greatly exceeding that of any previous year;
which shows not only that the fishing was very productive, but also the great
demand for branded herrings, the reliance of the Continent upon the brand
(the chief herring trade there being in barrels that have been branded), and the
steady improvement in the cure of the fish. The fishing of 1863, when
compared with those of 1860 and 1861—fishings of which the total amounts
are nearer to that of 1863 than that of 1862—also show this in a remarkable
degree; for we find from the returns that out of a cure in 1863 less by 26,377
barrels than the cure of 1860, there were branded 44,967 barrels more and
exported 29,791 barrels more than in 1860; that out of a cure in 1863 less by
14,012 barrels than the cure of 1861, there were branded 11,533 barrels more
and exported 17,448 barrels more than in 1861. A comparison of the rate per
cent which the quantity branded forms of the total quantity cured shows this
still more clearly. In 1860 the rate was 55½ per cent; in 1861 it was 58⅓ per
cent; in 1862, 59½; and in 1863 it was 62¼ per cent.
The quantity cured in 1862 exceeds, by upwards of 50,000 barrels, that of
any previous year’s fishing. The districts in which an increase of take was
chiefly obtained were Buckie, Banff, Fraserburgh, and Peterhead on the east
coast, and Stornoway and Inverary on the west. The total increase at these
Page 229
districts of the fishing of 1862 over that of 1861 being 184,023 barrels, and
the increase of the whole of Scotland being 172,076 barrels, it would appear
that, although there was a decided increase in these districts, the other
fishing-places were scarcely up to the mark of the previous year. The fishing
at Fraserburgh was remarkable as having yielded the highest average of any
ever known in that district, being 226½ crans per boat. The season of 1862
was also remarkable for the decrease in the shoals of dogfish. This is shown
from the entire and perfect condition of the herrings caught. In 1861, with a
cure of 31,631 barrels at Fraserburgh, the broken fish were more than 4½ per
cent; while in 1862, with a cure of 77,124 barrels, the broken were only a
little over 2 per cent.
In 1863 there was an increase over 1862 in the districts of Lybster, Orkney,
and Shetland, and the Isle of Man; but at Wick and some of the Moray Firth
stations the fishing was almost the same; while it was greatly less at
Eyemouth, Anstruther, Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff, Stornoway, and
Inverary.
In 1862, at Wick, a fishing for herring with nets in the winter was tried for
the first time, and was so far successful, herrings being caught having milt
and roe, with the appearance that they might become full fish in three weeks
or a month, and averaging 800 to the cran. This result goes far to prove that
the herring is a fish of local habits, having no great range of emigration, and
that it spawns twice in the course of the year. The winter fishing was repeated
and extended in 1863. Trials were made for herring during the winter all
along the south shores of the Moray Firth, and along the east coast as far as
Montrose; and in some quarters this fishery was so extensively prosecuted as
to lead to the fish being selected and branded for the Continental market.
The number of vessels fitted out in Scotland and the Isle of Man for the
British herring-fishery 1862 was 281, employing 1149 men. The quantity of
herrings cured in these vessels was 59,934 barrels, being an average of 213
barrels each vessel, generally made in two or three voyages. The number of
boats in Scotland and the Isle of Man, whether decked or undecked,
irrespective of the places to which they belong, employed in the herring-
fishery of 1862, for one selected week in each district, was 9067, manned by
43,468 fishermen and boys, and employing 22,471 persons as coopers,
gutters, packers, and labourers, making a total of persons employed 65,939.
Of the total number of boats, 1122 fished at Wick, 960 at Loch Broom, 900 at
Stornoway, 783 at Eyemouth, and 700 at Peterhead. The total number of
the increase of the whole of Scotland being 172,076 barrels, it would appear
that, although there was a decided increase in these districts, the other
fishing-places were scarcely up to the mark of the previous year. The fishing
at Fraserburgh was remarkable as having yielded the highest average of any
ever known in that district, being 226½ crans per boat. The season of 1862
was also remarkable for the decrease in the shoals of dogfish. This is shown
from the entire and perfect condition of the herrings caught. In 1861, with a
cure of 31,631 barrels at Fraserburgh, the broken fish were more than 4½ per
cent; while in 1862, with a cure of 77,124 barrels, the broken were only a
little over 2 per cent.
In 1863 there was an increase over 1862 in the districts of Lybster, Orkney,
and Shetland, and the Isle of Man; but at Wick and some of the Moray Firth
stations the fishing was almost the same; while it was greatly less at
Eyemouth, Anstruther, Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff, Stornoway, and
Inverary.
In 1862, at Wick, a fishing for herring with nets in the winter was tried for
the first time, and was so far successful, herrings being caught having milt
and roe, with the appearance that they might become full fish in three weeks
or a month, and averaging 800 to the cran. This result goes far to prove that
the herring is a fish of local habits, having no great range of emigration, and
that it spawns twice in the course of the year. The winter fishing was repeated
and extended in 1863. Trials were made for herring during the winter all
along the south shores of the Moray Firth, and along the east coast as far as
Montrose; and in some quarters this fishery was so extensively prosecuted as
to lead to the fish being selected and branded for the Continental market.
The number of vessels fitted out in Scotland and the Isle of Man for the
British herring-fishery 1862 was 281, employing 1149 men. The quantity of
herrings cured in these vessels was 59,934 barrels, being an average of 213
barrels each vessel, generally made in two or three voyages. The number of
boats in Scotland and the Isle of Man, whether decked or undecked,
irrespective of the places to which they belong, employed in the herring-
fishery of 1862, for one selected week in each district, was 9067, manned by
43,468 fishermen and boys, and employing 22,471 persons as coopers,
gutters, packers, and labourers, making a total of persons employed 65,939.
Of the total number of boats, 1122 fished at Wick, 960 at Loch Broom, 900 at
Stornoway, 783 at Eyemouth, and 700 at Peterhead. The total number of
Page 230
boats employed in the shore-curing herring, and cod and ling fisheries in
1862 was 12,545, with an aggregate tonnage of 88,871, and valued at
£272,960. The value of nets and lines belonging to these boats is estimated at
£474,834. The boats are manned by 41,008 fishermen and boys, the curers
and coopers employed amount to 2756, and the number of other persons
employed is estimated at 50,098. In 1863 there was an increase of 47 boats,
but a decrease of 150 fishermen and boys, while there was an increase of
£34,369 in the estimated value of boats and nets.[10]
I have placed on the following page a complete journal of the daily catch
of herrings at Wick for the season of 1862, in order to show the progress of
the fishing.
Boats Average Total daily General Total catch for
Date. Quality. Weather.
out. crans. catch. Average. season.
July 3 20 2 40 0 40 Excellent Mild.
” 4 30 1 30 0 70 Do. Wet.
” 5 60 ½ 30 0 100 Do. Damp and mild.
” 8 50 ½ 25 0 125 Do. Mild.
” 9 70 0 10 0 135 Good Gentle breeze.
” 10 70 1½ 105 0 240 Do. Breezy.
” 11 120 2 60 ¼ 300 Do. Cold and breezy.
” 12 150 7 1,050 1¼ 1,350 Do. Fine.
” 15 180 1 180 1¼ 1,530 Mixed Mild.
Clear—strong
” 16 170 1 170 1½ 1,700 Good
tides.
” 17 150 1 150 1¾ 1,850 Do. Wet.
” 18 100 1 100 2 1,950 Do. Thick and wet.
” 19 50 1 50 2 2,000 Do. Rough.
” 22 300 3 900 3 2,900 Do. Mild.
” 23 600 2 1,200 4 4,100 Excellent Do.
” 24 700 1 700 4½ 4,800 Do. Changeable.
” 25 250 ½ 125 4½ 4,925 Do. Very rough.
” 26 700 1 700 5 5,625 Do. Mild.
” 29 950 0 150 5 5,775 Do. Mild and wet.
” 30 900 ½ 450 6 6,225 Do. Do.
” 31 950 1 950 6½ 7,175 Do. Rough.
Mild—heavy
Aug. 1 250 2 500 7 7,675 Do.
sea.
” 2 1000 2 2,000 8½ 9,675 Mixed Mild and wet.
” 5 150 1 150 9 9,825 Good Rough.
” 6 70 3 210 9 10,035 Spent Do.
” 7 1100 6 6,600 15 16,635 ⅓ spent Mild.
” 8 1100 4 4,400 19 21,035 ¼ spent Thick and rough.
” 9 700 6 4,200 23 25,235 Do. Do.
1862 was 12,545, with an aggregate tonnage of 88,871, and valued at
£272,960. The value of nets and lines belonging to these boats is estimated at
£474,834. The boats are manned by 41,008 fishermen and boys, the curers
and coopers employed amount to 2756, and the number of other persons
employed is estimated at 50,098. In 1863 there was an increase of 47 boats,
but a decrease of 150 fishermen and boys, while there was an increase of
£34,369 in the estimated value of boats and nets.[10]
I have placed on the following page a complete journal of the daily catch
of herrings at Wick for the season of 1862, in order to show the progress of
the fishing.
Boats Average Total daily General Total catch for
Date. Quality. Weather.
out. crans. catch. Average. season.
July 3 20 2 40 0 40 Excellent Mild.
” 4 30 1 30 0 70 Do. Wet.
” 5 60 ½ 30 0 100 Do. Damp and mild.
” 8 50 ½ 25 0 125 Do. Mild.
” 9 70 0 10 0 135 Good Gentle breeze.
” 10 70 1½ 105 0 240 Do. Breezy.
” 11 120 2 60 ¼ 300 Do. Cold and breezy.
” 12 150 7 1,050 1¼ 1,350 Do. Fine.
” 15 180 1 180 1¼ 1,530 Mixed Mild.
Clear—strong
” 16 170 1 170 1½ 1,700 Good
tides.
” 17 150 1 150 1¾ 1,850 Do. Wet.
” 18 100 1 100 2 1,950 Do. Thick and wet.
” 19 50 1 50 2 2,000 Do. Rough.
” 22 300 3 900 3 2,900 Do. Mild.
” 23 600 2 1,200 4 4,100 Excellent Do.
” 24 700 1 700 4½ 4,800 Do. Changeable.
” 25 250 ½ 125 4½ 4,925 Do. Very rough.
” 26 700 1 700 5 5,625 Do. Mild.
” 29 950 0 150 5 5,775 Do. Mild and wet.
” 30 900 ½ 450 6 6,225 Do. Do.
” 31 950 1 950 6½ 7,175 Do. Rough.
Mild—heavy
Aug. 1 250 2 500 7 7,675 Do.
sea.
” 2 1000 2 2,000 8½ 9,675 Mixed Mild and wet.
” 5 150 1 150 9 9,825 Good Rough.
” 6 70 3 210 9 10,035 Spent Do.
” 7 1100 6 6,600 15 16,635 ⅓ spent Mild.
” 8 1100 4 4,400 19 21,035 ¼ spent Thick and rough.
” 9 700 6 4,200 23 25,235 Do. Do.
Page 231
” 12 1120 3 3,360 26 28,595 Good Breezy.
Thick, wet, and
” 13 1120 8 8,960 34 37,555 Excellent
mild.
” 14 1120 4 4,480 38 42,035 Do. Do.
” 15 1100 11 12,210 48 54,245 Do. Do.
” 16 1000 8 8,000 56 62,245 ¼ spent Do.
” 19 1000 0 50 56 62,295 Excellent Strong gale.
Gentle breeze—
” 20 800 ½ 400 56½ 62,695 Do.
cold.
” 21 800 ¼ 200 57 62,895 Do. Do.
” 22 900 ½ 450 57 63,345 Do. Calm and clear.
Very wet and
” 23 800 ¼ 200 57½ 63,545 Do.
calm.
” 26 1120 2 2,240 59 65,785 ¼ spent Mild.
” 27 1120 5 5,600 64 71,385 ⅓ spent Breezy.
” 28 1120 1 1,120 65 72,505 Good Clear and mild.
” 29 1100 ¾ 800 65½ 73,305 Do. Do.
” 30 1000 ½ 500 66 73,805 Do. Do.
Sept. 2 1050 ½ 525 66½ 74,330 Excellent Breezy.
” 3 20 ½ 10 66½ 74,340 Do. Do.
” 4 20 ½ 10 66½ 74,350 Do. Do.
” 5 100 1 100 66½ 74,450 Do. Mild.
” 6 600 ¼ 150 67 74,600 Do. Do.
” 9 220 4 880 68 75,480 ¼ spent Do.
” 10 300 10 3,000 71 78,480 Good Do.
” 11 400 20 8,000 77 86,480 ⅓ spent Do.
” 12 400 10 4,000 81 90,480 ¼ spent Breezy.
” 13 3 4 12 81 90,492 Good Wind and rain.
” 16 200 ¾ 160 81 90,652 Do. Mild.
The quantity of netting now employed in the herring-fishery is enormous,
and is increasing from year to year. It has been strongly represented by Mr.
Cleghorn, and others who hold his views, that the herring-fishery is on the
decline; that if the fish were as plentiful as in former years, the increased
amount of netting would capture an increased number of herrings. It is certain
that, with a growing population and an increasing facility of transport, we are
able to use a far larger quantity of sea produce now than we could do fifty
years ago, when we were in the pre-Stephenson age. If, with our present
facilities for the transport of fish to inland towns, Great Britain had been a
Catholic instead of a Protestant country, having the example of the French
fisheries before us, I have no hesitation in saying that by this time our
fisheries would have been completely exhausted—that is, supposing no
remedial steps had been taken to guard against such a contingency. Were we
compelled to observe Lent with Catholic rigidity, and had there been
Thick, wet, and
” 13 1120 8 8,960 34 37,555 Excellent
mild.
” 14 1120 4 4,480 38 42,035 Do. Do.
” 15 1100 11 12,210 48 54,245 Do. Do.
” 16 1000 8 8,000 56 62,245 ¼ spent Do.
” 19 1000 0 50 56 62,295 Excellent Strong gale.
Gentle breeze—
” 20 800 ½ 400 56½ 62,695 Do.
cold.
” 21 800 ¼ 200 57 62,895 Do. Do.
” 22 900 ½ 450 57 63,345 Do. Calm and clear.
Very wet and
” 23 800 ¼ 200 57½ 63,545 Do.
calm.
” 26 1120 2 2,240 59 65,785 ¼ spent Mild.
” 27 1120 5 5,600 64 71,385 ⅓ spent Breezy.
” 28 1120 1 1,120 65 72,505 Good Clear and mild.
” 29 1100 ¾ 800 65½ 73,305 Do. Do.
” 30 1000 ½ 500 66 73,805 Do. Do.
Sept. 2 1050 ½ 525 66½ 74,330 Excellent Breezy.
” 3 20 ½ 10 66½ 74,340 Do. Do.
” 4 20 ½ 10 66½ 74,350 Do. Do.
” 5 100 1 100 66½ 74,450 Do. Mild.
” 6 600 ¼ 150 67 74,600 Do. Do.
” 9 220 4 880 68 75,480 ¼ spent Do.
” 10 300 10 3,000 71 78,480 Good Do.
” 11 400 20 8,000 77 86,480 ⅓ spent Do.
” 12 400 10 4,000 81 90,480 ¼ spent Breezy.
” 13 3 4 12 81 90,492 Good Wind and rain.
” 16 200 ¾ 160 81 90,652 Do. Mild.
The quantity of netting now employed in the herring-fishery is enormous,
and is increasing from year to year. It has been strongly represented by Mr.
Cleghorn, and others who hold his views, that the herring-fishery is on the
decline; that if the fish were as plentiful as in former years, the increased
amount of netting would capture an increased number of herrings. It is certain
that, with a growing population and an increasing facility of transport, we are
able to use a far larger quantity of sea produce now than we could do fifty
years ago, when we were in the pre-Stephenson age. If, with our present
facilities for the transport of fish to inland towns, Great Britain had been a
Catholic instead of a Protestant country, having the example of the French
fisheries before us, I have no hesitation in saying that by this time our
fisheries would have been completely exhausted—that is, supposing no
remedial steps had been taken to guard against such a contingency. Were we
compelled to observe Lent with Catholic rigidity, and had there been
Page 232
numerous fasts or fish-days, as there used to be in England before the
Reformation, the demand, judging from our present ratio, would have been
greater than the sea could have borne. Interested parties may sneer at these
opinions; but, notwithstanding, I maintain that the pitcher is going too often
to the well, and that some day soon it will come back empty.
I have always been slow to believe in the inexhaustibility of the shoals, and
can easily imagine the overfishing, which some people pooh-pooh so glibly,
to be quite possible, especially when supplemented by the cod and other
cannibals so constantly at work, and so well described by the Lochfyne
Commission; not that I believe it possible to pick up or kill every fish of a
shoal; but, as I have already hinted, so many are taken, and the economy of
the shoal so disturbed, that in all probability it may change its ground or
amalgamate with some other herring colony. I shall be met here by the old
argument, that “the fecundity of fish is so enormous as to prevent their
extinction,” etc. etc. But the certainty of a fish yielding twenty thousand eggs
is no surety for these being hatched, or if hatched, of their escaping the
dangers of infancy, and reaching the market as table food. I watch the great
shoals at Wick with much interest, and could wish to have been longer
acquainted with them. How long time have the Wick shoals taken to grow to
their present size?—what size were the shoals when the fish had leave to
grow without molestation?—how large were the shoals when first
discovered?—and how long have they been fished? are questions which I
should like to have answered. As it is, I fear the great Wick fishery must
come some day to an end. In the course of twenty-seven seasons as many as
1,275,027 barrels of herring have been caught off Wick (each barrel
containing 700 fish); and in all probability as many more fish were killed by
the nets, and never taken ashore. When the Wick fishery first began the
fisherman could carry in a creel on his back the nets he required; now he
requires a cart and a good strong horse! Leaving out one of the twenty-seven
seasons (the first), and dividing the remaining twenty-six into two periods of
thirteen each, we find the aggregate of the boats, the average crans to each,
and the aggregate total for the
Boats. Average Crans. Total Crans.
1st thirteen years, 10,202 941 735,318
2d thirteen years, 13,522 519 539,719
During the first of these periods each boat carried about twenty-five nets,
spun and worked in the county in a homely way; during the second period
Reformation, the demand, judging from our present ratio, would have been
greater than the sea could have borne. Interested parties may sneer at these
opinions; but, notwithstanding, I maintain that the pitcher is going too often
to the well, and that some day soon it will come back empty.
I have always been slow to believe in the inexhaustibility of the shoals, and
can easily imagine the overfishing, which some people pooh-pooh so glibly,
to be quite possible, especially when supplemented by the cod and other
cannibals so constantly at work, and so well described by the Lochfyne
Commission; not that I believe it possible to pick up or kill every fish of a
shoal; but, as I have already hinted, so many are taken, and the economy of
the shoal so disturbed, that in all probability it may change its ground or
amalgamate with some other herring colony. I shall be met here by the old
argument, that “the fecundity of fish is so enormous as to prevent their
extinction,” etc. etc. But the certainty of a fish yielding twenty thousand eggs
is no surety for these being hatched, or if hatched, of their escaping the
dangers of infancy, and reaching the market as table food. I watch the great
shoals at Wick with much interest, and could wish to have been longer
acquainted with them. How long time have the Wick shoals taken to grow to
their present size?—what size were the shoals when the fish had leave to
grow without molestation?—how large were the shoals when first
discovered?—and how long have they been fished? are questions which I
should like to have answered. As it is, I fear the great Wick fishery must
come some day to an end. In the course of twenty-seven seasons as many as
1,275,027 barrels of herring have been caught off Wick (each barrel
containing 700 fish); and in all probability as many more fish were killed by
the nets, and never taken ashore. When the Wick fishery first began the
fisherman could carry in a creel on his back the nets he required; now he
requires a cart and a good strong horse! Leaving out one of the twenty-seven
seasons (the first), and dividing the remaining twenty-six into two periods of
thirteen each, we find the aggregate of the boats, the average crans to each,
and the aggregate total for the
Boats. Average Crans. Total Crans.
1st thirteen years, 10,202 941 735,318
2d thirteen years, 13,522 519 539,719
During the first of these periods each boat carried about twenty-five nets,
spun and worked in the county in a homely way; during the second period
Page 233
each had from thirty to thirty-five nets, machine-made, the twine being very
even and fine, and far larger and deeper, a great many of them being of
cotton, and far superior in their catching power to those of the first period;
and yet, with 3320 additional boats carrying perhaps 200,000 more nets,
larger, finer, and deeper than in the first period, we took 195,609 barrels
fewer fish in the second than in the first thirteen years. During a late Wick
fishing, a remarkable feature was the great disparity in the catch by individual
boats. Although the average per boat over the whole fleet is set down as about
eighty-three crans, yet half the boats do not average forty crans. As a rule, the
boats that take the most fish are those with the longest, finest, and deepest
drifts. In fact, the whole argument just amounts to this—that if the fish are as
plentiful as ever, then double the quantity of netting ought to take double the
quantity of herrings. During a late Wick season (1863), the entire fleet was
only at sea twelve nights, and the average per night to each boat was only
three crans. The Northern Ensign, a local journal, has over and over again
asserted that the fish are as numerous as ever; but that, in consequence of the
crowd of boats, there is not room to capture them. In answer to this I may
note, that on six different evenings of the season, when the boats out ranged
from two to six hundred, the take did not average half a cran per boat. It may
be likewise stated that 604 boats, in the year 1820, with a greatly less amount
of netting, took as many fish as have been taken this season (1863) although
the boats fishing were 480 above the season of 1820. The average capture per
boat in 1820, with the limited netting, was 148 crans, whilst the average for
1863 was only 85 crans! How is it possible to reconcile such great
differences?
I conclude this part of the herring question by one other illustration. In
1862 the aggregate sailings—i.e. number of voyages—of the Wick boats for
the season was 28,755, and the total catch 92,004 barrels; while this season
(1863) the Wick boats have only taken 89,972 barrels in 32,630 voyages; and
all over the country, so far as I know—and I have made extensive inquiries—
the tale is the same, a failure in the herring-fishery. Perhaps the best plan is at
once to exhaust the figures of the subject while we are discussing it. As to the
Wick July fishing, the following figures are illustrative of two different
periods of five years each:—
Year. Barrels. Year. Barrels.
1843 14,000 1859 2,500
1844 15,615 1860 12,850
even and fine, and far larger and deeper, a great many of them being of
cotton, and far superior in their catching power to those of the first period;
and yet, with 3320 additional boats carrying perhaps 200,000 more nets,
larger, finer, and deeper than in the first period, we took 195,609 barrels
fewer fish in the second than in the first thirteen years. During a late Wick
fishing, a remarkable feature was the great disparity in the catch by individual
boats. Although the average per boat over the whole fleet is set down as about
eighty-three crans, yet half the boats do not average forty crans. As a rule, the
boats that take the most fish are those with the longest, finest, and deepest
drifts. In fact, the whole argument just amounts to this—that if the fish are as
plentiful as ever, then double the quantity of netting ought to take double the
quantity of herrings. During a late Wick season (1863), the entire fleet was
only at sea twelve nights, and the average per night to each boat was only
three crans. The Northern Ensign, a local journal, has over and over again
asserted that the fish are as numerous as ever; but that, in consequence of the
crowd of boats, there is not room to capture them. In answer to this I may
note, that on six different evenings of the season, when the boats out ranged
from two to six hundred, the take did not average half a cran per boat. It may
be likewise stated that 604 boats, in the year 1820, with a greatly less amount
of netting, took as many fish as have been taken this season (1863) although
the boats fishing were 480 above the season of 1820. The average capture per
boat in 1820, with the limited netting, was 148 crans, whilst the average for
1863 was only 85 crans! How is it possible to reconcile such great
differences?
I conclude this part of the herring question by one other illustration. In
1862 the aggregate sailings—i.e. number of voyages—of the Wick boats for
the season was 28,755, and the total catch 92,004 barrels; while this season
(1863) the Wick boats have only taken 89,972 barrels in 32,630 voyages; and
all over the country, so far as I know—and I have made extensive inquiries—
the tale is the same, a failure in the herring-fishery. Perhaps the best plan is at
once to exhaust the figures of the subject while we are discussing it. As to the
Wick July fishing, the following figures are illustrative of two different
periods of five years each:—
Year. Barrels. Year. Barrels.
1843 14,000 1859 2,500
1844 15,615 1860 12,850
Page 234
1845 22,578 1861 5,821
1846 30,350 1862 7,173
1847 15,442 1863 8,517
97,985 36,861
The figures of the greatest month of the fishery—viz. August—are as
follow:—
Year. Barrels. Year. Barrels.
1843 69,640 1859 80,853
1844 72,585 1860 86,120
1845 66,702 1861 73,580
1846 61,450 1862 65,321
1847 59,528 1863 46,000
329,905 351,874
It will be seen from these figures that, even in the great herring month of
August, notwithstanding the large increase of boats and nets, a decreased
quantity has been taken during the last two years. To understand this better,
the boats in the first period were 4345, and in the second period 5489, and in
this last period the boats had vastly increased their netting, as many as 55,775
more nets having been added. Now, it stands to reason that if the herrings
were as numerous as ever in the second period, the take should have been,
through the mere increase of boats, not counting the addition to the amount of
netting, 417,916 barrels.
The September fishing has only been prosecuted of late years, for the very
good reason that in former times all the herring required were caught in July
and August; during the last two years great efforts have been made to institute
a September fishery, and a great force was brought to bear on the races of
herring then coming to maturity, with what result the following figures will
show:—
Year. Barrels. Year. Barrels.
1843 4,100 1859 9,846
1844 2,000 1860 504
1845 2,880 1861 6,194
1846 900 1862 20,000
1847 9,100 1863 30,000
1846 30,350 1862 7,173
1847 15,442 1863 8,517
97,985 36,861
The figures of the greatest month of the fishery—viz. August—are as
follow:—
Year. Barrels. Year. Barrels.
1843 69,640 1859 80,853
1844 72,585 1860 86,120
1845 66,702 1861 73,580
1846 61,450 1862 65,321
1847 59,528 1863 46,000
329,905 351,874
It will be seen from these figures that, even in the great herring month of
August, notwithstanding the large increase of boats and nets, a decreased
quantity has been taken during the last two years. To understand this better,
the boats in the first period were 4345, and in the second period 5489, and in
this last period the boats had vastly increased their netting, as many as 55,775
more nets having been added. Now, it stands to reason that if the herrings
were as numerous as ever in the second period, the take should have been,
through the mere increase of boats, not counting the addition to the amount of
netting, 417,916 barrels.
The September fishing has only been prosecuted of late years, for the very
good reason that in former times all the herring required were caught in July
and August; during the last two years great efforts have been made to institute
a September fishery, and a great force was brought to bear on the races of
herring then coming to maturity, with what result the following figures will
show:—
Year. Barrels. Year. Barrels.
1843 4,100 1859 9,846
1844 2,000 1860 504
1845 2,880 1861 6,194
1846 900 1862 20,000
1847 9,100 1863 30,000
Page 235
18,980 66,544
The September fishery at Wick will have its day like the July and August
fisheries.
One more table will finish these statistics; it represents the averages of the
Wick fishery for two periods—one for seven years, ending in 1824; the other
for the seven years ending with the season of 1863:—
Crans Crans
Years. Boats. Years. Boats.
per Boat. per Boat.
1818 482 136 1857 1100 73
1819 609 133 1858 1061 80
1820 604 148 1859 1094 79
1821 595 123 1860 1080 92
1822 595 91 1861 1180 87
1823 555 123 1862 1122 82
1824 625 123½ 1863 1084 79
4065 877½ 7721 572
I shall not expend further argument on these figures, they speak too plainly
to require illustration.
The state of the case as between the supply of fish and the extent of netting
has been focused into the annexed diagram, which shows at a glance how the
question stands.
The September fishery at Wick will have its day like the July and August
fisheries.
One more table will finish these statistics; it represents the averages of the
Wick fishery for two periods—one for seven years, ending in 1824; the other
for the seven years ending with the season of 1863:—
Crans Crans
Years. Boats. Years. Boats.
per Boat. per Boat.
1818 482 136 1857 1100 73
1819 609 133 1858 1061 80
1820 604 148 1859 1094 79
1821 595 123 1860 1080 92
1822 595 91 1861 1180 87
1823 555 123 1862 1122 82
1824 625 123½ 1863 1084 79
4065 877½ 7721 572
I shall not expend further argument on these figures, they speak too plainly
to require illustration.
The state of the case as between the supply of fish and the extent of netting
has been focused into the annexed diagram, which shows at a glance how the
question stands.
Page 236
The text reads:
Top row.
1818-1845. The drift of nets per boat 1857-1863. The drift of nets per boat
contained 4500 square yards. contained 16,800 square yards.
Bottom row.
1818-1824. The average per boat 125¼ During the 10 years 1841-50 the average 1857-1863. The average per boat 82
crans. catch per boat was 112 crans. crans.
Before concluding this chapter I wish to say a few words about a point of
herring economy, which has been already alluded to in connection with the
special commission appointed to inquire into the trawling system—viz. as to
the natural enemies of the herring, the most ruthless of which are
undoubtedly of the fish kind, and whose destructive power, some people
assert, dwarfs into insignificance all that man can do against the fish:
—“Consider,” say the commissioners, “the destruction of large herring by
cod and ling alone. It is a very common thing to find a codfish with six or
seven large herrings, of which not one has remained long enough to be
digested, in his stomach. If, in order to be safe, we allow a codfish only two
herrings per diem, and let him feed on herrings for only seven months in the
year, then we have 420 herring as his allowance during that time; and fifty
codfish will equal one fisherman in destructive power. But the quantity of cod
and ling taken in 1861, and registered by the Fishery Board, was over 80,000
cwts. On an average thirty codfish go to one cwt. of dried fish. Hence, at least
2,400,000 will equal 48,000 fishermen. In other words, the cod and ling
caught on the Scotch coasts in 1861, if they had been left in the water, would
have caught as many herring as a number of fishermen equal to all those in
Scotland, and six thousand more, in the same year; and as the cod and ling
Top row.
1818-1845. The drift of nets per boat 1857-1863. The drift of nets per boat
contained 4500 square yards. contained 16,800 square yards.
Bottom row.
1818-1824. The average per boat 125¼ During the 10 years 1841-50 the average 1857-1863. The average per boat 82
crans. catch per boat was 112 crans. crans.
Before concluding this chapter I wish to say a few words about a point of
herring economy, which has been already alluded to in connection with the
special commission appointed to inquire into the trawling system—viz. as to
the natural enemies of the herring, the most ruthless of which are
undoubtedly of the fish kind, and whose destructive power, some people
assert, dwarfs into insignificance all that man can do against the fish:
—“Consider,” say the commissioners, “the destruction of large herring by
cod and ling alone. It is a very common thing to find a codfish with six or
seven large herrings, of which not one has remained long enough to be
digested, in his stomach. If, in order to be safe, we allow a codfish only two
herrings per diem, and let him feed on herrings for only seven months in the
year, then we have 420 herring as his allowance during that time; and fifty
codfish will equal one fisherman in destructive power. But the quantity of cod
and ling taken in 1861, and registered by the Fishery Board, was over 80,000
cwts. On an average thirty codfish go to one cwt. of dried fish. Hence, at least
2,400,000 will equal 48,000 fishermen. In other words, the cod and ling
caught on the Scotch coasts in 1861, if they had been left in the water, would
have caught as many herring as a number of fishermen equal to all those in
Scotland, and six thousand more, in the same year; and as the cod and ling
Page 237
caught were certainly not one tithe part of those left behind, we may fairly
estimate the destruction of herring by these voracious fish alone as at least ten
times as great as that effected by all the fishermen put together.” As to only
one of the numerous land enemies of the herring, the late Mr. Wilson, in his
Tour round Scotland, calculated that the gannets or solan geese frequenting
one island alone—St. Kilda—picked out of the water for their food 214
millions of herrings every summer! The shoals that can withstand these
destructive agencies must indeed be vast, especially when taken in
connection with the millions of herrings that are accidentally killed by the
nets, and never brought ashore for food purposes. The work accomplished by
these natural enemies of the herring, which has been going on during all time,
does not however affect my argument, that by the concentration on one shoal
of a thousand boats per annum, with an annually-increasing net-power, we
both so weaken and frighten the shoal that it becomes in time unproductive.
As the late Mr. Methuen said in one of his addresses: “We have been told that
we are to have dominion over the fish of the sea, but dominion does not mean
extermination.”
Although Scotland is the main seat of the herring-fishery, I should like to
see statistics, similar to those collected in Scotland, taken at a few English
ports for a period of years, in order that we might obtain additional data from
which to arrive at a right conclusion as to the increase or decrease of the
fishery for herring. It is possible to collect statistics of the cereal and root
crops of the country; it was done for all Scotland during three seasons, and it
was well and quickly accomplished. What can be done for the land may also,
I think, be done for the sea. I believe the present Board for Scotland to be
most useful in aiding the regulation of the fishery, and in collecting statistics
of the catch; their functions, however, might be considerably extended, and
elevated to a higher order of usefulness, especially as regards the various
questions in connection with the natural history of the fish. The operations of
the Board might likewise be extended for a few seasons to a dozen of the
largest English fishing-ports, in order that we might obtain confirmation of
what is so often rumoured, the falling off of our supplies of sea-food. There
are various obvious abuses also in connection with the economy of our
fisheries that ought to be remedied, and which an active Board could remedy
and keep right; and a body of naturalists and economists might easily be kept
up at a slight toll of say a guinea per boat.
estimate the destruction of herring by these voracious fish alone as at least ten
times as great as that effected by all the fishermen put together.” As to only
one of the numerous land enemies of the herring, the late Mr. Wilson, in his
Tour round Scotland, calculated that the gannets or solan geese frequenting
one island alone—St. Kilda—picked out of the water for their food 214
millions of herrings every summer! The shoals that can withstand these
destructive agencies must indeed be vast, especially when taken in
connection with the millions of herrings that are accidentally killed by the
nets, and never brought ashore for food purposes. The work accomplished by
these natural enemies of the herring, which has been going on during all time,
does not however affect my argument, that by the concentration on one shoal
of a thousand boats per annum, with an annually-increasing net-power, we
both so weaken and frighten the shoal that it becomes in time unproductive.
As the late Mr. Methuen said in one of his addresses: “We have been told that
we are to have dominion over the fish of the sea, but dominion does not mean
extermination.”
Although Scotland is the main seat of the herring-fishery, I should like to
see statistics, similar to those collected in Scotland, taken at a few English
ports for a period of years, in order that we might obtain additional data from
which to arrive at a right conclusion as to the increase or decrease of the
fishery for herring. It is possible to collect statistics of the cereal and root
crops of the country; it was done for all Scotland during three seasons, and it
was well and quickly accomplished. What can be done for the land may also,
I think, be done for the sea. I believe the present Board for Scotland to be
most useful in aiding the regulation of the fishery, and in collecting statistics
of the catch; their functions, however, might be considerably extended, and
elevated to a higher order of usefulness, especially as regards the various
questions in connection with the natural history of the fish. The operations of
the Board might likewise be extended for a few seasons to a dozen of the
largest English fishing-ports, in order that we might obtain confirmation of
what is so often rumoured, the falling off of our supplies of sea-food. There
are various obvious abuses also in connection with the economy of our
fisheries that ought to be remedied, and which an active Board could remedy
and keep right; and a body of naturalists and economists might easily be kept
up at a slight toll of say a guinea per boat.
Page 238
CHAPTER VII.
THE WHITE-FISH FISHERIES.
Difficulty of obtaining Statistics of our White-Fish Fisheries—Ignorance of the Natural History of the
White Fish—“Finnan Haddies”—The Gadidæ Family: the Cod, Whiting, etc.—The Turbot and
other Flat Fish—When Fish are in Season—How the White-Fish Fisheries are carried on—The
Cod and Haddock Fishery—Line-Fishing—The Scottish Fishing Boats—Loss of Boats on the
Scottish Coasts—Storms in Scotland—Trawl-Net Fishing—Description of a Trawler—Evidence
on the Trawl Question.
t is among the white fish, as they are called, that we find the chief food-
I fishes of this kingdom—as the haddock, cod, whiting, ling, sole, flounder,
turbot, and skate,—all of which, and about a dozen others (not including
the mackerel), equally good for food, belong to two well-known fish families
—Gadidæ and Pleuronectidæ—and give employment in their capture to the
two best-known instruments of destruction, the line and the trawl.
It is exceedingly difficult to procure reliable statistics of the total quantity
of fish taken in the British seas. These can only be obtained in a crude way
from the fishermen, there being no tally kept by the salesman, except of a
rough kind. I made some inquiries into the London fish supply at
Billingsgate, but they were unsatisfactory, as there is no register kept there of
the quantity sold. Each of the wholesale men can give an idea of the total
number or quantity of fish consigned to him; but even if the whole body of
salesmen were to give such statistics, it would only, after all, represent a
portion of the London supply, because much of the fish required for the
London commissariat is sent direct by railway to private dealers. But London,
although it requires a very large total of fish, seldom obtains all that its
citizens could eat, nor does it by any means get all that are captured, or that
are imported. Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, and other large towns in
England; and Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, and Aberdeen, in Scotland,
require likewise to be supplied. And besides this home demand, we send
considerable quantities of our white fish to the Continent, especially in a
dried or prepared state. The fishermen of the Shetland Isles, for instance, cure
largely for the Spanish and other Continental markets. Finnan haddocks and
pickled cod can be so prepared as to bear shipment to a long distance, and
THE WHITE-FISH FISHERIES.
Difficulty of obtaining Statistics of our White-Fish Fisheries—Ignorance of the Natural History of the
White Fish—“Finnan Haddies”—The Gadidæ Family: the Cod, Whiting, etc.—The Turbot and
other Flat Fish—When Fish are in Season—How the White-Fish Fisheries are carried on—The
Cod and Haddock Fishery—Line-Fishing—The Scottish Fishing Boats—Loss of Boats on the
Scottish Coasts—Storms in Scotland—Trawl-Net Fishing—Description of a Trawler—Evidence
on the Trawl Question.
t is among the white fish, as they are called, that we find the chief food-
I fishes of this kingdom—as the haddock, cod, whiting, ling, sole, flounder,
turbot, and skate,—all of which, and about a dozen others (not including
the mackerel), equally good for food, belong to two well-known fish families
—Gadidæ and Pleuronectidæ—and give employment in their capture to the
two best-known instruments of destruction, the line and the trawl.
It is exceedingly difficult to procure reliable statistics of the total quantity
of fish taken in the British seas. These can only be obtained in a crude way
from the fishermen, there being no tally kept by the salesman, except of a
rough kind. I made some inquiries into the London fish supply at
Billingsgate, but they were unsatisfactory, as there is no register kept there of
the quantity sold. Each of the wholesale men can give an idea of the total
number or quantity of fish consigned to him; but even if the whole body of
salesmen were to give such statistics, it would only, after all, represent a
portion of the London supply, because much of the fish required for the
London commissariat is sent direct by railway to private dealers. But London,
although it requires a very large total of fish, seldom obtains all that its
citizens could eat, nor does it by any means get all that are captured, or that
are imported. Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, and other large towns in
England; and Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, and Aberdeen, in Scotland,
require likewise to be supplied. And besides this home demand, we send
considerable quantities of our white fish to the Continent, especially in a
dried or prepared state. The fishermen of the Shetland Isles, for instance, cure
largely for the Spanish and other Continental markets. Finnan haddocks and
pickled cod can be so prepared as to bear shipment to a long distance, and
Page 239
kippered salmon are found on sale everywhere, as are also pickled and
smoked herrings.
The natural history of our white fish, as I have already said, is but
imperfectly known. As an instance of the very limited knowledge we possess
of the natural history of even our most favourite fishes, I may state that at a
meeting of the British Association a few years ago, a member who read an
interesting paper On the Sea Fisheries of Ireland, introduced specimens of a
substance which the Irish fishermen considered to be spawn of the turbot;
stating that wherever this substance was found trawling was forbidden; the
supposed spawn being in reality a kind of sponge, with no other relation to
fish except as being indicative of beds of mollusca, the abundance of which
marks that fish are plentiful. It follows that the stoppage of the trawl on the
grounds where this kind of squid is found is the result of sheer ignorance, and
causes the loss in all likelihood of great quantities of the best white fish. It is
not easy to say when the Gadidæ are in proper season. Some of the members
of that family are used for table purposes all the year round; and as different
salmon rivers have their different close-times, so undoubtedly will the white
fish of different seas or firths have different spawning seasons. In reference,
for instance, to so important a fish as the turbot, we are very vaguely told by
Yarrell that it spawns in the spring-time, but have no indication of the
particular month during which that important operation takes place, or how
long the young fish take to grow. Even a naturalist so well informed as the
late Mr. Wilson was of opinion that the turbot was a travelling fish, which
migrated from place to place.
The combined ignorance of naturalists and fishermen has much to do with
the scarcity of white fish which is now beginning to be experienced; and
unless some plan be hit upon to prevent overfishing, we may some fine
morning experience the same astonishment as a country gentleman’s cook,
who had given directions to the gamekeeper to supply the kitchen regularly
with a certain quantity of grouse. For a number of years she found no lack,
but in the end the purveyor threw down the prescribed number, and told her
she need look for no more from him, for on that day the last grouse had been
shot. “There they are,” said the gamekeeper, “and it has taken six of us with a
gun apiece to get them, and after all we have only achieved the labour which
was gone through by one man some years ago.” The cook had unfortunately
never considered the relation between guns and grouse.
smoked herrings.
The natural history of our white fish, as I have already said, is but
imperfectly known. As an instance of the very limited knowledge we possess
of the natural history of even our most favourite fishes, I may state that at a
meeting of the British Association a few years ago, a member who read an
interesting paper On the Sea Fisheries of Ireland, introduced specimens of a
substance which the Irish fishermen considered to be spawn of the turbot;
stating that wherever this substance was found trawling was forbidden; the
supposed spawn being in reality a kind of sponge, with no other relation to
fish except as being indicative of beds of mollusca, the abundance of which
marks that fish are plentiful. It follows that the stoppage of the trawl on the
grounds where this kind of squid is found is the result of sheer ignorance, and
causes the loss in all likelihood of great quantities of the best white fish. It is
not easy to say when the Gadidæ are in proper season. Some of the members
of that family are used for table purposes all the year round; and as different
salmon rivers have their different close-times, so undoubtedly will the white
fish of different seas or firths have different spawning seasons. In reference,
for instance, to so important a fish as the turbot, we are very vaguely told by
Yarrell that it spawns in the spring-time, but have no indication of the
particular month during which that important operation takes place, or how
long the young fish take to grow. Even a naturalist so well informed as the
late Mr. Wilson was of opinion that the turbot was a travelling fish, which
migrated from place to place.
The combined ignorance of naturalists and fishermen has much to do with
the scarcity of white fish which is now beginning to be experienced; and
unless some plan be hit upon to prevent overfishing, we may some fine
morning experience the same astonishment as a country gentleman’s cook,
who had given directions to the gamekeeper to supply the kitchen regularly
with a certain quantity of grouse. For a number of years she found no lack,
but in the end the purveyor threw down the prescribed number, and told her
she need look for no more from him, for on that day the last grouse had been
shot. “There they are,” said the gamekeeper, “and it has taken six of us with a
gun apiece to get them, and after all we have only achieved the labour which
was gone through by one man some years ago.” The cook had unfortunately
never considered the relation between guns and grouse.
Page 240
The Gadidæ family is numerous, and its members are valuable for table
purposes; three of the fishes of that genus are particularly in request—viz.
whiting, cod, and haddock. These are the three most frequently eaten in a
fresh state; there are others of the family which are extensively captured for
the purpose of being dried and salted, among which are the ling, the tusk, etc.
The haddock (Morrhua aylefinus) has ever been a favourite fish, and the
quantities of it which are annually consumed are really wonderful. Vast
numbers used to be taken in the Firth of Forth, but from recent inquiries at
Newhaven I am led to believe that the supply has considerably decreased of
late years, and that the local fishermen have to proceed to considerable
distances in order to procure any quantity.
In reference to the question, “Where are the haddocks?” which is asked on
another page, it is right to say that this prime fish has more than once become
scarce. I have been reminded of a time, in 1790, when three of these fish were
sold for 7s. 6d. in the Edinburgh market; but although there have been from
time to time sudden disappearances of the haddock from particular fishing-
grounds, as indeed there have been of all fish, that is a different, a totally
different matter from what the fisher folk and the public have now to
complain of—viz. a yearly decreasing supply. Mr. Grieve, of the Café Royal,
Edinburgh, tells me that this season (August 1865), he is paying ninepence
each for these fish, and is very glad to get them even at that price. I took part
in a newspaper controversy about the scarcity of the haddock, and I found
plenty of opponents ready to maintain that there was no scarcity, but that any
quantity could be captured. In some degree that is the truth, but what is the
hook-power required now to capture, “any quantity,” and how long does it
take to obtain a given number, as compared with former times, when that fish
was supposed to be more plentiful? Why do we require, for instance, to send
to Norway and other distant places for haddocks and other white fish? the
only answer I can imagine is that we cannot get enough at home. As to the
general scarcity of white fish, the late Mr. Methuen, the fish-curer, wrote a
year or two ago:—“This morning I am told that an Edinburgh fishmonger has
bought all the cod brought into Newhaven at 5s. to 7s. each. I recollect when
I cured thousands of cod at 3d. and 4d. each; they were caught between
Burntisland and Kincardine, on which ground not a cod is now to be got; and
at the great cod emporium of Cellardyke, the cod-fishing, instead of three
score for a boat’s fishing, has dwindled down to about half-a-dozen cod.”
purposes; three of the fishes of that genus are particularly in request—viz.
whiting, cod, and haddock. These are the three most frequently eaten in a
fresh state; there are others of the family which are extensively captured for
the purpose of being dried and salted, among which are the ling, the tusk, etc.
The haddock (Morrhua aylefinus) has ever been a favourite fish, and the
quantities of it which are annually consumed are really wonderful. Vast
numbers used to be taken in the Firth of Forth, but from recent inquiries at
Newhaven I am led to believe that the supply has considerably decreased of
late years, and that the local fishermen have to proceed to considerable
distances in order to procure any quantity.
In reference to the question, “Where are the haddocks?” which is asked on
another page, it is right to say that this prime fish has more than once become
scarce. I have been reminded of a time, in 1790, when three of these fish were
sold for 7s. 6d. in the Edinburgh market; but although there have been from
time to time sudden disappearances of the haddock from particular fishing-
grounds, as indeed there have been of all fish, that is a different, a totally
different matter from what the fisher folk and the public have now to
complain of—viz. a yearly decreasing supply. Mr. Grieve, of the Café Royal,
Edinburgh, tells me that this season (August 1865), he is paying ninepence
each for these fish, and is very glad to get them even at that price. I took part
in a newspaper controversy about the scarcity of the haddock, and I found
plenty of opponents ready to maintain that there was no scarcity, but that any
quantity could be captured. In some degree that is the truth, but what is the
hook-power required now to capture, “any quantity,” and how long does it
take to obtain a given number, as compared with former times, when that fish
was supposed to be more plentiful? Why do we require, for instance, to send
to Norway and other distant places for haddocks and other white fish? the
only answer I can imagine is that we cannot get enough at home. As to the
general scarcity of white fish, the late Mr. Methuen, the fish-curer, wrote a
year or two ago:—“This morning I am told that an Edinburgh fishmonger has
bought all the cod brought into Newhaven at 5s. to 7s. each. I recollect when
I cured thousands of cod at 3d. and 4d. each; they were caught between
Burntisland and Kincardine, on which ground not a cod is now to be got; and
at the great cod emporium of Cellardyke, the cod-fishing, instead of three
score for a boat’s fishing, has dwindled down to about half-a-dozen cod.”
Page 241
THE GADIDÆ FAMILY.
The old belief in the migratory habits of fish comes again into notice in
connection with the haddock. Pennant having taught us that the haddock
appeared periodically in great quantities about mid-winter, that theory is still
believed, although the appearance of this fish in shoals may be easily
explained, from the local habits of most of the denizens of the great deep. It is
said that “in stormy weather, the haddock refuses every kind of bait, and
seeks refuge among marine plants in the deepest parts of the ocean, where it
remains until the violence of the elements is somewhat subsided.” This fish
does not grow to any great size; it usually averages about five pounds. I
prefer it as a table fish to the cod; the very best haddocks are taken on the
coast of Ireland. The scarcity of fresh haddocks may in some degree be
accounted for by the immense quantities which are converted into “Finnan
haddies”—a well-known breakfast luxury no longer confined to Scotland. It
is difficult to procure genuine Finnans, smoked in the original way by means
of peat-reek; like everything else for which there is a great demand, Finnan
haddocks are now “manufactured” in quantity; and, to make the trade a
profitable one, they are cured by the hundred in smoking-houses built for the
purpose, and are smoked by burning wood or sawdust, which, however, does
The old belief in the migratory habits of fish comes again into notice in
connection with the haddock. Pennant having taught us that the haddock
appeared periodically in great quantities about mid-winter, that theory is still
believed, although the appearance of this fish in shoals may be easily
explained, from the local habits of most of the denizens of the great deep. It is
said that “in stormy weather, the haddock refuses every kind of bait, and
seeks refuge among marine plants in the deepest parts of the ocean, where it
remains until the violence of the elements is somewhat subsided.” This fish
does not grow to any great size; it usually averages about five pounds. I
prefer it as a table fish to the cod; the very best haddocks are taken on the
coast of Ireland. The scarcity of fresh haddocks may in some degree be
accounted for by the immense quantities which are converted into “Finnan
haddies”—a well-known breakfast luxury no longer confined to Scotland. It
is difficult to procure genuine Finnans, smoked in the original way by means
of peat-reek; like everything else for which there is a great demand, Finnan
haddocks are now “manufactured” in quantity; and, to make the trade a
profitable one, they are cured by the hundred in smoking-houses built for the
purpose, and are smoked by burning wood or sawdust, which, however, does
Page 242
not give them the proper goût. In fact the wood-smoked Finnans, except that
they are fish, have no more the right flavour than Scotch marmalade would
have were it manufactured from turnips instead of bitter oranges. Fifty years
ago it was different; then the haddocks were smoked in small quantities in the
fishing villages between Aberdeen and Stonehaven, and entirely over a peat
fire. The peat-reek imparted to them that peculiar flavour which gained them
a reputation. The fisher-wives along the north-east coast used to pack small
quantities of these delicately-cured fish into a basket, and give them to the
guard of the “Defiance” coach, which ran between Aberdeen and Edinburgh,
and the guard brought them to town, confiding them for sale to a brother who
dealt in provisions; and it is known that out of the various transactions which
thus arose, individually small though they must have been, the two made, in
the course of time, a handsome profit. The fame of the smoked fish rapidly
spread, so that cargoes used to be brought by steamboat, and Finnans are now
carried by railway to all parts of the country with great celerity, the demand
being so great as to induce men to foist on the public any kind of cure they
can manage to accomplish; indeed smoked codlings are extensively sold for
Finnan haddocks. Good smoked haddocks of the Moray Firth or Aberdeen
cure can seldom now be had, even in Edinburgh, under the price of sixpence
per pound weight.
The common cod (Morrhua vulgaris) is, as the name implies, one of our
best-known fishes, and it was at one time very plentiful and cheap. It is found
in the deep waters of all our northern seas, but has never been known in the
Mediterranean. It has been largely captured on the coasts of Scotland, and, as
is elsewhere mentioned, it occurs in profusion on the shores of
Newfoundland, where its plentifulness led to a great fishery being
established. The cod is extremely voracious, and eats up most greedily the
smaller inhabitants of the seas; it grows to a large size, and is very prolific in
the perpetuation of its kind. A cod-roe has more than once been found to be
half the gross weight of the fish, and specimens of the female have been
caught with upwards of eight millions of eggs; but of course it cannot be
expected that in the great waste of waters all the ova will be fertilised, or that
any but a small percentage of the fish will ever arrive at maturity. This fish
spawns in mid-winter, but there are no very reliable data to show when it
becomes reproductive. My own opinion has already been expressed that the
cod is an animal of slow growth, and I would venture to say that it is at least
three years old before it is endowed with any breeding power. I may call
they are fish, have no more the right flavour than Scotch marmalade would
have were it manufactured from turnips instead of bitter oranges. Fifty years
ago it was different; then the haddocks were smoked in small quantities in the
fishing villages between Aberdeen and Stonehaven, and entirely over a peat
fire. The peat-reek imparted to them that peculiar flavour which gained them
a reputation. The fisher-wives along the north-east coast used to pack small
quantities of these delicately-cured fish into a basket, and give them to the
guard of the “Defiance” coach, which ran between Aberdeen and Edinburgh,
and the guard brought them to town, confiding them for sale to a brother who
dealt in provisions; and it is known that out of the various transactions which
thus arose, individually small though they must have been, the two made, in
the course of time, a handsome profit. The fame of the smoked fish rapidly
spread, so that cargoes used to be brought by steamboat, and Finnans are now
carried by railway to all parts of the country with great celerity, the demand
being so great as to induce men to foist on the public any kind of cure they
can manage to accomplish; indeed smoked codlings are extensively sold for
Finnan haddocks. Good smoked haddocks of the Moray Firth or Aberdeen
cure can seldom now be had, even in Edinburgh, under the price of sixpence
per pound weight.
The common cod (Morrhua vulgaris) is, as the name implies, one of our
best-known fishes, and it was at one time very plentiful and cheap. It is found
in the deep waters of all our northern seas, but has never been known in the
Mediterranean. It has been largely captured on the coasts of Scotland, and, as
is elsewhere mentioned, it occurs in profusion on the shores of
Newfoundland, where its plentifulness led to a great fishery being
established. The cod is extremely voracious, and eats up most greedily the
smaller inhabitants of the seas; it grows to a large size, and is very prolific in
the perpetuation of its kind. A cod-roe has more than once been found to be
half the gross weight of the fish, and specimens of the female have been
caught with upwards of eight millions of eggs; but of course it cannot be
expected that in the great waste of waters all the ova will be fertilised, or that
any but a small percentage of the fish will ever arrive at maturity. This fish
spawns in mid-winter, but there are no very reliable data to show when it
becomes reproductive. My own opinion has already been expressed that the
cod is an animal of slow growth, and I would venture to say that it is at least
three years old before it is endowed with any breeding power. I may call
Page 243
attention here to one of the causes that must tend to render the fish scarce. As
if the natural enemies of the young fish were not sufficient to aid in its
extirpation, and the loss of the ova from causes over which man has no
control not enough in the way of destruction, there is a commerce in cod-roe,
and enormous quantities of it, as I have mentioned in the preceding chapter,
are used in France as ground-bait for the sardine fishery! The roe of this fish
is also frequently made use of at table; a cod-roe of from two to four pounds
in weight can unfortunately be bought for a mere trifle, but it ought to cost a
good few pounds instead of a few pence. I have elsewhere stated that the
quantity of eggs yielded by a female cod is more than three millions:
supposing only a third of them to come to life—that is one million—and that
a tenth part of that number, viz. one hundred thousand, becomes in some
shape—that is, either as codling or cod—fit for table uses, what should be the
value of the cod-roe that is carelessly consumed at table? If each fish be taken
as of the value of sixpence, the amount would be £2500. But supposing that
only twenty full-grown codfish resulted from the three millions of eggs;
these, at two and sixpence each, would represent the sum of fifty shillings as
the possible produce of one dish, which, in the shape of cod-roe, cost only
about as many farthings!
Cuvier tells us that “almost all the parts of the cod are adapted for the
nourishment of man and animals, or for some other purposes of domestic
economy. The tongue, for instance, whether fresh or salted, is a great
delicacy; the gills are carefully preserved, to be employed as baits in fishing;
the liver, which is large and good for eating, also furnishes an enormous
quantity of oil, which is an excellent substitute for that of the whale, and
applicable to all the same purposes; the swimming-bladder furnishes an
isinglass not inferior to that yielded by the sturgeon; the head, in the places
where the cod is taken, supplies the fishermen and their families with food.
The Norwegians give it with marine plants to their cows, for the purpose of
producing a greater proportion of milk. The vertebræ, the ribs, and the bones
in general, are given to their cattle by the Icelanders, and by the
Kamtschatkadales to their dogs. These same parts, properly dried, are also
employed as fuel in the desolate steppes of the shores of the Icy Sea. Even
their intestines and their eggs contribute to the luxury of the table.” I may just
mention another most useful product of the codfish. Cod-liver oil is now well
known in materia medica under the name of oleum jecoris aselli. The best is
made without boiling, by applying to the livers a slight degree of heat,
if the natural enemies of the young fish were not sufficient to aid in its
extirpation, and the loss of the ova from causes over which man has no
control not enough in the way of destruction, there is a commerce in cod-roe,
and enormous quantities of it, as I have mentioned in the preceding chapter,
are used in France as ground-bait for the sardine fishery! The roe of this fish
is also frequently made use of at table; a cod-roe of from two to four pounds
in weight can unfortunately be bought for a mere trifle, but it ought to cost a
good few pounds instead of a few pence. I have elsewhere stated that the
quantity of eggs yielded by a female cod is more than three millions:
supposing only a third of them to come to life—that is one million—and that
a tenth part of that number, viz. one hundred thousand, becomes in some
shape—that is, either as codling or cod—fit for table uses, what should be the
value of the cod-roe that is carelessly consumed at table? If each fish be taken
as of the value of sixpence, the amount would be £2500. But supposing that
only twenty full-grown codfish resulted from the three millions of eggs;
these, at two and sixpence each, would represent the sum of fifty shillings as
the possible produce of one dish, which, in the shape of cod-roe, cost only
about as many farthings!
Cuvier tells us that “almost all the parts of the cod are adapted for the
nourishment of man and animals, or for some other purposes of domestic
economy. The tongue, for instance, whether fresh or salted, is a great
delicacy; the gills are carefully preserved, to be employed as baits in fishing;
the liver, which is large and good for eating, also furnishes an enormous
quantity of oil, which is an excellent substitute for that of the whale, and
applicable to all the same purposes; the swimming-bladder furnishes an
isinglass not inferior to that yielded by the sturgeon; the head, in the places
where the cod is taken, supplies the fishermen and their families with food.
The Norwegians give it with marine plants to their cows, for the purpose of
producing a greater proportion of milk. The vertebræ, the ribs, and the bones
in general, are given to their cattle by the Icelanders, and by the
Kamtschatkadales to their dogs. These same parts, properly dried, are also
employed as fuel in the desolate steppes of the shores of the Icy Sea. Even
their intestines and their eggs contribute to the luxury of the table.” I may just
mention another most useful product of the codfish. Cod-liver oil is now well
known in materia medica under the name of oleum jecoris aselli. The best is
made without boiling, by applying to the livers a slight degree of heat,
Page 244
straining through thin flannel or similar texture. When carefully prepared, it is
quite pure, nearly inodorous, and of a crystalline transparency. The specific
gravity at temperature 64° is about ·920°. It seems to have been first used
medicinally by Dr. Percival in 1782 for the cure of chronic rheumatism;
afterwards by Dr. Bardsly in 1807. It has now become a popular remedy in all
the slow-wasting diseases, particularly in scrofulous affections of the joints
and bones, and in consumption of the lungs. The result of an extended trial of
this medicine in the hospital at London for the treatment of consumptive
patients shows that about 70 per cent gain strength and weight, and improve
in health, while taking the cod-liver oil; and this good effect with a great
many is permanent. Skate-liver oil is also coming into use for medicinal
purposes, and I have no doubt that the oil obtained from some of our other
fishes will also be found useful in a medicinal point of view.
The codfish is best when eaten fresh, but vast quantities are sent to market
in a dried or cured state: the great seat of the cod-fishery for curing purposes
is at Newfoundland. But considerable numbers of cod and ling are likewise
cured on the coasts of Scotland. The mode of cure is quite simple. The fish
must be cured as soon as possible after it has been caught. A few having been
brought on shore, they are at once split up from head to tail, and by copious
washings thoroughly cleansed from all particles of blood. A piece of the
backbone being cut away, they are then drained, and afterwards laid down in
long vats, covered with salt, heavy weights being placed upon them to keep
them thoroughly under the action of the pickle. By and by the fish are taken
out of the vat, and are once more drained, being at the same time carefully
washed and brushed to prevent the collection of any kind of impurity. Next
the fish are pined by exposure to the sun and air; in other words, they are
bleached by being spread out individually on the sandy beach, or upon such
rocks or stones as may be convenient. After this process has been gone
through the fish are then collected into little heaps, which are technically
called steeples. When the bloom, or whitish appearance which after a time
they assume, comes out on the dried fish the process is finished, and they are
then quite ready for market. The consumption of dried cod or ling is very
large, and extends over the whole globe; vast quantities are prepared for the
religious communities of Continental Europe, who make use of it on the fast-
days instituted by the Roman Catholic Church.
Besides the common cod, there are the dorse (M. callarias), and the poor
or power cod (M. minuta), also the bib or pout (M. lusca).
quite pure, nearly inodorous, and of a crystalline transparency. The specific
gravity at temperature 64° is about ·920°. It seems to have been first used
medicinally by Dr. Percival in 1782 for the cure of chronic rheumatism;
afterwards by Dr. Bardsly in 1807. It has now become a popular remedy in all
the slow-wasting diseases, particularly in scrofulous affections of the joints
and bones, and in consumption of the lungs. The result of an extended trial of
this medicine in the hospital at London for the treatment of consumptive
patients shows that about 70 per cent gain strength and weight, and improve
in health, while taking the cod-liver oil; and this good effect with a great
many is permanent. Skate-liver oil is also coming into use for medicinal
purposes, and I have no doubt that the oil obtained from some of our other
fishes will also be found useful in a medicinal point of view.
The codfish is best when eaten fresh, but vast quantities are sent to market
in a dried or cured state: the great seat of the cod-fishery for curing purposes
is at Newfoundland. But considerable numbers of cod and ling are likewise
cured on the coasts of Scotland. The mode of cure is quite simple. The fish
must be cured as soon as possible after it has been caught. A few having been
brought on shore, they are at once split up from head to tail, and by copious
washings thoroughly cleansed from all particles of blood. A piece of the
backbone being cut away, they are then drained, and afterwards laid down in
long vats, covered with salt, heavy weights being placed upon them to keep
them thoroughly under the action of the pickle. By and by the fish are taken
out of the vat, and are once more drained, being at the same time carefully
washed and brushed to prevent the collection of any kind of impurity. Next
the fish are pined by exposure to the sun and air; in other words, they are
bleached by being spread out individually on the sandy beach, or upon such
rocks or stones as may be convenient. After this process has been gone
through the fish are then collected into little heaps, which are technically
called steeples. When the bloom, or whitish appearance which after a time
they assume, comes out on the dried fish the process is finished, and they are
then quite ready for market. The consumption of dried cod or ling is very
large, and extends over the whole globe; vast quantities are prepared for the
religious communities of Continental Europe, who make use of it on the fast-
days instituted by the Roman Catholic Church.
Besides the common cod, there are the dorse (M. callarias), and the poor
or power cod (M. minuta), also the bib or pout (M. lusca).
Page 245
The whiting (Merlangus vulgaris) is another of our delicious table-fishes,
which is found in comparative plenty on the British coasts. This fish is by
some thought to be superior to all the other Gadidæ. Very little is known of its
natural history. It deposits its spawn in March, and the eggs are not long in
hatching—about forty days, I think, varying, however, with the temperature
of the season. Before and after shedding its milt or roe the whiting is out of
condition, and should not be taken for a couple of months. The whiting
prefers a sandy bottom, and is usually found a few miles from the shore, its
food being much the same as that of other fishes of the family to which it
belongs. It is a smallish fish, usually about twelve inches long, and on the
average two pounds in weight.
I need scarcely refer to the other members of the Gadidæ: they are
numerous and useful, but, generally speaking, their characteristics are
common and have been sufficiently detailed.[11] I will now, therefore, say a
few words about the Pleuronectidæ. There are upwards of a dozen kinds of
flat fish that are popular for table purposes. One of these is a very large fish
known as the holibut (Hippoglopus vulgaris), which has been found in the
northern seas to attain occasionally a weight of from three to four hundred
pounds. One of this species of fish of extraordinary size was brought to the
Edinburgh market in April 1828; it was seven feet and a half long, and
upwards of three feet broad, and it weighed three hundred and twenty
pounds! The flavour of the holibut is not very delicate, although it has been
frequently mistaken for turbot by those not conversant with fish history.
The true turbot (Rhombus maximus) is the especial delight of aldermanic
epicures, and fabulous sums are said to have been given at different times by
rich persons in order to secure a turbot for their dinner-table. This fine fish is,
or rather used to be, largely taken on our own coasts; but now we have to rely
upon more distant fishing-grounds for a large portion of our supply. The old
complaint of our ignorance of fish habits must be again reiterated here, for it
is not long since it was supposed that the turbot was a migratory fish that
might be caught at one place to-day and at another to-morrow. The late Mr.
Wilson, who ought to have known better, said, in writing about this fish:
—“The English markets are largely supplied from the various sandbanks
which lie between our eastern coasts and Holland. The Dutch turbot-fishery
begins about the end of March, a few leagues to the south of Scheveling. The
fish proceed northwards as the season advances, and in April and May are
found in great shoals upon the banks called the Broad Forties. Early in June
which is found in comparative plenty on the British coasts. This fish is by
some thought to be superior to all the other Gadidæ. Very little is known of its
natural history. It deposits its spawn in March, and the eggs are not long in
hatching—about forty days, I think, varying, however, with the temperature
of the season. Before and after shedding its milt or roe the whiting is out of
condition, and should not be taken for a couple of months. The whiting
prefers a sandy bottom, and is usually found a few miles from the shore, its
food being much the same as that of other fishes of the family to which it
belongs. It is a smallish fish, usually about twelve inches long, and on the
average two pounds in weight.
I need scarcely refer to the other members of the Gadidæ: they are
numerous and useful, but, generally speaking, their characteristics are
common and have been sufficiently detailed.[11] I will now, therefore, say a
few words about the Pleuronectidæ. There are upwards of a dozen kinds of
flat fish that are popular for table purposes. One of these is a very large fish
known as the holibut (Hippoglopus vulgaris), which has been found in the
northern seas to attain occasionally a weight of from three to four hundred
pounds. One of this species of fish of extraordinary size was brought to the
Edinburgh market in April 1828; it was seven feet and a half long, and
upwards of three feet broad, and it weighed three hundred and twenty
pounds! The flavour of the holibut is not very delicate, although it has been
frequently mistaken for turbot by those not conversant with fish history.
The true turbot (Rhombus maximus) is the especial delight of aldermanic
epicures, and fabulous sums are said to have been given at different times by
rich persons in order to secure a turbot for their dinner-table. This fine fish is,
or rather used to be, largely taken on our own coasts; but now we have to rely
upon more distant fishing-grounds for a large portion of our supply. The old
complaint of our ignorance of fish habits must be again reiterated here, for it
is not long since it was supposed that the turbot was a migratory fish that
might be caught at one place to-day and at another to-morrow. The late Mr.
Wilson, who ought to have known better, said, in writing about this fish:
—“The English markets are largely supplied from the various sandbanks
which lie between our eastern coasts and Holland. The Dutch turbot-fishery
begins about the end of March, a few leagues to the south of Scheveling. The
fish proceed northwards as the season advances, and in April and May are
found in great shoals upon the banks called the Broad Forties. Early in June
Page 246
they surround the island of Heligoland, where the fishery continues to the
middle of August, and then terminates for the year. At the beginning of the
season the trawl-net is chiefly used; but on the occurrence of warm weather
the fish retire to deeper water, and to banks of rougher ground, where the long
line is indispensable.”
THE PLEURONECTIDÆ FAMILY.
1. Flounder. 2. Turbot. 3. Plaice. 4. Sole. 5. Dab.
The turbot was well known in ancient gastronomy: the luxurious Italians
used it extensively, and christened it the sea-pheasant from its fine flavour. In
the gastronomic days of ancient Rome the wealthy patricians were very
extravagant in the use of all kinds of fish; so much so that it was said by a
satirist that
“Great turbots and the soup-dish led
To shame at last and want of bread.”
The turbot is very common on the English and Scottish coasts, and is known
also on the shores of Greece and Italy. This fish is taken chiefly by means of
middle of August, and then terminates for the year. At the beginning of the
season the trawl-net is chiefly used; but on the occurrence of warm weather
the fish retire to deeper water, and to banks of rougher ground, where the long
line is indispensable.”
THE PLEURONECTIDÆ FAMILY.
1. Flounder. 2. Turbot. 3. Plaice. 4. Sole. 5. Dab.
The turbot was well known in ancient gastronomy: the luxurious Italians
used it extensively, and christened it the sea-pheasant from its fine flavour. In
the gastronomic days of ancient Rome the wealthy patricians were very
extravagant in the use of all kinds of fish; so much so that it was said by a
satirist that
“Great turbots and the soup-dish led
To shame at last and want of bread.”
The turbot is very common on the English and Scottish coasts, and is known
also on the shores of Greece and Italy. This fish is taken chiefly by means of
Page 247
the trawl-net, but in some places it is fished for by well-baited lines. We
derive large quantities of our turbot from Holland, so much as £100,000
having been paid to the Dutch in one year for the quantity of these fish which
were brought to London, and on which, at one time, a duty of £6 per boat was
exigible. This fish spawns during the autumn, and is in fine condition for
table use during the spring and early summer. Yarrell says the turbot spawns
in the spring; but, with due respect, I think he is wrong; I would not, however,
be positive about this, for there will no doubt be individuals of the turbot
kind, as there are of all other kinds, that will spawn all the year round. The
turbot is a great flat fish. In Scotland, from its shape, it is called “the
bannock-fluke.” It is about twenty inches long, and broad in proportion; and a
prime fish of this species will weigh from four to eight pounds.
The best-known fish of the Pleuronectidæ is the sole (Solea vulgaris),
which is largely distributed in all our seas, and used in immense quantities in
London and elsewhere. The sole is too well known to require any description
at my hands. It is caught by means of the trawl-net, and is in good season for
a great number of months. Soles of a moderate weight are best for the table. I
prefer such as weigh from three to five pounds per pair. I have been told, by
those who ought to know best, that the deeper the water from which it is
taken the better the sole. It is quite a ground fish, and inhabits the sandy
places round the coast, feeding on the minor crustacea, and on the spawn and
young of various kinds of fish. Good supplies of this popular fish are taken
on the west coast of England, and they are said to be very plentiful in the
Irish seas; indeed all kinds of fish are said to inhabit the waters that surround
the Emerald Isle. There can be no doubt of this, at any rate, that the fishing on
the Irish coasts has never been so vigorously prosecuted as on the coasts of
Scotland and England—so that there has been a greater chance for the best
kinds of white fish to thrive and multiply. Seaside visitors would do well to
go on board some of the trawlers and observe the mode of capture. There is
no more interesting way of passing a seaside holiday than to watch or take a
slight share in the industry of the neighbourhood where one may be located.
The smaller varieties of the flat fish—such as Muller’s top-knot, the
flounder, whiff, dab, plaice, etc.—I need not particularly notice, except to say
that immense quantities of them are annually consumed in London and other
cities. Mr. Mayhew, in some of his investigations, found out that upwards of
33,000,000 of plaice were annually required to aid the London commissariat!
But that is nothing. Three times that quantity of soles are needed—one would
derive large quantities of our turbot from Holland, so much as £100,000
having been paid to the Dutch in one year for the quantity of these fish which
were brought to London, and on which, at one time, a duty of £6 per boat was
exigible. This fish spawns during the autumn, and is in fine condition for
table use during the spring and early summer. Yarrell says the turbot spawns
in the spring; but, with due respect, I think he is wrong; I would not, however,
be positive about this, for there will no doubt be individuals of the turbot
kind, as there are of all other kinds, that will spawn all the year round. The
turbot is a great flat fish. In Scotland, from its shape, it is called “the
bannock-fluke.” It is about twenty inches long, and broad in proportion; and a
prime fish of this species will weigh from four to eight pounds.
The best-known fish of the Pleuronectidæ is the sole (Solea vulgaris),
which is largely distributed in all our seas, and used in immense quantities in
London and elsewhere. The sole is too well known to require any description
at my hands. It is caught by means of the trawl-net, and is in good season for
a great number of months. Soles of a moderate weight are best for the table. I
prefer such as weigh from three to five pounds per pair. I have been told, by
those who ought to know best, that the deeper the water from which it is
taken the better the sole. It is quite a ground fish, and inhabits the sandy
places round the coast, feeding on the minor crustacea, and on the spawn and
young of various kinds of fish. Good supplies of this popular fish are taken
on the west coast of England, and they are said to be very plentiful in the
Irish seas; indeed all kinds of fish are said to inhabit the waters that surround
the Emerald Isle. There can be no doubt of this, at any rate, that the fishing on
the Irish coasts has never been so vigorously prosecuted as on the coasts of
Scotland and England—so that there has been a greater chance for the best
kinds of white fish to thrive and multiply. Seaside visitors would do well to
go on board some of the trawlers and observe the mode of capture. There is
no more interesting way of passing a seaside holiday than to watch or take a
slight share in the industry of the neighbourhood where one may be located.
The smaller varieties of the flat fish—such as Muller’s top-knot, the
flounder, whiff, dab, plaice, etc.—I need not particularly notice, except to say
that immense quantities of them are annually consumed in London and other
cities. Mr. Mayhew, in some of his investigations, found out that upwards of
33,000,000 of plaice were annually required to aid the London commissariat!
But that is nothing. Three times that quantity of soles are needed—one would
Page 248
fancy this to be a statistic of shoe-leather—the exact figure given by Mr.
Mayhew is 97,520,000! This is not in the least exaggerated. I discussed these
figures with a Billingsgate salesman a few months ago, and he thinks them
quite within the mark.
I have already alluded to the natural history of the mackerel, and shall now
say a word or two about the fishery, which is keenly prosecuted. The great
point in mackerel-fishing is to get the fish into the market in its freshest state;
and to achieve this several boats will join in the fishery, and one of their
number will come into harbour as speedily as possible with the united take.
The mackerel is caught in England chiefly by means of the seine-net, and
much in the same way as the pilchard. A great number of this fish are
however captured by means of well-baited lines, and in some places a drift-
net is used. Any kind of bait almost will do for the mackerel-hooks—a bit of
red cloth, a slice of one of its own kind, or any clear shiny substance.
Mackerel are not quite so plentiful as they used to be.
As to when the Gadidæ and other white fish are in their proper season it is
difficult to say. Their times of sickness are not so marked as to prevent many
of the varieties from being used all the year round. Different countries must
have different seasons. We know, for instance, that it is proper to have the
close-time of one salmon river at a different date from that of some other
stream that may be farther south or farther north; and I may state here, that
during a visit which I made to the Tay in December last, beautiful clean
salmon were then running. There are also exceptional spawning seasons in
the case of individual fish, so that we are quite safe in affirming that the sole
and turbot are in season all the year round. The following tabular view of the
dates when our principal fishes are in season does not refer to any particular
locality, but has been compiled to show that fish are to be obtained nearly all
the year round from some part of the coast:—
FISH TABLE.
S denotes that the fish is in season; F in finest season; and O out of season.
Jan. Feb. March. April. May. June. July. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.
Brill S S S S S S S S S S S S
Carp S S S S S S S S S S S S
Cockles S S S S O O O O S S S S
Cod F S S O O O O O S S F F
Crabs O O O S F F F F F S S S
Dabs S S S S S S S S O O O O
Mayhew is 97,520,000! This is not in the least exaggerated. I discussed these
figures with a Billingsgate salesman a few months ago, and he thinks them
quite within the mark.
I have already alluded to the natural history of the mackerel, and shall now
say a word or two about the fishery, which is keenly prosecuted. The great
point in mackerel-fishing is to get the fish into the market in its freshest state;
and to achieve this several boats will join in the fishery, and one of their
number will come into harbour as speedily as possible with the united take.
The mackerel is caught in England chiefly by means of the seine-net, and
much in the same way as the pilchard. A great number of this fish are
however captured by means of well-baited lines, and in some places a drift-
net is used. Any kind of bait almost will do for the mackerel-hooks—a bit of
red cloth, a slice of one of its own kind, or any clear shiny substance.
Mackerel are not quite so plentiful as they used to be.
As to when the Gadidæ and other white fish are in their proper season it is
difficult to say. Their times of sickness are not so marked as to prevent many
of the varieties from being used all the year round. Different countries must
have different seasons. We know, for instance, that it is proper to have the
close-time of one salmon river at a different date from that of some other
stream that may be farther south or farther north; and I may state here, that
during a visit which I made to the Tay in December last, beautiful clean
salmon were then running. There are also exceptional spawning seasons in
the case of individual fish, so that we are quite safe in affirming that the sole
and turbot are in season all the year round. The following tabular view of the
dates when our principal fishes are in season does not refer to any particular
locality, but has been compiled to show that fish are to be obtained nearly all
the year round from some part of the coast:—
FISH TABLE.
S denotes that the fish is in season; F in finest season; and O out of season.
Jan. Feb. March. April. May. June. July. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.
Brill S S S S S S S S S S S S
Carp S S S S S S S S S S S S
Cockles S S S S O O O O S S S S
Cod F S S O O O O O S S F F
Crabs O O O S F F F F F S S S
Dabs S S S S S S S S O O O O
Page 249
Dace F F O O O S S S F F F S
Eels S S S O O O O S F F F S
Flounders S S S S S S S S S S S S
Gurnets O O O O S S S S S O O O
Haddocks F S O O S S S S S F F F
Holibut S F F S S F F S S S S S
Herrings S S O O S S F F S S S S
Ling S S F S O O O O O S S S
Lobsters O O O S F F F S S S S S
Mackerel O O O S S S S S S S O O
Mullet O O O S S S S O O O O O
Mussels[12] S S S S O O O O S S S S
Oysters S S F F O O O O S S S S
Plaice S O O O S S S S S S S S
Prawns O O S F F F F S O O O O
Salmon O S S F F F S S O O O O
Shrimps S S S S S S S S S S S S
Skate F F F F F F S S O O S S
Smelts S S S S S O O O O O S S
Soles S S S S S S S S S S S S
Sprats S O O O O O O O O O S S
Thornback O O O O O O S S S S S O
Trout O S F F F F S S O O O O
Turbot S S S S S S S S S S S S
Whitings F F O O O S S S S F F F
There is no organisation in Scotland for carrying on the white fisheries, as
there is in the case of the oyster or herring fisheries. So far as our most
plentiful table fish are concerned, the supply seems utterly dependent on
chance or the will of individuals. A man (or company) owning a boat goes to
sea just when he pleases. In Scotland, where a great quantity of the best white
fish are caught, this is particularly the case, and the consequence is that at the
season of the year when the principal white and flat fish are in their primest
condition, they are not to be procured; the general answer to all inquiries as to
the scarcity being, “The men are away at the herring.” This is true; the best
boats and the strongest and most intelligent fishermen have removed for a
time to distant fishing-towns to engage in the capture of the herring, which
forms, during the summer months, a noted industrial feature on the coasts of
Scotland, and allures to the scene all the best fishermen, in the hope that they
may gain a prize in the great herring-lottery, prizes in which are not
uncommon, as some boats will take fish to the extent of two hundred barrels
in the course of a week or two. Only a few decrepit old men are left to try
Eels S S S O O O O S F F F S
Flounders S S S S S S S S S S S S
Gurnets O O O O S S S S S O O O
Haddocks F S O O S S S S S F F F
Holibut S F F S S F F S S S S S
Herrings S S O O S S F F S S S S
Ling S S F S O O O O O S S S
Lobsters O O O S F F F S S S S S
Mackerel O O O S S S S S S S O O
Mullet O O O S S S S O O O O O
Mussels[12] S S S S O O O O S S S S
Oysters S S F F O O O O S S S S
Plaice S O O O S S S S S S S S
Prawns O O S F F F F S O O O O
Salmon O S S F F F S S O O O O
Shrimps S S S S S S S S S S S S
Skate F F F F F F S S O O S S
Smelts S S S S S O O O O O S S
Soles S S S S S S S S S S S S
Sprats S O O O O O O O O O S S
Thornback O O O O O O S S S S S O
Trout O S F F F F S S O O O O
Turbot S S S S S S S S S S S S
Whitings F F O O O S S S S F F F
There is no organisation in Scotland for carrying on the white fisheries, as
there is in the case of the oyster or herring fisheries. So far as our most
plentiful table fish are concerned, the supply seems utterly dependent on
chance or the will of individuals. A man (or company) owning a boat goes to
sea just when he pleases. In Scotland, where a great quantity of the best white
fish are caught, this is particularly the case, and the consequence is that at the
season of the year when the principal white and flat fish are in their primest
condition, they are not to be procured; the general answer to all inquiries as to
the scarcity being, “The men are away at the herring.” This is true; the best
boats and the strongest and most intelligent fishermen have removed for a
time to distant fishing-towns to engage in the capture of the herring, which
forms, during the summer months, a noted industrial feature on the coasts of
Scotland, and allures to the scene all the best fishermen, in the hope that they
may gain a prize in the great herring-lottery, prizes in which are not
uncommon, as some boats will take fish to the extent of two hundred barrels
in the course of a week or two. Only a few decrepit old men are left to try
Page 250
their luck with the cod and haddock lines; the result being, as I have stated
above, a scarcity of white and flat fish, which is beginning to be felt in
greatly enhanced prices. An intelligent Newhaven fishwife recently informed
me that the price of white fish in Edinburgh—a city close to the sea—has
been more than quadrupled within the last thirty years. She remembers when
the primest haddocks were sold at about one penny per pound weight, and in
her time herrings have been so plentiful that no person would purchase them.
We shall not soon look again on such times.
The cod and haddock fishery is a laborious occupation. At Buckie, a quaint
fishing-town on the Moray Firth, which I will by and by describe, it is one of
the staple occupations of the people. At that, little port there are generally
about thirty or forty large boats engaged in the fishery, as well as a number of
smaller craft used to fish inshore. These boats, which measure from thirty to
forty feet, are, with the necessary hooks and lines, of the value of about £100.
Each boat is generally the property of a joint-stock company, and has a crew
of eight or nine individuals, who all claim an equal share in the fish captured.
The Buckie men often go a long distance, forty or fifty miles, to a populous
fishing-place, and are absent from home for a period of fifteen or twenty
hours. At many of the fishing villages from which herring or cod boats
depart, there is no proper harbour, and at such places the sight of the
departing fleet is a most animated one, as all hands, women included, have to
lend their aid in order to expedite the launching of the little fleet, as the men
who are to fish must be kept dry and comfortable. Even at places where there
is a harbour, it is often not used, many of the boats being drawn up for
convenience on what is called the boat-shore. At Cockenzie, near Edinburgh,
several of the boats are still drawn up in this rude way, and the women not
only assist in launching and drawing up the boats, but they sell the produce
taken by each crew by auction to the highest bidder—the purchasers usually
being buyers on speculation, who send off the fish by train to Edinburgh,
Manchester, or London.
From the little ports of the Moray Firth, the men, as I have said, have to go
long distances to fish for cod and ling. As they have none but open boats, it
will easily be understood that they live hard upon such occasions. They are
sometimes absent from home for about a week at a stretch, and as the weather
is often very inclement the men suffer severely. The fish are not so easily
procured as in former years, so that the remuneration for the labour
undergone is totally inadequate. A large traffic in living codfish used to be
above, a scarcity of white and flat fish, which is beginning to be felt in
greatly enhanced prices. An intelligent Newhaven fishwife recently informed
me that the price of white fish in Edinburgh—a city close to the sea—has
been more than quadrupled within the last thirty years. She remembers when
the primest haddocks were sold at about one penny per pound weight, and in
her time herrings have been so plentiful that no person would purchase them.
We shall not soon look again on such times.
The cod and haddock fishery is a laborious occupation. At Buckie, a quaint
fishing-town on the Moray Firth, which I will by and by describe, it is one of
the staple occupations of the people. At that, little port there are generally
about thirty or forty large boats engaged in the fishery, as well as a number of
smaller craft used to fish inshore. These boats, which measure from thirty to
forty feet, are, with the necessary hooks and lines, of the value of about £100.
Each boat is generally the property of a joint-stock company, and has a crew
of eight or nine individuals, who all claim an equal share in the fish captured.
The Buckie men often go a long distance, forty or fifty miles, to a populous
fishing-place, and are absent from home for a period of fifteen or twenty
hours. At many of the fishing villages from which herring or cod boats
depart, there is no proper harbour, and at such places the sight of the
departing fleet is a most animated one, as all hands, women included, have to
lend their aid in order to expedite the launching of the little fleet, as the men
who are to fish must be kept dry and comfortable. Even at places where there
is a harbour, it is often not used, many of the boats being drawn up for
convenience on what is called the boat-shore. At Cockenzie, near Edinburgh,
several of the boats are still drawn up in this rude way, and the women not
only assist in launching and drawing up the boats, but they sell the produce
taken by each crew by auction to the highest bidder—the purchasers usually
being buyers on speculation, who send off the fish by train to Edinburgh,
Manchester, or London.
From the little ports of the Moray Firth, the men, as I have said, have to go
long distances to fish for cod and ling. As they have none but open boats, it
will easily be understood that they live hard upon such occasions. They are
sometimes absent from home for about a week at a stretch, and as the weather
is often very inclement the men suffer severely. The fish are not so easily
procured as in former years, so that the remuneration for the labour
undergone is totally inadequate. A large traffic in living codfish used to be
Page 251
carried on from Scotland; quick vessels furnished with wells took the cod
alive as far as Gravesend, whence they were sent on to London as required.
Although the railways have put an end to a good deal of this style of
transport, some cargoes of cod have been carried alive all the way from the
Rockall fishery to Gravesend. But the percentage of waste is necessarily
enormous: however, it pays to do this, and one result of the Rockall discovery
has been the starting of a joint-stock company to work one of the large North
Sea fisheries. The cod-bank at the Faroe Islands is now about exhausted; but
the gigantic cod-fishery which has been carried on for two centuries on the
banks of Newfoundland still continues to be prosecuted with great enterprise,
although, according to reliable information, not with the success which
characterised the fishery some years ago. In a few years more it will be quite
possible to make a decided impression even on the cod-banks of
Newfoundland. The Great Dogger Bank fishery has now become affected by
overfishing, and the Rockall Bank fails to yield anything like the large
“takes” with which it rewarded those who first despoiled it of its finny
treasures. A gentleman who dabbles a little in fishing speculations writes me
—“In 1862, I sent a fine smack to Rockall, and fish were in great plenty—
some very large; but the weather is usually so bad, and the bank so exposed
to the heavy seas of the North Atlantic, that the best and largest vessels fail to
fish with profit in consequence of the wear and tear and delay. This will
account in some degree for the cessation of enterprise as regards the Rockall
fishery.” A writer in the Quarterly Review, a few years ago, said of the
Dogger Bank:—“No better proof that its stores are failing could be given than
the fact that, although the ground, counting the Long Bank and the north-west
flat in its vicinity, covers 11,800 square miles, and that in fine weather it is
fished by the London companies with from fifteen to twenty dozen of long
lines, extending ten or twelve miles, and containing from 9000 to 12,000
hooks, it is not yet at all common to take even as many as fourscore of fish of
a night—a poverty which can be better appreciated when we learn that 600
fish for 800 hooks is the catch for deep-sea fishing about Kinsale.” I cannot
say much about the white-fish fisheries of Ireland from personal knowledge,
but I have been informed on good authority that the coast fisheries of that
country are not half worked, and consequently are not in such an exhausted
state as those of Scotland and England. The west coast of Ireland, from
Galway Bay to Erris Head north, and north-west to Donegal Bay, is said to
contain all the best kinds of table fish in great quantities—mackerel being
plentiful in their season, as are cod, hake, ling, and others of the Gadidæ. As
alive as far as Gravesend, whence they were sent on to London as required.
Although the railways have put an end to a good deal of this style of
transport, some cargoes of cod have been carried alive all the way from the
Rockall fishery to Gravesend. But the percentage of waste is necessarily
enormous: however, it pays to do this, and one result of the Rockall discovery
has been the starting of a joint-stock company to work one of the large North
Sea fisheries. The cod-bank at the Faroe Islands is now about exhausted; but
the gigantic cod-fishery which has been carried on for two centuries on the
banks of Newfoundland still continues to be prosecuted with great enterprise,
although, according to reliable information, not with the success which
characterised the fishery some years ago. In a few years more it will be quite
possible to make a decided impression even on the cod-banks of
Newfoundland. The Great Dogger Bank fishery has now become affected by
overfishing, and the Rockall Bank fails to yield anything like the large
“takes” with which it rewarded those who first despoiled it of its finny
treasures. A gentleman who dabbles a little in fishing speculations writes me
—“In 1862, I sent a fine smack to Rockall, and fish were in great plenty—
some very large; but the weather is usually so bad, and the bank so exposed
to the heavy seas of the North Atlantic, that the best and largest vessels fail to
fish with profit in consequence of the wear and tear and delay. This will
account in some degree for the cessation of enterprise as regards the Rockall
fishery.” A writer in the Quarterly Review, a few years ago, said of the
Dogger Bank:—“No better proof that its stores are failing could be given than
the fact that, although the ground, counting the Long Bank and the north-west
flat in its vicinity, covers 11,800 square miles, and that in fine weather it is
fished by the London companies with from fifteen to twenty dozen of long
lines, extending ten or twelve miles, and containing from 9000 to 12,000
hooks, it is not yet at all common to take even as many as fourscore of fish of
a night—a poverty which can be better appreciated when we learn that 600
fish for 800 hooks is the catch for deep-sea fishing about Kinsale.” I cannot
say much about the white-fish fisheries of Ireland from personal knowledge,
but I have been informed on good authority that the coast fisheries of that
country are not half worked, and consequently are not in such an exhausted
state as those of Scotland and England. The west coast of Ireland, from
Galway Bay to Erris Head north, and north-west to Donegal Bay, is said to
contain all the best kinds of table fish in great quantities—mackerel being
plentiful in their season, as are cod, hake, ling, and others of the Gadidæ. As
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for turbot, they can be had everywhere, and have been so plentiful as to be
used for bait on the long lines set for haddock, etc. Lobsters and other shell-
fish can likewise be procured in any quantity. If the accounts given of the
abundance of white fish on the Irish coasts are to be relied upon, there must
be a rare field there for the opening up of new fishing enterprises.
Prolific as our coast fisheries have been, and still are, comparatively
speaking, the North Sea is at present the grand reservoir from which we
obtain our white fish. Indeed, it has been the great fish-preserve of the
surrounding peoples since ever there was a demand for this kind of food. All
the best-known fishing banks are to be found in the German Ocean—Faroe,
Loffoden, Shetland, and others nearer home—and its waters, filling up an
area of 140,000 square miles, teem with the best kinds of fish, and give
employment to thousands of people, as well in their capture and cure as in the
building of the ships, and the development of the commerce which is
incidental to all large enterprises.
It will doubtless be interesting to my readers to know something about the
general machinery of fish-capture, so far as regards the British sea-fisheries.
The modern cod-smack, clipper-built for speed, with large wells for carrying
her live fish, costs £1500. She usually carries from nine to eleven men and
boys, including the captain. Her average expense per week is £20 during the
long-line season in the North Sea; but it exceeds this much if unfortunate in
losing lines. Fishing has of late been a most uncertain venture. The line is
chiefly used for the purpose of taking cod and haddock. The number of lines
taken to sea in an open boat depends upon the number of men belonging to
the particular vessel. Each man has a line of 50 fathoms (300 feet) in length;
and attached to each of these lines are 100 “snoods,” with hooks already
baited with mussels, pieces of herring or whiting. Each line is laid “clear” in a
shallow basket or “scull”—that is, it is so arranged as to run freely as the boat
shoots ahead. The 50-fathom line, with 100 hooks, is in Scotland termed a
“taes.” If there are eight men in a boat the length of line will be 400 fathoms
(2400 feet), with 800 hooks (the lines being tied to each other before setting).
On arriving at the fishing-ground the fishermen heave overboard a cork buoy,
with a flagstaff fixed to it about six feet in height. The buoy is kept stationary
by a line, called the “pow-end,” reaching to the bottom of the water, and
having a stone or small anchor fastened to the lower end. To the pow-end is
also fastened the fishing-line, which is then “paid” out as fast as the boat
sails, which may be from four to five knots an hour. Should the wind be
used for bait on the long lines set for haddock, etc. Lobsters and other shell-
fish can likewise be procured in any quantity. If the accounts given of the
abundance of white fish on the Irish coasts are to be relied upon, there must
be a rare field there for the opening up of new fishing enterprises.
Prolific as our coast fisheries have been, and still are, comparatively
speaking, the North Sea is at present the grand reservoir from which we
obtain our white fish. Indeed, it has been the great fish-preserve of the
surrounding peoples since ever there was a demand for this kind of food. All
the best-known fishing banks are to be found in the German Ocean—Faroe,
Loffoden, Shetland, and others nearer home—and its waters, filling up an
area of 140,000 square miles, teem with the best kinds of fish, and give
employment to thousands of people, as well in their capture and cure as in the
building of the ships, and the development of the commerce which is
incidental to all large enterprises.
It will doubtless be interesting to my readers to know something about the
general machinery of fish-capture, so far as regards the British sea-fisheries.
The modern cod-smack, clipper-built for speed, with large wells for carrying
her live fish, costs £1500. She usually carries from nine to eleven men and
boys, including the captain. Her average expense per week is £20 during the
long-line season in the North Sea; but it exceeds this much if unfortunate in
losing lines. Fishing has of late been a most uncertain venture. The line is
chiefly used for the purpose of taking cod and haddock. The number of lines
taken to sea in an open boat depends upon the number of men belonging to
the particular vessel. Each man has a line of 50 fathoms (300 feet) in length;
and attached to each of these lines are 100 “snoods,” with hooks already
baited with mussels, pieces of herring or whiting. Each line is laid “clear” in a
shallow basket or “scull”—that is, it is so arranged as to run freely as the boat
shoots ahead. The 50-fathom line, with 100 hooks, is in Scotland termed a
“taes.” If there are eight men in a boat the length of line will be 400 fathoms
(2400 feet), with 800 hooks (the lines being tied to each other before setting).
On arriving at the fishing-ground the fishermen heave overboard a cork buoy,
with a flagstaff fixed to it about six feet in height. The buoy is kept stationary
by a line, called the “pow-end,” reaching to the bottom of the water, and
having a stone or small anchor fastened to the lower end. To the pow-end is
also fastened the fishing-line, which is then “paid” out as fast as the boat
sails, which may be from four to five knots an hour. Should the wind be
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unfavourable for the direction in which the crew wish to set the line they use
the oars. When the line or taes is all out the end is dropped, and the boat
returns to the buoy. The pow-end is hauled up with the anchor and fishing-
line attached to it. The fishermen then haul in the line with whatever fish may
be on it. Eight hundred fish might be taken (and often have been) by eight
men in a few hours by this operation; but many fishermen now say that they
consider themselves very fortunate when they get a fish on every five hooks
on an eight-taes line. Many a time too the fish are all eaten off the line by
“dogs” and other enemies, so that only a few fragments and a skeleton or two
remain to show that fish have been caught. The fishermen of deck-welled
cod-bangers use both hand-lines and long-lines such as have been described.
The cod-bangers’ tackling is of course stronger than that used in open boats.
The long-lines are called “grut-lines,” or great-lines. Every deck-welled cod-
banger carries a small boat on deck for working the great-lines in moderate
weather. This boat is also provided with a well, in which the fish are kept
alive till they arrive at the banger, when they are transferred from the small
boat’s well to that of the larger vessel.
Hungry codfish will seize any kind of bait, and great-lines are usually
baited with bits of whiting, herring, haddock, or almost any kind of fish. For
hand-lines the fishermen prefer mussels or white whelks. White whelks are
caught by a line on which is fastened a number of pieces of carrion or cod-
heads. This line is laid along the bottom where whelks are known to abound.
The whelks attach themselves to the cod-heads, and are pulled up, put into
net bags, something like onion-nets, and placed in the well of the vessel,
where they are kept alive till required for use. Another kind of bait used by
the boat fishermen for hand-lines is that of the lugworm. The “lug” is a sand-
worm, from four to five inches long, and about the thickness of a man’s
finger. The head part of the worm is of a dark brown fleshy substance, and is
the part used as bait, the rest of the worm being nothing but sand. The “lug”
is dug from the sand with a small spade or three-pronged fork.
The principal fishing-grounds in the North Sea where cod-bangers are
employed are the Dogger Bank, Well Bank, and Dutch Bank. The fishing-
ground of the open-boat fishermen is on the coasts of Fife, Midlothian, and
Berwickshire; for haddocks, cod, ling, etc., it is around the island of May and
the Bell Rock, Marrbank, Murray Bank, and Montrose Pits, etc.
The Scottish fishing-boats, with a few exceptions, are all open; but whilst
the open boats are a subject of dispute, they are an undoubted convenience to
the oars. When the line or taes is all out the end is dropped, and the boat
returns to the buoy. The pow-end is hauled up with the anchor and fishing-
line attached to it. The fishermen then haul in the line with whatever fish may
be on it. Eight hundred fish might be taken (and often have been) by eight
men in a few hours by this operation; but many fishermen now say that they
consider themselves very fortunate when they get a fish on every five hooks
on an eight-taes line. Many a time too the fish are all eaten off the line by
“dogs” and other enemies, so that only a few fragments and a skeleton or two
remain to show that fish have been caught. The fishermen of deck-welled
cod-bangers use both hand-lines and long-lines such as have been described.
The cod-bangers’ tackling is of course stronger than that used in open boats.
The long-lines are called “grut-lines,” or great-lines. Every deck-welled cod-
banger carries a small boat on deck for working the great-lines in moderate
weather. This boat is also provided with a well, in which the fish are kept
alive till they arrive at the banger, when they are transferred from the small
boat’s well to that of the larger vessel.
Hungry codfish will seize any kind of bait, and great-lines are usually
baited with bits of whiting, herring, haddock, or almost any kind of fish. For
hand-lines the fishermen prefer mussels or white whelks. White whelks are
caught by a line on which is fastened a number of pieces of carrion or cod-
heads. This line is laid along the bottom where whelks are known to abound.
The whelks attach themselves to the cod-heads, and are pulled up, put into
net bags, something like onion-nets, and placed in the well of the vessel,
where they are kept alive till required for use. Another kind of bait used by
the boat fishermen for hand-lines is that of the lugworm. The “lug” is a sand-
worm, from four to five inches long, and about the thickness of a man’s
finger. The head part of the worm is of a dark brown fleshy substance, and is
the part used as bait, the rest of the worm being nothing but sand. The “lug”
is dug from the sand with a small spade or three-pronged fork.
The principal fishing-grounds in the North Sea where cod-bangers are
employed are the Dogger Bank, Well Bank, and Dutch Bank. The fishing-
ground of the open-boat fishermen is on the coasts of Fife, Midlothian, and
Berwickshire; for haddocks, cod, ling, etc., it is around the island of May and
the Bell Rock, Marrbank, Murray Bank, and Montrose Pits, etc.
The Scottish fishing-boats, with a few exceptions, are all open; but whilst
the open boats are a subject of dispute, they are an undoubted convenience to
Page 254
the men. The boats, as a general rule, seldom go far from home except to the
seat of some particular fishery, and being low in the build the nets are easily
paid out and hauled in when they are so fortunate as to obtain a good haul of
fish. The Scottish fishery is mostly what may be called a local or shore
fishery, as the boats go out and come home, with a few exceptions, once in
the twenty-four hours. A few boats with a half deck have been introduced of
late years, and in these the fishermen can make a much longer voyage; but, as
a rule, the Scottish fishermen have not, like their English brethren, a
comfortable decked lugger in which to prosecute their labours. In the event of
a storm the open Scottish boats are poorly off, as some of their harbours are
at such times totally inaccessible, and the boats being unable, from their frail
construction, to run out to sea, are frequently driven upon the rocky coasts
and wrecked, the men being drowned or killed among the rocks. It is
gratifying to think that a good number of harbours of refuge have lately been
constructed, and that in particular an extensive one is being at present erected
at Wick, the seat of the great herring fishery. I have more than once, while
conducting inquiries into the fishing industries of the United Kingdom, seen
the storm break upon the herring-fleet while it was engaged in the fishery.
Such scenes are terribly sublime, as boat after boat is engulphed by the
ravening waters, or is dashed against the rocky pillars of the shore, and the
men sucked into the deep by the powerful waves. The sea is free to all,
without tax and without rent, but the price paid in human life is a terrible
equivalent:—“It is only they who go down to the sea in ships who see the
works of the Lord and His wonders in the deep.”
There has been a large amount of exaggeration as to the injury done to the
white-fish fishery by the trawls. Fishermen who have neither the capital nor
the enterprise to engage in trawling themselves are sure to abuse those who
do; but the trawl is so formidable as to have induced various French writers to
advocate its prohibition. They describe this instrument of the fishery as
terrible in its effects, leaving, when it is used, deep furrows in the bottom of
the sea, and crushing alike the fry and the spawn; but there is a very evident
exaggeration in this charge, because as a general rule the beam-trawl cannot
be worked with safety except on a sandy or muddy bottom, and, so far as we
know, fish prefer to spawn on ground that is slightly rocky or weedy, so that
the spawn may have something to adhere to, which it evidently requires in
order to escape destruction; and when a quantity of spawn is discerned on a
bit of seaweed or rock, we always find that, from some viscid property of
seat of some particular fishery, and being low in the build the nets are easily
paid out and hauled in when they are so fortunate as to obtain a good haul of
fish. The Scottish fishery is mostly what may be called a local or shore
fishery, as the boats go out and come home, with a few exceptions, once in
the twenty-four hours. A few boats with a half deck have been introduced of
late years, and in these the fishermen can make a much longer voyage; but, as
a rule, the Scottish fishermen have not, like their English brethren, a
comfortable decked lugger in which to prosecute their labours. In the event of
a storm the open Scottish boats are poorly off, as some of their harbours are
at such times totally inaccessible, and the boats being unable, from their frail
construction, to run out to sea, are frequently driven upon the rocky coasts
and wrecked, the men being drowned or killed among the rocks. It is
gratifying to think that a good number of harbours of refuge have lately been
constructed, and that in particular an extensive one is being at present erected
at Wick, the seat of the great herring fishery. I have more than once, while
conducting inquiries into the fishing industries of the United Kingdom, seen
the storm break upon the herring-fleet while it was engaged in the fishery.
Such scenes are terribly sublime, as boat after boat is engulphed by the
ravening waters, or is dashed against the rocky pillars of the shore, and the
men sucked into the deep by the powerful waves. The sea is free to all,
without tax and without rent, but the price paid in human life is a terrible
equivalent:—“It is only they who go down to the sea in ships who see the
works of the Lord and His wonders in the deep.”
There has been a large amount of exaggeration as to the injury done to the
white-fish fishery by the trawls. Fishermen who have neither the capital nor
the enterprise to engage in trawling themselves are sure to abuse those who
do; but the trawl is so formidable as to have induced various French writers to
advocate its prohibition. They describe this instrument of the fishery as
terrible in its effects, leaving, when it is used, deep furrows in the bottom of
the sea, and crushing alike the fry and the spawn; but there is a very evident
exaggeration in this charge, because as a general rule the beam-trawl cannot
be worked with safety except on a sandy or muddy bottom, and, so far as we
know, fish prefer to spawn on ground that is slightly rocky or weedy, so that
the spawn may have something to adhere to, which it evidently requires in
order to escape destruction; and when a quantity of spawn is discerned on a
bit of seaweed or rock, we always find that, from some viscid property of
Page 255
which it is possessed, it adheres to its resting-place with great tenacity. The
trawl-net, however destructive its agency, cannot, I fear, be dispensed with;
and, used at proper seasons and at proper places, is the best engine of capture
we can have for the kinds of fish which it is employed to secure. The trawl is
very largely used by English fishermen, but it is only of late years that the
trawlers have come so far north as Sunderland and Berwick, and it is the
fishermen of these places who have got up the cry about that net being so
injurious to the fisheries. In Scotland there are no resident trawlers, the
fisheries being chiefly of the nature of a coasting industry, where the men, as
a general rule, only go out to sea for a few hours and then return with their
capture. Having been frequently on board of the trawling ships, I may
perhaps be allowed to set down a few figures indicative of the power of the
great beam-net.
A trawler, then, is a vessel of about 35 tons burden, and usually carries 7
persons—viz. 5 men and 2 apprentices—as a crew to work her.[13] The trawl-
rope is 120 fathoms in length and 6 inches in circumference, and to this rope
are attached the different parts of the trawling apparatus—viz. the beam, the
trawl-heads, bag-net, ground-rope, and span or bridle. The trawler is
furnished with a capstan for hauling in this heavy machine. The beam, a spar
of heavy elm wood, is 38 feet in length, and 2 feet in circumference at the
middle, and is made to taper to the ends. Two trawl-heads (oval rings, 4 feet
by 2½ feet) are fixed to the beam, one at each end. The upper part of the bag-
net, which is about 100 feet long, is fastened to the beam, while the lower
part is attached to the ground-rope. The ends of the ground-rope are fastened
to the trawl-beds, and being quite slack, the mouth of the bag-net forms a
semicircle when dragged over the ground. The whole apparatus is fastened to
the trawl-rope by means of the span or bridle, which is a rope double the
length of the beam, and of a thickness equal to the trawl-rope. Each end of
the span is fastened to the beam, and to the loop thus formed the trawl-rope is
attached. The ground-rope is usually an old rope, much weaker than the
trawl-rope, so that, in the event of the net coming in contact with any
obstruction in the water, the ground-rope may break and allow the rest of the
gear to be saved. Were the warp to break instead of the ground-rope, the
whole apparatus, which is of considerable value, would be left at the bottom.
The trawler, as I noted while the net was in the water, usually sails at the rate
of 2 or 2½ knots an hour. The best depth of water for trawling is from 20 to
30 fathoms, with a bottom of mud or sand. At times, however, the nets are
trawl-net, however destructive its agency, cannot, I fear, be dispensed with;
and, used at proper seasons and at proper places, is the best engine of capture
we can have for the kinds of fish which it is employed to secure. The trawl is
very largely used by English fishermen, but it is only of late years that the
trawlers have come so far north as Sunderland and Berwick, and it is the
fishermen of these places who have got up the cry about that net being so
injurious to the fisheries. In Scotland there are no resident trawlers, the
fisheries being chiefly of the nature of a coasting industry, where the men, as
a general rule, only go out to sea for a few hours and then return with their
capture. Having been frequently on board of the trawling ships, I may
perhaps be allowed to set down a few figures indicative of the power of the
great beam-net.
A trawler, then, is a vessel of about 35 tons burden, and usually carries 7
persons—viz. 5 men and 2 apprentices—as a crew to work her.[13] The trawl-
rope is 120 fathoms in length and 6 inches in circumference, and to this rope
are attached the different parts of the trawling apparatus—viz. the beam, the
trawl-heads, bag-net, ground-rope, and span or bridle. The trawler is
furnished with a capstan for hauling in this heavy machine. The beam, a spar
of heavy elm wood, is 38 feet in length, and 2 feet in circumference at the
middle, and is made to taper to the ends. Two trawl-heads (oval rings, 4 feet
by 2½ feet) are fixed to the beam, one at each end. The upper part of the bag-
net, which is about 100 feet long, is fastened to the beam, while the lower
part is attached to the ground-rope. The ends of the ground-rope are fastened
to the trawl-beds, and being quite slack, the mouth of the bag-net forms a
semicircle when dragged over the ground. The whole apparatus is fastened to
the trawl-rope by means of the span or bridle, which is a rope double the
length of the beam, and of a thickness equal to the trawl-rope. Each end of
the span is fastened to the beam, and to the loop thus formed the trawl-rope is
attached. The ground-rope is usually an old rope, much weaker than the
trawl-rope, so that, in the event of the net coming in contact with any
obstruction in the water, the ground-rope may break and allow the rest of the
gear to be saved. Were the warp to break instead of the ground-rope, the
whole apparatus, which is of considerable value, would be left at the bottom.
The trawler, as I noted while the net was in the water, usually sails at the rate
of 2 or 2½ knots an hour. The best depth of water for trawling is from 20 to
30 fathoms, with a bottom of mud or sand. At times, however, the nets are
Page 256
sunk much deeper than this, but that is about the depth of water over the great
Silver Pits, 90 miles off the Humber, where a large number of the Hull
trawlers go to fish. When they are caught, the fish (chiefly soles and other flat
fish) are then packed in baskets called pads, and are preserved in ice until
brought to market. To take twelve or fourteen pads a day is considered
excellent fishing. Besides these ground-fish the trawl often encloses
haddocks, cod, and other round fish, when such happen to be feeding on the
bottom. It sometimes happens that the beam falls to the ground, and, the
ground-rope lying on the top of the bag-net, no fish can get in. This accident,
which, however, seldom occurs, is called a back fall. Mr. Vivian of Hull, in a
letter to the editor of a Manchester newspaper, gave two years ago a very
graphic account of the trawl-fishing, and stated that 99 out of every 100
turbot and brills, nine-tenths of all the haddocks, and a large proportion of all
the skate, which are daily sold in the wholesale fishmarkets of this country
are caught by the system of trawling. Trawling is without doubt the most
efficient mode of getting the white fish at the bottom of the ocean; and were it
made penal, London and the large towns would at times be entirely without
fish. As a matter of course, trawling must exhaust the shoals at particular
places. A fleet of upwards of 100 smacks, each with a beam nearly 40 feet
long, trawling night and day, disturbs, frightens, or captures whatever fish are
to be found in that locality, entrapping, besides, shell-fish, anchors, stores that
have been sunken with ships ages ago; even a wedge of gold has been
brought up by this insatiable instrument. The only remedy is to widen the
field of action.
It is best, however, in a case of dispute, as in this trawl question, to allow
those interested to speak for themselves. I have gone over an immense mass
of the evidence taken by a recent commission appointed by Parliament to
make inquiry on the subject, and will set some parts of it before my readers,
so that, if a little trouble be taken in weighing the pros and cons of the matter,
they may be able to form their own judgment on this vexed question. A
Cullercoats fisherman is very strong against the beam-trawl. He is certain that
thirty years ago we could get double the quantity of fish, during the fishing
season, that we obtain now, and that the supply has fallen away little by little;
and he says that even ten years ago it was almost as good as it was thirty
years ago. Some years hence England will cry out for want of fish if trawling
be allowed to go on. The price of fish has doubled, he says, of late years.
“When I was a young man, there were nine in family of us, and my wife
Silver Pits, 90 miles off the Humber, where a large number of the Hull
trawlers go to fish. When they are caught, the fish (chiefly soles and other flat
fish) are then packed in baskets called pads, and are preserved in ice until
brought to market. To take twelve or fourteen pads a day is considered
excellent fishing. Besides these ground-fish the trawl often encloses
haddocks, cod, and other round fish, when such happen to be feeding on the
bottom. It sometimes happens that the beam falls to the ground, and, the
ground-rope lying on the top of the bag-net, no fish can get in. This accident,
which, however, seldom occurs, is called a back fall. Mr. Vivian of Hull, in a
letter to the editor of a Manchester newspaper, gave two years ago a very
graphic account of the trawl-fishing, and stated that 99 out of every 100
turbot and brills, nine-tenths of all the haddocks, and a large proportion of all
the skate, which are daily sold in the wholesale fishmarkets of this country
are caught by the system of trawling. Trawling is without doubt the most
efficient mode of getting the white fish at the bottom of the ocean; and were it
made penal, London and the large towns would at times be entirely without
fish. As a matter of course, trawling must exhaust the shoals at particular
places. A fleet of upwards of 100 smacks, each with a beam nearly 40 feet
long, trawling night and day, disturbs, frightens, or captures whatever fish are
to be found in that locality, entrapping, besides, shell-fish, anchors, stores that
have been sunken with ships ages ago; even a wedge of gold has been
brought up by this insatiable instrument. The only remedy is to widen the
field of action.
It is best, however, in a case of dispute, as in this trawl question, to allow
those interested to speak for themselves. I have gone over an immense mass
of the evidence taken by a recent commission appointed by Parliament to
make inquiry on the subject, and will set some parts of it before my readers,
so that, if a little trouble be taken in weighing the pros and cons of the matter,
they may be able to form their own judgment on this vexed question. A
Cullercoats fisherman is very strong against the beam-trawl. He is certain that
thirty years ago we could get double the quantity of fish, during the fishing
season, that we obtain now, and that the supply has fallen away little by little;
and he says that even ten years ago it was almost as good as it was thirty
years ago. Some years hence England will cry out for want of fish if trawling
be allowed to go on. The price of fish has doubled, he says, of late years.
“When I was a young man, there were nine in family of us, and my wife
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could purchase haddock for twopence which would serve for our dinners.
Now she could not obtain the same quantity for less than ninepence or
tenpence. Of recent years the number of fishermen and fishing-boats has
greatly increased. I do not think the fishermen of the present day are better off
than those when I was a young man.” The fishermen at Cullercoats, when
they trawl, use the small trawl, and fish in shallow water. Under these
circumstances they do no injury. The trawlers, with the large trawl, says a Mr.
Nicholson who was examined, not only sweep away the lines of the
fishermen, but also destroy the fish. At Cullercoats a man engaged in the line-
fishing gets all the fish on his own lines, and his wife goes to town and
disposes of them. The beam-trawling commenced about six years ago. The
number of boats and the fishing population still go on steadily increasing.
Beam-trawling does two kinds of harm: in the first place, it sweeps away the
fishermen’s lines; and next, it destroys the spawn. “There may be a remedy
for a fisherman losing his lines, but I never heard of it. I am aware that they
could recover damages, but the difficulty is to get hold of the offending
parties. The only remedy I can suggest is to do away with the trawl-fishing
altogether.” This witness stated that ten years ago he used to take sixty or
seventy codfish per day, and that now he cannot get one. The trawlers, being
able to fish in all weathers, beat the local fishermen out of the field.
Templeman, a South Shields fisherman, says that when engaged in
trawling he has drawn up three and a half tons of fish-spawn! He also says in
his evidence that in trawling one-half of the fish are dead and so hashed as to
be unfit for market. Has seen a ton and a half of herring-spawn offered for
sale as manure. The take of fish upon the Dogger Bank has decreased very
much. The fishermen cannot catch one quarter part there now that they used
to do. The number of trawl-boats on the Dogger Bank has increased about 10
per cent within the last year, and yet they are getting about a quarter less fish.
Some of them can scarcely make a living now at all. They have impoverished
all other places, and now they have come here, and in a short time there will
not be a fish left. It is the same with the other fish-banks, and that accounts
for the trawlers now coming to this neighbourhood. They have destroyed the
Hartlepool and Sunderland ground, and now they have come to a small patch
off here, and they will sweep it clean too. A trawl-boat will sometimes catch
five tons a day; but on the average a ton and a half; but as a great deal of that
has to be thrown overboard, they only bring about ten cwt. to market. The
boats belonging to Cullercoats, carrying the same number of hands as the
Now she could not obtain the same quantity for less than ninepence or
tenpence. Of recent years the number of fishermen and fishing-boats has
greatly increased. I do not think the fishermen of the present day are better off
than those when I was a young man.” The fishermen at Cullercoats, when
they trawl, use the small trawl, and fish in shallow water. Under these
circumstances they do no injury. The trawlers, with the large trawl, says a Mr.
Nicholson who was examined, not only sweep away the lines of the
fishermen, but also destroy the fish. At Cullercoats a man engaged in the line-
fishing gets all the fish on his own lines, and his wife goes to town and
disposes of them. The beam-trawling commenced about six years ago. The
number of boats and the fishing population still go on steadily increasing.
Beam-trawling does two kinds of harm: in the first place, it sweeps away the
fishermen’s lines; and next, it destroys the spawn. “There may be a remedy
for a fisherman losing his lines, but I never heard of it. I am aware that they
could recover damages, but the difficulty is to get hold of the offending
parties. The only remedy I can suggest is to do away with the trawl-fishing
altogether.” This witness stated that ten years ago he used to take sixty or
seventy codfish per day, and that now he cannot get one. The trawlers, being
able to fish in all weathers, beat the local fishermen out of the field.
Templeman, a South Shields fisherman, says that when engaged in
trawling he has drawn up three and a half tons of fish-spawn! He also says in
his evidence that in trawling one-half of the fish are dead and so hashed as to
be unfit for market. Has seen a ton and a half of herring-spawn offered for
sale as manure. The take of fish upon the Dogger Bank has decreased very
much. The fishermen cannot catch one quarter part there now that they used
to do. The number of trawl-boats on the Dogger Bank has increased about 10
per cent within the last year, and yet they are getting about a quarter less fish.
Some of them can scarcely make a living now at all. They have impoverished
all other places, and now they have come here, and in a short time there will
not be a fish left. It is the same with the other fish-banks, and that accounts
for the trawlers now coming to this neighbourhood. They have destroyed the
Hartlepool and Sunderland ground, and now they have come to a small patch
off here, and they will sweep it clean too. A trawl-boat will sometimes catch
five tons a day; but on the average a ton and a half; but as a great deal of that
has to be thrown overboard, they only bring about ten cwt. to market. The
boats belonging to Cullercoats, carrying the same number of hands as the
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trawlers, only catch upon the average about five stones. The fish caught in the
trawl are not fit for the market, as the insides are broke and the galls burst and
running through them. “If I had my way, I would pass an Act of Parliament to
do away with trawling, and oblige every man to fish with hooks and lines. I
think that would increase the quantity of fish for the country, because the
young fish would not take the hooks. I am not aware that if the small boats
get five stones a day it would at all diminish the supply of fish for the market;
but if the trawling is allowed to continue that very soon will.”
Thomas Bolam, on being examined, said: “I have followed the herring-
fishing for twenty-one years, and the white-fishing six years. In the course of
those six years I have found that the supply of white fish has gradually
diminished both in the number and size of the fish. In twenty years’
experience in the herring-fishing I find a fearful diminution in the total
quantity caught. The shoals of herring are now only about one-third the size
they were when I first commenced the fishing. At that time we used to get
14,000 or 15,000; now the length of 4000 or 5000 is thought a good take. I
attribute the falling-off to the existence of the trawling system.”
Many other fishermen gave similar evidence. A fisherman named Bulmer,
residing at Hartlepool, said that the white fish were not only scarcer, but that
they were deteriorating in size as well. The falling off in quantity has
decidedly been accompanied by a smaller size, more particularly in haddocks.
Haddocks, twenty years ago, were caught from five pounds to six pounds in
weight; now they hardly average three pounds. There is scarcely a single cod
to be caught now, and formerly our boats got them scores together, and had to
trail them out in rows, and could only sell them for about 10s. a score; now
they realise at Christmas 5s. and 6s. each. “Of turbot-fishing I am sorry to
speak. It pains me to think of the injuries we have sustained in this particular
fishing by trawlers. At present we dare not cast our nets, as they are sure to be
lost. I lost two ‘fleets’ of turbot-nets worth £25. About twenty-six years ago I
have caught two hundred turbot in one day: now there are none to be got.”
Another resident gave similar evidence, and thought that if trawling was
persisted in their noble bay would soon be fallow ground. John Purvis of
Whitburn also says that haddocks have decreased in size as well as in
quantity—thinks they are at least a third smaller now as compared with
former years. Considers that the trawling system has caused the diminution of
fish which has taken place during the last four years. David Archibald of
trawl are not fit for the market, as the insides are broke and the galls burst and
running through them. “If I had my way, I would pass an Act of Parliament to
do away with trawling, and oblige every man to fish with hooks and lines. I
think that would increase the quantity of fish for the country, because the
young fish would not take the hooks. I am not aware that if the small boats
get five stones a day it would at all diminish the supply of fish for the market;
but if the trawling is allowed to continue that very soon will.”
Thomas Bolam, on being examined, said: “I have followed the herring-
fishing for twenty-one years, and the white-fishing six years. In the course of
those six years I have found that the supply of white fish has gradually
diminished both in the number and size of the fish. In twenty years’
experience in the herring-fishing I find a fearful diminution in the total
quantity caught. The shoals of herring are now only about one-third the size
they were when I first commenced the fishing. At that time we used to get
14,000 or 15,000; now the length of 4000 or 5000 is thought a good take. I
attribute the falling-off to the existence of the trawling system.”
Many other fishermen gave similar evidence. A fisherman named Bulmer,
residing at Hartlepool, said that the white fish were not only scarcer, but that
they were deteriorating in size as well. The falling off in quantity has
decidedly been accompanied by a smaller size, more particularly in haddocks.
Haddocks, twenty years ago, were caught from five pounds to six pounds in
weight; now they hardly average three pounds. There is scarcely a single cod
to be caught now, and formerly our boats got them scores together, and had to
trail them out in rows, and could only sell them for about 10s. a score; now
they realise at Christmas 5s. and 6s. each. “Of turbot-fishing I am sorry to
speak. It pains me to think of the injuries we have sustained in this particular
fishing by trawlers. At present we dare not cast our nets, as they are sure to be
lost. I lost two ‘fleets’ of turbot-nets worth £25. About twenty-six years ago I
have caught two hundred turbot in one day: now there are none to be got.”
Another resident gave similar evidence, and thought that if trawling was
persisted in their noble bay would soon be fallow ground. John Purvis of
Whitburn also says that haddocks have decreased in size as well as in
quantity—thinks they are at least a third smaller now as compared with
former years. Considers that the trawling system has caused the diminution of
fish which has taken place during the last four years. David Archibald of
Page 259
Croster had bought trawled fish not for food, as they were only fit to be used
as bait.
Having given a fair sample of the evidence against the trawling system, it
will be but just that we now hear the other side of the case. It is unfortunate,
of course, that we cannot obtain really impartial evidence on this vexed
question, as the party complaining is the party said to have had their fishery
prospects ruined by the use of the beam-trawl, whilst the trawlers, of course,
won’t hear a bad word said of the engine by which they gain their living. A
Torbay fisherman, accustomed to trawling for the last twenty-six years, flatly
contradicts much that has been said against the trawl-net. He asserts that he
never took or saw any spawn taken, and that only about half a hundredweight
in each two tons of the fish taken is unfit for the market. He does not think
the fish are decreasing either in quantity or size.
John Clements, a trawl-net fisherman from Hull, was one of the men
examined at Sunderland; his evidence was as follows:—“I have followed
trawling for twenty-six years. I have fished down here for ten years. There
was no diminution of fish at Hull; but we land it easier here, and in a better
condition for the market. I never noticed any spawn in the nets, but I have got
a basket or two of small fish, which, when not fit for food, we throw away. In
the ten years which I have come down here I have found an increase in the
quantity and take. I think trawling increases the fish, as the trawl-net turns up
the food of the fish, worms and slugs, and the fish follow the net like a swarm
of crows after a harrow. I do not think that we disturb the spawn in that way.
This morning there were two or three haddocks broken out of sixteen or
seventeen baskets, each basket containing seven or eight stones. The trawl-
net fish do not fetch such a good price as the line fish, but it is from the
quantity and not the quality. We have added to the enjoyment of the people of
this town by the good supply of fish we have given them. Twenty years ago a
month’s catch was about £50, and now it is from £80 to £120; and this is not
from the better price, but the greater quantity which we are enabled to get by
going farther out to sea with the larger boats. In the winter time I fish on
Dogger Bank, and in summer inshore. I never came across any of the long-
line nets. I have found herring-spawn in haddocks; but I have never found
any in the net. We catch a good deal of sand here. It comes in as soon as we
stop; but it falls through before we get the net to the surface of the water. The
farther off we go the more haddocks we get; and the nearer we come to the
shore the more soles we get. I have caught a good deal of cod. In one instance
as bait.
Having given a fair sample of the evidence against the trawling system, it
will be but just that we now hear the other side of the case. It is unfortunate,
of course, that we cannot obtain really impartial evidence on this vexed
question, as the party complaining is the party said to have had their fishery
prospects ruined by the use of the beam-trawl, whilst the trawlers, of course,
won’t hear a bad word said of the engine by which they gain their living. A
Torbay fisherman, accustomed to trawling for the last twenty-six years, flatly
contradicts much that has been said against the trawl-net. He asserts that he
never took or saw any spawn taken, and that only about half a hundredweight
in each two tons of the fish taken is unfit for the market. He does not think
the fish are decreasing either in quantity or size.
John Clements, a trawl-net fisherman from Hull, was one of the men
examined at Sunderland; his evidence was as follows:—“I have followed
trawling for twenty-six years. I have fished down here for ten years. There
was no diminution of fish at Hull; but we land it easier here, and in a better
condition for the market. I never noticed any spawn in the nets, but I have got
a basket or two of small fish, which, when not fit for food, we throw away. In
the ten years which I have come down here I have found an increase in the
quantity and take. I think trawling increases the fish, as the trawl-net turns up
the food of the fish, worms and slugs, and the fish follow the net like a swarm
of crows after a harrow. I do not think that we disturb the spawn in that way.
This morning there were two or three haddocks broken out of sixteen or
seventeen baskets, each basket containing seven or eight stones. The trawl-
net fish do not fetch such a good price as the line fish, but it is from the
quantity and not the quality. We have added to the enjoyment of the people of
this town by the good supply of fish we have given them. Twenty years ago a
month’s catch was about £50, and now it is from £80 to £120; and this is not
from the better price, but the greater quantity which we are enabled to get by
going farther out to sea with the larger boats. In the winter time I fish on
Dogger Bank, and in summer inshore. I never came across any of the long-
line nets. I have found herring-spawn in haddocks; but I have never found
any in the net. We catch a good deal of sand here. It comes in as soon as we
stop; but it falls through before we get the net to the surface of the water. The
farther off we go the more haddocks we get; and the nearer we come to the
shore the more soles we get. I have caught a good deal of cod. In one instance
Page 260
I caught one hundred and eight cods in a haul. That was forty miles off
Flambro’ Head. My nets have been examined officially only once in twelve
years. The shorter the haul the better the fish; but I have had the fish in
splendid condition with a large haul. I have never had any fish damaged by
having the gall-bladder burst. A gall-bladder may be burst, but we would not
see it unless we opened the fish.”
A Hull trawler spoke to the following effect:—“I never saw any spawn in
the net. It is impossible for spawn to be caught in the net. There is often
unmarketable fish, but it is only when there is a strong breeze and a difficulty
in getting the gear on board. We generally get seven or eight hampers in a
haul, and one basket would perhaps be unfit for the market. The hooked fish
is a more saleable fish, as it has got the scales and slime on it, and the trawl
fish has not got the slime on it, and the scales are sometimes rubbed off.”
Some haddocks were here produced which the witness said were a fair
specimen. The scales were on them, and on one being opened the inside was
found to be in a unbroken state.
The following is a summary of the evidence given by William Dawson, a
very intelligent fisherman of Newbiggin, who spoke from fifty years’
experience:—“He had fished cod, ling, turbot, and several kinds of shell-fish,
but not oysters. He was still engaged as a fisherman. He fished with a line for
soles. The number of fishermen and boats had increased. In 1808 there were
eight boats, and there are now about thirty boats. Fifty years ago the boats
were about one-third the size. The boats carried just about the same lines as
now. The boats now carry about three times as much net as they did. The
number of white fish is falling off a great deal. In 1812 every boat brought in
more white fish than they could carry. We do not go much more frequently to
sea now. In the size of the fish now there is not much difference—a little
smaller. The haddock and herring fisheries had decreased. He had not noticed
much difference in the size, only in the quantity. There was a greater number
of boats engaged now in the herring-fishing—the number of herring having
decreased within the last ten or twelve years. Little mackerel was caught
there. Large quantities of mackerel were off this coast at times, but they had
no nets to take them. Although a good many sprats were seen, they did not try
to catch them. The cause of the falling off in the quantity of fish he
considered was their being destroyed farther south. No trawling vessels came
here till last summer. They went about twelve miles from land, and trawled in
the fishing-ground. The lines of the fishing-boats were parallel, and about a
Flambro’ Head. My nets have been examined officially only once in twelve
years. The shorter the haul the better the fish; but I have had the fish in
splendid condition with a large haul. I have never had any fish damaged by
having the gall-bladder burst. A gall-bladder may be burst, but we would not
see it unless we opened the fish.”
A Hull trawler spoke to the following effect:—“I never saw any spawn in
the net. It is impossible for spawn to be caught in the net. There is often
unmarketable fish, but it is only when there is a strong breeze and a difficulty
in getting the gear on board. We generally get seven or eight hampers in a
haul, and one basket would perhaps be unfit for the market. The hooked fish
is a more saleable fish, as it has got the scales and slime on it, and the trawl
fish has not got the slime on it, and the scales are sometimes rubbed off.”
Some haddocks were here produced which the witness said were a fair
specimen. The scales were on them, and on one being opened the inside was
found to be in a unbroken state.
The following is a summary of the evidence given by William Dawson, a
very intelligent fisherman of Newbiggin, who spoke from fifty years’
experience:—“He had fished cod, ling, turbot, and several kinds of shell-fish,
but not oysters. He was still engaged as a fisherman. He fished with a line for
soles. The number of fishermen and boats had increased. In 1808 there were
eight boats, and there are now about thirty boats. Fifty years ago the boats
were about one-third the size. The boats carried just about the same lines as
now. The boats now carry about three times as much net as they did. The
number of white fish is falling off a great deal. In 1812 every boat brought in
more white fish than they could carry. We do not go much more frequently to
sea now. In the size of the fish now there is not much difference—a little
smaller. The haddock and herring fisheries had decreased. He had not noticed
much difference in the size, only in the quantity. There was a greater number
of boats engaged now in the herring-fishing—the number of herring having
decreased within the last ten or twelve years. Little mackerel was caught
there. Large quantities of mackerel were off this coast at times, but they had
no nets to take them. Although a good many sprats were seen, they did not try
to catch them. The cause of the falling off in the quantity of fish he
considered was their being destroyed farther south. No trawling vessels came
here till last summer. They went about twelve miles from land, and trawled in
the fishing-ground. The lines of the fishing-boats were parallel, and about a
Page 261
quarter of a mile apart. When there was a south-east storm they got plenty of
fish, but it was not so now. With a north-east storm they had plenty of fish. In
his recollection, fifty years back, there was plenty of fish with a south-east
storm. There had been no interference with their nets, and no one had
regulated the times of fishing. There might be some advantage if the
government made a law to prevent either the English or French fishing from
Saturday morning to Monday night. That would give time for the fish to draw
together. That alluded to herring. They should not allow the trawl-boats to
fish on the coasts. The French boats often came within three miles of the
land. Herring are caught within three miles of the shore. The French boats
shifted with the herring along the coast, and have caught a great quantity.
There should be a rule that herring-nets should not be shot before sunset.
When the Queen’s cutters came the French boats made off to more than three
miles from the land. Lobsters had diminished, but not the crabs. He believed
they had caught too many lobsters. The boat’s crew is not so well off now as
thirty years ago. Lodgings were better. They do not earn so much money now.
In the course of a year (about 1825) he made £126, and a few years back he
made only £78. The average for the last five years at the white fishing was
about £50. Other £50 might be made at the herring-fishing. The buoys of the
lines were large enough for the trawlers to see them, and they could see
where the nets were. They destroyed both the fish and the lines. A line boat
with fittings costs about £40, and a herring-boat with nets not less than £100.
The men bought the boats with money saved. Little fish was destroyed on
their lines, except what was eaten by the dogfish. There were herring there in
January and February, but were not caught. Their boats fished between
Tynemouth and Dunstanborough castles. He could remember when there
were no French boats on the coast; they first came about 1824. The French
boats fish on the Sundays. Their boats did not. A young man ought to earn
£100 a year. It would cost a full third to keep his boat and tackling up. The
boats lasted about fourteen years.”
I need not go on repeating similar evidence, but the witnesses were nearly
all agreed that the beam-trawl did not do the injury to the fisheries that was
charged against it, especially as regards injury to spawn. I may perhaps, by
way of conclusion to this contradictory evidence, be allowed to quote from
the Times a portion of a letter on trawling, written by a “Billingsgate
Salesman:”—“Seven years’ experience in Billingsgate, and my lifetime
previous spent among the fishermen in a seaport-town, may enable me to
fish, but it was not so now. With a north-east storm they had plenty of fish. In
his recollection, fifty years back, there was plenty of fish with a south-east
storm. There had been no interference with their nets, and no one had
regulated the times of fishing. There might be some advantage if the
government made a law to prevent either the English or French fishing from
Saturday morning to Monday night. That would give time for the fish to draw
together. That alluded to herring. They should not allow the trawl-boats to
fish on the coasts. The French boats often came within three miles of the
land. Herring are caught within three miles of the shore. The French boats
shifted with the herring along the coast, and have caught a great quantity.
There should be a rule that herring-nets should not be shot before sunset.
When the Queen’s cutters came the French boats made off to more than three
miles from the land. Lobsters had diminished, but not the crabs. He believed
they had caught too many lobsters. The boat’s crew is not so well off now as
thirty years ago. Lodgings were better. They do not earn so much money now.
In the course of a year (about 1825) he made £126, and a few years back he
made only £78. The average for the last five years at the white fishing was
about £50. Other £50 might be made at the herring-fishing. The buoys of the
lines were large enough for the trawlers to see them, and they could see
where the nets were. They destroyed both the fish and the lines. A line boat
with fittings costs about £40, and a herring-boat with nets not less than £100.
The men bought the boats with money saved. Little fish was destroyed on
their lines, except what was eaten by the dogfish. There were herring there in
January and February, but were not caught. Their boats fished between
Tynemouth and Dunstanborough castles. He could remember when there
were no French boats on the coast; they first came about 1824. The French
boats fish on the Sundays. Their boats did not. A young man ought to earn
£100 a year. It would cost a full third to keep his boat and tackling up. The
boats lasted about fourteen years.”
I need not go on repeating similar evidence, but the witnesses were nearly
all agreed that the beam-trawl did not do the injury to the fisheries that was
charged against it, especially as regards injury to spawn. I may perhaps, by
way of conclusion to this contradictory evidence, be allowed to quote from
the Times a portion of a letter on trawling, written by a “Billingsgate
Salesman:”—“Seven years’ experience in Billingsgate, and my lifetime
previous spent among the fishermen in a seaport-town, may enable me to
Page 262
offer a few remarks, which through your able abilities may be sifted, and
perhaps leave a portion of matter which you may consider of some value and
turn to some account. My personal interest is not only in trawl-fishing, but
hook and line, seined-net, drift-net, and other kinds; for, being a commission
agent, it is all fish that comes to my net. I cannot speak of the qualities of
trawl-net fishing, either for or against, not having been connected with that
branch of the trade, but after a remark or two on the information received by
Mr. Fenwick, and which is conveyed in your columns from certain gentlemen
professing to have a knowledge of the trade, I will give you my information
as briefly as possible. The fact is this—it never will be possible to catch what
we consider trawl-fish in sufficient quantities to meet the demand but by the
trawl, the principal kinds being turbot, brill, soles, and plaice. A small
quantity may be taken by other means, but more by accident than otherwise.
As for trawl-fish being mutilated and putrid before landing, how does it
happen that so many spotless and pure fish, out of the above kinds, are not
only sold in London but all over the country, and exhibited on the tables both
of rich and poor? Yourself and every nobleman can speak on this point; and
when informed that they are all caught by the trawl (a fact undeniable), you
will consider it wrong on the part of any one to mislead the public on a matter
of so much importance. Advise him to fathom the secrets of the ocean, and
discover a better mode to obtain them.”
A great deal of obloquy has been thrown on the trawl, because it hashes the
fish; but the destruction of young fish—that is, fish unfit for human food
because of their being young—is not peculiar to the trawl. When the lines are
thrown out for cod the fishermen cannot command that only full-grown fish
are to seize upon the bait: the tender codling, the unfledged haddock, the
greedy mackerel will bite—the consequence being that thousands of sea-fish
are annually killed that are unfit for food, and that have never had an
opportunity of adding to their kind. But this mischance is incidental to all our
fisheries, no matter what the engine of capture may be, whether net or line.
Look how we slaughter our grilses, without giving them the opportunity of
breeding! The herring-fishing is a notable example of this mode of doing
business: the very time that these animals come together to perpetuate their
species is the time chosen by man to kill them. Of course if they are to be
used as food, they must be killed at some time, and the proper time to capture
them forms one of those fishing mysteries which we have not as yet been able
to solve. We protect the salmon with many laws at the most interesting time
perhaps leave a portion of matter which you may consider of some value and
turn to some account. My personal interest is not only in trawl-fishing, but
hook and line, seined-net, drift-net, and other kinds; for, being a commission
agent, it is all fish that comes to my net. I cannot speak of the qualities of
trawl-net fishing, either for or against, not having been connected with that
branch of the trade, but after a remark or two on the information received by
Mr. Fenwick, and which is conveyed in your columns from certain gentlemen
professing to have a knowledge of the trade, I will give you my information
as briefly as possible. The fact is this—it never will be possible to catch what
we consider trawl-fish in sufficient quantities to meet the demand but by the
trawl, the principal kinds being turbot, brill, soles, and plaice. A small
quantity may be taken by other means, but more by accident than otherwise.
As for trawl-fish being mutilated and putrid before landing, how does it
happen that so many spotless and pure fish, out of the above kinds, are not
only sold in London but all over the country, and exhibited on the tables both
of rich and poor? Yourself and every nobleman can speak on this point; and
when informed that they are all caught by the trawl (a fact undeniable), you
will consider it wrong on the part of any one to mislead the public on a matter
of so much importance. Advise him to fathom the secrets of the ocean, and
discover a better mode to obtain them.”
A great deal of obloquy has been thrown on the trawl, because it hashes the
fish; but the destruction of young fish—that is, fish unfit for human food
because of their being young—is not peculiar to the trawl. When the lines are
thrown out for cod the fishermen cannot command that only full-grown fish
are to seize upon the bait: the tender codling, the unfledged haddock, the
greedy mackerel will bite—the consequence being that thousands of sea-fish
are annually killed that are unfit for food, and that have never had an
opportunity of adding to their kind. But this mischance is incidental to all our
fisheries, no matter what the engine of capture may be, whether net or line.
Look how we slaughter our grilses, without giving them the opportunity of
breeding! The herring-fishing is a notable example of this mode of doing
business: the very time that these animals come together to perpetuate their
species is the time chosen by man to kill them. Of course if they are to be
used as food, they must be killed at some time, and the proper time to capture
them forms one of those fishing mysteries which we have not as yet been able
to solve. We protect the salmon with many laws at the most interesting time
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of its life, and why we should not be able to devise a close-time for the cod,
turbot, haddock, and sole of particular coasts—for each portion of the coast
has its particular season—is what I cannot understand, and can only account
for the anomaly on the ground of salmon being private property.
The labour of the Scottish fishermen is greatly augmented by the want of
good harbours for their boats. Time and opportunity serving, the men of the
fisher class are really industrious, and this want of proper harbourage is a
hardship to them. It is curious to notice the little quarry-holes that on some
parts of the Moray Firth serve as a refuge for the boats. There is the harbour
of Whitehills, for instance: it could not be of any possible use in the event of
a stiff gale arising, for in my opinion the boats would never get into it, but
would be dashed to pieces on the neighbouring rocks. I have witnessed one or
two storms on the north-east coast of Scotland, and shall never forget the
scenes of misery these tumults of the great deep occasioned. Even lately
(October 1864) there was a storm raging along these coasts that left most
impressive death-marks at nearly all the fishing places on the Moray Firth. I
was not an eye-witness of this last gale, but I have gathered from various
sources, oral and written, one or two passages descriptive of its violence and
the loss of life it occasioned.
At Portessie, one of the Moray Firth villages, a boat called the Shamrock,
containing a crew of nine men, was numbered among the lost. It had sailed on
a Wednesday morning in October 1864, for the fishing-ground known as “the
Bank,” about twenty miles off. John Smith, the principal owner of the boat,
an old man, was not at the time able to go to sea; but he had seven sons, and
five of these, with four near relatives, sailed in the ill-fated Shamrock from
Portessie harbour on that fatal morning. The Shamrock was accompanied by
some other boats belonging to the same place, and the little fleet left as early
as three a.m., keeping together more or less until they reached the fishing-
ground. On arriving at the Bank the Shamrock, it appears, had separated from
the others, the crew preferring to go some distance in order to cast their lines;
and she had not been seen by the other boats after parting from them. About
seven o’clock on the following morning, some of the people of Whitehills, on
going round to the spot known as Craigenroan, a quarter of a mile to the
westward, were alarmed at seeing a boat lying high and dry among the rocks,
as if it had been tossed up at high tide and left perched there on the receding
of the waters. The mast, some oars, and other articles, were seen lying here
and there beside her, strewn among the rocks, and there were holes seen in
turbot, haddock, and sole of particular coasts—for each portion of the coast
has its particular season—is what I cannot understand, and can only account
for the anomaly on the ground of salmon being private property.
The labour of the Scottish fishermen is greatly augmented by the want of
good harbours for their boats. Time and opportunity serving, the men of the
fisher class are really industrious, and this want of proper harbourage is a
hardship to them. It is curious to notice the little quarry-holes that on some
parts of the Moray Firth serve as a refuge for the boats. There is the harbour
of Whitehills, for instance: it could not be of any possible use in the event of
a stiff gale arising, for in my opinion the boats would never get into it, but
would be dashed to pieces on the neighbouring rocks. I have witnessed one or
two storms on the north-east coast of Scotland, and shall never forget the
scenes of misery these tumults of the great deep occasioned. Even lately
(October 1864) there was a storm raging along these coasts that left most
impressive death-marks at nearly all the fishing places on the Moray Firth. I
was not an eye-witness of this last gale, but I have gathered from various
sources, oral and written, one or two passages descriptive of its violence and
the loss of life it occasioned.
At Portessie, one of the Moray Firth villages, a boat called the Shamrock,
containing a crew of nine men, was numbered among the lost. It had sailed on
a Wednesday morning in October 1864, for the fishing-ground known as “the
Bank,” about twenty miles off. John Smith, the principal owner of the boat,
an old man, was not at the time able to go to sea; but he had seven sons, and
five of these, with four near relatives, sailed in the ill-fated Shamrock from
Portessie harbour on that fatal morning. The Shamrock was accompanied by
some other boats belonging to the same place, and the little fleet left as early
as three a.m., keeping together more or less until they reached the fishing-
ground. On arriving at the Bank the Shamrock, it appears, had separated from
the others, the crew preferring to go some distance in order to cast their lines;
and she had not been seen by the other boats after parting from them. About
seven o’clock on the following morning, some of the people of Whitehills, on
going round to the spot known as Craigenroan, a quarter of a mile to the
westward, were alarmed at seeing a boat lying high and dry among the rocks,
as if it had been tossed up at high tide and left perched there on the receding
of the waters. The mast, some oars, and other articles, were seen lying here
and there beside her, strewn among the rocks, and there were holes seen in
Page 264
her sides—evidence only too conclusive that the boat was a wreck. A closer
inspection discovered her mark and number—“B.F., 743,” and then was also
seen the name and unmistakable designation, “Shamrock, Pt. Essie—J,
Smith.” On examination it was conjectured, from the way in which the mast
had been wrenched off, that the boat had foundered, either some distance at
sea, or among inshore breakers, righting again as she was beaten up on the
rocks, where, as we have said, she was found sitting high and dry on her keel.
It was at once felt that all the crew had perished, and the bodies of the men
were eagerly sought for by their friends and relatives. On Friday, the lifeless
body of John Smith, “Bodie,” was found washed up on the beach. On the
same day the corpse of his son, a young man who was to have been married
in a week—and whose house, like that of a friend and namesake, was being
furnished at home—was cast ashore at Whitehills, and one of the first to
recognise the body was the father of the betrothed. Another body was got at
the mouth of the little burn at the further end of the Boyndie Links. This also
was on Friday: it was found to be the remains of one of the five brothers—
namely John, aged twenty-five, the namesake alluded to, who was to have
been married on the morrow. The body of another of the five brothers—
namely William—was found floating in the bay, off Banff Harbour, lashed to
a buoy, to which the poor fellow had attached himself, probably in the boat,
for safety. At one time the body was seen in this position at Whitehills,
suspended from the buoy, and so close to the shore that had a grappling-iron
been at hand it might have been secured. It would have been of no avail,
however, as the vital spark had long since fled; but the passage of the body,
drawn back with the tide and carried round to Banff, served to reconcile
certain apparently conflicting evidences as to the history of the wreck, or
rather as to the spot where it occurred.
On the occasion of this storm there was deep wailing at Buckie, for in that
town there was more than one woman who was widowed by the tempest. Of
necessity a fisherman’s wife is extremely masculine in character. Her
occupation makes her so, because she requires a strength of body which no
other female attains, and of which the majority of men cannot boast. The long
distances she has frequently to travel in all weathers with her burden,
weighing many stones, make it essential for her to possess a sturdy frame,
and be capable of great physical endurance. Accordingly, most of the
fishwives who carry on the sale of their husbands’ fish possess a strength with
which no prudent man would venture to come into conflict. Then the nature
inspection discovered her mark and number—“B.F., 743,” and then was also
seen the name and unmistakable designation, “Shamrock, Pt. Essie—J,
Smith.” On examination it was conjectured, from the way in which the mast
had been wrenched off, that the boat had foundered, either some distance at
sea, or among inshore breakers, righting again as she was beaten up on the
rocks, where, as we have said, she was found sitting high and dry on her keel.
It was at once felt that all the crew had perished, and the bodies of the men
were eagerly sought for by their friends and relatives. On Friday, the lifeless
body of John Smith, “Bodie,” was found washed up on the beach. On the
same day the corpse of his son, a young man who was to have been married
in a week—and whose house, like that of a friend and namesake, was being
furnished at home—was cast ashore at Whitehills, and one of the first to
recognise the body was the father of the betrothed. Another body was got at
the mouth of the little burn at the further end of the Boyndie Links. This also
was on Friday: it was found to be the remains of one of the five brothers—
namely John, aged twenty-five, the namesake alluded to, who was to have
been married on the morrow. The body of another of the five brothers—
namely William—was found floating in the bay, off Banff Harbour, lashed to
a buoy, to which the poor fellow had attached himself, probably in the boat,
for safety. At one time the body was seen in this position at Whitehills,
suspended from the buoy, and so close to the shore that had a grappling-iron
been at hand it might have been secured. It would have been of no avail,
however, as the vital spark had long since fled; but the passage of the body,
drawn back with the tide and carried round to Banff, served to reconcile
certain apparently conflicting evidences as to the history of the wreck, or
rather as to the spot where it occurred.
On the occasion of this storm there was deep wailing at Buckie, for in that
town there was more than one woman who was widowed by the tempest. Of
necessity a fisherman’s wife is extremely masculine in character. Her
occupation makes her so, because she requires a strength of body which no
other female attains, and of which the majority of men cannot boast. The long
distances she has frequently to travel in all weathers with her burden,
weighing many stones, make it essential for her to possess a sturdy frame,
and be capable of great physical endurance. Accordingly, most of the
fishwives who carry on the sale of their husbands’ fish possess a strength with
which no prudent man would venture to come into conflict. Then the nature
Page 265
of their calling makes them bold in manners, and in speech rough and ready.
Having to encounter daily all sorts of people, and drive hard bargains, their
wits, though not refined, are sharpened to a keen edge, and they are more
than a match for any “chaff” directed towards them either by purchaser or
passer-by. So long, however, as they are civilly and properly treated, they are
civil and fair-spoken in return, and can, when occasion serves, both flatter
and please in a manner by no means offensive. Altogether, the Scottish
fishwife is an honest, out-spoken, good-hearted creature, rough as the
occupation she follows, but generally good-natured and what the Scotch call
“canty.” She does not even want feeling, though, it may be, her avocation
gives her little opportunity to show it. But who is so often called upon to
endure the strongest emotions of fear, suspense, and sorrow, as the
fisherman’s wife? Every time the wind blows, and the sea rises, when the
boats of her husband or kinsfolk are “out,” she knows no peace till they are in
safety; and not seldom has she been doomed to stand on the shore and look at
the white foaming sea in which the little boat, containing all she held dear,
was battling with the billows, with the problem of its destruction or salvation
all unsolved.
To return to the history of the storm. No less than twenty-seven boats
belonging to Buckie had left for the fishing, some of them as early as two
o’clock in the morning. Some hours previous to the boats leaving, there were
indications of the coming storm. A heavy surf was rolling on the coast, but
almost unaccompanied by wind, only slight airs now and again coming from
the north, but the barometer had fallen considerably during the night. With
these indications of bad weather, the men on duty at the Coast Guard station
hailed the Portessie men when on their way to join their boats at Buckie
harbour, and warned them of the likelihood of a storm overtaking them. Little
heed, however, appears to have been given to this warning, and the boats left
the harbour with more than usual difficulty, the sea at the entrance being so
rough. The boats pursued a north-east course, but from the absence of a
breeze the oars had to be resorted to, and nearly twelve hours elapsed before
they got to the fishing rendezvous. In ordinary circumstances, with a good
wind, the boats would have reached the fishing-ground in about three hours,
and would have returned by the next tide—about mid-day. About six p.m. the
storm broke upon the fishermen with great violence. The majority of the
boats kept close together, and as the first of the gale was succeeded by
comparative calm, the crews, imagining that they had seen the worst of the
Having to encounter daily all sorts of people, and drive hard bargains, their
wits, though not refined, are sharpened to a keen edge, and they are more
than a match for any “chaff” directed towards them either by purchaser or
passer-by. So long, however, as they are civilly and properly treated, they are
civil and fair-spoken in return, and can, when occasion serves, both flatter
and please in a manner by no means offensive. Altogether, the Scottish
fishwife is an honest, out-spoken, good-hearted creature, rough as the
occupation she follows, but generally good-natured and what the Scotch call
“canty.” She does not even want feeling, though, it may be, her avocation
gives her little opportunity to show it. But who is so often called upon to
endure the strongest emotions of fear, suspense, and sorrow, as the
fisherman’s wife? Every time the wind blows, and the sea rises, when the
boats of her husband or kinsfolk are “out,” she knows no peace till they are in
safety; and not seldom has she been doomed to stand on the shore and look at
the white foaming sea in which the little boat, containing all she held dear,
was battling with the billows, with the problem of its destruction or salvation
all unsolved.
To return to the history of the storm. No less than twenty-seven boats
belonging to Buckie had left for the fishing, some of them as early as two
o’clock in the morning. Some hours previous to the boats leaving, there were
indications of the coming storm. A heavy surf was rolling on the coast, but
almost unaccompanied by wind, only slight airs now and again coming from
the north, but the barometer had fallen considerably during the night. With
these indications of bad weather, the men on duty at the Coast Guard station
hailed the Portessie men when on their way to join their boats at Buckie
harbour, and warned them of the likelihood of a storm overtaking them. Little
heed, however, appears to have been given to this warning, and the boats left
the harbour with more than usual difficulty, the sea at the entrance being so
rough. The boats pursued a north-east course, but from the absence of a
breeze the oars had to be resorted to, and nearly twelve hours elapsed before
they got to the fishing rendezvous. In ordinary circumstances, with a good
wind, the boats would have reached the fishing-ground in about three hours,
and would have returned by the next tide—about mid-day. About six p.m. the
storm broke upon the fishermen with great violence. The majority of the
boats kept close together, and as the first of the gale was succeeded by
comparative calm, the crews, imagining that they had seen the worst of the
Page 266
storm, began to finish their fishing. This would have occupied about an hour,
but, before it was half accomplished, the wind, veering rather more to the
north, blew a perfect hurricane, and the sea became so disturbed that it was
hardly possible to manage the boats. The sails, which had been hoisted when
the wind first sprang up, were reduced, some of them by as many as six reefs,
but the experience and energy of the hardy fishermen seemed scarce
sufficient to battle successfully for existence among the warring elements.
Some of the crews in this strait made for the Banff coast; others made up their
minds to endeavour to ride out the storm, and a good number ran for
Cromarty, or the ports on the opposite side of the Firth. The attainment of
either of these three alternatives was a work of peril, for there is no harbour
of refuge on either side of the Firth to which boats may with safety run from a
storm; and the broken water is about as plentiful and dangerous in the centre
of the Firth as it is along the shore. While the brave fishermen were
encountering the severest perils attending their calling, the anxiety and
suspense of their relations were heartrending. The storm in its intensity,
though its coming had been foreshadowed, was not felt on shore till about
nine p.m. on Wednesday evening. From that hour, however, the wind, now
from the east, and again from the north, came in terrific gusts, and the whole
bay at Buckie boiled and moaned as it had been seldom known to do before.
Long before the storm was at its height, the wives and sweethearts of those
at sea had become alarmed for their safety; they could well remember the
desolation that a similar tempest, which occurred on the 16th August 1848,
caused in their households. They left their homes to wander along the sea-
beach, and peer through the storm for any sign of the approach of the boats
containing their relatives. A huge fire was kindled on the top of the braes in
the hope that its glare might attract those at sea, and beacon them to a safe
shore. During the early part of the night the suspense and fear of the whole
inhabitants of Buckie were extreme, and while this anxiety was being
endured the boats that had first left the fishing-ground were nearing the land.
Some of the boats for a considerable time were allowed to run before the
wind, the crews not knowing whither they went, as they were not within sight
of lights. When at length they got within sight of the lights very great caution
had to be exercised, and a little confusion was occasioned by the unusual
number of fires exhibited. Shortly after eleven o’clock a boat was seen
approaching Buckie harbour, and getting a favourable opportunity of crossing
the bar, it entered the harbour in safety. Two other boats followed, but these
but, before it was half accomplished, the wind, veering rather more to the
north, blew a perfect hurricane, and the sea became so disturbed that it was
hardly possible to manage the boats. The sails, which had been hoisted when
the wind first sprang up, were reduced, some of them by as many as six reefs,
but the experience and energy of the hardy fishermen seemed scarce
sufficient to battle successfully for existence among the warring elements.
Some of the crews in this strait made for the Banff coast; others made up their
minds to endeavour to ride out the storm, and a good number ran for
Cromarty, or the ports on the opposite side of the Firth. The attainment of
either of these three alternatives was a work of peril, for there is no harbour
of refuge on either side of the Firth to which boats may with safety run from a
storm; and the broken water is about as plentiful and dangerous in the centre
of the Firth as it is along the shore. While the brave fishermen were
encountering the severest perils attending their calling, the anxiety and
suspense of their relations were heartrending. The storm in its intensity,
though its coming had been foreshadowed, was not felt on shore till about
nine p.m. on Wednesday evening. From that hour, however, the wind, now
from the east, and again from the north, came in terrific gusts, and the whole
bay at Buckie boiled and moaned as it had been seldom known to do before.
Long before the storm was at its height, the wives and sweethearts of those
at sea had become alarmed for their safety; they could well remember the
desolation that a similar tempest, which occurred on the 16th August 1848,
caused in their households. They left their homes to wander along the sea-
beach, and peer through the storm for any sign of the approach of the boats
containing their relatives. A huge fire was kindled on the top of the braes in
the hope that its glare might attract those at sea, and beacon them to a safe
shore. During the early part of the night the suspense and fear of the whole
inhabitants of Buckie were extreme, and while this anxiety was being
endured the boats that had first left the fishing-ground were nearing the land.
Some of the boats for a considerable time were allowed to run before the
wind, the crews not knowing whither they went, as they were not within sight
of lights. When at length they got within sight of the lights very great caution
had to be exercised, and a little confusion was occasioned by the unusual
number of fires exhibited. Shortly after eleven o’clock a boat was seen
approaching Buckie harbour, and getting a favourable opportunity of crossing
the bar, it entered the harbour in safety. Two other boats followed, but these
Page 267
had much greater difficulty in gaining the port. The tide was at its height
about two o’clock a.m., when a fourth boat approached. At the entrance to the
harbour she shipped a sea, and it was thought by all on the shore that she had
been upset. The same wave, however, carried the boat a considerable distance
into the harbour, and as she continued in an upright position she was soon
pulled to the beach, and her crew landed in safety. When the tide was fully in,
it stood about twenty feet above its ordinary point, the waves breaking almost
on the foundations of the Coast Guard watch-house. On the pier the water fell
so heavily that it was often some feet deep, and the spray from the waves
mounted to a height of about forty feet above the lighthouse. The people kept
watching on the shore till daybreak, but no sign of any of the other boats was
visible, and as no known casualty had occurred to the boats that made for
Buckie and Portgordon, keen hopes were entertained that the remainder of the
boats had found shelter on the opposite side of the Firth, or would be able to
ride out the storm. The anxiety in Buckie continued during Thursday, and was
rather intensified towards the afternoon when the wind, veering round to
W.N.W., again heightened almost to the pitch it had reached during the
previous night. Several people from the villages on both sides of Buckie
came into that town in the afternoon to ascertain whether the post should
bring tidings from their missing friends. With great consideration the captain
of one of the boats that got into Cromarty wrote by first post to say that no
casualty had occurred within his knowledge, and that a number of boats
(some eight or nine) had entered Cromarty in safety, and others were
approaching the harbour.
I was a witness to some of the effects of the previous great storms that had
raged in the Moray Firth about the close of the year 1857. A number of
fishing-boats and their crews were lost at that time, Buckie again coming in
for a large share of the desolation. I have preserved a few scraps descriptive
of the storm, cut, I think, from the Banffshire Journal; and these,
supplemented by what I gathered personally from the descriptions of those
engaged in the contest, will give my readers a good idea of the scene at
Buckie. Premising that before the storm attained its culminating point one or
two of the boats had got safely into the harbour, I may state that as the sea
increased in anger and the waves lashed the shore in ever-augmenting fury,
the excitement of those on land became terrible. People seemed disposed to
run everywhere, and no one knew where to run. It was nearly an hour—sixty
minutes of terrible suspense—after the two first boats came into the harbour
about two o’clock a.m., when a fourth boat approached. At the entrance to the
harbour she shipped a sea, and it was thought by all on the shore that she had
been upset. The same wave, however, carried the boat a considerable distance
into the harbour, and as she continued in an upright position she was soon
pulled to the beach, and her crew landed in safety. When the tide was fully in,
it stood about twenty feet above its ordinary point, the waves breaking almost
on the foundations of the Coast Guard watch-house. On the pier the water fell
so heavily that it was often some feet deep, and the spray from the waves
mounted to a height of about forty feet above the lighthouse. The people kept
watching on the shore till daybreak, but no sign of any of the other boats was
visible, and as no known casualty had occurred to the boats that made for
Buckie and Portgordon, keen hopes were entertained that the remainder of the
boats had found shelter on the opposite side of the Firth, or would be able to
ride out the storm. The anxiety in Buckie continued during Thursday, and was
rather intensified towards the afternoon when the wind, veering round to
W.N.W., again heightened almost to the pitch it had reached during the
previous night. Several people from the villages on both sides of Buckie
came into that town in the afternoon to ascertain whether the post should
bring tidings from their missing friends. With great consideration the captain
of one of the boats that got into Cromarty wrote by first post to say that no
casualty had occurred within his knowledge, and that a number of boats
(some eight or nine) had entered Cromarty in safety, and others were
approaching the harbour.
I was a witness to some of the effects of the previous great storms that had
raged in the Moray Firth about the close of the year 1857. A number of
fishing-boats and their crews were lost at that time, Buckie again coming in
for a large share of the desolation. I have preserved a few scraps descriptive
of the storm, cut, I think, from the Banffshire Journal; and these,
supplemented by what I gathered personally from the descriptions of those
engaged in the contest, will give my readers a good idea of the scene at
Buckie. Premising that before the storm attained its culminating point one or
two of the boats had got safely into the harbour, I may state that as the sea
increased in anger and the waves lashed the shore in ever-augmenting fury,
the excitement of those on land became terrible. People seemed disposed to
run everywhere, and no one knew where to run. It was nearly an hour—sixty
minutes of terrible suspense—after the two first boats came into the harbour
Page 268
ere any others came in sight. By and by, however, they began to appear, most
of them evidently making for the sands opposite and east of the new town of
Buckie, some for Craigenroan, a place of shelter east of Portessie. The
attention of the Buckie people was chiefly centred in the arrivals at their own
shore, as other boats were scarcely seen; and while their own boats were
every now and then, from two to three o’clock, dropping in at home, there
was the chance that those running for Craigenroan belonged to other towns.
At two o’clock the storm had about culminated, and as the boats came each in
sight (they were only seen a short way off land) there was a shriek from those
assembled on the shore, while the utmost anxiety prevailed till they were
each ashore and the men landed, every one providing themselves with ropes
and whatever could be supposed likely to be useful in putting forth efforts to
save life. The crowd ran from one point to another along the coast to
whatever place it was likely the boats would strike, and most enthusiastic
were the exertions made by one and all to get the imperilled men out of
jeopardy, so soon as ever they came within reach. The boats, as they arrived,
were secured with mooring-ropes, and a hand or two left to take care of each,
while the spare men spread themselves along the beach to assist in saving the
lives and property of their fellows in distress. Four boats got safely in. Alas
for the fifth! About half-past two o’clock this fifth boat, like the others,
without a stitch of canvas, came in sight pretty far west, and was expected to
land in “The Neuk,” opposite New Buckie. Tossed mountain high at one
moment, and the next down between the gigantic waves, she came along in
much the same circumstances as the others. Hundreds soon gathered at the
point she was expected to reach. The boats had come so near the shore that
the men on board were perfectly well recognised by their friends, among
whom there were wives in the greatest anxiety to rescue their husbands from
the angry deep, fathers to rescue their sons, brother to welcome brother, etc.
But how sad was the scene beggars all description, for within a hundred yards
of the shore a tremendous sea struck the boat on her broadside, and turned her
right over, as quick as a man would turn his hand, the crew of course being all
cast into the water. The crowd on shore held up their hands appalled, and
cried and shrieked, many of them in perfect distraction. The scene was
heartrending in the extreme; but the first manifestations of grief and alarm by
and by toned down to mournful wailings, although, as was to be expected, the
excitement and confusion were very great. Three of the men were never seen,
having at once sunk to rise no more. Two seemed to get on the bottom of the
boat, but one of them very shortly disappeared. The other one, however, stood
of them evidently making for the sands opposite and east of the new town of
Buckie, some for Craigenroan, a place of shelter east of Portessie. The
attention of the Buckie people was chiefly centred in the arrivals at their own
shore, as other boats were scarcely seen; and while their own boats were
every now and then, from two to three o’clock, dropping in at home, there
was the chance that those running for Craigenroan belonged to other towns.
At two o’clock the storm had about culminated, and as the boats came each in
sight (they were only seen a short way off land) there was a shriek from those
assembled on the shore, while the utmost anxiety prevailed till they were
each ashore and the men landed, every one providing themselves with ropes
and whatever could be supposed likely to be useful in putting forth efforts to
save life. The crowd ran from one point to another along the coast to
whatever place it was likely the boats would strike, and most enthusiastic
were the exertions made by one and all to get the imperilled men out of
jeopardy, so soon as ever they came within reach. The boats, as they arrived,
were secured with mooring-ropes, and a hand or two left to take care of each,
while the spare men spread themselves along the beach to assist in saving the
lives and property of their fellows in distress. Four boats got safely in. Alas
for the fifth! About half-past two o’clock this fifth boat, like the others,
without a stitch of canvas, came in sight pretty far west, and was expected to
land in “The Neuk,” opposite New Buckie. Tossed mountain high at one
moment, and the next down between the gigantic waves, she came along in
much the same circumstances as the others. Hundreds soon gathered at the
point she was expected to reach. The boats had come so near the shore that
the men on board were perfectly well recognised by their friends, among
whom there were wives in the greatest anxiety to rescue their husbands from
the angry deep, fathers to rescue their sons, brother to welcome brother, etc.
But how sad was the scene beggars all description, for within a hundred yards
of the shore a tremendous sea struck the boat on her broadside, and turned her
right over, as quick as a man would turn his hand, the crew of course being all
cast into the water. The crowd on shore held up their hands appalled, and
cried and shrieked, many of them in perfect distraction. The scene was
heartrending in the extreme; but the first manifestations of grief and alarm by
and by toned down to mournful wailings, although, as was to be expected, the
excitement and confusion were very great. Three of the men were never seen,
having at once sunk to rise no more. Two seemed to get on the bottom of the
boat, but one of them very shortly disappeared. The other one, however, stood
Page 269
up on his feet, and put his hands to his waistcoat near the buttons, from which
act it was supposed he was preparing to strip and be in readiness to swim.
The situation was heightened by the interest of those on shore in seeing him
in this perilous position, and the grief of his friends was intensely
unspeakable when they saw the first heavy sea wash him away from the
footing he had gained, and, in its rolling fury, hide him perhaps for ever from
human eyes. The remaining three of the eight who were on board (the crew
numbered eleven, but three had not gone to sea that day) also disappeared for
a little, but in a short time they were seen floating about on spars and pieces
of the masts; and hope still existed that rescue might be extended to them.
They were driven from one point to another with fearful velocity, and indeed
were only now and again visible. Anxiety was felt in every breast still more
acutely than ever, as these three were wafted nearer and nearer the shore; and
so sorely did they struggle, that, even against every probability, hope
whispered that their safety was possible. For full twenty minutes they floated
about in this situation, latterly coming within about twenty yards of where the
people were standing—so near that, had the sea been ordinarily calm,
hundreds were there who would have considered it no difficult task to rush
into the water and give them their hand. One man cried to his brother to put
his hair away from his eyes, when, by the motion the latter made, it was
evident he heard quite distinctly. Two or three different times he obeyed,
putting up his hand, and rubbing his hair over his forehead. An anxious wife
actually rushed into the tide nearly to the neck, in an endeavour to rescue her
husband, but her heroic effort was completely unavailing. The tide was
ebbing at the time, but the waves, in terrible force, rushed far up on the
beach, and swept back again with fearful power. No one could keep his
footing in the water. Attempts were made to join hands and thus extend help
to the unfortunate men, but, besides the weight of the water itself, the
backwash of the waves hurled the gravel beach from below their feet, so that
to stand on it was impossible; and even while these vain efforts were being
made at rescue, the men, worn out in the raging surf, sank, one after another,
amid the cries and shrieks of their despairing relatives.
The number of men drowned on the north-east coast—i.e. at Wick,
Helmsdale, and Peterhead—during the great storm of 1848, was one hundred,
and the value of the boats and the nets that were lost upon that remarkable
occasion was at least £7000. The gale broke upon the coast on the 19th of
August, just as the fishing was being busily prosecuted. Most of the boats ran
act it was supposed he was preparing to strip and be in readiness to swim.
The situation was heightened by the interest of those on shore in seeing him
in this perilous position, and the grief of his friends was intensely
unspeakable when they saw the first heavy sea wash him away from the
footing he had gained, and, in its rolling fury, hide him perhaps for ever from
human eyes. The remaining three of the eight who were on board (the crew
numbered eleven, but three had not gone to sea that day) also disappeared for
a little, but in a short time they were seen floating about on spars and pieces
of the masts; and hope still existed that rescue might be extended to them.
They were driven from one point to another with fearful velocity, and indeed
were only now and again visible. Anxiety was felt in every breast still more
acutely than ever, as these three were wafted nearer and nearer the shore; and
so sorely did they struggle, that, even against every probability, hope
whispered that their safety was possible. For full twenty minutes they floated
about in this situation, latterly coming within about twenty yards of where the
people were standing—so near that, had the sea been ordinarily calm,
hundreds were there who would have considered it no difficult task to rush
into the water and give them their hand. One man cried to his brother to put
his hair away from his eyes, when, by the motion the latter made, it was
evident he heard quite distinctly. Two or three different times he obeyed,
putting up his hand, and rubbing his hair over his forehead. An anxious wife
actually rushed into the tide nearly to the neck, in an endeavour to rescue her
husband, but her heroic effort was completely unavailing. The tide was
ebbing at the time, but the waves, in terrible force, rushed far up on the
beach, and swept back again with fearful power. No one could keep his
footing in the water. Attempts were made to join hands and thus extend help
to the unfortunate men, but, besides the weight of the water itself, the
backwash of the waves hurled the gravel beach from below their feet, so that
to stand on it was impossible; and even while these vain efforts were being
made at rescue, the men, worn out in the raging surf, sank, one after another,
amid the cries and shrieks of their despairing relatives.
The number of men drowned on the north-east coast—i.e. at Wick,
Helmsdale, and Peterhead—during the great storm of 1848, was one hundred,
and the value of the boats and the nets that were lost upon that remarkable
occasion was at least £7000. The gale broke upon the coast on the 19th of
August, just as the fishing was being busily prosecuted. Most of the boats ran
Page 270
for shelter to the nearest haven, and it is melancholy to know that many of
them foundered at the very entrance to their harbour. The whole of the
mischief was done in the brief period of three hours. In that period many a
poor woman was made miserable, and many a hearth rendered cheerless. It is
gratifying to think that since the date of the great storm considerable
improvement has been made in the Scottish fishery harbours, and that at
Wick a great harbour of refuge is now in progress. The weather prophecies
now published by the Board of Trade, and telegraphed to all important
seaports, are also of great use to the fisher-folk, as are the large barometers
which have been erected in nearly every fishing village. These are the
elements of science which will ultimately chase away superstition from our
sea-coast villages, if indeed we can honestly call the poetic fancies of these
fisher-folks superstitions. We cannot wonder that, as the dark remembrance of
some great bereavement escapes from the chambers of their memory, they see
forms in the flying clouds, or hear voices in the air, that cannot be seen or
heard by landsmen unaccustomed to the treacherous waters of the great deep.
Large quantities of fish offal are used by the farmers as manure. The
intestines of the herring are regularly sold for the purpose of being thrown
upon the land, and I have heard of as many as three hundred barrels of
haddock offal being sold from one curing-yard. It is thought by some
economists that the commoner kinds of fish might be largely captured and
converted into fish guano. I have not studied that part of the fishing question
very deeply, but I am disposed to doubt the propriety of employing fishing
vessels to capture coarse fish for manure, as I do not think it will pay to do
so. In former years fish were extensively used as manure, but that was during
seasons when the capture was so large as to produce a glut. I reprint, in the
shape of an appendix to this volume, an account of the fish-guano
manufactory at Concarneau in Finisterre, as well as some information about
the fish-manure of Norway.
them foundered at the very entrance to their harbour. The whole of the
mischief was done in the brief period of three hours. In that period many a
poor woman was made miserable, and many a hearth rendered cheerless. It is
gratifying to think that since the date of the great storm considerable
improvement has been made in the Scottish fishery harbours, and that at
Wick a great harbour of refuge is now in progress. The weather prophecies
now published by the Board of Trade, and telegraphed to all important
seaports, are also of great use to the fisher-folk, as are the large barometers
which have been erected in nearly every fishing village. These are the
elements of science which will ultimately chase away superstition from our
sea-coast villages, if indeed we can honestly call the poetic fancies of these
fisher-folks superstitions. We cannot wonder that, as the dark remembrance of
some great bereavement escapes from the chambers of their memory, they see
forms in the flying clouds, or hear voices in the air, that cannot be seen or
heard by landsmen unaccustomed to the treacherous waters of the great deep.
Large quantities of fish offal are used by the farmers as manure. The
intestines of the herring are regularly sold for the purpose of being thrown
upon the land, and I have heard of as many as three hundred barrels of
haddock offal being sold from one curing-yard. It is thought by some
economists that the commoner kinds of fish might be largely captured and
converted into fish guano. I have not studied that part of the fishing question
very deeply, but I am disposed to doubt the propriety of employing fishing
vessels to capture coarse fish for manure, as I do not think it will pay to do
so. In former years fish were extensively used as manure, but that was during
seasons when the capture was so large as to produce a glut. I reprint, in the
shape of an appendix to this volume, an account of the fish-guano
manufactory at Concarneau in Finisterre, as well as some information about
the fish-manure of Norway.
Page 271
CHAPTER VIII.
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE OYSTER.
Proper Time for Oyster-Fishing to Begin—Description of the Oyster—Controversies about its Natural
History—Spatting of the Oyster—Growth of the Oyster—Quantity of Spawn Emitted by the
Oyster—Social History of the Oyster—Great Men who were Fond of Oysters—Oyster-Breeding in
France—Lake Fusaro—Beef’s Discovery of Artificial Culture—Oyster-Farming in the Bay of
Biscay—The Celebrated Green Oysters—Marennes—Dr. Kemmerer’s Plan—Lessons to be
gleaned from the French Pisciculturists—How to Manage an Oyster-Farm—Whitstable—
Cultivation of Natives—The Colne Oyster-Trade—Scottish Oysters—The Pandores—Extent of
Oyster-Ground in the Firth of Forth—Dredging—Extent of American Oyster-Beds.
ugust is a month that has red-letter days for those who delight in the
A luxuries of eating. Do we not in that month begin the carnival of “St.
Grouse?” and do we not hear in the bye-streets of London the pleasant
sounds of “Please to remember the Grotto?” It is the month that ushers in the
ever-welcome oyster. In nearly every small street and alley early in August
may be heard resounding the words “Only once a year!” and groups of merry
children building their grottoes remind us that the long days are passing, that
autumn is at hand, and that in a few brief months the Christmas barrel of
oysters will be travelling “inland” on the rapid railway, passing in its course
the friendly and welcome exchange hamper of country produce, containing
the choice pheasant and the plump turkey. But September, and not August, is
the right month for the inauguration of the oyster season, although, by ancient
custom, perhaps originating in the impatience of our gourmets, the proper
date has been anticipated, and oyster-eating has become general even so early
as the 5th of August. It is wrong, however, to partake of oysters thus early—
as wrong as it was three centuries ago to eat them on St. James’s day,
although the superstition of the period gave weight to the act; as in those days
there existed a proverb that persons who ate oysters on the 25th of July would
have plenty of money all the rest of the year.
In those remote times the knowledge of sea-produce was exceedingly
limited, as people could only guess the proper season for indulging in what
we call “shell-fish;” and although it is not easy, from the difficulty of
obtaining access to sea animals, to obtain accurate information about their
THE NATURAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF
THE OYSTER.
Proper Time for Oyster-Fishing to Begin—Description of the Oyster—Controversies about its Natural
History—Spatting of the Oyster—Growth of the Oyster—Quantity of Spawn Emitted by the
Oyster—Social History of the Oyster—Great Men who were Fond of Oysters—Oyster-Breeding in
France—Lake Fusaro—Beef’s Discovery of Artificial Culture—Oyster-Farming in the Bay of
Biscay—The Celebrated Green Oysters—Marennes—Dr. Kemmerer’s Plan—Lessons to be
gleaned from the French Pisciculturists—How to Manage an Oyster-Farm—Whitstable—
Cultivation of Natives—The Colne Oyster-Trade—Scottish Oysters—The Pandores—Extent of
Oyster-Ground in the Firth of Forth—Dredging—Extent of American Oyster-Beds.
ugust is a month that has red-letter days for those who delight in the
A luxuries of eating. Do we not in that month begin the carnival of “St.
Grouse?” and do we not hear in the bye-streets of London the pleasant
sounds of “Please to remember the Grotto?” It is the month that ushers in the
ever-welcome oyster. In nearly every small street and alley early in August
may be heard resounding the words “Only once a year!” and groups of merry
children building their grottoes remind us that the long days are passing, that
autumn is at hand, and that in a few brief months the Christmas barrel of
oysters will be travelling “inland” on the rapid railway, passing in its course
the friendly and welcome exchange hamper of country produce, containing
the choice pheasant and the plump turkey. But September, and not August, is
the right month for the inauguration of the oyster season, although, by ancient
custom, perhaps originating in the impatience of our gourmets, the proper
date has been anticipated, and oyster-eating has become general even so early
as the 5th of August. It is wrong, however, to partake of oysters thus early—
as wrong as it was three centuries ago to eat them on St. James’s day,
although the superstition of the period gave weight to the act; as in those days
there existed a proverb that persons who ate oysters on the 25th of July would
have plenty of money all the rest of the year.
In those remote times the knowledge of sea-produce was exceedingly
limited, as people could only guess the proper season for indulging in what
we call “shell-fish;” and although it is not easy, from the difficulty of
obtaining access to sea animals, to obtain accurate information about their
Page 272
growth and habits, yet it is pleasing to think that we know a great deal more
of those interesting creatures than our forefathers ever did. Our worthy
ancestors, for instance, were quite content to swallow their oysters without
inquiring very minutely about how they were bred; the oyster-shell was
opened simply that its contents might be devoured along with the necessary
quantity of bread and butter and brown stout. They did not think of the
delicacy as a subject of natural history—with them it was simply a delicious
condiment. But in the present day that style of eating has been altogether
reformed: people like to know what they eat; and from the investigations of
M. Coste and other naturalists we now know as much about the oyster, and
the mollusca in general, as we do about the Crustacea.
Generally speaking, many curious opinions have been held about shell-
fish. At one time they were thought to be only masses of oily or other matter
scarcely alive and insensible to pain. Who could suppose, it was asked, that a
portion of blubber like the oyster, that could only have been first eaten by
some very courageous individual, could have any feeling? But we know
better now, and although the organisation of the mollusca is not of a high
order, it is perfect of its kind, and has within it indications of organs that in
beings of a higher type serve a loftier purpose, and point out the beginnings
of nature, showing how she works her way from the simplest imaginings of
animal life to the complex human machine. The oyster has no doubt in its
degree its joys and sorrows, and throbs with life and pleasure, as animals do
that have a higher organic structure.
Zoologically the oyster is known as Ostræa edulis. Its outward appearance
is familiar to even very landward people, and no human engineer could have
invented so admirable a home for the pulpy and headless mass of jelly that is
contained within the rough-looking shell. The oyster is a curiously-
constructed animal; but I fear that, comparatively speaking, very few of my
readers have ever seen a perfect one, as oysters are very much mutilated,
being generally deprived of their beards before they are sent to table, and
otherwise hurt, both accidentally in the opening and by use and wont, as in
the case of the beard. Its mouth—it has no jaws or teeth—is a kind of trunk or
snout, with four lips, and leafy coverings or gills are spread over the body to
act as lungs, and keep from the action of the water the air which the animal
requires for its existence. This covering is divided into two lobes with ciliated
edges. Four leaves or membranous plates act as capillary funnels, open at the
farthest extremities. Behind the gills there is a large whitish fatty part
of those interesting creatures than our forefathers ever did. Our worthy
ancestors, for instance, were quite content to swallow their oysters without
inquiring very minutely about how they were bred; the oyster-shell was
opened simply that its contents might be devoured along with the necessary
quantity of bread and butter and brown stout. They did not think of the
delicacy as a subject of natural history—with them it was simply a delicious
condiment. But in the present day that style of eating has been altogether
reformed: people like to know what they eat; and from the investigations of
M. Coste and other naturalists we now know as much about the oyster, and
the mollusca in general, as we do about the Crustacea.
Generally speaking, many curious opinions have been held about shell-
fish. At one time they were thought to be only masses of oily or other matter
scarcely alive and insensible to pain. Who could suppose, it was asked, that a
portion of blubber like the oyster, that could only have been first eaten by
some very courageous individual, could have any feeling? But we know
better now, and although the organisation of the mollusca is not of a high
order, it is perfect of its kind, and has within it indications of organs that in
beings of a higher type serve a loftier purpose, and point out the beginnings
of nature, showing how she works her way from the simplest imaginings of
animal life to the complex human machine. The oyster has no doubt in its
degree its joys and sorrows, and throbs with life and pleasure, as animals do
that have a higher organic structure.
Zoologically the oyster is known as Ostræa edulis. Its outward appearance
is familiar to even very landward people, and no human engineer could have
invented so admirable a home for the pulpy and headless mass of jelly that is
contained within the rough-looking shell. The oyster is a curiously-
constructed animal; but I fear that, comparatively speaking, very few of my
readers have ever seen a perfect one, as oysters are very much mutilated,
being generally deprived of their beards before they are sent to table, and
otherwise hurt, both accidentally in the opening and by use and wont, as in
the case of the beard. Its mouth—it has no jaws or teeth—is a kind of trunk or
snout, with four lips, and leafy coverings or gills are spread over the body to
act as lungs, and keep from the action of the water the air which the animal
requires for its existence. This covering is divided into two lobes with ciliated
edges. Four leaves or membranous plates act as capillary funnels, open at the
farthest extremities. Behind the gills there is a large whitish fatty part
Page 273
enclosing the stomach and intestines. The vessels of circulation play into
muscular cavities, which act the part of the heart. The stomach is situated
near the mouth. The oyster has no feet, but can move by opening and closing
its shell, and it secures food by means of its beard, which acts as a kind of
rake. In fact the internal structure of the oyster, while it is excellently adapted
to that animal’s mode of life, is exceedingly simple.
It is not my purpose in the present work to enter into the minutiæ of oyster
life. Indeed, there have been so many controversies about the natural history
of this animal as to render it impossible to narrate in the brief space I can
devote to it a tenth part of what has been written or spoken about the life and
habits of the “breedy creature.” Every stage of its growth has been made the
stand-point for a wrangle of some kind. As an example of the keenness with
which each stage of oyster life is now being discussed, I may mention that in
the summer of 1864 a most amusing squabble broke out in the pages of the
Field newspaper on an immaterial point of oyster life, which is worth noting
here as an example of what can be said on either side of a question. The
controversy hinged upon whether an oyster while on the bed lay on the flat or
convex side. Mr. Frank Buckland, who originated the dispute, maintained that
the right, proper, and natural position of the oyster, when at the bottom of the
sea, is with the flat shell downwards. Mr. James Lowe, a gentleman who
takes great interest in pisciculture, and who has explored the oyster-beds of
France, held the opinion that the oyster is never in its proper position except
when the flat shell is uppermost. Of course, the natural position of the oyster
is of no practical importance whatever; and I know, from personal
observation of the beds at Newhaven and Cockenzie, that oysters lie both
ways,—indeed, with a dozen or two of dredges tearing over the beds it is
impossible but that they must lie quite higgledy-piggledy, so to speak. A great
deal that is incidentally interesting was brought up in the discussion to which
I have been referring. There have been several other disputes about points in
the natural history of the oysters—one in particular as to whether that animal
is provided with organs of vision. Various opinions have been enunciated as
to whether an oyster has eyes, and one author asserts that it has so many as
twenty-four, which again is denied, and the assertion made that the so-called
eyes projecting from the border of the mantle have no optical power
whatever; but be that as it may, I have no doubt whatever that the oyster has a
power of knowing the light from the dark.
muscular cavities, which act the part of the heart. The stomach is situated
near the mouth. The oyster has no feet, but can move by opening and closing
its shell, and it secures food by means of its beard, which acts as a kind of
rake. In fact the internal structure of the oyster, while it is excellently adapted
to that animal’s mode of life, is exceedingly simple.
It is not my purpose in the present work to enter into the minutiæ of oyster
life. Indeed, there have been so many controversies about the natural history
of this animal as to render it impossible to narrate in the brief space I can
devote to it a tenth part of what has been written or spoken about the life and
habits of the “breedy creature.” Every stage of its growth has been made the
stand-point for a wrangle of some kind. As an example of the keenness with
which each stage of oyster life is now being discussed, I may mention that in
the summer of 1864 a most amusing squabble broke out in the pages of the
Field newspaper on an immaterial point of oyster life, which is worth noting
here as an example of what can be said on either side of a question. The
controversy hinged upon whether an oyster while on the bed lay on the flat or
convex side. Mr. Frank Buckland, who originated the dispute, maintained that
the right, proper, and natural position of the oyster, when at the bottom of the
sea, is with the flat shell downwards. Mr. James Lowe, a gentleman who
takes great interest in pisciculture, and who has explored the oyster-beds of
France, held the opinion that the oyster is never in its proper position except
when the flat shell is uppermost. Of course, the natural position of the oyster
is of no practical importance whatever; and I know, from personal
observation of the beds at Newhaven and Cockenzie, that oysters lie both
ways,—indeed, with a dozen or two of dredges tearing over the beds it is
impossible but that they must lie quite higgledy-piggledy, so to speak. A great
deal that is incidentally interesting was brought up in the discussion to which
I have been referring. There have been several other disputes about points in
the natural history of the oysters—one in particular as to whether that animal
is provided with organs of vision. Various opinions have been enunciated as
to whether an oyster has eyes, and one author asserts that it has so many as
twenty-four, which again is denied, and the assertion made that the so-called
eyes projecting from the border of the mantle have no optical power
whatever; but be that as it may, I have no doubt whatever that the oyster has a
power of knowing the light from the dark.
Page 274
Without wishing to dogmatise on any point of oyster life, I think I can
bring before my readers in a brief way a few interesting facts in the natural
history of the edible oyster.
As is well known, there is a period every year during which the oyster is
not fished; and the reason why our English oyster-beds have not been ruined
or exhausted by overfishing arises, among other causes, from this fact of
there being a definite close-time assigned to the breeding of the mollusc. It
would be well if the larger varieties of sea produce were equally protected;
for it is sickening to observe the countless numbers of unseasonable fish that
are from time to time brought to Billingsgate and other markets, and greedily
purchased. The fact that oysters are supplied only during certain months in
the year, and that the public have a general corresponding notion that they are
totally unfit for wholesome eating during May, June, July, and August (those
four wretched months which have not the letter “r” in their names), has been
greatly in their favour. Had there been no period of rest, it is almost quite
certain that oysters would long ago—I allude to the days when there was no
system of cultivation—have become extinct, so great is the demand for this
dainty mollusc.
Oysters begin to sicken about the end of April, so that it is well that their
grand rest commences in May. The shedding of the spawn continues during
the whole of the hot months—not but that during that period there may be
found supplies of healthy oysters, but, as a general rule, it is better that there
should be a total cessation of the trade during the summer season, because
were the beds disturbed by a search for the healthy oysters the spawn would
be scattered and destroyed.
Oysters do not leave their ova, like many other marine creatures, but
incubate them in the folds of their mantle, and among the laminæ of their
lungs. There the ova remain surrounded by mucous matter, which is
necessary to their development, and within which they pass through the
embryo state. The mass of ova, or “spat” as it is familiarly called, undergoes
various changes in its colour, meanwhile losing its fluidity. This state
indicates the near termination of the development and the sending forth of the
embryo to an independent existence, for by this time the young oysters can
live without the protection of the maternal organs. An eminent French
pisciculturist says that the animated matter escaping from the adults on
breeding-banks is like a thick mist being dispersed by the winds—the spat is
so scattered by the waves that only an imperceptible portion remains near the
bring before my readers in a brief way a few interesting facts in the natural
history of the edible oyster.
As is well known, there is a period every year during which the oyster is
not fished; and the reason why our English oyster-beds have not been ruined
or exhausted by overfishing arises, among other causes, from this fact of
there being a definite close-time assigned to the breeding of the mollusc. It
would be well if the larger varieties of sea produce were equally protected;
for it is sickening to observe the countless numbers of unseasonable fish that
are from time to time brought to Billingsgate and other markets, and greedily
purchased. The fact that oysters are supplied only during certain months in
the year, and that the public have a general corresponding notion that they are
totally unfit for wholesome eating during May, June, July, and August (those
four wretched months which have not the letter “r” in their names), has been
greatly in their favour. Had there been no period of rest, it is almost quite
certain that oysters would long ago—I allude to the days when there was no
system of cultivation—have become extinct, so great is the demand for this
dainty mollusc.
Oysters begin to sicken about the end of April, so that it is well that their
grand rest commences in May. The shedding of the spawn continues during
the whole of the hot months—not but that during that period there may be
found supplies of healthy oysters, but, as a general rule, it is better that there
should be a total cessation of the trade during the summer season, because
were the beds disturbed by a search for the healthy oysters the spawn would
be scattered and destroyed.
Oysters do not leave their ova, like many other marine creatures, but
incubate them in the folds of their mantle, and among the laminæ of their
lungs. There the ova remain surrounded by mucous matter, which is
necessary to their development, and within which they pass through the
embryo state. The mass of ova, or “spat” as it is familiarly called, undergoes
various changes in its colour, meanwhile losing its fluidity. This state
indicates the near termination of the development and the sending forth of the
embryo to an independent existence, for by this time the young oysters can
live without the protection of the maternal organs. An eminent French
pisciculturist says that the animated matter escaping from the adults on
breeding-banks is like a thick mist being dispersed by the winds—the spat is
so scattered by the waves that only an imperceptible portion remains near the
Page 275
parent stock. All the rest is dissipated over the sea space; and if these myriads
of animalculæ, tossed by the waves, do not meet with solid bodies to which
they can attach themselves, their destruction is certain, for if they do not fall
victims to the larger animals which prey upon them, they are unfortunate in
not fixing upon the proper place for their thorough development.
Thus we see that the spawn of the oyster is well matured before it leaves
the protection of the parental shell; and by the aid of the microscope the
young animal can be seen with its shell perfect and its holding-on apparatus,
which is also a kind of swimming-pad, ready to clutch the first “coigne of
vantage” that the current may carry it against. My theory is, that the parent
oyster goes on brewing its spawn for some time—I have seen it oozing from
the same animal for some days—and it is supposed that the spawn swims
about with the current for a short period before it falls, being in the meantime
devoured by countless sea animals of all kinds. The operation of nursing,
brewing, and exuding the spat from the parental shell will occupy a
considerable period—say from two to four weeks. It is quite certain that the
close-time for oysters is necessary and advantageous, for we seldom find this
mollusc, as we do the herring and other fish, full of eggs, so that most of the
operations connected with its reproduction go on in the months during which
there is no dredging. As I have indicated, immense quantities of the spawn of
oysters are annually devoured by other molluscs, and by fish and crustaceans
of various sizes; it is well, therefore, that it is so bountifully supplied. On
occasions of visiting the beds I have seen the dredge covered with this spawn;
and no pen could number the thousands of millions of oysters thus prevented
from ripening into life. Economists ought to note this fact with respect to fish
generally, for the enormous destruction of spawn of all kinds must exercise a
very serious influence on our fish supplies. I may also note that the state of
the weather has a serious influence on the spawn and on the adult oyster-
power of spawning. A cold season is very unfavourable, and a decidedly cold
day will kill the spat.
Some people have asserted that the oyster can reproduce its kind in twenty
weeks, and that in ten months it is full-grown. Both of these assertions are
pure nonsense. At the age of three months an oyster is not much bigger than a
pea; and the age at which reproduction begins has never been accurately
ascertained, but it is thought to be three years. I give here one or two
illustrations of oyster-growth in order to show the ratio of increase. The
smallest, about the dimensions of a pin’s head, may be called a fortnight old.
of animalculæ, tossed by the waves, do not meet with solid bodies to which
they can attach themselves, their destruction is certain, for if they do not fall
victims to the larger animals which prey upon them, they are unfortunate in
not fixing upon the proper place for their thorough development.
Thus we see that the spawn of the oyster is well matured before it leaves
the protection of the parental shell; and by the aid of the microscope the
young animal can be seen with its shell perfect and its holding-on apparatus,
which is also a kind of swimming-pad, ready to clutch the first “coigne of
vantage” that the current may carry it against. My theory is, that the parent
oyster goes on brewing its spawn for some time—I have seen it oozing from
the same animal for some days—and it is supposed that the spawn swims
about with the current for a short period before it falls, being in the meantime
devoured by countless sea animals of all kinds. The operation of nursing,
brewing, and exuding the spat from the parental shell will occupy a
considerable period—say from two to four weeks. It is quite certain that the
close-time for oysters is necessary and advantageous, for we seldom find this
mollusc, as we do the herring and other fish, full of eggs, so that most of the
operations connected with its reproduction go on in the months during which
there is no dredging. As I have indicated, immense quantities of the spawn of
oysters are annually devoured by other molluscs, and by fish and crustaceans
of various sizes; it is well, therefore, that it is so bountifully supplied. On
occasions of visiting the beds I have seen the dredge covered with this spawn;
and no pen could number the thousands of millions of oysters thus prevented
from ripening into life. Economists ought to note this fact with respect to fish
generally, for the enormous destruction of spawn of all kinds must exercise a
very serious influence on our fish supplies. I may also note that the state of
the weather has a serious influence on the spawn and on the adult oyster-
power of spawning. A cold season is very unfavourable, and a decidedly cold
day will kill the spat.
Some people have asserted that the oyster can reproduce its kind in twenty
weeks, and that in ten months it is full-grown. Both of these assertions are
pure nonsense. At the age of three months an oyster is not much bigger than a
pea; and the age at which reproduction begins has never been accurately
ascertained, but it is thought to be three years. I give here one or two
illustrations of oyster-growth in order to show the ratio of increase. The
smallest, about the dimensions of a pin’s head, may be called a fortnight old.
Page 276
The next size represents the oyster
as it appears when three months old.
The other sizes are drawn at the
ages of five, eight, and twelve
months respectively. Oysters are
usually four years old before they
are sent to the London market. At
the age of five years the oyster is, I
think, in its prime; and some of our
most intelligent fishermen think its
average duration of life to be ten
years.
In these days of oyster-farming the time
at which the oyster becomes reproductive
may be easily fixed, and it will no doubt be
found to vary in different localities. At
some places it becomes saleable—chiefly,
however, for fattening—in the course of
two years; at other places it is three or four
years before it becomes a saleable
commodity; but on the average it will be quite safe to assume that at four
years the oyster is both ripe for sale and able for the reproduction of its kind.
Let us hope that the breeders will take care to have at least one brood from
each batch before they offer any for sale. Oyster-farmers should keep before
them the folly of the salmon-fishers, who kill their grilse—i.e. the virgin fish
—before they have an opportunity of perpetuating their race.
Another point on which naturalists differ is as to the quantity of spawn
from each oyster. Some enumerate the young by thousands, others by
millions. It is certain enough that the number of young is prodigious—so
great, in fact, as to prevent their all being contained in the parent shell at one
time; but I do not believe that an oyster yields its young “in millions”—
as it appears when three months old.
The other sizes are drawn at the
ages of five, eight, and twelve
months respectively. Oysters are
usually four years old before they
are sent to the London market. At
the age of five years the oyster is, I
think, in its prime; and some of our
most intelligent fishermen think its
average duration of life to be ten
years.
In these days of oyster-farming the time
at which the oyster becomes reproductive
may be easily fixed, and it will no doubt be
found to vary in different localities. At
some places it becomes saleable—chiefly,
however, for fattening—in the course of
two years; at other places it is three or four
years before it becomes a saleable
commodity; but on the average it will be quite safe to assume that at four
years the oyster is both ripe for sale and able for the reproduction of its kind.
Let us hope that the breeders will take care to have at least one brood from
each batch before they offer any for sale. Oyster-farmers should keep before
them the folly of the salmon-fishers, who kill their grilse—i.e. the virgin fish
—before they have an opportunity of perpetuating their race.
Another point on which naturalists differ is as to the quantity of spawn
from each oyster. Some enumerate the young by thousands, others by
millions. It is certain enough that the number of young is prodigious—so
great, in fact, as to prevent their all being contained in the parent shell at one
time; but I do not believe that an oyster yields its young “in millions”—
Page 277
perhaps half a million is on the average the amount of spat which each oyster
can “brew” in one season. I have examined oyster-spawn (taken direct from
the oyster) by means of a powerful microscope, and find it to be a liquid of
some little consistency, in which the young oysters, like the points of a hair,
swim actively about, in great numbers, as many as a thousand having been
counted in a very minute globule of spat. The spawn, as found floating on the
water, is greenish in appearance, and each little splash may be likened to an
oyster nebula, which resolves itself, when examined by a powerful glass, into
a thousand distinct animals.
The oyster, it is now pretty well determined, is hermaphrodite, and it is
very prolific, as has been already observed, but the enormous fecundity of the
animal is largely detracted from by bad breeding seasons; for, unless the
spawning season be mild, soft, and warm, there is usually a very partial fall
of spat, and of course quite a scarcity of brood; and even if one be the
proprietor of a large bed of oysters, there is no security for the spawn which
is emitted from the oysters on that bed falling upon it, or within the bounds of
one’s own property even; it is often enough the case that the spawn falls at a
considerable distance from the place where it has been emitted. Thus the
spawn from the Whitstable and Faversham Oyster Companies’ beds—and
these contain millions of oysters in various stages of progress—falls usually
on a large piece of ground between Whitstable and the Isle of Thanet,
formerly common property, but lately given by Act of Parliament to a
company recently formed for the breeding of oysters. The saving of the
spawn cannot be effected unless it falls on proper ground—i.e. ground with a
shelly bottom is best, for the infant animal is sure to perish if it fall among
mud or upon sand; the infant oyster must obtain a holding-on place as the
first condition of its own existence.
Oysters have not on the aggregate spawned extensively during late years.
The greatest fall of spawn ever known in England occurred in 1827, and it is
thought by practical men, as well as naturalists, that they do not spawn at all
in cold seasons, and in Britain not always in warm seasons; and Mr.
Buckland, I believe, assumes that the more favourable spawning on the
French coast of the Bay of Biscay is caused by the greater, because more
direct, influence of the Gulf Stream on the waters there than in the English
Channel, but this idea is also disputed. If the oyster does not spawn every
year it would require to emit an enormous quantity in those favourable years
when it does spawn, so as to keep up the supply. On being exuded from the
can “brew” in one season. I have examined oyster-spawn (taken direct from
the oyster) by means of a powerful microscope, and find it to be a liquid of
some little consistency, in which the young oysters, like the points of a hair,
swim actively about, in great numbers, as many as a thousand having been
counted in a very minute globule of spat. The spawn, as found floating on the
water, is greenish in appearance, and each little splash may be likened to an
oyster nebula, which resolves itself, when examined by a powerful glass, into
a thousand distinct animals.
The oyster, it is now pretty well determined, is hermaphrodite, and it is
very prolific, as has been already observed, but the enormous fecundity of the
animal is largely detracted from by bad breeding seasons; for, unless the
spawning season be mild, soft, and warm, there is usually a very partial fall
of spat, and of course quite a scarcity of brood; and even if one be the
proprietor of a large bed of oysters, there is no security for the spawn which
is emitted from the oysters on that bed falling upon it, or within the bounds of
one’s own property even; it is often enough the case that the spawn falls at a
considerable distance from the place where it has been emitted. Thus the
spawn from the Whitstable and Faversham Oyster Companies’ beds—and
these contain millions of oysters in various stages of progress—falls usually
on a large piece of ground between Whitstable and the Isle of Thanet,
formerly common property, but lately given by Act of Parliament to a
company recently formed for the breeding of oysters. The saving of the
spawn cannot be effected unless it falls on proper ground—i.e. ground with a
shelly bottom is best, for the infant animal is sure to perish if it fall among
mud or upon sand; the infant oyster must obtain a holding-on place as the
first condition of its own existence.
Oysters have not on the aggregate spawned extensively during late years.
The greatest fall of spawn ever known in England occurred in 1827, and it is
thought by practical men, as well as naturalists, that they do not spawn at all
in cold seasons, and in Britain not always in warm seasons; and Mr.
Buckland, I believe, assumes that the more favourable spawning on the
French coast of the Bay of Biscay is caused by the greater, because more
direct, influence of the Gulf Stream on the waters there than in the English
Channel, but this idea is also disputed. If the oyster does not spawn every
year it would require to emit an enormous quantity in those favourable years
when it does spawn, so as to keep up the supply. On being exuded from the
Page 278
parental shell, the spawn of the oyster at once rises to the surface, where its
vitality is easily affected, and it is often killed in certain places by snow-water
or ice. A genial warmth of sunshine and water is considered highly favourable
to its proper development during the few days it floats about on the surface. It
is thought that not more than one oyster out of each million arrives at
maturity. It is curious to note that some oysters have immense shells with
very little “meat” in them. I recently saw in a popular tavern (date Sept. 29,
1864), several oysters much larger externally than crown-pieces with the
“meat” about the size of a sixpence: these were Firth of Forth oysters from
Cockenzie. It is not easy to determine from the external size of the animal the
amount of “meat” it will yield—apparently, “the bigger the oyster the smaller
the meat.” In the early part of the season we get only the very small oysters in
Edinburgh—the reason assigned being that all the best dredgers are “away at
the herring,” and that the persons left behind at the oyster-beds are only able
to skim them, so that, for a period of about six weeks, we merely obtain the
small fry that are lying on the top. It is quite certain that as the season
advances the oysters obtained are larger and of more decided flavour. In the
“natives” obtained at Whitstable the shell and the meat are pretty much in
keeping as to size, and this is an advantage.
The Abbé Diquemarc, who has keenly observed the habits of the principal
mollusca, assures us that oysters, when free, are perfectly able to transport
themselves from one place to another, by simply causing the sea-water to
enter and emerge suddenly from between their valves; and these they use
with extreme rapidity and great force. By means of the operation now
described, the oyster is enabled to defend itself from its enemies among the
minor crustacea, particularly the small crabs, which endeavour to enter the
shell when it is half open. “Some naturalists,” the Abbé says, “go the length
of allowing the oyster to have great foresight,” which he illustrates by an
allusion to the habits of those found at the seaside. “These oysters,” he says,
“exposed to the daily change of tides, appear to be aware that they are likely
to be exposed to dryness at certain recurring periods, and so they preserve
water in their shells to supply their wants when the tide is at ebb. This
peculiarity renders them more easy of transportation to remote distances than
those members of the family which are caught at a considerable distance from
the shore.”
But oysters have their social as well as their natural and economic history.
The name of the courageous individual who ate the first oyster has not been
vitality is easily affected, and it is often killed in certain places by snow-water
or ice. A genial warmth of sunshine and water is considered highly favourable
to its proper development during the few days it floats about on the surface. It
is thought that not more than one oyster out of each million arrives at
maturity. It is curious to note that some oysters have immense shells with
very little “meat” in them. I recently saw in a popular tavern (date Sept. 29,
1864), several oysters much larger externally than crown-pieces with the
“meat” about the size of a sixpence: these were Firth of Forth oysters from
Cockenzie. It is not easy to determine from the external size of the animal the
amount of “meat” it will yield—apparently, “the bigger the oyster the smaller
the meat.” In the early part of the season we get only the very small oysters in
Edinburgh—the reason assigned being that all the best dredgers are “away at
the herring,” and that the persons left behind at the oyster-beds are only able
to skim them, so that, for a period of about six weeks, we merely obtain the
small fry that are lying on the top. It is quite certain that as the season
advances the oysters obtained are larger and of more decided flavour. In the
“natives” obtained at Whitstable the shell and the meat are pretty much in
keeping as to size, and this is an advantage.
The Abbé Diquemarc, who has keenly observed the habits of the principal
mollusca, assures us that oysters, when free, are perfectly able to transport
themselves from one place to another, by simply causing the sea-water to
enter and emerge suddenly from between their valves; and these they use
with extreme rapidity and great force. By means of the operation now
described, the oyster is enabled to defend itself from its enemies among the
minor crustacea, particularly the small crabs, which endeavour to enter the
shell when it is half open. “Some naturalists,” the Abbé says, “go the length
of allowing the oyster to have great foresight,” which he illustrates by an
allusion to the habits of those found at the seaside. “These oysters,” he says,
“exposed to the daily change of tides, appear to be aware that they are likely
to be exposed to dryness at certain recurring periods, and so they preserve
water in their shells to supply their wants when the tide is at ebb. This
peculiarity renders them more easy of transportation to remote distances than
those members of the family which are caught at a considerable distance from
the shore.”
But oysters have their social as well as their natural and economic history.
The name of the courageous individual who ate the first oyster has not been
Page 279
recorded, but there is a legend concerning him to the following effect:—Once
upon a time—it must be a prodigiously long time ago, however—a man of
melancholy mood, who was walking by the shores of a picturesque estuary,
listening to the monotonous murmur of the sad sea-waves, espied a very old
and ugly oyster, all coated over with parasites and sea-weeds. It was so
unprepossessing that he kicked it with his foot, and the animal, astonished at
receiving such rude treatment on its own domain, gaped wide with
indignation. Seeing the beautiful cream-coloured layers that shone within the
shelly covering, and fancying the interior of the shell itself to be beautiful, he
lifted up the aged “native” for further examination, inserting his finger and
thumb within the shells. The irate mollusc, thinking no doubt that this was
meant as a further insult, snapped his pearly door close upon the finger of the
intruder, causing him some little pain. After releasing his wounded digit, the
inquisitive gentleman very naturally put it in his mouth. “Delightful!”
exclaimed he, opening wide his eyes. “What is this?” and again he sucked his
thumb. Then the great truth flashed upon him, that he had found out a new
delight—had in fact accidentally achieved the most important discovery ever
made up to that date! He proceeded at once to the verification of his thought.
Taking up a stone, he forced open the doors of the oyster, and gingerly tried a
piece of the mollusc itself. Delicious was the result; and so, there and then,
with no other condiment than the juice of the animal, with no reaming brown
stout or pale chablis to wash down the repast, no nicely-cut, well-buttered
brown bread, did that solitary anonymous man inaugurate the oyster banquet.
Another way of the story is that the man who ate the first oyster was
compelled to do so for a punishment:—
“The man had sure a palate covered o’er
With brass, or steel, that on the rocky shore
First broke the oozy oyster’s pearly coat,
And risk’d the living morsel down his throat.”
Ever since the apocryphal period of this legend, men have gone on eating
oysters. Poets, princes, pontiffs, orators, statesmen, and wits have gluttonised
over the oyster-bed. Oysters were at one time, it is true, in danger of being
forgotten. From the fourth century to about the fifteenth they were not much
in use; but from that date to the present time the demand has never slackened.
Going back to the times which we now regard as classic, we are told—as I
upon a time—it must be a prodigiously long time ago, however—a man of
melancholy mood, who was walking by the shores of a picturesque estuary,
listening to the monotonous murmur of the sad sea-waves, espied a very old
and ugly oyster, all coated over with parasites and sea-weeds. It was so
unprepossessing that he kicked it with his foot, and the animal, astonished at
receiving such rude treatment on its own domain, gaped wide with
indignation. Seeing the beautiful cream-coloured layers that shone within the
shelly covering, and fancying the interior of the shell itself to be beautiful, he
lifted up the aged “native” for further examination, inserting his finger and
thumb within the shells. The irate mollusc, thinking no doubt that this was
meant as a further insult, snapped his pearly door close upon the finger of the
intruder, causing him some little pain. After releasing his wounded digit, the
inquisitive gentleman very naturally put it in his mouth. “Delightful!”
exclaimed he, opening wide his eyes. “What is this?” and again he sucked his
thumb. Then the great truth flashed upon him, that he had found out a new
delight—had in fact accidentally achieved the most important discovery ever
made up to that date! He proceeded at once to the verification of his thought.
Taking up a stone, he forced open the doors of the oyster, and gingerly tried a
piece of the mollusc itself. Delicious was the result; and so, there and then,
with no other condiment than the juice of the animal, with no reaming brown
stout or pale chablis to wash down the repast, no nicely-cut, well-buttered
brown bread, did that solitary anonymous man inaugurate the oyster banquet.
Another way of the story is that the man who ate the first oyster was
compelled to do so for a punishment:—
“The man had sure a palate covered o’er
With brass, or steel, that on the rocky shore
First broke the oozy oyster’s pearly coat,
And risk’d the living morsel down his throat.”
Ever since the apocryphal period of this legend, men have gone on eating
oysters. Poets, princes, pontiffs, orators, statesmen, and wits have gluttonised
over the oyster-bed. Oysters were at one time, it is true, in danger of being
forgotten. From the fourth century to about the fifteenth they were not much
in use; but from that date to the present time the demand has never slackened.
Going back to the times which we now regard as classic, we are told—as I
Page 280
will by and by relate in more detail when I come to describe the art of oyster-
farming—that we owe the original idea of pisciculture to a certain Sergius
Orata, who invented an oyster-pond in which to breed oysters, not for his own
table, but for profit. We have all read of the feasts and fish-dinners of the
classic Italians. These were on a scale, as has been already indicated, far
surpassing our modern banquets at Greenwich and Blackwall, even though
the charge for these be, as was recently complained in the Times, two and
three guineas for each person. Talking of fish-dinners reminds me of a
description I have read of a dish produced in China containing juvenile crabs.
On the cover being removed the crablets jump out on the table and are
greedily seized and eaten by the guests who are assembled. The dish is filled
with vinegar, which imparts great liveliness to the young creatures. The shell
is soft and gelatinous, and the morceau is highly palatable. Lucullus had sea-
water brought to his villa in canals from the coast of Campania, in which he
bred fish in such abundance for the use of his guests that not less than
£35,000 worth was sold at his death. Vitellius ate oysters all day long, and
some people insinuate that he could eat as many as a thousand at one sitting
—a happiness too great for belief! Callisthenes, the philosopher of Olynthus,
was also a passionate oyster-eater, and so was Caligula, the Roman tyrant.
The wise Seneca dallied over his few hundreds every week, and the great
Cicero nourished his eloquence with the dainty. The Latin poets sang the
praises of the oyster, and the fast men of ancient Rome enjoyed the poetry
during their carouse, just as modern fellows, not at all classic, enjoy a song
over their oysters in the parlour of a London or provincial tavern.
In all countries there are records of the excessive fondness of great men for
oysters. Cervantes was an oyster-lover, and he satirised the oyster-dealers of
Spain. Louis XI., careful lest scholarship should become deficient in France,
feasted the learned doctors of the Sorbonne, once a year, on oysters; and
another Louis invested his cook with an order of nobility as a reward for his
oyster-cookery. Napoleon, also, was an oyster-lover; so was Rousseau; and
Marshall Turgot used to eat a hundred or two, just to whet his appetite for
breakfast. Invitations to a dish of oysters were common in the literary and
artistic circles of Paris at the latter end of last century. The Encyclopedists
were particularly fond of oysters. Helvetius, Diderot, the Abbé Raynal,
Voltaire, and others, were confirmed oyster-men. Before the Revolution, the
violent politicians were in the habit of constantly frequenting the Parisian
oyster-shops; and Danton, Robespierre, and others, were fond of the oyster in
farming—that we owe the original idea of pisciculture to a certain Sergius
Orata, who invented an oyster-pond in which to breed oysters, not for his own
table, but for profit. We have all read of the feasts and fish-dinners of the
classic Italians. These were on a scale, as has been already indicated, far
surpassing our modern banquets at Greenwich and Blackwall, even though
the charge for these be, as was recently complained in the Times, two and
three guineas for each person. Talking of fish-dinners reminds me of a
description I have read of a dish produced in China containing juvenile crabs.
On the cover being removed the crablets jump out on the table and are
greedily seized and eaten by the guests who are assembled. The dish is filled
with vinegar, which imparts great liveliness to the young creatures. The shell
is soft and gelatinous, and the morceau is highly palatable. Lucullus had sea-
water brought to his villa in canals from the coast of Campania, in which he
bred fish in such abundance for the use of his guests that not less than
£35,000 worth was sold at his death. Vitellius ate oysters all day long, and
some people insinuate that he could eat as many as a thousand at one sitting
—a happiness too great for belief! Callisthenes, the philosopher of Olynthus,
was also a passionate oyster-eater, and so was Caligula, the Roman tyrant.
The wise Seneca dallied over his few hundreds every week, and the great
Cicero nourished his eloquence with the dainty. The Latin poets sang the
praises of the oyster, and the fast men of ancient Rome enjoyed the poetry
during their carouse, just as modern fellows, not at all classic, enjoy a song
over their oysters in the parlour of a London or provincial tavern.
In all countries there are records of the excessive fondness of great men for
oysters. Cervantes was an oyster-lover, and he satirised the oyster-dealers of
Spain. Louis XI., careful lest scholarship should become deficient in France,
feasted the learned doctors of the Sorbonne, once a year, on oysters; and
another Louis invested his cook with an order of nobility as a reward for his
oyster-cookery. Napoleon, also, was an oyster-lover; so was Rousseau; and
Marshall Turgot used to eat a hundred or two, just to whet his appetite for
breakfast. Invitations to a dish of oysters were common in the literary and
artistic circles of Paris at the latter end of last century. The Encyclopedists
were particularly fond of oysters. Helvetius, Diderot, the Abbé Raynal,
Voltaire, and others, were confirmed oyster-men. Before the Revolution, the
violent politicians were in the habit of constantly frequenting the Parisian
oyster-shops; and Danton, Robespierre, and others, were fond of the oyster in
Page 281
their days of innocence. The great Napoleon, on the eve of his battles, used to
partake of the bivalve; and Cambaceres was famous for his shell-fish
banquets. Even at this day the consumption of oysters in Paris is enormous.
According to recent statistics the quantity eaten there is one million per day!
Among our British celebrities, Alexander Pope was an oyster-eater of taste,
and so was Dean Swift, who was fond of lobsters as well. Thomson, of The
Seasons, who knew all good things, knew how good a thing an oyster was.
The learned Dr. Richard Bentley could never pass an oyster-shop without
having a few; and there have been hundreds of subsequent Englishmen who,
without coming up to Bentley in other respects, have resembled him in this.
The Scottish philosophers, too, of the last century—Hume, Dugald Stewart,
Cullen, etc.—used frequently to indulge in the “whiskered pandores” of their
day and generation. “Oyster-ploys,” as they were called, were frequently held
in the quaint and dingy taverns of the Old Town of Edinburgh. These
Edinburgh oyster-taverns of the olden time were usually situated
underground, in the cellar-floor; and, even in the course of the long winter
evenings, the carriages of the quality folks would be found rattling up, and
setting down fashionable ladies, to partake of oysters and porter, plenteously
but rudely served. What oysters have been to the intellect of Edinburgh in
later times, who needs to be told that has heard of Christopher North and read
the Noctes Ambrosianæ?
The Americans become still more social over their oysters than we do, and
their extensive seabord affords them a very large supply, although I regret to
learn that, in consequence of overfishing and of carrying away the fish at
improper seasons, the oyster-banks of that great country are in danger of
becoming exhausted. In City Island the whole population participates in the
oyster-trade, and there is an oyster-bed in Long Island Sound which is 115
miles long.
The oyster can be cooked in many ways, but the pure animal is the best of
all, and gulping him up in his own juice is the best way to eat him. The
oyster, I maintain, may be eaten raw, day by day, every day of the 214 days
that it is in season, and never do hurt. It never produces indigestion—never
does the flavour pall. The man who ends the day with an oyster in his mouth
rises with a clean tongue in the morning, and a clear head as well.
The secret of there being only a holding-on place required for the spat of
the oyster to insure an immensely-increased supply having been penetrated
partake of the bivalve; and Cambaceres was famous for his shell-fish
banquets. Even at this day the consumption of oysters in Paris is enormous.
According to recent statistics the quantity eaten there is one million per day!
Among our British celebrities, Alexander Pope was an oyster-eater of taste,
and so was Dean Swift, who was fond of lobsters as well. Thomson, of The
Seasons, who knew all good things, knew how good a thing an oyster was.
The learned Dr. Richard Bentley could never pass an oyster-shop without
having a few; and there have been hundreds of subsequent Englishmen who,
without coming up to Bentley in other respects, have resembled him in this.
The Scottish philosophers, too, of the last century—Hume, Dugald Stewart,
Cullen, etc.—used frequently to indulge in the “whiskered pandores” of their
day and generation. “Oyster-ploys,” as they were called, were frequently held
in the quaint and dingy taverns of the Old Town of Edinburgh. These
Edinburgh oyster-taverns of the olden time were usually situated
underground, in the cellar-floor; and, even in the course of the long winter
evenings, the carriages of the quality folks would be found rattling up, and
setting down fashionable ladies, to partake of oysters and porter, plenteously
but rudely served. What oysters have been to the intellect of Edinburgh in
later times, who needs to be told that has heard of Christopher North and read
the Noctes Ambrosianæ?
The Americans become still more social over their oysters than we do, and
their extensive seabord affords them a very large supply, although I regret to
learn that, in consequence of overfishing and of carrying away the fish at
improper seasons, the oyster-banks of that great country are in danger of
becoming exhausted. In City Island the whole population participates in the
oyster-trade, and there is an oyster-bed in Long Island Sound which is 115
miles long.
The oyster can be cooked in many ways, but the pure animal is the best of
all, and gulping him up in his own juice is the best way to eat him. The
oyster, I maintain, may be eaten raw, day by day, every day of the 214 days
that it is in season, and never do hurt. It never produces indigestion—never
does the flavour pall. The man who ends the day with an oyster in his mouth
rises with a clean tongue in the morning, and a clear head as well.
The secret of there being only a holding-on place required for the spat of
the oyster to insure an immensely-increased supply having been penetrated
Page 282
by the French people—and no doubt they are in some degree indebted to our
oyster-beds on the Colne and at Whitstable for their idea—the plan of
systematic oyster-culture was easy enough, as I will immediately show. A few
initiatory experiments, in fact, speedily settled that oysters could be grown in
any quantity. Strong pillars of wood were driven into the mud and sand; arms
were added; the whole was interlaced with branches of trees, and various
boughs besides were hung over the beds on ropes and chains, whilst others
were sunk in the water and kept down by a weight. A few boat-loads of
oysters being laid down, the spat had no distance to travel in search of a
home, but found a resting-place almost at the moment of being exuded; and,
as the fairy legends say, “it grew and it grew,” till, in the fulness of time, it
became a marketable commodity.
But the history of this modern phase of oyster-farming, as practised on the
foreshores of France, is so interesting as to demand at my hands a rather
detailed notice, for it is one of the most noteworthy circumstances connected
with the revived art of fish-culture, that it has resulted in placing upon the
shores of France upwards of 7000 fish-farms for the cultivation of the oyster
alone.
It is no exaggeration to say, that about fifteen years ago there was scarcely
an oyster of native growth in France; the beds—and I cite the case of France
as a warning to people at home, I mean as regards our Scottish oyster-beds—
had become so exhausted from overdredging as to be unproductive, so far as
their money value was concerned, and to be totally unable to recover
themselves so far as their power of reproductiveness was at stake. And the
people were consequently in despair at the loss of this favourite adjunct of
their banquets, and had to resort to other countries for such small supplies as
they could obtain. As an illustration of the overdredging that had prevailed, it
may be stated that oyster-farms which formerly employed 1400 men, with
200 boats, and yielded an annual revenue of 400,000 francs, had become so
reduced as to require only 100 men and 20 boats. Places where at one time
there had been as many as fifteen oyster-banks, and great prosperity among
the fisher class, had become, at the period I allude to, almost oysterless. St.
Brieuc, Rochelle, Marennes, Rochefort, etc., had all suffered so much that
those interested in the fisheries were no longer able to stock the beds, thus
proving that, notwithstanding the great fecundity of these sea animals, it is
quite possible to overfish them, and thoroughly exhaust their reproductive
power. It was under these circumstances that M. Coste instituted that plan of
oyster-beds on the Colne and at Whitstable for their idea—the plan of
systematic oyster-culture was easy enough, as I will immediately show. A few
initiatory experiments, in fact, speedily settled that oysters could be grown in
any quantity. Strong pillars of wood were driven into the mud and sand; arms
were added; the whole was interlaced with branches of trees, and various
boughs besides were hung over the beds on ropes and chains, whilst others
were sunk in the water and kept down by a weight. A few boat-loads of
oysters being laid down, the spat had no distance to travel in search of a
home, but found a resting-place almost at the moment of being exuded; and,
as the fairy legends say, “it grew and it grew,” till, in the fulness of time, it
became a marketable commodity.
But the history of this modern phase of oyster-farming, as practised on the
foreshores of France, is so interesting as to demand at my hands a rather
detailed notice, for it is one of the most noteworthy circumstances connected
with the revived art of fish-culture, that it has resulted in placing upon the
shores of France upwards of 7000 fish-farms for the cultivation of the oyster
alone.
It is no exaggeration to say, that about fifteen years ago there was scarcely
an oyster of native growth in France; the beds—and I cite the case of France
as a warning to people at home, I mean as regards our Scottish oyster-beds—
had become so exhausted from overdredging as to be unproductive, so far as
their money value was concerned, and to be totally unable to recover
themselves so far as their power of reproductiveness was at stake. And the
people were consequently in despair at the loss of this favourite adjunct of
their banquets, and had to resort to other countries for such small supplies as
they could obtain. As an illustration of the overdredging that had prevailed, it
may be stated that oyster-farms which formerly employed 1400 men, with
200 boats, and yielded an annual revenue of 400,000 francs, had become so
reduced as to require only 100 men and 20 boats. Places where at one time
there had been as many as fifteen oyster-banks, and great prosperity among
the fisher class, had become, at the period I allude to, almost oysterless. St.
Brieuc, Rochelle, Marennes, Rochefort, etc., had all suffered so much that
those interested in the fisheries were no longer able to stock the beds, thus
proving that, notwithstanding the great fecundity of these sea animals, it is
quite possible to overfish them, and thoroughly exhaust their reproductive
power. It was under these circumstances that M. Coste instituted that plan of
Page 283
oyster-culture which has been so much noticed of late in the scientific
journals, and which appears to have been inspired by the plan of the mussel-
farms in the Bay of Aiguillon, and the oyster-parcs of Lake Fusaro, so far at
least as the principle of cultivation is concerned. At the instigation of the
French Government, he made a voyage of exploration round the coasts of
France and Italy, in order to inquire into the condition of the sea-fisheries,
which were, it was thought, in a declining condition. It was his “mission,”
and he fulfilled it very well, to see how these marine fisheries could be
artificially aided, as the fresh-water fisheries had been aided through the
rediscovery by Joseph Remy of the long-forgotten plan of pisciculture, as
already detailed in a preceding portion of this work.
The breeding of oysters was a business pursued with great assiduity during
what I have called the gastronomic age of Italy, the period when Lucullus
kept a stock of fish valued at £50,000 sterling, and Sergius Orata invented the
art of oyster-culture. There is not a great deal known about this ancient
gentleman, except that he was an epicure of most refined taste (the “master of
luxury” he was called in his own day), and some writers of the period thought
him a very greedy person, a kind of dealer in shell-fish. It was thought also
that he was a housebroker or person who bought or built houses, and having
improved them, sold them to considerable advantage. He received, however,
an excellent character, while standing his trial for using the public waters of
Lake Lucrinus for his own private use, from his advocate Licinus Crassus,
who said that the revenue officer who prevented Orata was mistaken if he
thought that gentleman would dispense with his oysters, even if he was
driven from the Lake of Lucrinus, for, rather than not enjoy his molluscous
luxury, he would grow them on the tops of his houses.
Lake Fusaro, of which I give a kind of bird’s-eye view, is highly interesting
to all who take an interest in the prosperity of the fisheries, as the first seat of
oyster-culture. It is the Avernus of Virgil, and is a black volcanic-looking pool
of water, about a league in circumference, which lies between the site of the
Lucrine Lake—the lake used by Orata—and the ruins of the town of Cumæ.
It is still extant, being even now, as I have said, devoted to the highly
profitable art of oyster-farming, yielding, as has often been published, from
this source an annual revenue of about £1200. This classic sheet of water was
at one time surrounded by the villas of the wealthy Italians, who frequented
the place for the joint benefit of the sea-water baths and the shell-fish
commissariat, which had been established in the two lakes (Avernus and
journals, and which appears to have been inspired by the plan of the mussel-
farms in the Bay of Aiguillon, and the oyster-parcs of Lake Fusaro, so far at
least as the principle of cultivation is concerned. At the instigation of the
French Government, he made a voyage of exploration round the coasts of
France and Italy, in order to inquire into the condition of the sea-fisheries,
which were, it was thought, in a declining condition. It was his “mission,”
and he fulfilled it very well, to see how these marine fisheries could be
artificially aided, as the fresh-water fisheries had been aided through the
rediscovery by Joseph Remy of the long-forgotten plan of pisciculture, as
already detailed in a preceding portion of this work.
The breeding of oysters was a business pursued with great assiduity during
what I have called the gastronomic age of Italy, the period when Lucullus
kept a stock of fish valued at £50,000 sterling, and Sergius Orata invented the
art of oyster-culture. There is not a great deal known about this ancient
gentleman, except that he was an epicure of most refined taste (the “master of
luxury” he was called in his own day), and some writers of the period thought
him a very greedy person, a kind of dealer in shell-fish. It was thought also
that he was a housebroker or person who bought or built houses, and having
improved them, sold them to considerable advantage. He received, however,
an excellent character, while standing his trial for using the public waters of
Lake Lucrinus for his own private use, from his advocate Licinus Crassus,
who said that the revenue officer who prevented Orata was mistaken if he
thought that gentleman would dispense with his oysters, even if he was
driven from the Lake of Lucrinus, for, rather than not enjoy his molluscous
luxury, he would grow them on the tops of his houses.
Lake Fusaro, of which I give a kind of bird’s-eye view, is highly interesting
to all who take an interest in the prosperity of the fisheries, as the first seat of
oyster-culture. It is the Avernus of Virgil, and is a black volcanic-looking pool
of water, about a league in circumference, which lies between the site of the
Lucrine Lake—the lake used by Orata—and the ruins of the town of Cumæ.
It is still extant, being even now, as I have said, devoted to the highly
profitable art of oyster-farming, yielding, as has often been published, from
this source an annual revenue of about £1200. This classic sheet of water was
at one time surrounded by the villas of the wealthy Italians, who frequented
the place for the joint benefit of the sea-water baths and the shell-fish
commissariat, which had been established in the two lakes (Avernus and
Page 284
Lucrine). The place, which, before then, was overshadowed by thick
plantations, had been consecrated by the superstitious to the use of the
infernal gods.
LAKE FUSARO.
The accompanying engraving gives a general view of Lake Fusaro (the Avernus of the
ancients), showing here and there the stakes surrounding the artificial banks, the single and
double ranges of stakes on which the faggots are suspended, and at one extremity the labyrinths,
in the face of which is a canal of from 2½ to 3 metres broad and 1½ metres deep joining the lake
to the sea. A small lake, believed to be the ancient Cocytus, communicates with this canal. The
pavilion in the lake is the ordinary residence of the persons in charge of the fishery.
plantations, had been consecrated by the superstitious to the use of the
infernal gods.
LAKE FUSARO.
The accompanying engraving gives a general view of Lake Fusaro (the Avernus of the
ancients), showing here and there the stakes surrounding the artificial banks, the single and
double ranges of stakes on which the faggots are suspended, and at one extremity the labyrinths,
in the face of which is a canal of from 2½ to 3 metres broad and 1½ metres deep joining the lake
to the sea. A small lake, believed to be the ancient Cocytus, communicates with this canal. The
pavilion in the lake is the ordinary residence of the persons in charge of the fishery.
Page 285
OYSTER-PYRAMID.
OYSTER-FASCINES.
The mode of oyster-breeding at this place, then as now, was to erect
artificial pyramids of stones in the water, surrounded by stakes of wood, in
order to intercept the spawn, the oyster being laid down on the stones. I have
shown these modes in the accompanying engravings. Faggots of branches
OYSTER-FASCINES.
The mode of oyster-breeding at this place, then as now, was to erect
artificial pyramids of stones in the water, surrounded by stakes of wood, in
order to intercept the spawn, the oyster being laid down on the stones. I have
shown these modes in the accompanying engravings. Faggots of branches
Page 286
were also used to collect the spawn, which, as I have already said, requires,
within forty-eight hours of its emission, to secure a holding-on place or be
lost for ever. The plan of the Fusaro oyster-breeders struck M. Coste as being
eminently practical and suitable for imitation on the coasts of France: he had
one of the stakes pulled up, and was gratified to find it covered with oysters
of all ages and sizes. The Lake Fusaro system of cultivation was therefore, at
the instigation of Professor Coste, strongly recommended for imitation by the
French Government to the French people, as being the most suitable to
follow, and experiments were at once entered upon with a view to prove
whether it would be as practicable to cultivate oysters as easily among the
agitated waves of the open sea as in the quiet waters of Fusaro. In order to
settle this point, it was determined to renew the old oyster-beds in the Bay of
St. Brieuc, and notwithstanding the fact that the water there is exceedingly
deep and the winds very violent, immediate and almost miraculous success
was the result. The fascines laid down soon became covered with seed, and
branches were speedily exhibited at Paris, and other places, containing
thousands of young oysters. The experiments in oyster-culture tried at St.
Brieuc were commenced early in the spring of 1859, on part of a space of
3000 acres that was deemed suitable for the reception of spat. A quantity of
breeding oysters, approaching to three millions, was laid down either on the
old beds or on newly-constructed longitudinal banks; these were sown thick
on a bottom composed chiefly of immense quantities of old shells—the
“middens” of Cancale in fact, where the shell accumulation had become a
nuisance—so that there was a more than ordinary good chance for the spat
finding at once a proper holding-on place. Then again, over some of the new
banks, fascines made of boughs tightly tied together were sunk and chained
over the beds, so as to intercept such portions of the spawn as were likely,
upon rising, to be carried away by the force of the tide. In less than six
months the success of the operation in the Bay of St. Brieuc was assured; for,
at the proper season, a great fall of spawn had occurred, and the bottom shells
were covered with the spat, while the fascines were so thickly coated with
young oysters that an estimate of 20,000 for each fascine was not thought an
exaggeration.
In a piscicultural report for 1860, we obtain, in connection with the St.
Brieuc experiments, an idea of the cost of oyster-breeding, which I translate
for the benefit of people at home:—“The total expenses for forming a bank
were 221 francs; and if the 300 fascines laid down upon it be multiplied by
within forty-eight hours of its emission, to secure a holding-on place or be
lost for ever. The plan of the Fusaro oyster-breeders struck M. Coste as being
eminently practical and suitable for imitation on the coasts of France: he had
one of the stakes pulled up, and was gratified to find it covered with oysters
of all ages and sizes. The Lake Fusaro system of cultivation was therefore, at
the instigation of Professor Coste, strongly recommended for imitation by the
French Government to the French people, as being the most suitable to
follow, and experiments were at once entered upon with a view to prove
whether it would be as practicable to cultivate oysters as easily among the
agitated waves of the open sea as in the quiet waters of Fusaro. In order to
settle this point, it was determined to renew the old oyster-beds in the Bay of
St. Brieuc, and notwithstanding the fact that the water there is exceedingly
deep and the winds very violent, immediate and almost miraculous success
was the result. The fascines laid down soon became covered with seed, and
branches were speedily exhibited at Paris, and other places, containing
thousands of young oysters. The experiments in oyster-culture tried at St.
Brieuc were commenced early in the spring of 1859, on part of a space of
3000 acres that was deemed suitable for the reception of spat. A quantity of
breeding oysters, approaching to three millions, was laid down either on the
old beds or on newly-constructed longitudinal banks; these were sown thick
on a bottom composed chiefly of immense quantities of old shells—the
“middens” of Cancale in fact, where the shell accumulation had become a
nuisance—so that there was a more than ordinary good chance for the spat
finding at once a proper holding-on place. Then again, over some of the new
banks, fascines made of boughs tightly tied together were sunk and chained
over the beds, so as to intercept such portions of the spawn as were likely,
upon rising, to be carried away by the force of the tide. In less than six
months the success of the operation in the Bay of St. Brieuc was assured; for,
at the proper season, a great fall of spawn had occurred, and the bottom shells
were covered with the spat, while the fascines were so thickly coated with
young oysters that an estimate of 20,000 for each fascine was not thought an
exaggeration.
In a piscicultural report for 1860, we obtain, in connection with the St.
Brieuc experiments, an idea of the cost of oyster-breeding, which I translate
for the benefit of people at home:—“The total expenses for forming a bank
were 221 francs; and if the 300 fascines laid down upon it be multiplied by
Page 287
20,000 (the number of oysters they contain), 6,000,000 will be obtained,
which, if sold at twenty francs a thousand, will produce 120,000 francs. If,
however, the number of oysters on a fascine were to be reckoned at only
10,000, the sum of 60,000 francs would be received, which, for an
expenditure of only 221 francs, would give a larger profit than any other
branch of industry.”
Twelve months, however, before the date of the experiments I have been
describing at St. Brieuc, the artificial culture of oysters had successfully
commenced on another part of the coast—namely, the Ile de Re off the shore
of the lower Charente (near la Rochelle), in the Bay of Biscay, which may
now be designated the capital of French oysterdom, having more parcs and
claires than Marennes, Arcachon, Concarneau, Cancale, and all the rest of the
coast put together, and which, before it became celebrated for its oyster-
growing, was only known in common with other places in France for its
successful culture of the vine. It is curious to note the rapid growth of the
industry of oyster-culture on the Ile de Re. It was begun so recently as 1858,
and there are now upwards of 4000 parks and claires upon its shores, and the
people may be seen as busy in their fish-parks as the market-gardeners of
Kent in their strawberry-beds. Oyster-farming on the Ile was inaugurated by a
stone-mason having the curious name of Beef.
This shrewd fellow, who was a keen observer of nature, and had seen the
oyster-spat grow to maturity, began thinking of oyster-culture simultaneously
with Professor Coste, and wondering if it could be carried out on those
portions of the public foreshore that were left dry by the ebb of the waters. He
determined to try the experiment on a small scale, so as to obtain a practical
solution of his “idea,” and, with this view, he enclosed a small portion of the
foreshore of the island by building a rough dyke about eighteen inches in
height. In this park he laid down a few bushels of growing oysters, placing
amongst them a quantity of large stones, which he gathered out of the
surrounding mud. This initiatory experiment was so successful, that in the
course of a year he was able to sell £6 worth of oysters from his stock. This
result was of course very encouraging to the enterprising mason, and the
money was just in a sense found money, for the oysters went on growing
while he was at work at his own proper business as a mason. Elated by the
profit of his experiment, he proceeded to double the proportions of his park,
and by that means more than doubled his oyster commerce, for, in 1861, he
was able to dispose of upwards of £20 worth, and this without impoverishing,
which, if sold at twenty francs a thousand, will produce 120,000 francs. If,
however, the number of oysters on a fascine were to be reckoned at only
10,000, the sum of 60,000 francs would be received, which, for an
expenditure of only 221 francs, would give a larger profit than any other
branch of industry.”
Twelve months, however, before the date of the experiments I have been
describing at St. Brieuc, the artificial culture of oysters had successfully
commenced on another part of the coast—namely, the Ile de Re off the shore
of the lower Charente (near la Rochelle), in the Bay of Biscay, which may
now be designated the capital of French oysterdom, having more parcs and
claires than Marennes, Arcachon, Concarneau, Cancale, and all the rest of the
coast put together, and which, before it became celebrated for its oyster-
growing, was only known in common with other places in France for its
successful culture of the vine. It is curious to note the rapid growth of the
industry of oyster-culture on the Ile de Re. It was begun so recently as 1858,
and there are now upwards of 4000 parks and claires upon its shores, and the
people may be seen as busy in their fish-parks as the market-gardeners of
Kent in their strawberry-beds. Oyster-farming on the Ile was inaugurated by a
stone-mason having the curious name of Beef.
This shrewd fellow, who was a keen observer of nature, and had seen the
oyster-spat grow to maturity, began thinking of oyster-culture simultaneously
with Professor Coste, and wondering if it could be carried out on those
portions of the public foreshore that were left dry by the ebb of the waters. He
determined to try the experiment on a small scale, so as to obtain a practical
solution of his “idea,” and, with this view, he enclosed a small portion of the
foreshore of the island by building a rough dyke about eighteen inches in
height. In this park he laid down a few bushels of growing oysters, placing
amongst them a quantity of large stones, which he gathered out of the
surrounding mud. This initiatory experiment was so successful, that in the
course of a year he was able to sell £6 worth of oysters from his stock. This
result was of course very encouraging to the enterprising mason, and the
money was just in a sense found money, for the oysters went on growing
while he was at work at his own proper business as a mason. Elated by the
profit of his experiment, he proceeded to double the proportions of his park,
and by that means more than doubled his oyster commerce, for, in 1861, he
was able to dispose of upwards of £20 worth, and this without impoverishing,
Page 288
in the least degree, his breeding stock. He continued to increase the
dimensions of his farm, so that by 1862 his sales had increased to £40. As
might have been expected, Beefs neighbours had been carefully watching his
experiments, uttering occasional sneers no doubt at his enthusiasm, but, for
all that, quite ready to go and do likewise whenever the success of the
industrious mason’s experiments became sufficiently developed to show that
they were profitable as well as practical. After Beef had demonstrated the
practicability of oyster-farming, the extension of the system over the
foreshores of the island, between Point de Rivedoux and Point de Lome, was
rapid and effective; so much so that two hundred beds were conceded by the
Government previous to 1859, while an additional five hundred beds were
speedily laid down, and in 1860 large quantities of brood were sold to the
oyster-farmers at Marennes, for the purpose of being manufactured into green
oysters in their claires on the banks of the river Seudre. The first sales after
cultivation had become general amounted to £126, and the next season the
sum reached in sales was upwards of £500, and these moneys, be it observed,
were for very young oysters; because, from an examination of the dates, it
will at once be seen that the brood had not had time to grow to any great size.
So rapid indeed has been the progress of oyster-culture at the Ile de Re that
what were formerly a series of enormous and unproductive mud-banks,
occupying a stretch of shore about four leagues in length, are now so
transformed, and the whole place so changed, that it seems the work of a
miracle. Various gentlemen who have inspected these farms for the
cultivation of oysters speak with great hopefulness about the success of the
experiment. Mr. Ashworth, so well known for his success as a salmon fisher
and breeder in Ireland, tells me that oyster-farming on the shores of the
French coast is one of the greatest industrial facts of the present age, and
thinks that oyster-farming will in the end be even more profitable than
salmon-breeding. There is only one drawback connected with these and all
other sea-farms in France: the farmers, we regret to say, are only “tenants at
will,”[14] and liable at any moment to be ejected; but notwithstanding this
disadvantage the work of oyster-culture still goes bravely forward, and it is
calculated, in spite of the bad spatting of the last three years, that there is a
stock of oysters in the beds on the Ile de Re—accumulated in only six years
—of the value of upwards of £100,000.
dimensions of his farm, so that by 1862 his sales had increased to £40. As
might have been expected, Beefs neighbours had been carefully watching his
experiments, uttering occasional sneers no doubt at his enthusiasm, but, for
all that, quite ready to go and do likewise whenever the success of the
industrious mason’s experiments became sufficiently developed to show that
they were profitable as well as practical. After Beef had demonstrated the
practicability of oyster-farming, the extension of the system over the
foreshores of the island, between Point de Rivedoux and Point de Lome, was
rapid and effective; so much so that two hundred beds were conceded by the
Government previous to 1859, while an additional five hundred beds were
speedily laid down, and in 1860 large quantities of brood were sold to the
oyster-farmers at Marennes, for the purpose of being manufactured into green
oysters in their claires on the banks of the river Seudre. The first sales after
cultivation had become general amounted to £126, and the next season the
sum reached in sales was upwards of £500, and these moneys, be it observed,
were for very young oysters; because, from an examination of the dates, it
will at once be seen that the brood had not had time to grow to any great size.
So rapid indeed has been the progress of oyster-culture at the Ile de Re that
what were formerly a series of enormous and unproductive mud-banks,
occupying a stretch of shore about four leagues in length, are now so
transformed, and the whole place so changed, that it seems the work of a
miracle. Various gentlemen who have inspected these farms for the
cultivation of oysters speak with great hopefulness about the success of the
experiment. Mr. Ashworth, so well known for his success as a salmon fisher
and breeder in Ireland, tells me that oyster-farming on the shores of the
French coast is one of the greatest industrial facts of the present age, and
thinks that oyster-farming will in the end be even more profitable than
salmon-breeding. There is only one drawback connected with these and all
other sea-farms in France: the farmers, we regret to say, are only “tenants at
will,”[14] and liable at any moment to be ejected; but notwithstanding this
disadvantage the work of oyster-culture still goes bravely forward, and it is
calculated, in spite of the bad spatting of the last three years, that there is a
stock of oysters in the beds on the Ile de Re—accumulated in only six years
—of the value of upwards of £100,000.
Page 289
OYSTER-PARKS.
Much hard work had no doubt to be endured before such a scene of
industry could be thoroughly organised. When the great success of Beef’s
experiments had been proclaimed in the neighbourhood, a little army of about
a thousand labourers came down from the interior of the country and took
possession, along with the native fishermen, of the shores, portions of which
were conceded to them by the French Government at a nominal rent of about
a franc a week, for the purpose of being cultivated as oyster parks and claires.
The most arduous duty of these men consisted in clearing off the mud, which
lay on the shore in large quantities, and which is fatal to the oyster in its early
stages; but this had to be done before the shores could be turned to the
purpose for which they were wished. After this preliminary business had been
accomplished, the rocks had to be blasted in order to find stones for the
construction of the park-walls; then these had to be built, and the ground had
also to be paved in a rough and ready kind of way; foot-roads had also to be
arranged for the convenience of the farmers, and carriage-ways had likewise
Much hard work had no doubt to be endured before such a scene of
industry could be thoroughly organised. When the great success of Beef’s
experiments had been proclaimed in the neighbourhood, a little army of about
a thousand labourers came down from the interior of the country and took
possession, along with the native fishermen, of the shores, portions of which
were conceded to them by the French Government at a nominal rent of about
a franc a week, for the purpose of being cultivated as oyster parks and claires.
The most arduous duty of these men consisted in clearing off the mud, which
lay on the shore in large quantities, and which is fatal to the oyster in its early
stages; but this had to be done before the shores could be turned to the
purpose for which they were wished. After this preliminary business had been
accomplished, the rocks had to be blasted in order to find stones for the
construction of the park-walls; then these had to be built, and the ground had
also to be paved in a rough and ready kind of way; foot-roads had also to be
arranged for the convenience of the farmers, and carriage-ways had likewise
Page 290
to be made to admit of the progress of vehicles through the different farms.
Ditches had to be contrived to carry off the mud; the parks had to be stocked
with breeding oysters, and to be kept carefully free from the various kinds of
sea animals that prey upon the oyster; and many other daily duties had to be
performed that demanded the minute attention of the owners. But all
obstacles were in time overcome, and some of the breeders have been so very
successful of late years as to be offered a sum of £100 for the brood attached
to twelve of their rows of stones, the cost of laying these down being about
two hundred francs! To construct an oyster-bed thirty yards square costs
about £12 of English money, and it has been calculated that the return from
some of the beds has been as high as 1000 per cent! The whole industry of
the Ile is wonderful when it is considered that it has been all organised in a
period of seven years. Except a few privately-kept oysters, there was no
oyster establishment on the island previous to 1858.
The following authentic statistics, collected by Mr. Thomas Ashworth, of
the oyster industry of the island of Re, when only in the fourth year of
culture, may prove interesting to my readers:—
Parks for collecting spawn and breeding 2,424
Fattening-ponds (claires) 839
Supposed number of oysters in parks 74,242,038
Aggregate number in the claires 1,026,282
Revenue of the parks 1,086,230 francs.
Revenue of the claires 40,015 francs.
Hectares of ground in parks and claires 146
Proprietors of beds 1,700
Ditches had to be contrived to carry off the mud; the parks had to be stocked
with breeding oysters, and to be kept carefully free from the various kinds of
sea animals that prey upon the oyster; and many other daily duties had to be
performed that demanded the minute attention of the owners. But all
obstacles were in time overcome, and some of the breeders have been so very
successful of late years as to be offered a sum of £100 for the brood attached
to twelve of their rows of stones, the cost of laying these down being about
two hundred francs! To construct an oyster-bed thirty yards square costs
about £12 of English money, and it has been calculated that the return from
some of the beds has been as high as 1000 per cent! The whole industry of
the Ile is wonderful when it is considered that it has been all organised in a
period of seven years. Except a few privately-kept oysters, there was no
oyster establishment on the island previous to 1858.
The following authentic statistics, collected by Mr. Thomas Ashworth, of
the oyster industry of the island of Re, when only in the fourth year of
culture, may prove interesting to my readers:—
Parks for collecting spawn and breeding 2,424
Fattening-ponds (claires) 839
Supposed number of oysters in parks 74,242,038
Aggregate number in the claires 1,026,282
Revenue of the parks 1,086,230 francs.
Revenue of the claires 40,015 francs.
Hectares of ground in parks and claires 146
Proprietors of beds 1,700
Page 291
OYSTER-CLAIRES.
Some gentlemen from the island of Jersey who visited Re report that an
incredible quantity of oysters has been produced on that shore, which a few
years ago was of no value, so that this branch of industry now realises an
extraordinary revenue, and spreads comfort among a large number of families
who were previously in a state of comparative indigence. But more
interesting even than the material prosperity that has attended the introduction
of this industry into the island of Re is the moral success that has accrued to
the experiment. Excellent laws have been enacted by the oyster-farmers
themselves for the government of the colony. A kind of parliament has been
devised for carrying on arguments as to oyster-culture, and to enable the four
communities, into which the population has been divided, to communicate to
each other such information as may be found useful for the general good of
all engaged in oyster-farming. Three delegates from each of the communities
are elected to conduct the general business, and to communicate with the
Department of Marine when necessary.
Some gentlemen from the island of Jersey who visited Re report that an
incredible quantity of oysters has been produced on that shore, which a few
years ago was of no value, so that this branch of industry now realises an
extraordinary revenue, and spreads comfort among a large number of families
who were previously in a state of comparative indigence. But more
interesting even than the material prosperity that has attended the introduction
of this industry into the island of Re is the moral success that has accrued to
the experiment. Excellent laws have been enacted by the oyster-farmers
themselves for the government of the colony. A kind of parliament has been
devised for carrying on arguments as to oyster-culture, and to enable the four
communities, into which the population has been divided, to communicate to
each other such information as may be found useful for the general good of
all engaged in oyster-farming. Three delegates from each of the communities
are elected to conduct the general business, and to communicate with the
Department of Marine when necessary.
Page 292
A small payment is made by every farmer as a contribution to the general
expense, while each division of the community employs a special watchman
to guard the crops, and see that all goes on with propriety and good faith; and
although each of the oyster-farmers of the Ile de Re cultivates his own park or
claire for his own sole profit and advantage, they most willingly obey the
general laws that have been enacted for the good of the community. It is
pleasant to note this. We cannot help being gratified at the happy moral
results of this wonderful industry, and it will readily be supposed that with
both vine-culture (for the islanders have fine vineyards) and oyster-culture to
attend to, these farmers are kept very busy. Indeed, the growing commerce—
the export of the oysters, and the import of other commodities for the benefit
of so industrious a population—incidental to such an immense growth of
shell-fish as can be carried on in the 4000 parks and claires which stud the
foreground of Re must be arduous; but as the labour is highly remunerative,
the labourers have great cause for thankfulness. It is right, however, to state
that, with all the care that can be exercised, there is still an enormous amount
of waste consequent on the artificial system of culture; the present calculation
is, that even with the best possible mode of culture the average of
reproduction is as yet only fourteenfold; but it is hoped by those interested
that a much larger ratio of increase will be speedily attained. This is desirable,
as prices have gone on steadily increasing since the time that Beef first
experimented. In 1859 the sales were effected at about the rate of fifteen
shillings per bushel, for the lowest qualities—the highest being double that
price; these were for fattening in the claires, and when sold again they
brought from two to three pounds per bushel.
One of the most lucrative branches of foreign oyster-farming may be now
described—i.e. the manufacture of the celebrated green oysters. The greening
of oysters, many of which are brought from the Ile de Re parks, is extensively
carried on at Marennes, on the banks of the river Seudre, and this particular
branch of oyster industry, which extends for leagues along the river, and is
also sanctioned by free grants from the state, has some features that are quite
distinct from those we have been considering, as the green oyster is of
considerably more value than the common white oyster. The peculiar colour
and taste of the green oyster are imparted to it by the vegetable substances
which grow in the beds where it is manipulated. This statement, however, is
scarcely an answer to the question of “why,” or rather “how,” do the oysters
become green? Some people maintain that the oyster green is a disease of the
expense, while each division of the community employs a special watchman
to guard the crops, and see that all goes on with propriety and good faith; and
although each of the oyster-farmers of the Ile de Re cultivates his own park or
claire for his own sole profit and advantage, they most willingly obey the
general laws that have been enacted for the good of the community. It is
pleasant to note this. We cannot help being gratified at the happy moral
results of this wonderful industry, and it will readily be supposed that with
both vine-culture (for the islanders have fine vineyards) and oyster-culture to
attend to, these farmers are kept very busy. Indeed, the growing commerce—
the export of the oysters, and the import of other commodities for the benefit
of so industrious a population—incidental to such an immense growth of
shell-fish as can be carried on in the 4000 parks and claires which stud the
foreground of Re must be arduous; but as the labour is highly remunerative,
the labourers have great cause for thankfulness. It is right, however, to state
that, with all the care that can be exercised, there is still an enormous amount
of waste consequent on the artificial system of culture; the present calculation
is, that even with the best possible mode of culture the average of
reproduction is as yet only fourteenfold; but it is hoped by those interested
that a much larger ratio of increase will be speedily attained. This is desirable,
as prices have gone on steadily increasing since the time that Beef first
experimented. In 1859 the sales were effected at about the rate of fifteen
shillings per bushel, for the lowest qualities—the highest being double that
price; these were for fattening in the claires, and when sold again they
brought from two to three pounds per bushel.
One of the most lucrative branches of foreign oyster-farming may be now
described—i.e. the manufacture of the celebrated green oysters. The greening
of oysters, many of which are brought from the Ile de Re parks, is extensively
carried on at Marennes, on the banks of the river Seudre, and this particular
branch of oyster industry, which extends for leagues along the river, and is
also sanctioned by free grants from the state, has some features that are quite
distinct from those we have been considering, as the green oyster is of
considerably more value than the common white oyster. The peculiar colour
and taste of the green oyster are imparted to it by the vegetable substances
which grow in the beds where it is manipulated. This statement, however, is
scarcely an answer to the question of “why,” or rather “how,” do the oysters
become green? Some people maintain that the oyster green is a disease of the
Page 293
liver-complaint kind, whilst there are others who attribute the green colour to
a parasite that overgrows the mollusc. But the mode of culture adopted is in
itself a sufficient answer to the question. The industry carried on at Marennes
consists chiefly of the fattening in claires, and the oysters operated upon are
at one period of their lives as white as those which are grown at any other
place; indeed it is only after being steeped for a year or two in the muddy
ponds of the river Seudre that they attain their much-prized green hue. The
enclosed ponds for the manufacture of these oysters—and, according to all
epicurean authority, the green oyster becomes “the oyster par excellence”—
require to be watertight, for they are not submerged by the sea, except during
very high tides. Each claire is about one hundred feet square. The walls for
retaining the waters require therefore to be very strong; they are composed of
low but broad banks of earth, five or six feet thick at the base and about three
feet in height. These walls are also useful as forming a promenade on which
the watchers or workers can walk to and fro and view the different ponds.
The flood-gates for the admission of the tide require also to be thoroughly
watertight and to fit with great precision, as the stock of oysters must always
be kept covered with water; but a too frequent flow of the tide over the ponds
is not desirable, hence the walls, which serve the double purpose of both
keeping in and keeping out the water. A trench or ditch is cut in the inside of
each pond for the better collection of the green slime left at each flow of the
tide, and many tidal inundations are necessary before the claire is thoroughly
prepared for the reception of its stock. When all these matters of construction
and slime-collecting have been attended to, the oysters are then scattered over
the ground, and left to fatten. When placed in these greening claires they are
usually from twelve to sixteen months old, and they must remain for a period
of two years at least before they can be properly greened, and if left a year
longer they are all the better; for I maintain that an oyster should be at least
about four years old before it is sent to table. In a privately-printed pamphlet
on the French oyster-fisheries, sent to me by Mr. Ashworth, it is stated that
oysters deposited in the claires for feeding possess the same powers of
reproduction as those kept in the breeding-ponds. “Their progeny is deposited
in the same profusion, but that progeny not coming in contact with any solid
body, it inevitably perishes, unless it can attach itself to the vertical sides of
some erection.” A very great deal of attention must be devoted to the oysters
while they are in the greening-pond, and they must be occasionally shifted
from one pond to another to ensure perfect success. Many of the oyster-
farmers of Marennes have two or three claires suitable for their purpose. The
a parasite that overgrows the mollusc. But the mode of culture adopted is in
itself a sufficient answer to the question. The industry carried on at Marennes
consists chiefly of the fattening in claires, and the oysters operated upon are
at one period of their lives as white as those which are grown at any other
place; indeed it is only after being steeped for a year or two in the muddy
ponds of the river Seudre that they attain their much-prized green hue. The
enclosed ponds for the manufacture of these oysters—and, according to all
epicurean authority, the green oyster becomes “the oyster par excellence”—
require to be watertight, for they are not submerged by the sea, except during
very high tides. Each claire is about one hundred feet square. The walls for
retaining the waters require therefore to be very strong; they are composed of
low but broad banks of earth, five or six feet thick at the base and about three
feet in height. These walls are also useful as forming a promenade on which
the watchers or workers can walk to and fro and view the different ponds.
The flood-gates for the admission of the tide require also to be thoroughly
watertight and to fit with great precision, as the stock of oysters must always
be kept covered with water; but a too frequent flow of the tide over the ponds
is not desirable, hence the walls, which serve the double purpose of both
keeping in and keeping out the water. A trench or ditch is cut in the inside of
each pond for the better collection of the green slime left at each flow of the
tide, and many tidal inundations are necessary before the claire is thoroughly
prepared for the reception of its stock. When all these matters of construction
and slime-collecting have been attended to, the oysters are then scattered over
the ground, and left to fatten. When placed in these greening claires they are
usually from twelve to sixteen months old, and they must remain for a period
of two years at least before they can be properly greened, and if left a year
longer they are all the better; for I maintain that an oyster should be at least
about four years old before it is sent to table. In a privately-printed pamphlet
on the French oyster-fisheries, sent to me by Mr. Ashworth, it is stated that
oysters deposited in the claires for feeding possess the same powers of
reproduction as those kept in the breeding-ponds. “Their progeny is deposited
in the same profusion, but that progeny not coming in contact with any solid
body, it inevitably perishes, unless it can attach itself to the vertical sides of
some erection.” A very great deal of attention must be devoted to the oysters
while they are in the greening-pond, and they must be occasionally shifted
from one pond to another to ensure perfect success. Many of the oyster-
farmers of Marennes have two or three claires suitable for their purpose. The
Page 294
trade in these green oysters is very large, and they are found to be both
palatable and safe, the greening matter being furnished by the sea. Some of
the breeders or rather manufacturers of green oysters, anxious to be soon rich,
content themselves with placing adult oysters only in these claires, and these
become green in a very short time, and thus enable the operator to have
several crops in a year without very much trouble. The claires of Marennes
furnish about fifty millions of green oysters per annum, and these are sold at
very remunerative prices, yielding an annual revenue of something like two
and a half millions of francs.
As to the kind of ground most suitable for oyster-growth, Dr. Kemmerer, of
St. Martin’s (Ile de Re), an enthusiast in oyster-culture, gives us a great many
useful hints. I have summarised a portion of his information:—The artificial
culture of the oyster may be considered to have solved an important question
—namely, that the oyster continues fruitful after it is transplanted from its
natural abode in the deep sea to the shores. This removal retards but never
hinders fecundation. The sea oyster, however, is the most prolific, as the
water at a considerable depth is always tranquil, which is a favourable point
in oyster-growth; but the shore oyster-banks will also be very productive,
having two chances of replenishment—namely, from the parent oysters in the
parcs, and from those currents that may float seed from banks in the sea.
Muddy ground is excellent for the growth of oysters; they grow in such
localities very quickly, and become saleable in a comparatively short space of
time. Dry rocky ground is not so suitable for the young oyster, as it does not
find a sufficiency of food upon it, and consequently languishes and dies. Marl
is the most esteemed, and on it the oyster is said to become perfect in form
and excellent in flavour. In the marl the young oyster finds plenty of food,
constant heat, and perfect quiet. Wherever there is mud and sun there will be
found the little molluscs, crustacea, and swimming infusoria, which are the
food of the oyster. The culture of the oyster in the mud-ponds and in the marl
—a culture which ought some day to become general—changes completely
its qualities; the albumen becomes fatty, yellow or green, oily, and of an
exquisite flavour. The animal and phosphorus matter increases, as does the
osmozone. This oyster, when fed, becomes exquisite food. In effecting the
culture of the sea-shores and of the marl-ponds, I am pursuing a practical
principle of great importance, by the conversion of millions of shore oysters,
squandered without profit, into food for public consumption. The green
oyster, to this day, has only been regarded as a luxury for the tables of the
palatable and safe, the greening matter being furnished by the sea. Some of
the breeders or rather manufacturers of green oysters, anxious to be soon rich,
content themselves with placing adult oysters only in these claires, and these
become green in a very short time, and thus enable the operator to have
several crops in a year without very much trouble. The claires of Marennes
furnish about fifty millions of green oysters per annum, and these are sold at
very remunerative prices, yielding an annual revenue of something like two
and a half millions of francs.
As to the kind of ground most suitable for oyster-growth, Dr. Kemmerer, of
St. Martin’s (Ile de Re), an enthusiast in oyster-culture, gives us a great many
useful hints. I have summarised a portion of his information:—The artificial
culture of the oyster may be considered to have solved an important question
—namely, that the oyster continues fruitful after it is transplanted from its
natural abode in the deep sea to the shores. This removal retards but never
hinders fecundation. The sea oyster, however, is the most prolific, as the
water at a considerable depth is always tranquil, which is a favourable point
in oyster-growth; but the shore oyster-banks will also be very productive,
having two chances of replenishment—namely, from the parent oysters in the
parcs, and from those currents that may float seed from banks in the sea.
Muddy ground is excellent for the growth of oysters; they grow in such
localities very quickly, and become saleable in a comparatively short space of
time. Dry rocky ground is not so suitable for the young oyster, as it does not
find a sufficiency of food upon it, and consequently languishes and dies. Marl
is the most esteemed, and on it the oyster is said to become perfect in form
and excellent in flavour. In the marl the young oyster finds plenty of food,
constant heat, and perfect quiet. Wherever there is mud and sun there will be
found the little molluscs, crustacea, and swimming infusoria, which are the
food of the oyster. The culture of the oyster in the mud-ponds and in the marl
—a culture which ought some day to become general—changes completely
its qualities; the albumen becomes fatty, yellow or green, oily, and of an
exquisite flavour. The animal and phosphorus matter increases, as does the
osmozone. This oyster, when fed, becomes exquisite food. In effecting the
culture of the sea-shores and of the marl-ponds, I am pursuing a practical
principle of great importance, by the conversion of millions of shore oysters,
squandered without profit, into food for public consumption. The green
oyster, to this day, has only been regarded as a luxury for the tables of the
Page 295
rich; but, as I have indicated, there are an immense number of farms or ponds
on the Seudre, and I would like to see it used as food by everyone.
The French oyster-farmers are happy and prosperous. The wives assist
their husbands in all the lighter labours, such as separating and arranging the
oysters previous to their being placed on the claires. It is also their duty to sell
the oysters; and for this purpose they leave their home about the end of
August and proceed to a particular town, there to await and dispose of such
quantities of shell-fish as their husbands may forward to them. In this they
resemble the fisherwomen of other countries. The Scotch fishwives do all the
business connected with the trade carried on by their husbands; it is the
husbands’ duty to capture the fish only, and the moment they come ashore
their duties cease, and those of their wives and daughters begin with the sale
and barter of the fish.
Before going farther, it may be stated that the best mode of receiving the
spawn of the oyster has not been determined. M. Coste, whose advice is well
worthy of being followed, recommended the adoption of fascines of
brushwood to be fixed over the natural oyster-beds in order to intercept the
young ones; others again, as we have just seen, have adopted the parcs, and
have successfully caught the spawn on dykes constructed for that purpose;
but Dr. Kemmerer has invented a tile, which he covers with some kind of
composition that can, when occasion requires, be easily peeled off, so that the
crop of oysters that may be gathered upon it can be transferred from place to
place with the greatest possible ease, and this plan is useful for the
transference of the oyster from the collecting parc to the fattening claire. The
annexed drawing will give an idea of the Doctor’s invention. The
composition and the adhering oyster may all be stripped off in one piece, and
the tile may be coated for future use. Tiles are exceedingly useful in aiding
the oyster-breeder to avoid the natural enemies of the oyster, which are very
numerous, especially at the periods when it is young and tender. The oysters
may be peeled off the tiles when they are six or seven months old. Spat-
collectors of wood have also been tried with considerable success. Hitherto
these tiles have been very successful, although it is thought by experienced
breeders that no bottom for oysters is so good as the natural one of “cultch,”
as the old oyster-shells are called, but the tile is often of service in catching
the “floatsome,” as the dredgers call the spawn, and to secure that should be
one of the first objects of the oyster-farmer.
on the Seudre, and I would like to see it used as food by everyone.
The French oyster-farmers are happy and prosperous. The wives assist
their husbands in all the lighter labours, such as separating and arranging the
oysters previous to their being placed on the claires. It is also their duty to sell
the oysters; and for this purpose they leave their home about the end of
August and proceed to a particular town, there to await and dispose of such
quantities of shell-fish as their husbands may forward to them. In this they
resemble the fisherwomen of other countries. The Scotch fishwives do all the
business connected with the trade carried on by their husbands; it is the
husbands’ duty to capture the fish only, and the moment they come ashore
their duties cease, and those of their wives and daughters begin with the sale
and barter of the fish.
Before going farther, it may be stated that the best mode of receiving the
spawn of the oyster has not been determined. M. Coste, whose advice is well
worthy of being followed, recommended the adoption of fascines of
brushwood to be fixed over the natural oyster-beds in order to intercept the
young ones; others again, as we have just seen, have adopted the parcs, and
have successfully caught the spawn on dykes constructed for that purpose;
but Dr. Kemmerer has invented a tile, which he covers with some kind of
composition that can, when occasion requires, be easily peeled off, so that the
crop of oysters that may be gathered upon it can be transferred from place to
place with the greatest possible ease, and this plan is useful for the
transference of the oyster from the collecting parc to the fattening claire. The
annexed drawing will give an idea of the Doctor’s invention. The
composition and the adhering oyster may all be stripped off in one piece, and
the tile may be coated for future use. Tiles are exceedingly useful in aiding
the oyster-breeder to avoid the natural enemies of the oyster, which are very
numerous, especially at the periods when it is young and tender. The oysters
may be peeled off the tiles when they are six or seven months old. Spat-
collectors of wood have also been tried with considerable success. Hitherto
these tiles have been very successful, although it is thought by experienced
breeders that no bottom for oysters is so good as the natural one of “cultch,”
as the old oyster-shells are called, but the tile is often of service in catching
the “floatsome,” as the dredgers call the spawn, and to secure that should be
one of the first objects of the oyster-farmer.
Page 296
OYSTER-TILES.
We glean from these proceedings of the French pisciculturists the most
valuable lessons for the improvement and conduct of our British oyster-parks.
If, as seems to be pretty certain, each matured oyster yields about two
millions of young per annum, and if the greater proportion of these can be
saved by being afforded a permanent resting-place, it is clear that, by laying
down a few thousand breeders, we may, in the course of a year or two, have,
at any place we wish, a large and reproductive oyster-farm. With reference to
the question of growth, Coste tells us that stakes which had been fixed for a
period of thirty months in the lake of Fusaro were quite loaded with oysters
when they came to be removed. These were found to embrace a growth of
three seasons. Those of the first year’s spawning were ready for the market;
the second year’s brood were a good deal smaller; whilst the remainder were
not larger than a lentil. To attain miraculous crops similar to those once
achieved in the Bay of St. Brieuc, or at the Ile de Re, little more is required
than to lay down the spawn in a nice rocky bay, or in a place paved for the
purpose, and having as little mud about it as possible. A place that had a good
stream of water flowing into it is the most desirable, so that the flock might
procure food of a varied and nutritious kind. A couple of hundred stakes
driven into the soft places of the shore, between high and low water mark,
and these well supplied with branches held together by galvanised iron wire
We glean from these proceedings of the French pisciculturists the most
valuable lessons for the improvement and conduct of our British oyster-parks.
If, as seems to be pretty certain, each matured oyster yields about two
millions of young per annum, and if the greater proportion of these can be
saved by being afforded a permanent resting-place, it is clear that, by laying
down a few thousand breeders, we may, in the course of a year or two, have,
at any place we wish, a large and reproductive oyster-farm. With reference to
the question of growth, Coste tells us that stakes which had been fixed for a
period of thirty months in the lake of Fusaro were quite loaded with oysters
when they came to be removed. These were found to embrace a growth of
three seasons. Those of the first year’s spawning were ready for the market;
the second year’s brood were a good deal smaller; whilst the remainder were
not larger than a lentil. To attain miraculous crops similar to those once
achieved in the Bay of St. Brieuc, or at the Ile de Re, little more is required
than to lay down the spawn in a nice rocky bay, or in a place paved for the
purpose, and having as little mud about it as possible. A place that had a good
stream of water flowing into it is the most desirable, so that the flock might
procure food of a varied and nutritious kind. A couple of hundred stakes
driven into the soft places of the shore, between high and low water mark,
and these well supplied with branches held together by galvanised iron wire
Page 297
(common rope would soon become rotten), would, in conjunction with the
rocky ground, afford capital holding-on places, so that any quantity of spawn
might, in time, be developed into fine “natives,” or “whiskered pandores.”
There are hundreds of places on the English and Irish coasts where such
farms could be advantageously laid down.
As showing the productiveness of some of the French oyster-beds, it may
be stated that 350,000 oysters were obtained in the space of an hour from the
Plessix bed, which is half a mile from the port of Auray; and, within a month
or two after the opening of those beds, upwards of twenty millions were
brought into port, giving employment to 1200 fishermen. The gentlemen
from Jersey who explored the French oyster-beds saw in the bay of Arcachon,
at Testé, many beds which were highly productive. One man had laid down
500,000 oysters, and these he estimated had increased in three years to seven
millions! I may just be allowed to give here one other illustration of oyster-
growth; the figures appertain to the Ile de Re: “The inspectors recently
counted 600 full-grown oysters to the square metre, and seeing that 630,000
square metres are now under cultivation, it follows that the oysters on this
tract of desert mud are worth from six to eight millions of francs, the total
crop being (at the time spoken of) 378,000,000 of oysters!”
A large oyster-farm requires a great deal of careful attention, and several
people are necessary to keep it in order. If the farm be planted in a bay where
the water is very shallow, there is great danger of the stock suffering from
frost; and again, if the brood be laid down in very deep water, the oysters do
not fatten or grow rapidly enough for profit. In dredging, the whole of the
oysters, as they are hauled on board, should be carefully examined and
picked; all below a certain size ought to be returned to the water till their
beards have grown large enough. In winter, if the beds be in shallow water,
the tender brood must be placed in a pit for protection from the frost; which
of course takes up a great deal of time. Dead oysters ought to be carefully
removed from the beds. The proprietors of private “layings” are generally
careful on this point, and put themselves to great trouble every spring to lift
or overhaul all their stock in order to remove the dead or diseased. Mussels
must be carefully rooted out from the beds; otherwise they would in a short
time render them valueless. The layings for example, of Mr. David Plunkett,
in Killery Bay, for which he had a licence from the Irish Board of Fisheries,
were overrun by mussels, and so rendered almost valueless. The weeding and
tending of an oyster-bed requires, therefore, much labour, and involves either
rocky ground, afford capital holding-on places, so that any quantity of spawn
might, in time, be developed into fine “natives,” or “whiskered pandores.”
There are hundreds of places on the English and Irish coasts where such
farms could be advantageously laid down.
As showing the productiveness of some of the French oyster-beds, it may
be stated that 350,000 oysters were obtained in the space of an hour from the
Plessix bed, which is half a mile from the port of Auray; and, within a month
or two after the opening of those beds, upwards of twenty millions were
brought into port, giving employment to 1200 fishermen. The gentlemen
from Jersey who explored the French oyster-beds saw in the bay of Arcachon,
at Testé, many beds which were highly productive. One man had laid down
500,000 oysters, and these he estimated had increased in three years to seven
millions! I may just be allowed to give here one other illustration of oyster-
growth; the figures appertain to the Ile de Re: “The inspectors recently
counted 600 full-grown oysters to the square metre, and seeing that 630,000
square metres are now under cultivation, it follows that the oysters on this
tract of desert mud are worth from six to eight millions of francs, the total
crop being (at the time spoken of) 378,000,000 of oysters!”
A large oyster-farm requires a great deal of careful attention, and several
people are necessary to keep it in order. If the farm be planted in a bay where
the water is very shallow, there is great danger of the stock suffering from
frost; and again, if the brood be laid down in very deep water, the oysters do
not fatten or grow rapidly enough for profit. In dredging, the whole of the
oysters, as they are hauled on board, should be carefully examined and
picked; all below a certain size ought to be returned to the water till their
beards have grown large enough. In winter, if the beds be in shallow water,
the tender brood must be placed in a pit for protection from the frost; which
of course takes up a great deal of time. Dead oysters ought to be carefully
removed from the beds. The proprietors of private “layings” are generally
careful on this point, and put themselves to great trouble every spring to lift
or overhaul all their stock in order to remove the dead or diseased. Mussels
must be carefully rooted out from the beds; otherwise they would in a short
time render them valueless. The layings for example, of Mr. David Plunkett,
in Killery Bay, for which he had a licence from the Irish Board of Fisheries,
were overrun by mussels, and so rendered almost valueless. The weeding and
tending of an oyster-bed requires, therefore, much labour, and involves either
Page 298
a partnership of several people—which is usual enough, as at Whitstable—or
at least the employment of several dredgermen and labourers. But, for all
that, an oyster-farm may be made a most lucrative concern. As a guide to the
working of a very large oyster-farm—say a concern of £70,000 a year or
thereabout—I shall give immediately some data of the Whitstable Free
Dredgers’ Company; but I wish first to say that the organisation which is
constantly at work for supplying the great metropolis with oysters is more
perfect than can be said of any other branch of the fish trade. In oyster-culture
we approach in some degree to the French, although we do not, as they do,
except as regards the new company, begin at the beginning and plant the seed.
All that we have yet achieved is the art of nursing the young “brood,” and of
dividing and keeping separate the different kinds of oysters. This is done in
parks or farms on various portions of the coasts of Kent and Essex, and the
whole process, from beginning to end, may be viewed at Whitstable, where
there is a large oyster-ground and a fine fleet of boats kept for the purpose of
dredging and planting. I have already stated that the Whitstable oyster-beds
are held as by a joint-stock company, into which, however, there is no other
way of entrance than by birth, as none but the free dredgermen of the town
can hold shares. When a man dies his interest in the company dies with him,
but his widow—if he was a married man—obtains a pension. The sales from
the public and private beds of Whitstable sometimes attain a total of £200,000
per annum. The business of the company is managed by twelve directors,
who are known as “the Jury.” The stock of oysters held in the private layings
of the company is said to be of the value of £200,000. The extent of the
public and other oyster-ground at Whitstable is about twenty-seven square
miles.
The oyster-farm of Whitstable is a co-operation in the best sense of the
term, and has been in existence for a long period. The layings at Whitstable
occupy about a mile and a half square, and the oyster-beds there have been so
very prosperous as to have attained the name of the “happy fishing-grounds.”
At Whitstable, Faversham, and adjoining grounds, not counting a large
surface granted to a newly-formed company, a space of twenty-seven square
miles, as I have mentioned above, is taken up in oyster-farms, and the
industry carried on in this space of ground involves the annual earning and
expenditure of a very large sum of money. Over 3000 people are employed in
the various industries connected with the fishery, who earn capital wages all
the year round—the sum paid for labour by the different companies being set
at least the employment of several dredgermen and labourers. But, for all
that, an oyster-farm may be made a most lucrative concern. As a guide to the
working of a very large oyster-farm—say a concern of £70,000 a year or
thereabout—I shall give immediately some data of the Whitstable Free
Dredgers’ Company; but I wish first to say that the organisation which is
constantly at work for supplying the great metropolis with oysters is more
perfect than can be said of any other branch of the fish trade. In oyster-culture
we approach in some degree to the French, although we do not, as they do,
except as regards the new company, begin at the beginning and plant the seed.
All that we have yet achieved is the art of nursing the young “brood,” and of
dividing and keeping separate the different kinds of oysters. This is done in
parks or farms on various portions of the coasts of Kent and Essex, and the
whole process, from beginning to end, may be viewed at Whitstable, where
there is a large oyster-ground and a fine fleet of boats kept for the purpose of
dredging and planting. I have already stated that the Whitstable oyster-beds
are held as by a joint-stock company, into which, however, there is no other
way of entrance than by birth, as none but the free dredgermen of the town
can hold shares. When a man dies his interest in the company dies with him,
but his widow—if he was a married man—obtains a pension. The sales from
the public and private beds of Whitstable sometimes attain a total of £200,000
per annum. The business of the company is managed by twelve directors,
who are known as “the Jury.” The stock of oysters held in the private layings
of the company is said to be of the value of £200,000. The extent of the
public and other oyster-ground at Whitstable is about twenty-seven square
miles.
The oyster-farm of Whitstable is a co-operation in the best sense of the
term, and has been in existence for a long period. The layings at Whitstable
occupy about a mile and a half square, and the oyster-beds there have been so
very prosperous as to have attained the name of the “happy fishing-grounds.”
At Whitstable, Faversham, and adjoining grounds, not counting a large
surface granted to a newly-formed company, a space of twenty-seven square
miles, as I have mentioned above, is taken up in oyster-farms, and the
industry carried on in this space of ground involves the annual earning and
expenditure of a very large sum of money. Over 3000 people are employed in
the various industries connected with the fishery, who earn capital wages all
the year round—the sum paid for labour by the different companies being set
Page 299
down at over £160,000 per annum; and in addition to this expenditure for
wages, there is likewise a large sum of money annually expended for the
repairing and purchasing of boats, sails, dredges, and other implements used
in oyster-fishing. At Whitstable the course of work is as follows:—The
business of the company is to feed oysters for the London and other markets;
for this purpose they buy brood or spat, and lay it down in their beds to grow.
When the company’s own oysters produce a spat—that is, when the spawn, or
“floatsome” as the dredgers call it, emitted from their own beds falls upon
their own ground—it is of great benefit to them, as it saves purchases of
brood to the extent of what has fallen; but this falling of the spat is in a great
degree accidental, for no rule can be laid down as to whether the oysters will
spawn in any particular year, or where the spawn may be carried to. No
artificial contrivances of the kind known in France have yet been used at
Whitstable for the saving of the spawn. I will now explain, before going
further, the ratio of oyster-growth. While in the spat state it is calculated that
a bushel measure will contain 25,000 oysters. When the spawn is two years
old it is called brood, and while in this condition a bushel measure will hold
5500. In the next stage of growth, oysters are called ware, and it takes about
2000 of them to fill the bushel. In the final or oyster stage a bushel contains
about 1500 individuals. Very large sums have been paid in some years by the
Whitstable company for brood with which to stock their grounds, great
quantities being collected from the Essex side, there being a number of
people who derive a comfortable income from collecting oyster-brood on the
public foreshores, and disposing of it to persons who have private nurseries,
or oyster-layings as these are locally called. The grounds of Pont are
particularly fruitful in spat, and yield large quantities to all that require it.
Pont is an open space of water, sixteen miles long by three broad, free to all;
about one hundred and fifty boats, each with crews of three or four men, find
constant employment upon it, in obtaining young oysters, which they sell to
the neighbouring oyster-farmers, although it is certain that the brood thus
freely obtained must have floated out of beds belonging to the purchasers.
The price of brood is often as high as forty shillings per bushel, and it is the
sum obtained over this cost price that must be looked to for the paying of
wages and the realisation of profit. Oysters have risen in price very much of
late years, and brood has also, in consequence of the scarcity of spat, been
proportionally high.
wages, there is likewise a large sum of money annually expended for the
repairing and purchasing of boats, sails, dredges, and other implements used
in oyster-fishing. At Whitstable the course of work is as follows:—The
business of the company is to feed oysters for the London and other markets;
for this purpose they buy brood or spat, and lay it down in their beds to grow.
When the company’s own oysters produce a spat—that is, when the spawn, or
“floatsome” as the dredgers call it, emitted from their own beds falls upon
their own ground—it is of great benefit to them, as it saves purchases of
brood to the extent of what has fallen; but this falling of the spat is in a great
degree accidental, for no rule can be laid down as to whether the oysters will
spawn in any particular year, or where the spawn may be carried to. No
artificial contrivances of the kind known in France have yet been used at
Whitstable for the saving of the spawn. I will now explain, before going
further, the ratio of oyster-growth. While in the spat state it is calculated that
a bushel measure will contain 25,000 oysters. When the spawn is two years
old it is called brood, and while in this condition a bushel measure will hold
5500. In the next stage of growth, oysters are called ware, and it takes about
2000 of them to fill the bushel. In the final or oyster stage a bushel contains
about 1500 individuals. Very large sums have been paid in some years by the
Whitstable company for brood with which to stock their grounds, great
quantities being collected from the Essex side, there being a number of
people who derive a comfortable income from collecting oyster-brood on the
public foreshores, and disposing of it to persons who have private nurseries,
or oyster-layings as these are locally called. The grounds of Pont are
particularly fruitful in spat, and yield large quantities to all that require it.
Pont is an open space of water, sixteen miles long by three broad, free to all;
about one hundred and fifty boats, each with crews of three or four men, find
constant employment upon it, in obtaining young oysters, which they sell to
the neighbouring oyster-farmers, although it is certain that the brood thus
freely obtained must have floated out of beds belonging to the purchasers.
The price of brood is often as high as forty shillings per bushel, and it is the
sum obtained over this cost price that must be looked to for the paying of
wages and the realisation of profit. Oysters have risen in price very much of
late years, and brood has also, in consequence of the scarcity of spat, been
proportionally high.
Page 300
Whitstable oyster-beds are “worked” with great industry, and it is the
process of “working” that gives employment to so many people, and
improves the Whitstable oysters so much beyond those found on the natural
beds, which are known as “Commons,” in contradistinction to the bred
oysters of Whitstable and other grounds, which are called “Natives.” These
latter are justly considered to be of superior flavour, although no particular
reason can be given for their being so, and indeed in many instances they are
not natives at all—that is in the sense of being spatted on the ground—but
are, on the contrary, a grand mixture of all kinds of oysters, brood being
brought from Prestonpans and Newhaven in the Firth of Forth, and from
many other places, to augment the stock. The so-called “native” oysters—and
the name is usually applied to all that are bred in the estuary of the Thames—
are very large in flesh, succulent and delicate in flavour, and fetch a much
higher price than any other oyster. The beds of natives are all situated on the
London clay, or on similar formations. There can, however, be no doubt that
the difference in flavour and quantity of flesh is obtained by the Thames
system of transplanting and working that is vigorously carried on over all the
beds. Every year the whole extent of the layings is gone over and examined
by means of the dredge; successive portions are dredged over day by day, till
it may be said that almost every individual oyster is examined. On the
occasion of these examinations, the brood is detached from the cultch, double
oysters are separated, and all kinds of enemies—and these are very numerous
—are seized upon and killed. It requires about eight men per acre to work the
beds effectually. During three days a week, dredging for what is called the
“planting” is carried on; that is, the transference of the oysters from one place
to another, as may be thought suitable for their growth, and also the removing
of dead ones, the clearing away of mussels, and so on. On the other three
days of the week it becomes the duty of the men to dredge for the London
market, when only so many are lifted as are required. A bell is carried round
and rung every morning to rouse the dredgers whose turn it is for duty, and
who at a given signal start to do their portion of the work. As to this working
of the oyster-beds, an eminent authority has said it is utterly useless to
enclose a piece of ground and simply plant it; it is utterly useless to throw a
lot of oysters down amongst every state of filth. You must keep constantly
dredging, not only the bed itself, but the public beds outside, so as to keep the
bottom fit for the reception and growth of the young oysters, and free of its
multitudinous natural enemies.
process of “working” that gives employment to so many people, and
improves the Whitstable oysters so much beyond those found on the natural
beds, which are known as “Commons,” in contradistinction to the bred
oysters of Whitstable and other grounds, which are called “Natives.” These
latter are justly considered to be of superior flavour, although no particular
reason can be given for their being so, and indeed in many instances they are
not natives at all—that is in the sense of being spatted on the ground—but
are, on the contrary, a grand mixture of all kinds of oysters, brood being
brought from Prestonpans and Newhaven in the Firth of Forth, and from
many other places, to augment the stock. The so-called “native” oysters—and
the name is usually applied to all that are bred in the estuary of the Thames—
are very large in flesh, succulent and delicate in flavour, and fetch a much
higher price than any other oyster. The beds of natives are all situated on the
London clay, or on similar formations. There can, however, be no doubt that
the difference in flavour and quantity of flesh is obtained by the Thames
system of transplanting and working that is vigorously carried on over all the
beds. Every year the whole extent of the layings is gone over and examined
by means of the dredge; successive portions are dredged over day by day, till
it may be said that almost every individual oyster is examined. On the
occasion of these examinations, the brood is detached from the cultch, double
oysters are separated, and all kinds of enemies—and these are very numerous
—are seized upon and killed. It requires about eight men per acre to work the
beds effectually. During three days a week, dredging for what is called the
“planting” is carried on; that is, the transference of the oysters from one place
to another, as may be thought suitable for their growth, and also the removing
of dead ones, the clearing away of mussels, and so on. On the other three
days of the week it becomes the duty of the men to dredge for the London
market, when only so many are lifted as are required. A bell is carried round
and rung every morning to rouse the dredgers whose turn it is for duty, and
who at a given signal start to do their portion of the work. As to this working
of the oyster-beds, an eminent authority has said it is utterly useless to
enclose a piece of ground and simply plant it; it is utterly useless to throw a
lot of oysters down amongst every state of filth. You must keep constantly
dredging, not only the bed itself, but the public beds outside, so as to keep the
bottom fit for the reception and growth of the young oysters, and free of its
multitudinous natural enemies.
Page 301
It may as well be explained here also, that what are called native beds are
all cultivated beds; the natural beds are uncultivated, and are generally public
and free to all comers. The Colne beds, however, are an exception: they are
natural beds, but are held by the city of Colchester as property. Whenever a
new bed is discovered anywhere nowadays, the run upon it is so great that it
is at once despoiled of its shelly treasures; and the native beds would soon
become exhausted if they were not systematically conducted on sound
commercial principles, and regularly replenished with brood.
As regards the oyster-cultivation of the river Colne, some interesting
statistics have been recently made public at Colchester by Councillor
Hawkins. That gentleman tells us that oyster-brood increases fourfold in three
years. The quantity of oysters in a London bushel is as follows:—First year,
spat, number not ascertainable; second year, brood, 6400; third year, ware,
2400; fourth year, oysters, 1600; therefore, four wash of brood (i.e. four
pecks), purchased at say 5s. per wash, increase by growth and corresponding
value to 42s. per bushel, or a sum of eight guineas. The Whitstable dredgers,
it is said, drew £60,000 for their oysters in 1860—viz. £10,000 for
“commons,” and £50,000 for “natives;” but out of this sum they had of
course to pay for “brood.” The gross amount received by the Colne Fishery
Company for oysters sold during the last ten years, ending at July 1862,
appears by the treasurer’s account to have been £83,000; the average annual
produce of the Colne Fishery Company having been 4374 bushels for that
period. However, the quantity obtained from the river Colne by the company
bears but a small proportion to the yield from private layings, which are in
general only a few acres in extent. “The private layings,” however, we are
told, “cannot fairly be made the measure of productiveness for a large fishery;
as they may be compared to a garden in a high state of cultivation, while the
fishery generally is better represented by a large tract of land but partially
reclaimed from a state of nature.” The difference in cost of working a big
fishery and a little one seems to be great. One of the owners of a private
laying states that, when the expense of dredging or lifting the oysters
exceeded 4s. per bushel, he gave up working, while in the Colne Fishery
dredgermen are never paid less than 12s., and sometimes as high as 40s. a
bushel. The Colne Company is managed by a jury of twelve, appointed by the
water-bailiff, who is under the jurisdiction of the corporation of Colchester.
Whenever it is time to begin the season’s operations, the jury meet and take
stock of the oysters on hand, fix the price at which sales are to be made, and
all cultivated beds; the natural beds are uncultivated, and are generally public
and free to all comers. The Colne beds, however, are an exception: they are
natural beds, but are held by the city of Colchester as property. Whenever a
new bed is discovered anywhere nowadays, the run upon it is so great that it
is at once despoiled of its shelly treasures; and the native beds would soon
become exhausted if they were not systematically conducted on sound
commercial principles, and regularly replenished with brood.
As regards the oyster-cultivation of the river Colne, some interesting
statistics have been recently made public at Colchester by Councillor
Hawkins. That gentleman tells us that oyster-brood increases fourfold in three
years. The quantity of oysters in a London bushel is as follows:—First year,
spat, number not ascertainable; second year, brood, 6400; third year, ware,
2400; fourth year, oysters, 1600; therefore, four wash of brood (i.e. four
pecks), purchased at say 5s. per wash, increase by growth and corresponding
value to 42s. per bushel, or a sum of eight guineas. The Whitstable dredgers,
it is said, drew £60,000 for their oysters in 1860—viz. £10,000 for
“commons,” and £50,000 for “natives;” but out of this sum they had of
course to pay for “brood.” The gross amount received by the Colne Fishery
Company for oysters sold during the last ten years, ending at July 1862,
appears by the treasurer’s account to have been £83,000; the average annual
produce of the Colne Fishery Company having been 4374 bushels for that
period. However, the quantity obtained from the river Colne by the company
bears but a small proportion to the yield from private layings, which are in
general only a few acres in extent. “The private layings,” however, we are
told, “cannot fairly be made the measure of productiveness for a large fishery;
as they may be compared to a garden in a high state of cultivation, while the
fishery generally is better represented by a large tract of land but partially
reclaimed from a state of nature.” The difference in cost of working a big
fishery and a little one seems to be great. One of the owners of a private
laying states that, when the expense of dredging or lifting the oysters
exceeded 4s. per bushel, he gave up working, while in the Colne Fishery
dredgermen are never paid less than 12s., and sometimes as high as 40s. a
bushel. The Colne Company is managed by a jury of twelve, appointed by the
water-bailiff, who is under the jurisdiction of the corporation of Colchester.
Whenever it is time to begin the season’s operations, the jury meet and take
stock of the oysters on hand, fix the price at which sales are to be made, and
Page 302
regulate the charge for dredging, which is paid by the wash. Under direction
of the jury, the foreman of the company sets the daily stint to the men; and so
the work, which is very light, goes pleasantly forward from season to season.
As showing in a tabular form the ratio of oyster-reproduction, I here
subjoin, from the Irish Oyster Blue Book, edited by Mr. Barry, a “Table
showing the estimated annual rate of development and increase of value,
calculated at fourfold, during a period of four years, of a breeding oyster-bed
of the extent of one acre, situated in the Thames estuary, capable of producing
a good quality of ‘natives,’ and stocked with 1000 bushels of oysters, of 1600
each:”—
First Year.
256 bushels containing each 25,000 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel £256
Second Year.
1000 bushels, containing each 6400 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 2d year of growth,
brood at 25s. per bushel £1,250
256 bushels, containing each 25,000 oysters, 2d year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel 256
£1,506
Third Year.
2667 bushels, containing each 2400 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 3d year of growth, ware
£4,000
at 30s. per bushel
1000 bushels, containing each 6400 oysters, 2d year’s spawn, in 2d year of growth,
brood at 25s. per bushel 1,250
256 bushels, containing each 25,000 oysters, 3d year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel 256
5,502
Fourth Year.
4000 bushels containing each 1600 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 4th year of growth,
oysters at 35s. per bushel £7,000
2667 bushels containing each 2400 oysters, 2d year’s spawn, in 3d year of growth, ware
at 30s. per bushel 4,000
1000 bushels containing each 6400 oysters, 3d year’s spawn, in 2d year of growth, brood
at 25s. per bushel 2,500
256 bushels containing each 25,000 oysters, 4th year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel 256
13,756
At Faversham, Queenborough, and Rochester, there is a large commerce
carried on in this particular shell-fish. In others of the “parks” at these places,
“natives” are grown in perfection. The company of the burghers of
Queenborough grow the fine Milton oyster so well known to the connoisseur,
and the company’s beds are well attended to. I may note the Faversham
of the jury, the foreman of the company sets the daily stint to the men; and so
the work, which is very light, goes pleasantly forward from season to season.
As showing in a tabular form the ratio of oyster-reproduction, I here
subjoin, from the Irish Oyster Blue Book, edited by Mr. Barry, a “Table
showing the estimated annual rate of development and increase of value,
calculated at fourfold, during a period of four years, of a breeding oyster-bed
of the extent of one acre, situated in the Thames estuary, capable of producing
a good quality of ‘natives,’ and stocked with 1000 bushels of oysters, of 1600
each:”—
First Year.
256 bushels containing each 25,000 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel £256
Second Year.
1000 bushels, containing each 6400 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 2d year of growth,
brood at 25s. per bushel £1,250
256 bushels, containing each 25,000 oysters, 2d year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel 256
£1,506
Third Year.
2667 bushels, containing each 2400 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 3d year of growth, ware
£4,000
at 30s. per bushel
1000 bushels, containing each 6400 oysters, 2d year’s spawn, in 2d year of growth,
brood at 25s. per bushel 1,250
256 bushels, containing each 25,000 oysters, 3d year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel 256
5,502
Fourth Year.
4000 bushels containing each 1600 oysters, 1st year’s spawn, in 4th year of growth,
oysters at 35s. per bushel £7,000
2667 bushels containing each 2400 oysters, 2d year’s spawn, in 3d year of growth, ware
at 30s. per bushel 4,000
1000 bushels containing each 6400 oysters, 3d year’s spawn, in 2d year of growth, brood
at 25s. per bushel 2,500
256 bushels containing each 25,000 oysters, 4th year’s spawn, in 1st year of growth, spat
at 20s. per bushel 256
13,756
At Faversham, Queenborough, and Rochester, there is a large commerce
carried on in this particular shell-fish. In others of the “parks” at these places,
“natives” are grown in perfection. The company of the burghers of
Queenborough grow the fine Milton oyster so well known to the connoisseur,
and the company’s beds are well attended to. I may note the Faversham
Page 303
Company, said to be the oldest among the Thames companies, having been in
existence for a few centuries. All of these companies grow the “natives,” and
I may explain that the portion of the beds set apart for the rearing of “natives”
is as sacred as the waxen cells devoted to the growth of queen bees, and the
coarser denizens of the mid-channel are not allowed to be mixed therewith.
The management of all the Kent and Essex oyster companies is pretty much
the same, but there are also gentlemen who trade solely upon their own
account; there is Mr. Allston, for instance, a London oyster-merchant, who
keeps his own fleet of vessels, and does a very large business in this
particular shell-fish.
The demand for native and other oysters by the Londoners alone is
something wonderful, and constitutes of itself a large branch of commerce—
as the numerous gaily-lit shell-fish shops of the Strand and Haymarket will
testify. These emporiums for the sale of oysters and stout are mostly fed
through Billingsgate, which is the chief piscatorial bourse of the great
metropolis. It is not easy to arrive at correct statistics of what London
requires in the way of oysters; but, if we set the number down as being nearly
800,000,000 we shall not be very far wrong. To provide these, the
dredgermen or fisher people at Colchester, and other places on the Essex and
Kent coasts, prowl about the sea-shore and pick up all the little oysters they
can find—these ranging from the size of a threepenny-piece to a shilling; and
persons and companies having layings purchase them to be nursed and
fattened for the table, as already described. At other places the spawn itself is
collected, by picking it from the pieces of stone, or the old oyster-shells to
which it may have adhered; and it is nourished in pits, as at Burnham, for the
purpose of being sold to the Whitstable people, who carefully lay that brood
in their grounds. A good idea of the oyster-traffic may be obtained from the
fact that, in some years, the Whitstable men have paid £30,000 for brood, in
order to keep up the stock of their far-famed oysters. Mr. Hawkins says that
he knows a man who is proprietor of only three acres of oyster-layings, and
yet from that confined area he annually sells from 1500 to 2000 wash of the
best native oysters.
The chief centre in England for the distribution of oysters is Billingsgate,
and the countless thousands of bushels of this molluscous dainty which find
their way through “Oyster Street” to this Fish Exchange mark the everlasting
demand. Oysters are sold by the bushel, and every measure is made to pay a
toll of fourpence, and another sum of a like amount for carriage to the shore.
existence for a few centuries. All of these companies grow the “natives,” and
I may explain that the portion of the beds set apart for the rearing of “natives”
is as sacred as the waxen cells devoted to the growth of queen bees, and the
coarser denizens of the mid-channel are not allowed to be mixed therewith.
The management of all the Kent and Essex oyster companies is pretty much
the same, but there are also gentlemen who trade solely upon their own
account; there is Mr. Allston, for instance, a London oyster-merchant, who
keeps his own fleet of vessels, and does a very large business in this
particular shell-fish.
The demand for native and other oysters by the Londoners alone is
something wonderful, and constitutes of itself a large branch of commerce—
as the numerous gaily-lit shell-fish shops of the Strand and Haymarket will
testify. These emporiums for the sale of oysters and stout are mostly fed
through Billingsgate, which is the chief piscatorial bourse of the great
metropolis. It is not easy to arrive at correct statistics of what London
requires in the way of oysters; but, if we set the number down as being nearly
800,000,000 we shall not be very far wrong. To provide these, the
dredgermen or fisher people at Colchester, and other places on the Essex and
Kent coasts, prowl about the sea-shore and pick up all the little oysters they
can find—these ranging from the size of a threepenny-piece to a shilling; and
persons and companies having layings purchase them to be nursed and
fattened for the table, as already described. At other places the spawn itself is
collected, by picking it from the pieces of stone, or the old oyster-shells to
which it may have adhered; and it is nourished in pits, as at Burnham, for the
purpose of being sold to the Whitstable people, who carefully lay that brood
in their grounds. A good idea of the oyster-traffic may be obtained from the
fact that, in some years, the Whitstable men have paid £30,000 for brood, in
order to keep up the stock of their far-famed oysters. Mr. Hawkins says that
he knows a man who is proprietor of only three acres of oyster-layings, and
yet from that confined area he annually sells from 1500 to 2000 wash of the
best native oysters.
The chief centre in England for the distribution of oysters is Billingsgate,
and the countless thousands of bushels of this molluscous dainty which find
their way through “Oyster Street” to this Fish Exchange mark the everlasting
demand. Oysters are sold by the bushel, and every measure is made to pay a
toll of fourpence, and another sum of a like amount for carriage to the shore.
Page 304
All oysters sold at Billingsgate are liable to this eightpenny tax. The London
oysters—and I regret to say it, for there is nothing finer than a genuine oyster
—are sophisticated in the cellars of the buyers, by being stuffed with oatmeal
till the flavour is all but lost in the fat. The flavour of oysters—like the
flavour of all other animals—depends on their feeding. The fine goût of the
highly-relished Prestonpans oysters is said to be derived from the fact of their
feeding on the refuse liquor which flows from the saltpans of that
neighbourhood. I have eaten of fine oysters taken from a bank that was
visited by a rather questionable stream of water; they were very large, fat, and
of exquisite flavour, the shell being more than usually well filled with “meat.”
What the London oysters gain in fat by artificial feeding they assuredly lose
in flavour. The harbour of Kinsale (a receptacle for much filth) used to be
remarkable for the size and flavour of its oysters. The beds occupied the
whole harbour, and the oysters there were at one time very plentiful, and far
exceeded the Cork oysters in fame (and they have long been famous); but
they were so overfished as to be long since used up, much to the loss of the
Irish people, who are particularly fond of oysters, and delight in their
“Pooldoodies” and “Red-banks” as much as the English and Scotch do in
their “Natives” and “Pandores.”
The far-famed Scottish oysters obtained near Edinburgh, and once so
cheap, are becoming scarce and dear, and the scalps or beds are being so
rapidly overfished that, in a short time, if the devastation be not at once
stopped, the pandore and Newhaven oysters will soon be but names. Some of
the greediest of the dredgermen actually capture the brood, and, barrelling it
up, send it away to Holland and other places, to supply the artificial beds now
being constructed off that coast. English buyers also come and pick up all
they can procure for the Manchester and other markets. Thus there is an
inducement, in the shape of a good price, to the Newhaven men to spoliate
the beds—another illustration of “killing the goose for the golden egg.” The
growth of the railway system has also extended the Newhaven men’s market.
Before the railway period very few boats went out at the same time to dredge;
then oysters were very plentiful—so plentiful, in fact, that three men in a boat
could, with ease, procure 3000 oysters in a couple of hours; but now, so great
is the change in the productiveness of the scalps, that three men consider it an
excellent day’s work to procure about the fifth part of that quantity. The
Newhaven oyster-beds lie between Inchkeith and Newhaven, and belong to
the city of Edinburgh, and were given in charge to the free fishermen of that
oysters—and I regret to say it, for there is nothing finer than a genuine oyster
—are sophisticated in the cellars of the buyers, by being stuffed with oatmeal
till the flavour is all but lost in the fat. The flavour of oysters—like the
flavour of all other animals—depends on their feeding. The fine goût of the
highly-relished Prestonpans oysters is said to be derived from the fact of their
feeding on the refuse liquor which flows from the saltpans of that
neighbourhood. I have eaten of fine oysters taken from a bank that was
visited by a rather questionable stream of water; they were very large, fat, and
of exquisite flavour, the shell being more than usually well filled with “meat.”
What the London oysters gain in fat by artificial feeding they assuredly lose
in flavour. The harbour of Kinsale (a receptacle for much filth) used to be
remarkable for the size and flavour of its oysters. The beds occupied the
whole harbour, and the oysters there were at one time very plentiful, and far
exceeded the Cork oysters in fame (and they have long been famous); but
they were so overfished as to be long since used up, much to the loss of the
Irish people, who are particularly fond of oysters, and delight in their
“Pooldoodies” and “Red-banks” as much as the English and Scotch do in
their “Natives” and “Pandores.”
The far-famed Scottish oysters obtained near Edinburgh, and once so
cheap, are becoming scarce and dear, and the scalps or beds are being so
rapidly overfished that, in a short time, if the devastation be not at once
stopped, the pandore and Newhaven oysters will soon be but names. Some of
the greediest of the dredgermen actually capture the brood, and, barrelling it
up, send it away to Holland and other places, to supply the artificial beds now
being constructed off that coast. English buyers also come and pick up all
they can procure for the Manchester and other markets. Thus there is an
inducement, in the shape of a good price, to the Newhaven men to spoliate
the beds—another illustration of “killing the goose for the golden egg.” The
growth of the railway system has also extended the Newhaven men’s market.
Before the railway period very few boats went out at the same time to dredge;
then oysters were very plentiful—so plentiful, in fact, that three men in a boat
could, with ease, procure 3000 oysters in a couple of hours; but now, so great
is the change in the productiveness of the scalps, that three men consider it an
excellent day’s work to procure about the fifth part of that quantity. The
Newhaven oyster-beds lie between Inchkeith and Newhaven, and belong to
the city of Edinburgh, and were given in charge to the free fishermen of that
Page 305
village, on certain conditions, which are at present systematically
disregarded. The rental paid by the Newhaven men to the city is £10 per
annum, and a sum of £25 per annum is paid by the same parties for the use of
the oyster-beds belonging to the Duke of Buccleuch, which are also situated
in the Firth of Forth, just off the port of Granton; and besides these there are
one or two beds in the Firth of Forth of considerable size belonging to the
crown, which have been also worked by the Newhaven men. The beds are of
great extent, and years ago used to yield for the consumption of the city of
Edinburgh from six to eight thousand oysters a day, but I question very much
if we shall obtain anything like that quantity during this present season. The
proprietor of the most popular Edinburgh tavern experiences the greatest
difficulty in obtaining oysters; and I take this opportunity of informing the
Lord Provost of that city that, in the course of a year or two, “Auld Reekie”
will, most probably, unless the authorities actively bestir themselves in the
matter, have to obtain her oysters from Colchester or Whitstable. Last season
(1864-65), thousands of barrels full of young oysters were disposed off to
English and foreign fishermen at the rate of about 20s. a barrel. This, surely,
is a state of things dreadful for Scotchmen to contemplate. In former and
more energetic times, the municipal authorities of the modern Athens used to
venture on a voyage of exploration to view their scalps, and afterwards hold a
feast of shells, as they do yet at some oyster towns on the annual opening of
the fishery.[15]
disregarded. The rental paid by the Newhaven men to the city is £10 per
annum, and a sum of £25 per annum is paid by the same parties for the use of
the oyster-beds belonging to the Duke of Buccleuch, which are also situated
in the Firth of Forth, just off the port of Granton; and besides these there are
one or two beds in the Firth of Forth of considerable size belonging to the
crown, which have been also worked by the Newhaven men. The beds are of
great extent, and years ago used to yield for the consumption of the city of
Edinburgh from six to eight thousand oysters a day, but I question very much
if we shall obtain anything like that quantity during this present season. The
proprietor of the most popular Edinburgh tavern experiences the greatest
difficulty in obtaining oysters; and I take this opportunity of informing the
Lord Provost of that city that, in the course of a year or two, “Auld Reekie”
will, most probably, unless the authorities actively bestir themselves in the
matter, have to obtain her oysters from Colchester or Whitstable. Last season
(1864-65), thousands of barrels full of young oysters were disposed off to
English and foreign fishermen at the rate of about 20s. a barrel. This, surely,
is a state of things dreadful for Scotchmen to contemplate. In former and
more energetic times, the municipal authorities of the modern Athens used to
venture on a voyage of exploration to view their scalps, and afterwards hold a
feast of shells, as they do yet at some oyster towns on the annual opening of
the fishery.[15]
Page 306
OYSTER-DREDGING AT COCKENZIE.
The “pandore” oysters are principally obtained at the village of
Prestonpans and the neighbouring one of Cockenzie. Dredging for oysters is a
principal part of the occupation of the Cockenzie fishermen. There are few
lovers of this dainty mollusc who have not heard of the “whiskered
pandores.” The pandore oyster is so called because of being found in the
neighbourhood of the saltpans. It is a large fine-flavoured oyster, as good as
any “native” that ever was brought to table, the Pooldoodies of Burran not
excepted. The men of Cockenzie derive a good portion of their annual income
from the oyster traffic. The pursuit of the oyster, indeed, forms a phase of
fisher life there as distinct as at Whitstable. The times for going out to dredge
are at high tide and low tide. The boats used are the smaller-sized ones
employed in the white fishery. The dredge somewhat resembles in shape a
common clasp-purse; it is formed of network, attached to a strong iron frame,
which serves to keep the mouth of the instrument open, and acts also as a
sinker, giving it a proper pressure as it travels along the oyster-beds. When
The “pandore” oysters are principally obtained at the village of
Prestonpans and the neighbouring one of Cockenzie. Dredging for oysters is a
principal part of the occupation of the Cockenzie fishermen. There are few
lovers of this dainty mollusc who have not heard of the “whiskered
pandores.” The pandore oyster is so called because of being found in the
neighbourhood of the saltpans. It is a large fine-flavoured oyster, as good as
any “native” that ever was brought to table, the Pooldoodies of Burran not
excepted. The men of Cockenzie derive a good portion of their annual income
from the oyster traffic. The pursuit of the oyster, indeed, forms a phase of
fisher life there as distinct as at Whitstable. The times for going out to dredge
are at high tide and low tide. The boats used are the smaller-sized ones
employed in the white fishery. The dredge somewhat resembles in shape a
common clasp-purse; it is formed of network, attached to a strong iron frame,
which serves to keep the mouth of the instrument open, and acts also as a
sinker, giving it a proper pressure as it travels along the oyster-beds. When
Page 307
the boat arrives over the oyster-scalps, the dredge is let down by a rope
attached to the upper ring, and is worked by one man, except in cases where
the boat has to be sailed swiftly, when two are employed. Of course, in the
absence of wind recourse is had to the oars. The tension upon the rope is the
signal for hauling the dredge on board, when the entire contents are emptied
into the boat, and the dredge returned to the water. These contents, not
including the oysters, are of a most heterogeneous kind—stones, seaweed,
star-fish, young lobsters, crabs, actinæ—all of which are usually returned to
the water, some of them being considered as the most fattening ground-bait
for the codfish. The whelks, clams, mussels, and cockles, and occasionally
the crabs, are used by the fishermen as bait for their white-fish lines. Once, in
a conversation with a veteran dredger as to what strange things might come in
the dredge, he replied, “Well, master, I don’t know what sort o’ curiosities we
sometimes get; but I have seen gentlemen like yourself go out with us a-
dredgin’, and take away big baskets full o’ things as was neither good for
eating or looking at. The Lord knows what they did with them.” During the
whole time that this dredging is being carried on, the crew keep up a wild
monotonous song, or rather chant, in which they believe much virtue to lie.
They assert that it charms the oysters into the dredge.
“The herring loves the merry moonlight,
The mackerel loves the wind;
But the oyster loves the dredger’s song,
For he comes of a gentle kind.”
Talking is strictly forbidden, so that all the required conversation is carried on
after the manner of the recitative of an opera or oratorio. An enthusiastic
London litterateur and musician, being on a visit to Scotland, determined to
carry back with him, among other natural curiosities, the words and music of
the oyster-dredging song. But, after being exposed to the piercing east wind
for six hours, and jotting down the words and music of the dredgers, he found
it all to end in nothing; the same words were never used, the words were ever
changing. The oyster-scalps are gone over by the men much in the way that a
field is ploughed by an agricultural labourer, the boat going and returning
until sufficient oysters are secured, or a shift is made to another bed.
The geographical distribution of oysters is most lavish; wherever there is a
seabord there will they be found. The old stories of ancient mariners, who
attached to the upper ring, and is worked by one man, except in cases where
the boat has to be sailed swiftly, when two are employed. Of course, in the
absence of wind recourse is had to the oars. The tension upon the rope is the
signal for hauling the dredge on board, when the entire contents are emptied
into the boat, and the dredge returned to the water. These contents, not
including the oysters, are of a most heterogeneous kind—stones, seaweed,
star-fish, young lobsters, crabs, actinæ—all of which are usually returned to
the water, some of them being considered as the most fattening ground-bait
for the codfish. The whelks, clams, mussels, and cockles, and occasionally
the crabs, are used by the fishermen as bait for their white-fish lines. Once, in
a conversation with a veteran dredger as to what strange things might come in
the dredge, he replied, “Well, master, I don’t know what sort o’ curiosities we
sometimes get; but I have seen gentlemen like yourself go out with us a-
dredgin’, and take away big baskets full o’ things as was neither good for
eating or looking at. The Lord knows what they did with them.” During the
whole time that this dredging is being carried on, the crew keep up a wild
monotonous song, or rather chant, in which they believe much virtue to lie.
They assert that it charms the oysters into the dredge.
“The herring loves the merry moonlight,
The mackerel loves the wind;
But the oyster loves the dredger’s song,
For he comes of a gentle kind.”
Talking is strictly forbidden, so that all the required conversation is carried on
after the manner of the recitative of an opera or oratorio. An enthusiastic
London litterateur and musician, being on a visit to Scotland, determined to
carry back with him, among other natural curiosities, the words and music of
the oyster-dredging song. But, after being exposed to the piercing east wind
for six hours, and jotting down the words and music of the dredgers, he found
it all to end in nothing; the same words were never used, the words were ever
changing. The oyster-scalps are gone over by the men much in the way that a
field is ploughed by an agricultural labourer, the boat going and returning
until sufficient oysters are secured, or a shift is made to another bed.
The geographical distribution of oysters is most lavish; wherever there is a
seabord there will they be found. The old stories of ancient mariners, who
Page 308
sailed the seas before the days of cheap literature, will be recalled, and their
boasted knowledge of the wonders of the fish world—of oysters that grew on
trees, and oysters so large that they required to be carved just like a round of
beef or quarter of lamb. All these tales were formerly considered so many
romances. Who believed Uncle Jack when he gravely told his wondering
nephews about oysters as large as a soup-plate being found on the coast of
Coromandel? But, nevertheless, Uncle Jack’s stories have been found to be
true: there are large oysters which require carving, and oysters have been
plucked off trees. There are wonderful tales about oysters that have been
taken on the coast of Africa—plucked too from the very trees that our good,
but ignorant, forefathers did not believe in. The ancient Romans, who knew
all the secrets of good living, had the oysters of all countries brought to their
fish-stews, in order that they might experiment upon them and fatten them for
table purposes. Although they gave the palm to those from Britain, they had a
great many varieties from Africa, and had ingenious modes of transporting
them to great distances which have been lost to modern pisciculturists.
Many other parts of America besides the New York district are famous for
oysters; and in some parts of the American Continent they grow to a very
large size. So important, in fact, do the Americans consider the oyster, that it
has been the subject of innumerable “messages” by Governors, Vice-
Presidents, heads of departments, etc.—the last we have seen being that of
Governor Wise to the Legislature of Virginia. According to that gentleman’s
estimate, Virginia possesses an area of about 1,680,000 acres of oyster-beds,
containing about 784,000,000 of bushels of that one mollusc. It is estimated
by some naturalists that the oyster spawns at least 3,000,000 annually; yet,
notwithstanding this enormous productive power, and the vast extent of
oyster-beds in this one state, there is danger, the governor tells us, of the
oyster being exterminated, unless measures are taken to prevent their being
dredged at improper seasons of the year. Governor Wise proposes to confine
the oyster-catching business to citizens of the state exclusively, and to charge
three cents a bushel for all the oysters taken, which he estimates would yield
an annual revenue of 480,000 dollars. The governor is of opinion that the
oyster-banks so regulated will pay a better bonus to the state than paper-
money banks, and regards them as a richer source of profit than either gold,
iron, or copper mines. Another of the American States may be mentioned for
its oyster wealth. The seabord of Georgia is famed for its immense supplies of
that mollusc, great breakwaters being formed by oysters, which keep off the
boasted knowledge of the wonders of the fish world—of oysters that grew on
trees, and oysters so large that they required to be carved just like a round of
beef or quarter of lamb. All these tales were formerly considered so many
romances. Who believed Uncle Jack when he gravely told his wondering
nephews about oysters as large as a soup-plate being found on the coast of
Coromandel? But, nevertheless, Uncle Jack’s stories have been found to be
true: there are large oysters which require carving, and oysters have been
plucked off trees. There are wonderful tales about oysters that have been
taken on the coast of Africa—plucked too from the very trees that our good,
but ignorant, forefathers did not believe in. The ancient Romans, who knew
all the secrets of good living, had the oysters of all countries brought to their
fish-stews, in order that they might experiment upon them and fatten them for
table purposes. Although they gave the palm to those from Britain, they had a
great many varieties from Africa, and had ingenious modes of transporting
them to great distances which have been lost to modern pisciculturists.
Many other parts of America besides the New York district are famous for
oysters; and in some parts of the American Continent they grow to a very
large size. So important, in fact, do the Americans consider the oyster, that it
has been the subject of innumerable “messages” by Governors, Vice-
Presidents, heads of departments, etc.—the last we have seen being that of
Governor Wise to the Legislature of Virginia. According to that gentleman’s
estimate, Virginia possesses an area of about 1,680,000 acres of oyster-beds,
containing about 784,000,000 of bushels of that one mollusc. It is estimated
by some naturalists that the oyster spawns at least 3,000,000 annually; yet,
notwithstanding this enormous productive power, and the vast extent of
oyster-beds in this one state, there is danger, the governor tells us, of the
oyster being exterminated, unless measures are taken to prevent their being
dredged at improper seasons of the year. Governor Wise proposes to confine
the oyster-catching business to citizens of the state exclusively, and to charge
three cents a bushel for all the oysters taken, which he estimates would yield
an annual revenue of 480,000 dollars. The governor is of opinion that the
oyster-banks so regulated will pay a better bonus to the state than paper-
money banks, and regards them as a richer source of profit than either gold,
iron, or copper mines. Another of the American States may be mentioned for
its oyster wealth. The seabord of Georgia is famed for its immense supplies of
that mollusc, great breakwaters being formed by oysters, which keep off the
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sea from the land; in fact all over America the oyster is to be found in great
abundance. In New York and other cities evidences are to be seen on all sides
of the love of the people for this favourite mollusc. Oyster-saloons abound in
all the principal streets, and each one appears to do more business than its
neighbour. In these saloons—most of which, though handsomely fitted up,
are situated underground in the basement of some of the great mercantile
establishments for which the chief cities of the Union are famed—the
cooking of oysters is carried on at all hours, and in all modes. A writer who
has described the traffic says: “Oysters pickled, stewed, baked, roasted, fried,
and scolloped; oysters made into soups, patties, and puddings; oysters with
condiments and without condiments; oysters for breakfast, dinner, and
supper; oysters without stint or limit—fresh as the pure air, and almost as
abundant—are daily offered to the palates of the Manhattanese, and
appreciated with all the gratitude which such a bounty of nature ought to
inspire.” So much for America.
abundance. In New York and other cities evidences are to be seen on all sides
of the love of the people for this favourite mollusc. Oyster-saloons abound in
all the principal streets, and each one appears to do more business than its
neighbour. In these saloons—most of which, though handsomely fitted up,
are situated underground in the basement of some of the great mercantile
establishments for which the chief cities of the Union are famed—the
cooking of oysters is carried on at all hours, and in all modes. A writer who
has described the traffic says: “Oysters pickled, stewed, baked, roasted, fried,
and scolloped; oysters made into soups, patties, and puddings; oysters with
condiments and without condiments; oysters for breakfast, dinner, and
supper; oysters without stint or limit—fresh as the pure air, and almost as
abundant—are daily offered to the palates of the Manhattanese, and
appreciated with all the gratitude which such a bounty of nature ought to
inspire.” So much for America.
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CHAPTER IX.
OUR SHELL-FISH FISHERIES.
Productive Power of Shell-Fish—Varieties of the Crustacean Family—Study of the Minor Shell-Fishes
—Demand for Shell-Fish—Lobsters—A Lobster Store-Pond Described—Natural History of the
Lobster and other Crustacea—March of the Land-Crabs—Prawns and Shrimps, how they are
caught and cured—Scottish Pearl-Fisheries—Account of the Scottish Pearl-Fishery—A Mussel-
Farm—How to grow Bait.
hell-fish is the popular name bestowed by unscientific persons on the
S crustacea and mollusca, and no other designation could so well cover the
multitudinous variety of forms which are embraced in these extensive
divisions of the animal kingdom. Fanciful disquisitions on shell-fish and on
marine zoology have been intruded on the public of late till they have become
somewhat tiresome; but as our knowledge of the natural history of all kinds
of sea animals, and particularly of oysters, lobsters, crabs, etc., is decidedly
on the increase, there is yet room for all that I have to say on the subject of
these dainties; and there are still unexplored wonders of animal life in the
fathomless sea that deserve the deepest study.
The economic and productive phases of our shell-fish fisheries have never
yet, in my opinion, been sufficiently discussed, and when I state that the
power of multiplication possessed by all kinds of crustacea and mollusca is
even greater, if that be possible, than that possessed by finned fishes, it will
be obvious that there is much in their natural history that must prove
interesting even to the most general reader. Each oyster, as we have seen,
gives birth to almost incredible quantities of young. Lobsters also have an
amazing fecundity, and yield an immense number of eggs—each female
producing from twelve to twenty thousand in a season; and the crab is
likewise most prolific. I lately purchased a crab weighing within an ounce of
two pounds, and it contained a mass of minute eggs equal in size to a man’s
hand; these were so minute that a very small portion of them, picked off with
the point of a pin, when placed on a bit of glass, and counted by the aid of a
powerful microscope, numbered over sixty, each appearing of the size of a
red currant, and not at all unlike that fruit: so far as I could guess the eggs
were not nearly ripe. I also examined about the same time a quantity of
shrimp eggs; and it is curious that, while there are the cock and hen lobster, I
OUR SHELL-FISH FISHERIES.
Productive Power of Shell-Fish—Varieties of the Crustacean Family—Study of the Minor Shell-Fishes
—Demand for Shell-Fish—Lobsters—A Lobster Store-Pond Described—Natural History of the
Lobster and other Crustacea—March of the Land-Crabs—Prawns and Shrimps, how they are
caught and cured—Scottish Pearl-Fisheries—Account of the Scottish Pearl-Fishery—A Mussel-
Farm—How to grow Bait.
hell-fish is the popular name bestowed by unscientific persons on the
S crustacea and mollusca, and no other designation could so well cover the
multitudinous variety of forms which are embraced in these extensive
divisions of the animal kingdom. Fanciful disquisitions on shell-fish and on
marine zoology have been intruded on the public of late till they have become
somewhat tiresome; but as our knowledge of the natural history of all kinds
of sea animals, and particularly of oysters, lobsters, crabs, etc., is decidedly
on the increase, there is yet room for all that I have to say on the subject of
these dainties; and there are still unexplored wonders of animal life in the
fathomless sea that deserve the deepest study.
The economic and productive phases of our shell-fish fisheries have never
yet, in my opinion, been sufficiently discussed, and when I state that the
power of multiplication possessed by all kinds of crustacea and mollusca is
even greater, if that be possible, than that possessed by finned fishes, it will
be obvious that there is much in their natural history that must prove
interesting even to the most general reader. Each oyster, as we have seen,
gives birth to almost incredible quantities of young. Lobsters also have an
amazing fecundity, and yield an immense number of eggs—each female
producing from twelve to twenty thousand in a season; and the crab is
likewise most prolific. I lately purchased a crab weighing within an ounce of
two pounds, and it contained a mass of minute eggs equal in size to a man’s
hand; these were so minute that a very small portion of them, picked off with
the point of a pin, when placed on a bit of glass, and counted by the aid of a
powerful microscope, numbered over sixty, each appearing of the size of a
red currant, and not at all unlike that fruit: so far as I could guess the eggs
were not nearly ripe. I also examined about the same time a quantity of
shrimp eggs; and it is curious that, while there are the cock and hen lobster, I
Page 311
never saw any difference in the sex of the shrimps: all that I handled,
amounting to hundreds, were females, and all of them were laden with
spawn, the eggs being so minute as to resemble grains of the finest sand.
Although the crustacean family counts its varieties by thousands, and
contains members of all sizes, from minute animalculæ to gigantic American
crabs and lobsters, and ranges from the simplest to the most complex forms,
yet the edible varieties are not at all numerous. The largest of these are the
lobster (Astacus marinus) and the crab (Cancer pagurus); and river and sea
cray-fish may also be seen in considerable quantities in London shell-fish
shops; and as for common shrimps (Crangon vulgaris) and prawns (Palæmon
serratis), they are eaten in myriads. The violet or marching crab of the West
Indies, and the robber crab common to the islands of the Pacific, are also
esteemed as great delicacies of the table, but are unknown in this country
except by reputation.
Leaving old and grave people to study the animal economy of the larger
crustacea, the juveniles may with advantage take a peep at the periwinkles,
the whelks, or other mollusca. These are found in immense profusion on the
little stones between high and low water mark, and on almost every rock on
the British coast. Although to the common observer the oyster seems but a
repulsive mass of blubber, and the periwinkle a creature of the lowest
possible organisation, nothing can be further from the reality. There is
throughout this class of animals a wonderful adaptibility of means to ends.
The turbinated shell of the periwinkle, with its finely-closed door, gives no
token of the powers bestowed upon the animal, both as provision for
locomotion (this class of travellers wherever they go carry their house along
with them) and for reaping the tender rock-grass upon which they feed. They
have eyes in their horns, and their sense of vision is quick. Their curiously-
constructed foot enables them to progress in any direction they please, and
their wonderful tongue either acts as a screw or a saw. In fact, simple as the
organisation of these animals appears to be, it is not less curious in its own
way than the structure of other beings which are thought to be more
complicated. In good truth, the common periwinkle (Littorina vulgaris) is
both worth studying and eating, vulgar as some people may think it.
Immense quantities of all the edible molluscs are annually collected by
women and children in order to supply the large inland cities. Great sacks full
of periwinkles, whelks, etc., are sent on by railway to Manchester, Glasgow,
London, etc.; whilst on portions of the Scottish sea-coast the larger kinds are
amounting to hundreds, were females, and all of them were laden with
spawn, the eggs being so minute as to resemble grains of the finest sand.
Although the crustacean family counts its varieties by thousands, and
contains members of all sizes, from minute animalculæ to gigantic American
crabs and lobsters, and ranges from the simplest to the most complex forms,
yet the edible varieties are not at all numerous. The largest of these are the
lobster (Astacus marinus) and the crab (Cancer pagurus); and river and sea
cray-fish may also be seen in considerable quantities in London shell-fish
shops; and as for common shrimps (Crangon vulgaris) and prawns (Palæmon
serratis), they are eaten in myriads. The violet or marching crab of the West
Indies, and the robber crab common to the islands of the Pacific, are also
esteemed as great delicacies of the table, but are unknown in this country
except by reputation.
Leaving old and grave people to study the animal economy of the larger
crustacea, the juveniles may with advantage take a peep at the periwinkles,
the whelks, or other mollusca. These are found in immense profusion on the
little stones between high and low water mark, and on almost every rock on
the British coast. Although to the common observer the oyster seems but a
repulsive mass of blubber, and the periwinkle a creature of the lowest
possible organisation, nothing can be further from the reality. There is
throughout this class of animals a wonderful adaptibility of means to ends.
The turbinated shell of the periwinkle, with its finely-closed door, gives no
token of the powers bestowed upon the animal, both as provision for
locomotion (this class of travellers wherever they go carry their house along
with them) and for reaping the tender rock-grass upon which they feed. They
have eyes in their horns, and their sense of vision is quick. Their curiously-
constructed foot enables them to progress in any direction they please, and
their wonderful tongue either acts as a screw or a saw. In fact, simple as the
organisation of these animals appears to be, it is not less curious in its own
way than the structure of other beings which are thought to be more
complicated. In good truth, the common periwinkle (Littorina vulgaris) is
both worth studying and eating, vulgar as some people may think it.
Immense quantities of all the edible molluscs are annually collected by
women and children in order to supply the large inland cities. Great sacks full
of periwinkles, whelks, etc., are sent on by railway to Manchester, Glasgow,
London, etc.; whilst on portions of the Scottish sea-coast the larger kinds are
Page 312
assiduously collected by the fishermen’s wives and prepared as bait for the
long hand-lines which are used in capturing the codfish or other Gadidæ. As
an evidence of how abundant the sea-harvest is, I may mention that from a
spot so far north as Orkney hundreds of bags of periwinkles are weekly sent
to London by the Aberdeen steamer.
From personal inquiry made by the writer a few months ago it was
estimated that for the commissariat of London alone there were required two
millions and a half of crabs and lobsters! May we not, therefore, take for
granted that the other populous towns of the British empire will consume an
equally large number? The people of Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh,
Glasgow, and Dublin are as fond of shell-fish as the denizens of the great
metropolis; at any rate, they eat all they can get, and never get enough. The
machinery for supplying this ever-increasing demand for lobsters, crabs, and
oysters is exceedingly simple. On most parts of the British coast there are
people who make it their business to provide those luxuries of the table for all
who wish them. The capital required for this branch of the fisheries is not
large, and the fishermen and their families attend to the capture of the crab
and lobster in the intervals of other business. The Scotch laird’s advice to his
son to “be always stickin’ in the ither tree, it will be growin’ when ye are
sleepin’,” holds good in lobster-fishing. The pots may be baited and left till
such time as the victim enters, whilst the men in the meantime take a short
cruise in search of bait, or try a cast of their haddock-lines a mile or two from
the shore; or the fishing can be watched over, and when the lobsters are
numerous, the pots be lifted every half hour or so. The taking of shell-fish
also affords occupation to the old men and youngsters of the fishing villages,
and these folks may be seen in the fine days assiduously waiting on the
lobster-traps and crab-cages, which are not unlike overgrown rat-traps, and
are constructed of netting fastened over a wooden framework, baited with any
kind of fish offal, or garbage, the stench of which may be strong enough to
attract the attention of those minor monsters of the deep. A great number of
these lobster-pots are sunk at, perhaps, a depth of twelve or twenty fathoms at
an appropriate place, being held together by a strong line, and all marked
with a peculiarly-cut piece of cork, so that each fisherman may recognise his
own lot. The knowing youngsters of our fishing communities can also secure
their prey by using a long stick. Mr. Cancer Pagurus is watched as he bustles
out for his evening promenade, and, on being deftly pitched upon his back by
means of a pole, he indignantly seizes upon it with all his might, and the stick
long hand-lines which are used in capturing the codfish or other Gadidæ. As
an evidence of how abundant the sea-harvest is, I may mention that from a
spot so far north as Orkney hundreds of bags of periwinkles are weekly sent
to London by the Aberdeen steamer.
From personal inquiry made by the writer a few months ago it was
estimated that for the commissariat of London alone there were required two
millions and a half of crabs and lobsters! May we not, therefore, take for
granted that the other populous towns of the British empire will consume an
equally large number? The people of Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh,
Glasgow, and Dublin are as fond of shell-fish as the denizens of the great
metropolis; at any rate, they eat all they can get, and never get enough. The
machinery for supplying this ever-increasing demand for lobsters, crabs, and
oysters is exceedingly simple. On most parts of the British coast there are
people who make it their business to provide those luxuries of the table for all
who wish them. The capital required for this branch of the fisheries is not
large, and the fishermen and their families attend to the capture of the crab
and lobster in the intervals of other business. The Scotch laird’s advice to his
son to “be always stickin’ in the ither tree, it will be growin’ when ye are
sleepin’,” holds good in lobster-fishing. The pots may be baited and left till
such time as the victim enters, whilst the men in the meantime take a short
cruise in search of bait, or try a cast of their haddock-lines a mile or two from
the shore; or the fishing can be watched over, and when the lobsters are
numerous, the pots be lifted every half hour or so. The taking of shell-fish
also affords occupation to the old men and youngsters of the fishing villages,
and these folks may be seen in the fine days assiduously waiting on the
lobster-traps and crab-cages, which are not unlike overgrown rat-traps, and
are constructed of netting fastened over a wooden framework, baited with any
kind of fish offal, or garbage, the stench of which may be strong enough to
attract the attention of those minor monsters of the deep. A great number of
these lobster-pots are sunk at, perhaps, a depth of twelve or twenty fathoms at
an appropriate place, being held together by a strong line, and all marked
with a peculiarly-cut piece of cork, so that each fisherman may recognise his
own lot. The knowing youngsters of our fishing communities can also secure
their prey by using a long stick. Mr. Cancer Pagurus is watched as he bustles
out for his evening promenade, and, on being deftly pitched upon his back by
means of a pole, he indignantly seizes upon it with all his might, and the stick
Page 313
being shaken a little has the desirable effect of causing Mr. Crab to cling
thereto with great tenacity, which is, of course, the very thing desired by the
grinning “human” at the other end, as whenever he feels his prey secure he
dexterously hauls him on board, unhooks the crusty gentleman with a jerk,
and adds him to the accumulating heap at the bottom of the old boat. The
monkeys in the West Indies are, however, still more ingenious than the
“fisher loons” of Arran or Skye. Those wise animals, when they take a notion
of dining on a crab, proceed to the rocks, and slyly insinuating their tail into
one of the holes where the crustacea take refuge, that appendage is at once
seized upon by the crab, who is thereby drawn from his hiding-place, and,
being speedily dashed to pieces on the hard stone, affords a fine feast to his
captor. On the granite-bound coast of Scotland the sport of crab-hunting may
be enjoyed to perfection and the wonders of the deep be studied at the same
time. A long pole with a small crook at the end will be found useful to draw
the crab from his nest, or great fun may be enjoyed by tying during low-water
a piece of bait to a string and attaching a stone to the other end of the cord.
The crab seizes upon this bait whenever the tide flows, and drags it to its
hole, so that when the ebb of the tide recurs the stone at the end of the cord
marks the hiding-place of the animal, who thus falls an easy prey to his
captor. The natives are the best instructors in these arts, and seaside visitors
cannot do better than engage the services of some strong fisher youth to act as
guide in such perambulations as they may make on the beach. There are few
seaside places where the natives cannot guide strangers to rock pools and
picturesque nooks teeming with materials for studying the wonders of the
shore.
Lobsters are collected and sent to London from all parts of the Scottish
shore. I have seen on the Sutherland and other coasts the perforated chests
floating in the water filled with them. They were kept till called for by the
welled smacks, which generally made the circuit of the coasts once a week,
taking up all the lobsters or crabs they could get, and carrying them alive to
London. From the Durness shores alone as many as from six to eight
thousand lobsters have been collected in the course of a single summer, and
sold, big or little, at threepence each to the buyers. The lobsters taken on the
north-east coast of Scotland and at Orkney are now packed in seaweed and
sent in boxes to London by railway. The lobsters have been more plentiful, it
is thought, in the Orkney Islands of late years; a larger trade has been done in
them since the railway was opened from Aberdeen—at all events, more of the
thereto with great tenacity, which is, of course, the very thing desired by the
grinning “human” at the other end, as whenever he feels his prey secure he
dexterously hauls him on board, unhooks the crusty gentleman with a jerk,
and adds him to the accumulating heap at the bottom of the old boat. The
monkeys in the West Indies are, however, still more ingenious than the
“fisher loons” of Arran or Skye. Those wise animals, when they take a notion
of dining on a crab, proceed to the rocks, and slyly insinuating their tail into
one of the holes where the crustacea take refuge, that appendage is at once
seized upon by the crab, who is thereby drawn from his hiding-place, and,
being speedily dashed to pieces on the hard stone, affords a fine feast to his
captor. On the granite-bound coast of Scotland the sport of crab-hunting may
be enjoyed to perfection and the wonders of the deep be studied at the same
time. A long pole with a small crook at the end will be found useful to draw
the crab from his nest, or great fun may be enjoyed by tying during low-water
a piece of bait to a string and attaching a stone to the other end of the cord.
The crab seizes upon this bait whenever the tide flows, and drags it to its
hole, so that when the ebb of the tide recurs the stone at the end of the cord
marks the hiding-place of the animal, who thus falls an easy prey to his
captor. The natives are the best instructors in these arts, and seaside visitors
cannot do better than engage the services of some strong fisher youth to act as
guide in such perambulations as they may make on the beach. There are few
seaside places where the natives cannot guide strangers to rock pools and
picturesque nooks teeming with materials for studying the wonders of the
shore.
Lobsters are collected and sent to London from all parts of the Scottish
shore. I have seen on the Sutherland and other coasts the perforated chests
floating in the water filled with them. They were kept till called for by the
welled smacks, which generally made the circuit of the coasts once a week,
taking up all the lobsters or crabs they could get, and carrying them alive to
London. From the Durness shores alone as many as from six to eight
thousand lobsters have been collected in the course of a single summer, and
sold, big or little, at threepence each to the buyers. The lobsters taken on the
north-east coast of Scotland and at Orkney are now packed in seaweed and
sent in boxes to London by railway. The lobsters have been more plentiful, it
is thought, in the Orkney Islands of late years; a larger trade has been done in
them since the railway was opened from Aberdeen—at all events, more of the
Page 314
animals have been caught, and the prices are double what they used to be in
the time of the welled smacks alluded to above. The fisher-folks of Orkney
confess that the trade in lobsters pays them well.
All kinds of crustaceans can be kept alive at the place of capture till
“wanted”—that is, till the welled vessel which carries them to London or
Liverpool arrives—by simply storing them in a large perforated wooden box
anchored in a convenient place. Nor must it be supposed that the acute
London dealers allow too many lobsters to be brought to market at once; the
supply is governed by the demand, and the stock kept in large store-boxes at
convenient places down the river, where the sea-water is strong and the liquid
filth of London harmless. But these old-fashioned store-boxes will, no doubt,
be speedily superseded by the construction of artificial store-ponds on a large
scale, similar to that erected by Mr. Richard Scovell at Hamble, near
Southampton. That gentleman informs me that his pond has been of good
service to him. It is about fifty yards square, and is lined with brick, having a
bottom of concrete, and was excavated at a cost of about £1200. It will store
with great ease 50,000 lobsters, and the animals may remain in the pond as
long as six weeks, with little chance of being damaged. Lobsters, however, do
not breed in this state of confinement, nor have they been seen to undergo a
change of shell. There is, of course, an apparatus of pipes and sluices for the
purpose of supplying the pond with water. The stock is recruited from the
coasts of France and Ireland; and to keep up the supply Mr. Scovell has in his
service two or three vessels of considerable size, which visit the various
fisheries and bring the lobsters to Hamble in their capacious wells, each of
which is large enough to contain from 5000 to 10,000 animals.
The west and north-west coasts of Ireland abound with fine lobsters, and
welled vessels bring thence supplies for the London market, and it is said that
a supply of 10,000 a week can easily be obtained. Immense quantities are
also procured on the west coast of Scotland. A year or two ago I saw on board
the Islesman steamboat at Greenock a cargo of 30,000 lobsters, obtained
chiefly on the coasts of Lewis and Skye. The value of these to the captors
would be upwards of £1000, and in the English fishmarkets the lot would
bring at least four times that sum. As showing how enormous the food wealth
of the sea still is, notwithstanding the quantity taken out of it, I may cite here
a few brief particulars of a little experiment of a charitable nature which was
tried by a gentleman who took a warm interest in the Highland fishermen,
and the results of which he himself lately made public. Commiserating the
the time of the welled smacks alluded to above. The fisher-folks of Orkney
confess that the trade in lobsters pays them well.
All kinds of crustaceans can be kept alive at the place of capture till
“wanted”—that is, till the welled vessel which carries them to London or
Liverpool arrives—by simply storing them in a large perforated wooden box
anchored in a convenient place. Nor must it be supposed that the acute
London dealers allow too many lobsters to be brought to market at once; the
supply is governed by the demand, and the stock kept in large store-boxes at
convenient places down the river, where the sea-water is strong and the liquid
filth of London harmless. But these old-fashioned store-boxes will, no doubt,
be speedily superseded by the construction of artificial store-ponds on a large
scale, similar to that erected by Mr. Richard Scovell at Hamble, near
Southampton. That gentleman informs me that his pond has been of good
service to him. It is about fifty yards square, and is lined with brick, having a
bottom of concrete, and was excavated at a cost of about £1200. It will store
with great ease 50,000 lobsters, and the animals may remain in the pond as
long as six weeks, with little chance of being damaged. Lobsters, however, do
not breed in this state of confinement, nor have they been seen to undergo a
change of shell. There is, of course, an apparatus of pipes and sluices for the
purpose of supplying the pond with water. The stock is recruited from the
coasts of France and Ireland; and to keep up the supply Mr. Scovell has in his
service two or three vessels of considerable size, which visit the various
fisheries and bring the lobsters to Hamble in their capacious wells, each of
which is large enough to contain from 5000 to 10,000 animals.
The west and north-west coasts of Ireland abound with fine lobsters, and
welled vessels bring thence supplies for the London market, and it is said that
a supply of 10,000 a week can easily be obtained. Immense quantities are
also procured on the west coast of Scotland. A year or two ago I saw on board
the Islesman steamboat at Greenock a cargo of 30,000 lobsters, obtained
chiefly on the coasts of Lewis and Skye. The value of these to the captors
would be upwards of £1000, and in the English fishmarkets the lot would
bring at least four times that sum. As showing how enormous the food wealth
of the sea still is, notwithstanding the quantity taken out of it, I may cite here
a few brief particulars of a little experiment of a charitable nature which was
tried by a gentleman who took a warm interest in the Highland fishermen,
and the results of which he himself lately made public. Commiserating the
Page 315
wretchedness which he had witnessed among many, who, although anxious to
labour, were unable to procure work, and at the same time feeling that the
usual method of assisting them was based on a mistaken principle, this
gentleman undertook the establishment of a fishery upon a small scale at his
own expense. He therefore expended a sum of £600, with which he procured
eight boats, completely equipped, and a small smack of sixteen tons. The
crews, consisting of thirty men, he furnished with all the necessary fishing
materials, paying the men weekly wages ranging from nine to thirteen
shillings, part of the sum being in meal. The result of this experiment was,
that these eight boats sent to the London market in a few months as many
lobsters as reimbursed the original cost of the fishing plant. The men and
their families were thus rescued from a state of semi-starvation, and are now
living in comfort, with plenty surrounding their dwellings; and have, besides,
the satisfaction of knowing that their present independent condition has been
achieved principally by means of their own well-sustained industry.
A very large share of our lobsters is derived from Norway, as many as
30,000 sometimes arriving from the fjords in a single day. The Norway
lobsters are much esteemed, and we pay the Norwegians something like
£20,000 a year for this one article of commerce. They are brought over in
welled steam-vessels, and are kept in the wooden reservoirs already alluded
to, some of which may be seen at Hole Haven, on the Essex side of the
Thames. Once upon a time, some forty years ago, one of these wooden
lobster-stores was run into by a Russian frigate, whereby some 20,000
lobsters were set adrift to sprawl in the muddy waters of the Thames. In order
that the great mass of animals confined in these places may be kept upon their
best behaviour, a species of cruelty has to be perpetrated to prevent their
tearing each other to pieces: the great claw is, therefore, rendered paralytic by
means of a wooden peg being driven into a lower joint.
I have no intention of describing the whole members of the crustacea; they
are much too numerous to admit of that, ranging as they do from the
comparatively giant-like crab and lobster down to the millions of minute
insects which at some places confer a phosphorescent appearance on the
waters of the sea. My limits will necessarily confine me to a few of the
principal members of the family—the edible crustacea, in fact; and these I
shall endeavour to speak about in such plain language as I think my readers
will understand, leaving out as much of the fashionable “scientific slang” as I
possibly can.
labour, were unable to procure work, and at the same time feeling that the
usual method of assisting them was based on a mistaken principle, this
gentleman undertook the establishment of a fishery upon a small scale at his
own expense. He therefore expended a sum of £600, with which he procured
eight boats, completely equipped, and a small smack of sixteen tons. The
crews, consisting of thirty men, he furnished with all the necessary fishing
materials, paying the men weekly wages ranging from nine to thirteen
shillings, part of the sum being in meal. The result of this experiment was,
that these eight boats sent to the London market in a few months as many
lobsters as reimbursed the original cost of the fishing plant. The men and
their families were thus rescued from a state of semi-starvation, and are now
living in comfort, with plenty surrounding their dwellings; and have, besides,
the satisfaction of knowing that their present independent condition has been
achieved principally by means of their own well-sustained industry.
A very large share of our lobsters is derived from Norway, as many as
30,000 sometimes arriving from the fjords in a single day. The Norway
lobsters are much esteemed, and we pay the Norwegians something like
£20,000 a year for this one article of commerce. They are brought over in
welled steam-vessels, and are kept in the wooden reservoirs already alluded
to, some of which may be seen at Hole Haven, on the Essex side of the
Thames. Once upon a time, some forty years ago, one of these wooden
lobster-stores was run into by a Russian frigate, whereby some 20,000
lobsters were set adrift to sprawl in the muddy waters of the Thames. In order
that the great mass of animals confined in these places may be kept upon their
best behaviour, a species of cruelty has to be perpetrated to prevent their
tearing each other to pieces: the great claw is, therefore, rendered paralytic by
means of a wooden peg being driven into a lower joint.
I have no intention of describing the whole members of the crustacea; they
are much too numerous to admit of that, ranging as they do from the
comparatively giant-like crab and lobster down to the millions of minute
insects which at some places confer a phosphorescent appearance on the
waters of the sea. My limits will necessarily confine me to a few of the
principal members of the family—the edible crustacea, in fact; and these I
shall endeavour to speak about in such plain language as I think my readers
will understand, leaving out as much of the fashionable “scientific slang” as I
possibly can.
Page 316
The more we study the varied crustacea of the British shores, the more we
are struck with their wonderful formation, and the peculiar habits of their
members. I once heard a clergyman at a lecture describe a lobster in brief but
fitting terms as a standing romance of the sea—an animal whose clothing is a
shell, which it casts away once a year in order that it may put on a larger suit
—an animal whose flesh is in its tail and legs, and whose hair is in the inside
of its breast, whose stomach is in its head, and which is changed every year
for a new one, and which new one begins its life by devouring the old! an
animal which carries its eggs within its body till they become fruitful, and
then carries them outwardly under its tail; an animal which can throw off its
legs when they become troublesome, and can in a brief time replace them
with others; and lastly, an animal with very sharp eyes placed in movable
horns. The picture is not at all overdrawn. It is a wondrous creature this
lobster, and I may be allowed a brief space in which to describe the curious
provision of nature which allows for an increase of growth, or provides for
the renewal of a broken limb, and which applies generally to the edible
crustacea.
The habits of the principal crustacea are now pretty well understood, and
their mode of growth is so peculiar as to render a close inspection of their
habits a most interesting study. As has been stated, a good-sized lobster will
yield about 20,000 eggs, and these are hatched, being so nearly ripe before
they are abandoned by the mother, with great rapidity—it is said in forty-
eight hours—and grow quickly, although the young lobster passes through
many changes before it is fit to be presented at table. During the early periods
of growth it casts its shell frequently. This wonderful provision for an
increase of size in the lobster has been minutely studied during its period of
moulting. Mr. Jonathan Couch says the additional size which is gained at
each period of exuviation is perfectly surprising, and it is wonderful to see the
complete covering of the animal cast off like a suit of old clothes, while it
hides, naked and soft, in a convenient hole, awaiting the growth of its new
crust. In fact, it is difficult to believe that the great soft animal ever inhabited
the cast-off habitation which is lying beside it, because the lobster looks, and
really is, so much larger. The lobster, crab, etc., change their shells about
every six weeks during the first year of their age, every two months during
the second year, and then the changing of the shell becomes less frequent,
being reduced to four times a year. It is supposed that this animal becomes
reproductive at the age of five years. In France the lobster-fishery is to some
are struck with their wonderful formation, and the peculiar habits of their
members. I once heard a clergyman at a lecture describe a lobster in brief but
fitting terms as a standing romance of the sea—an animal whose clothing is a
shell, which it casts away once a year in order that it may put on a larger suit
—an animal whose flesh is in its tail and legs, and whose hair is in the inside
of its breast, whose stomach is in its head, and which is changed every year
for a new one, and which new one begins its life by devouring the old! an
animal which carries its eggs within its body till they become fruitful, and
then carries them outwardly under its tail; an animal which can throw off its
legs when they become troublesome, and can in a brief time replace them
with others; and lastly, an animal with very sharp eyes placed in movable
horns. The picture is not at all overdrawn. It is a wondrous creature this
lobster, and I may be allowed a brief space in which to describe the curious
provision of nature which allows for an increase of growth, or provides for
the renewal of a broken limb, and which applies generally to the edible
crustacea.
The habits of the principal crustacea are now pretty well understood, and
their mode of growth is so peculiar as to render a close inspection of their
habits a most interesting study. As has been stated, a good-sized lobster will
yield about 20,000 eggs, and these are hatched, being so nearly ripe before
they are abandoned by the mother, with great rapidity—it is said in forty-
eight hours—and grow quickly, although the young lobster passes through
many changes before it is fit to be presented at table. During the early periods
of growth it casts its shell frequently. This wonderful provision for an
increase of size in the lobster has been minutely studied during its period of
moulting. Mr. Jonathan Couch says the additional size which is gained at
each period of exuviation is perfectly surprising, and it is wonderful to see the
complete covering of the animal cast off like a suit of old clothes, while it
hides, naked and soft, in a convenient hole, awaiting the growth of its new
crust. In fact, it is difficult to believe that the great soft animal ever inhabited
the cast-off habitation which is lying beside it, because the lobster looks, and
really is, so much larger. The lobster, crab, etc., change their shells about
every six weeks during the first year of their age, every two months during
the second year, and then the changing of the shell becomes less frequent,
being reduced to four times a year. It is supposed that this animal becomes
reproductive at the age of five years. In France the lobster-fishery is to some
Page 317
extent “regulated.” A close-time exists, and size is the one element of capture
that is most studied. All the small lobsters are thrown back to the water. There
is no difficulty in observing the process of exuviation. A friend of mine had a
crab which moulted in a small crystal basin. I presume that at some period in
the life of the crab or lobster growth will cease, and the annual moulting
become unnecessary; at any rate, I have seen crabs and other crustaceans
taken from an island in the Firth of Forth which were covered with parasites
evidently two or three years old.
To describe minutely the exuviation of a lobster, crab, or shrimp would in
itself form an interesting chapter of this work, and it is only of late years that
many points of the process have been witnessed and for the first time
described. Not long ago, for instance, it was doubtful whether or not the
hermit-crabs (Anomoura) shed their skin; and, that fact being settled, it
became a question whether they shed the skin of their tail! There was a
considerable amount of controversy on this delicate point, till the “strange
and unexpected discovery” was made by Mr. Harper. That gentleman was
fortunate enough to catch a hermit-crab in the very act, and was able to
secure the caudal appendage which had just been thrown off. Other matters of
controversy have been instituted in reference to the growth of various
members of the crustacea; indeed, the young of the crab in an early stage
have before now been described by naturalists as distinct species, so great is
the metamorphosis they undergo before they assume their final shape—just
as the sprat in good time changes in all probability to the herring. Another
point of controversy at one period existed in reference to the power of
crustaceans to replace their broken limbs, or occasionally to dispense at their
own good pleasure with a limb, when it is out of order, with the absolute
certainty of replacing it.
When the female crustacea retire in order to undergo their exuviation they
are watched, or rather guarded, by the males; and if one male be taken away,
in a short time another will be found to have taken his place. I do not think
there is any particular season for moulting; the period differs in different
places, according to the temperature of the water and other circumstances, so
that we might have shell-fish (and white-fish too) all the year round were a
little attention paid to the different seasons of exuviation and egg-laying.
The mode in which a hen lobster lays her eggs is curious: she lodges a
quantity of them under her tail, and bears them about for a considerable
period; indeed, till they are so nearly hatched as only to require a very brief
that is most studied. All the small lobsters are thrown back to the water. There
is no difficulty in observing the process of exuviation. A friend of mine had a
crab which moulted in a small crystal basin. I presume that at some period in
the life of the crab or lobster growth will cease, and the annual moulting
become unnecessary; at any rate, I have seen crabs and other crustaceans
taken from an island in the Firth of Forth which were covered with parasites
evidently two or three years old.
To describe minutely the exuviation of a lobster, crab, or shrimp would in
itself form an interesting chapter of this work, and it is only of late years that
many points of the process have been witnessed and for the first time
described. Not long ago, for instance, it was doubtful whether or not the
hermit-crabs (Anomoura) shed their skin; and, that fact being settled, it
became a question whether they shed the skin of their tail! There was a
considerable amount of controversy on this delicate point, till the “strange
and unexpected discovery” was made by Mr. Harper. That gentleman was
fortunate enough to catch a hermit-crab in the very act, and was able to
secure the caudal appendage which had just been thrown off. Other matters of
controversy have been instituted in reference to the growth of various
members of the crustacea; indeed, the young of the crab in an early stage
have before now been described by naturalists as distinct species, so great is
the metamorphosis they undergo before they assume their final shape—just
as the sprat in good time changes in all probability to the herring. Another
point of controversy at one period existed in reference to the power of
crustaceans to replace their broken limbs, or occasionally to dispense at their
own good pleasure with a limb, when it is out of order, with the absolute
certainty of replacing it.
When the female crustacea retire in order to undergo their exuviation they
are watched, or rather guarded, by the males; and if one male be taken away,
in a short time another will be found to have taken his place. I do not think
there is any particular season for moulting; the period differs in different
places, according to the temperature of the water and other circumstances, so
that we might have shell-fish (and white-fish too) all the year round were a
little attention paid to the different seasons of exuviation and egg-laying.
The mode in which a hen lobster lays her eggs is curious: she lodges a
quantity of them under her tail, and bears them about for a considerable
period; indeed, till they are so nearly hatched as only to require a very brief
Page 318
time to mature them. When the eggs are first exuded from the ovary they are
very small, but before they are committed to the sand or water they increase
considerably in size and become as large as good-sized shot. Lobsters may be
found with eggs, or “in berry” as it is called, all the year round; and when the
hen is in process of depositing her eggs she is not good for food, the flesh
being poor, watery, and destitute of flavour.
When the British crustacea are in their soft state they are not considered as
being good for food; but, curiously enough, the land-crabs are most esteemed
while in that condition. The epicure who has not tasted “soft crabs” should
hasten to make himself acquainted with one of the most delicious luxuries of
the table. The eccentric land-crab, which lives far inland among the rocks, or
in the clefts of trees, or burrows in holes in the earth, makes in the spring-
time an annual pilgrimage to the sea in order to deposit its spawn, and the
young, guided by an unerring instinct, return to the land in order to live in the
rocks or burrow in the earth like their progenitors. In the fish-world we have
something nearly akin to this. We have the salmon, that spends one half its
life in the sea, and the other half in the fresh water; it proceeds to the sea to
attain size and strength, and returns to the river in order to perpetuate its kind.
The eel, again, just does the reverse of all this: it goes down to the sea to
spawn, and then proceeds up the river to live; and at certain seasons it may be
seen in myriad quantities making its way up stream. The march of the land-
crabs is a singular and interesting sight: they congregate into one great army,
and travel in two or three divisions, generally by night, to the sea; they
proceed straight forward, and seldom deviate from their path unless to avoid
crossing a river. These marching crabs eat up all the luxuriant vegetation on
their route: their path is marked by desolation. The moment they arrive at the
water the operation of spawning is commenced by allowing the waves to
wash gently over their bodies. A few days of this kind of bathing assists the
process of oviposition, and knots of spawn similar to lumps of herring-roe are
gradually washed into the water, which in a short time finishes the operation.
Countless thousands of these eggs are annually devoured by various fishes
and monsters of the deep that lie in wait for them during the spawning
season. After their brief seaside sojourn, the old crabs undergo their moult,
and at this period thousands of them sicken and die, and large numbers of
them are captured for table use, soft crabs being highly esteemed by all lovers
of good things. By the time they have recovered from their moult the army of
juveniles from the seaside begins to make its appearance in order to join the
very small, but before they are committed to the sand or water they increase
considerably in size and become as large as good-sized shot. Lobsters may be
found with eggs, or “in berry” as it is called, all the year round; and when the
hen is in process of depositing her eggs she is not good for food, the flesh
being poor, watery, and destitute of flavour.
When the British crustacea are in their soft state they are not considered as
being good for food; but, curiously enough, the land-crabs are most esteemed
while in that condition. The epicure who has not tasted “soft crabs” should
hasten to make himself acquainted with one of the most delicious luxuries of
the table. The eccentric land-crab, which lives far inland among the rocks, or
in the clefts of trees, or burrows in holes in the earth, makes in the spring-
time an annual pilgrimage to the sea in order to deposit its spawn, and the
young, guided by an unerring instinct, return to the land in order to live in the
rocks or burrow in the earth like their progenitors. In the fish-world we have
something nearly akin to this. We have the salmon, that spends one half its
life in the sea, and the other half in the fresh water; it proceeds to the sea to
attain size and strength, and returns to the river in order to perpetuate its kind.
The eel, again, just does the reverse of all this: it goes down to the sea to
spawn, and then proceeds up the river to live; and at certain seasons it may be
seen in myriad quantities making its way up stream. The march of the land-
crabs is a singular and interesting sight: they congregate into one great army,
and travel in two or three divisions, generally by night, to the sea; they
proceed straight forward, and seldom deviate from their path unless to avoid
crossing a river. These marching crabs eat up all the luxuriant vegetation on
their route: their path is marked by desolation. The moment they arrive at the
water the operation of spawning is commenced by allowing the waves to
wash gently over their bodies. A few days of this kind of bathing assists the
process of oviposition, and knots of spawn similar to lumps of herring-roe are
gradually washed into the water, which in a short time finishes the operation.
Countless thousands of these eggs are annually devoured by various fishes
and monsters of the deep that lie in wait for them during the spawning
season. After their brief seaside sojourn, the old crabs undergo their moult,
and at this period thousands of them sicken and die, and large numbers of
them are captured for table use, soft crabs being highly esteemed by all lovers
of good things. By the time they have recovered from their moult the army of
juveniles from the seaside begins to make its appearance in order to join the
Page 319
old stock in the mountains; and thus the legion of land-crabs is annually
recruited by a fresh batch, which in their turn perform the annual migration to
the sea much as their parents have done before them.
Before leaving the crabs and lobsters, it is worthy of remark that an
experienced dealer can tell at once the locality whence any particular lobster
is obtained—whether from the west of Ireland, the Orkney Islands, or the
coast of Brittany. The shelly inhabitants of different localities are distinctly
marked. Indeed fish are peculiarly local in their habits, although the vulgar
idea has hitherto been that all kinds of sea animals herd indiscriminately
together; that the crab and the lobster crept about the bottom rocks, whilst the
waving skate or the swaggering lingfish dashed about in mid-water, the
prowling “dogs” busily preying on the shoals of herring supposed to be
swimming near; the brilliant shrimp flashing through the crowd like a meteor,
the elegant saithe keeping them company; the whole being overshadowed by
a few whales, and kept in awe by a dozen or so of sharks! Nothing can be
more different than the reality of the water-world, which is colonised quite as
systematically as the earth. Particular shoals of herring, for instance, gather
off particular counties; the Lochfyne herring, as I have mentioned in the
account of the herring-fishery, differs from the herring of the Caithness coast
or that of the Firth of Forth; and any ’cute fishmonger can tell a Tweed
salmon from a Tay one. The herring at certain periods move in gigantic
shoals, the chief members of the Gadidæ congregate on vast sandbanks, and
the whales occasionally roam about in schools; while the Pleuronectidæ
occupy sandy places in the bottom of the sea. We have all heard of the great
cod-banks of Newfoundland, of the fish community at Rockall; then is there
not the Nymph Bank, near Dublin, celebrated for its haddocks? have we not
also the Faroe fishing-ground, the Dogger Bank, and other places with a
numerous fish population? There are wonderful diversities of life in the
bosom of the deep; and there is beautiful scenery of hill and plain, vegetable
and rock, and mountain and valley. There are shallows and depths suited to
different aspects of life, and there is life of all kinds teeming in that mighty
world of waters, and the fishes live
“A cold sweet silver life, wrapped in round waves,
Quickened with touches of transporting fear.”
recruited by a fresh batch, which in their turn perform the annual migration to
the sea much as their parents have done before them.
Before leaving the crabs and lobsters, it is worthy of remark that an
experienced dealer can tell at once the locality whence any particular lobster
is obtained—whether from the west of Ireland, the Orkney Islands, or the
coast of Brittany. The shelly inhabitants of different localities are distinctly
marked. Indeed fish are peculiarly local in their habits, although the vulgar
idea has hitherto been that all kinds of sea animals herd indiscriminately
together; that the crab and the lobster crept about the bottom rocks, whilst the
waving skate or the swaggering lingfish dashed about in mid-water, the
prowling “dogs” busily preying on the shoals of herring supposed to be
swimming near; the brilliant shrimp flashing through the crowd like a meteor,
the elegant saithe keeping them company; the whole being overshadowed by
a few whales, and kept in awe by a dozen or so of sharks! Nothing can be
more different than the reality of the water-world, which is colonised quite as
systematically as the earth. Particular shoals of herring, for instance, gather
off particular counties; the Lochfyne herring, as I have mentioned in the
account of the herring-fishery, differs from the herring of the Caithness coast
or that of the Firth of Forth; and any ’cute fishmonger can tell a Tweed
salmon from a Tay one. The herring at certain periods move in gigantic
shoals, the chief members of the Gadidæ congregate on vast sandbanks, and
the whales occasionally roam about in schools; while the Pleuronectidæ
occupy sandy places in the bottom of the sea. We have all heard of the great
cod-banks of Newfoundland, of the fish community at Rockall; then is there
not the Nymph Bank, near Dublin, celebrated for its haddocks? have we not
also the Faroe fishing-ground, the Dogger Bank, and other places with a
numerous fish population? There are wonderful diversities of life in the
bosom of the deep; and there is beautiful scenery of hill and plain, vegetable
and rock, and mountain and valley. There are shallows and depths suited to
different aspects of life, and there is life of all kinds teeming in that mighty
world of waters, and the fishes live
“A cold sweet silver life, wrapped in round waves,
Quickened with touches of transporting fear.”
Page 320
The prawn and the shrimp are ploughed in innumerable quantities from the
shallow waters that lave the shore. The shrimper may be seen any day at
work, pushing his little net before him. To reach the more distant sandbanks
he requires a boat; but on these he captures his prey with greater facility, and
richer hauls reward his labour than when he plies his putting-net close
inshore. The shrimper, when he captures a sufficient quantity, proceeds to
boil them; and till they undergo that process they are not edible. The shrimp
is “the ‘Undine’ of the waters,” and seems possessed by some aquatic devil, it
darts about with such intense velocity. Like the lobster and the crab, the
prawn periodically changes its skill; and its exertions to throw off its old
clothes are really as wonderful as those of its larger relatives of the lobster
and crab family. There are a great many species of shrimp in addition to the
common one; as, for instance, banded, spinous, sculptured, three-spined, and
two-spined. Young prawns, too, are often taken in the “putting-nets” and sold
for shrimps. Prawns are caught in some places in pots resembling those used
for the taking of lobsters. The prawn exuviates very frequently; in fact it has
no sooner recovered from one illness than it has to undergo another. Although
the prawn and the shrimp are exceedingly common on the British coasts,
when we consider the millions of these “sea insects,” as they have been
called, which are annually consumed at the breakfast tables and in the tea-
gardens of London alone (not to speak of those which are greedily devoured
in our watering-places, or the few which are allowed to reach the more inland
towns of the country), we cannot but wonder where they all come from, or
who provides them; and the problem can only be solved by taking into
account the fact that we are surrounded by hundreds of miles of a productive
seabord, and that thousands of seafaring people, and others as well, make it
their business to supply such luxuries to all who can pay for them. It is even
found profitable to send these delicacies to England all the way from the
remote fisheries of Scotland.
The art of “shrimping” is well understood all round the English coasts. The
mode of capturing this particular member of the Crustacea is by what is
called a shrimp-net, formed of a frame of wood and twine into a long bag,
which is used as a kind of minature trawl-net; each shrimping-boat being
provided with one or two of these instruments, which, scraping along the
sand, compel the shrimp to enter. Each boat is provided with a “well,” or
store, to contain the proceeds of the nets, and on arrival at home the shrimps
are immediately boiled for the London or other markets. The shrimpers are
shallow waters that lave the shore. The shrimper may be seen any day at
work, pushing his little net before him. To reach the more distant sandbanks
he requires a boat; but on these he captures his prey with greater facility, and
richer hauls reward his labour than when he plies his putting-net close
inshore. The shrimper, when he captures a sufficient quantity, proceeds to
boil them; and till they undergo that process they are not edible. The shrimp
is “the ‘Undine’ of the waters,” and seems possessed by some aquatic devil, it
darts about with such intense velocity. Like the lobster and the crab, the
prawn periodically changes its skill; and its exertions to throw off its old
clothes are really as wonderful as those of its larger relatives of the lobster
and crab family. There are a great many species of shrimp in addition to the
common one; as, for instance, banded, spinous, sculptured, three-spined, and
two-spined. Young prawns, too, are often taken in the “putting-nets” and sold
for shrimps. Prawns are caught in some places in pots resembling those used
for the taking of lobsters. The prawn exuviates very frequently; in fact it has
no sooner recovered from one illness than it has to undergo another. Although
the prawn and the shrimp are exceedingly common on the British coasts,
when we consider the millions of these “sea insects,” as they have been
called, which are annually consumed at the breakfast tables and in the tea-
gardens of London alone (not to speak of those which are greedily devoured
in our watering-places, or the few which are allowed to reach the more inland
towns of the country), we cannot but wonder where they all come from, or
who provides them; and the problem can only be solved by taking into
account the fact that we are surrounded by hundreds of miles of a productive
seabord, and that thousands of seafaring people, and others as well, make it
their business to supply such luxuries to all who can pay for them. It is even
found profitable to send these delicacies to England all the way from the
remote fisheries of Scotland.
The art of “shrimping” is well understood all round the English coasts. The
mode of capturing this particular member of the Crustacea is by what is
called a shrimp-net, formed of a frame of wood and twine into a long bag,
which is used as a kind of minature trawl-net; each shrimping-boat being
provided with one or two of these instruments, which, scraping along the
sand, compel the shrimp to enter. Each boat is provided with a “well,” or
store, to contain the proceeds of the nets, and on arrival at home the shrimps
are immediately boiled for the London or other markets. The shrimpers are
Page 321
rather ill-used by the trade. Of the many thousand gallons sent daily to
London, they only get an infinitesimal portion of the money produce. The
retail price in London is four shillings per gallon, out of which the producer is
understood to get only threepence! I have been told that the railways charge
at the extraordinary rate of £9 a ton for the carriage of this delicacy to
London. It is an interesting sight to watch the shrimpers at their work, and
such of my readers as can obtain a brief holiday should run down to Leigh, or
some nearer fishing place, where they can see the art of shrimping carried on
in all its picturesque beauty.
The fresh-water cray-fish, a very delicate kind of miniature lobster,
abundantly numerous in all our larger streams, and exceedingly plentiful in
France, may often be seen on the counters of our fishmongers; as also the sea
cray-fish, which is much larger in size, having been known to attain the
weight of ten or twelve pounds, but it is coarser in the flavour than either the
crab or lobster. The river cray-fish, which lodges in holes in the banks of our
streams, is caught simply by means of a split stick with a bit of bait inserted
at the end. The fresh-water cray-fish has afforded a better opportunity for
studying the structure of the crustacea than any of the salt-water species, as
its habits can be more easily observed. The sea cray-fish is not at all plentiful
in the British Islands, although we have a limited supply in some of our
markets.
There has hitherto been a fixed period for the annual sacrifice to crustacean
gastronomy. As my readers are already aware, there is a well-known time for
the supplying of oysters, which is fixed by law, and which begins in August
and ends in April. During the r-less months oysters are less wholesome than
in the colder weather. The season for lobsters begins about March, and is
supposed to close with September, so that in the round of the year we have
always some kind of shell-fish delicacy to feast upon. Were a little more
attention devoted to the economy of our fisheries, we might have lobsters and
crabs upon our tables all the year round. In my opinion lobsters are as good
for food in the winter time as during the months in which they are most in
demand. It may be hoped that we shall get to understand all this much better
by and by, for at present we are sadly ignorant of the natural economy of
these, and indeed all other denizens of the deep.
A new branch of shell-fishing has been lately revived in Scotland. I allude
to the pearl-fisheries which are now being carried on in our large streams, and
London, they only get an infinitesimal portion of the money produce. The
retail price in London is four shillings per gallon, out of which the producer is
understood to get only threepence! I have been told that the railways charge
at the extraordinary rate of £9 a ton for the carriage of this delicacy to
London. It is an interesting sight to watch the shrimpers at their work, and
such of my readers as can obtain a brief holiday should run down to Leigh, or
some nearer fishing place, where they can see the art of shrimping carried on
in all its picturesque beauty.
The fresh-water cray-fish, a very delicate kind of miniature lobster,
abundantly numerous in all our larger streams, and exceedingly plentiful in
France, may often be seen on the counters of our fishmongers; as also the sea
cray-fish, which is much larger in size, having been known to attain the
weight of ten or twelve pounds, but it is coarser in the flavour than either the
crab or lobster. The river cray-fish, which lodges in holes in the banks of our
streams, is caught simply by means of a split stick with a bit of bait inserted
at the end. The fresh-water cray-fish has afforded a better opportunity for
studying the structure of the crustacea than any of the salt-water species, as
its habits can be more easily observed. The sea cray-fish is not at all plentiful
in the British Islands, although we have a limited supply in some of our
markets.
There has hitherto been a fixed period for the annual sacrifice to crustacean
gastronomy. As my readers are already aware, there is a well-known time for
the supplying of oysters, which is fixed by law, and which begins in August
and ends in April. During the r-less months oysters are less wholesome than
in the colder weather. The season for lobsters begins about March, and is
supposed to close with September, so that in the round of the year we have
always some kind of shell-fish delicacy to feast upon. Were a little more
attention devoted to the economy of our fisheries, we might have lobsters and
crabs upon our tables all the year round. In my opinion lobsters are as good
for food in the winter time as during the months in which they are most in
demand. It may be hoped that we shall get to understand all this much better
by and by, for at present we are sadly ignorant of the natural economy of
these, and indeed all other denizens of the deep.
A new branch of shell-fishing has been lately revived in Scotland. I allude
to the pearl-fisheries which are now being carried on in our large streams, and
Page 322
which, if prudently conducted, may become a source of considerable wealth
to the Scottish people.
The pearl is found in a species of shell-fish which is a variety of the
mussel, not an oyster, as is commonly supposed. The pearl has been
pronounced the most beautiful of all our gems, coming, as it does, finished
and perfect, direct from the laboratory of nature, and consequently owing
nothing to the cunning of man except its discovery—
“Ocean’s gem, the purest
Of Nature’s works! what days of weary journeyings,
What sleepless nights, what toils on land and sea,
Are borne by men to gain thee!”
In the Eastern seas professional divers are employed to go down into the
depths of the ocean in order to obtain them—a dangerous occupation, at one
time only followed by condemned criminals. The best-known fishery for
pearls is that at Ceylon, which was a very lucrative concern, at one time, in
the hands of the industrious Dutch.
to the Scottish people.
The pearl is found in a species of shell-fish which is a variety of the
mussel, not an oyster, as is commonly supposed. The pearl has been
pronounced the most beautiful of all our gems, coming, as it does, finished
and perfect, direct from the laboratory of nature, and consequently owing
nothing to the cunning of man except its discovery—
“Ocean’s gem, the purest
Of Nature’s works! what days of weary journeyings,
What sleepless nights, what toils on land and sea,
Are borne by men to gain thee!”
In the Eastern seas professional divers are employed to go down into the
depths of the ocean in order to obtain them—a dangerous occupation, at one
time only followed by condemned criminals. The best-known fishery for
pearls is that at Ceylon, which was a very lucrative concern, at one time, in
the hands of the industrious Dutch.
Page 323
THE SCOTTISH PEARL-MUSSEL.
Pearls are of remote antiquity. In the time of Pliny they held the highest
rank among all gems, and the Romans esteemed and largely used them—the
ladies ornamenting, with lavish extravagance, all parts of their dress with
them; and so extravagant did they become in their use of these gems by way
of personal ornament, that Seneca, the wise moralist, reproaches a patrician
by saying that his lady wore all the wealth of his house in her ears, it being at
that time the fashion for a lady to have three or four of these valuable gems
hung in each ear-drop. As to the value of these drops from the deep, we may
instance Cleopatra’s banquet to Mark Antony, when, according to vulgar
belief, she took a pearl from her ear, worth £80,000 of our money, and
dissolving it in vinegar, swallowed it! The pearl which Cæsar presented to the
mother of Marcus Brutus is said to have been of the value of £48,000. Then
we are told that Clodius, the son of the tragedian, once swallowed a pearl
worth £8000. Actors’ sons of the present day have been known to do
extravagant things; but few of them, I suspect, could achieve a feat like this.
Pearls are of remote antiquity. In the time of Pliny they held the highest
rank among all gems, and the Romans esteemed and largely used them—the
ladies ornamenting, with lavish extravagance, all parts of their dress with
them; and so extravagant did they become in their use of these gems by way
of personal ornament, that Seneca, the wise moralist, reproaches a patrician
by saying that his lady wore all the wealth of his house in her ears, it being at
that time the fashion for a lady to have three or four of these valuable gems
hung in each ear-drop. As to the value of these drops from the deep, we may
instance Cleopatra’s banquet to Mark Antony, when, according to vulgar
belief, she took a pearl from her ear, worth £80,000 of our money, and
dissolving it in vinegar, swallowed it! The pearl which Cæsar presented to the
mother of Marcus Brutus is said to have been of the value of £48,000. Then
we are told that Clodius, the son of the tragedian, once swallowed a pearl
worth £8000. Actors’ sons of the present day have been known to do
extravagant things; but few of them, I suspect, could achieve a feat like this.
Page 324
In the East, too, in those early days, the pearl was held in the highest esteem.
We read of one gem, still to be seen in Persia, I believe, that had a market
price set upon it equal to £100,000 of our money; and there is another pearl
mentioned as obtained in 1587 from the island of Margarita which weighed
250 carats, the value of which was named as being $150,000; and there are
many other instances on record of the value of pearls to which I need not
make further reference.
When our government took up the Eastern pearl-fishery in 1797, the
annual produce was £144,000, which in the following year was increased by
£50,000, but immediately afterwards fell off, most probably from overfishing.
It revived again, and in the beginning of the present century the pearl ground
was leased to private adventurers at the large rent of £120,000 per annum,
with the wise understanding that the bed or bank was to be divided into
portions, only one of which was to be worked at a time, so that a part of the
mussels might have a good rest. From various causes, however, the Ceylon
fisheries have again failed, and for a year or two have been totally
unproductive. In a privately-printed work on Ceylon, by James Steuart, Esq.
of Colpetty, which the author has kindly forwarded to me along with a
quantity of Oriental pearl-oyster shells, there is a very interesting description
of the Ceylon pearl-fishery, with notes on the natural history of the oyster. In
reference to the recent failure of the fishery for gems in the Gulf of Manaar,
Mr. Steuart has supplied me with the following interesting note:—
“The Gulf of Manaar pearl-fisheries having again ceased to be productive,
the government of Ceylon appear to be impressed with a belief that further
information is needed respecting the habits of the pearl-oyster, and that it may
be desirable to obtain the services of a naturalist to study and report on the
best means of insuring a continuous revenue from pearls.
“The natural history of the edible oyster is now so well understood that its
culture on artificial beds is in successful progress in many places on the
coasts of both England and France; but it is one thing to breed and fatten
edible oysters for the palate, and another to breed the pearly mollusc of
Ceylon to produce pearl.
“That which is commonly called the pearl-oyster of the Gulf of Manaar is
classed by naturalists with the mussel in consequence of its shells being
united by a broad hinge and its having a strong fibrous byssus with which it
attaches itself to the shells of others, to rocks, and to other substances. It had
We read of one gem, still to be seen in Persia, I believe, that had a market
price set upon it equal to £100,000 of our money; and there is another pearl
mentioned as obtained in 1587 from the island of Margarita which weighed
250 carats, the value of which was named as being $150,000; and there are
many other instances on record of the value of pearls to which I need not
make further reference.
When our government took up the Eastern pearl-fishery in 1797, the
annual produce was £144,000, which in the following year was increased by
£50,000, but immediately afterwards fell off, most probably from overfishing.
It revived again, and in the beginning of the present century the pearl ground
was leased to private adventurers at the large rent of £120,000 per annum,
with the wise understanding that the bed or bank was to be divided into
portions, only one of which was to be worked at a time, so that a part of the
mussels might have a good rest. From various causes, however, the Ceylon
fisheries have again failed, and for a year or two have been totally
unproductive. In a privately-printed work on Ceylon, by James Steuart, Esq.
of Colpetty, which the author has kindly forwarded to me along with a
quantity of Oriental pearl-oyster shells, there is a very interesting description
of the Ceylon pearl-fishery, with notes on the natural history of the oyster. In
reference to the recent failure of the fishery for gems in the Gulf of Manaar,
Mr. Steuart has supplied me with the following interesting note:—
“The Gulf of Manaar pearl-fisheries having again ceased to be productive,
the government of Ceylon appear to be impressed with a belief that further
information is needed respecting the habits of the pearl-oyster, and that it may
be desirable to obtain the services of a naturalist to study and report on the
best means of insuring a continuous revenue from pearls.
“The natural history of the edible oyster is now so well understood that its
culture on artificial beds is in successful progress in many places on the
coasts of both England and France; but it is one thing to breed and fatten
edible oysters for the palate, and another to breed the pearly mollusc of
Ceylon to produce pearl.
“That which is commonly called the pearl-oyster of the Gulf of Manaar is
classed by naturalists with the mussel in consequence of its shells being
united by a broad hinge and its having a strong fibrous byssus with which it
attaches itself to the shells of others, to rocks, and to other substances. It had
Page 325
long been believed that the fish in question had not the power of locomotion,
nor of detaching its byssus from the substances to which it adhered; but in the
year 1851 it was satisfactorily ascertained that when it had become detached
it possessed the power of extending its body from within its shells and of
creeping up the inner side of a glass globe containing sea-water. It was,
however, left to the late Dr. Kelaart, when employed by government as a
naturalist to study the habits of the fish, to discover that, although it could not
detach its byssus from the rock to which it adhered, it had the power of
casting off from its body its entire byssus and of proceeding to some other
spot, and there, by forming a new byssus, of attaching itself to any substance
near to it. It is therefore now believed that the Manaar pearl-fish has the
power of changing its position, and this may account for the disappearance of
large quantities from the sandy places on which the brood sometimes settles;
but it is by no means so clear that these fish are able to drag their shells after
them over the rugged surface of coral rocks.
“I have already stated that the produce of the pearl-fish of the Gulf of
Manaar varies in richness of colour, in the size of the pearl, and the quantity
of its yield, according to the nature of the ground on which it rests, or of the
food which that ground supplies. In some cases the pearl produced barely
repays the cost of fishing. It would therefore appear to be desirable that the
component parts of the surface of the most productive banks should be
subjected to chemical analysis. And as the natural history of the mussel and
the scollop does not appear to be so well ascertained as that of the edible
oyster, it might be attended by some useful result if a prize were offered for
the best treatise on these European bivalves as being the nearest approach to
the pearly mollusc of Ceylon. With the information thus obtained, it might
not be necessary to incur the expense of sending a naturalist to Ceylon.”
During the past two or three summers the early industry of pearl-seeking
has been very successfully revived in Scotland, chiefly through the exertions
of Mr. Moritz Unger, a dealer in gems residing in Edinburgh. That gentleman
having, in the way of his trade, occasionally fallen in with pearls said to be
obtained in Scottish rivers, was so struck with their great beauty that he
determined to set about their collection in a more systematic way. At that time
there was in Scotland only one professed fisher for pearls, who lived at
Killin, and whose stock was principally bought up by the late Marquis of
Breadalbane. Mr. Unger, having in view the extension of the trade, travelled
over the whole country, and announced his intention of buying, at a fixed
nor of detaching its byssus from the substances to which it adhered; but in the
year 1851 it was satisfactorily ascertained that when it had become detached
it possessed the power of extending its body from within its shells and of
creeping up the inner side of a glass globe containing sea-water. It was,
however, left to the late Dr. Kelaart, when employed by government as a
naturalist to study the habits of the fish, to discover that, although it could not
detach its byssus from the rock to which it adhered, it had the power of
casting off from its body its entire byssus and of proceeding to some other
spot, and there, by forming a new byssus, of attaching itself to any substance
near to it. It is therefore now believed that the Manaar pearl-fish has the
power of changing its position, and this may account for the disappearance of
large quantities from the sandy places on which the brood sometimes settles;
but it is by no means so clear that these fish are able to drag their shells after
them over the rugged surface of coral rocks.
“I have already stated that the produce of the pearl-fish of the Gulf of
Manaar varies in richness of colour, in the size of the pearl, and the quantity
of its yield, according to the nature of the ground on which it rests, or of the
food which that ground supplies. In some cases the pearl produced barely
repays the cost of fishing. It would therefore appear to be desirable that the
component parts of the surface of the most productive banks should be
subjected to chemical analysis. And as the natural history of the mussel and
the scollop does not appear to be so well ascertained as that of the edible
oyster, it might be attended by some useful result if a prize were offered for
the best treatise on these European bivalves as being the nearest approach to
the pearly mollusc of Ceylon. With the information thus obtained, it might
not be necessary to incur the expense of sending a naturalist to Ceylon.”
During the past two or three summers the early industry of pearl-seeking
has been very successfully revived in Scotland, chiefly through the exertions
of Mr. Moritz Unger, a dealer in gems residing in Edinburgh. That gentleman
having, in the way of his trade, occasionally fallen in with pearls said to be
obtained in Scottish rivers, was so struck with their great beauty that he
determined to set about their collection in a more systematic way. At that time
there was in Scotland only one professed fisher for pearls, who lived at
Killin, and whose stock was principally bought up by the late Marquis of
Breadalbane. Mr. Unger, having in view the extension of the trade, travelled
over the whole country, and announced his intention of buying, at a fixed
Page 326
scale of prices, all the pearls he could obtain—taking possession, in the
meantime, of such gems as he could get from the peasantry, and paying them
a liberal price. The consequence is, that now, instead of there being but one
professed pearl-seeker in Scotland, there are hundreds who cling to pearl-
fishing as their sole occupation, and, being sober and industrious men, they
make a good living by it.
The Scotch pearls were, in the middle ages, celebrated all over Europe for
their size and beauty. Just one hundred years ago—between the years 1761
and 1764—pearls to the value of £10,000 were sent to London from the rivers
Tay and Isla; but the trade carried on in the corresponding years of this
century is far more than double that amount. Mr. Unger estimates the pearls
found last summer (1864) to be of the value to the finders of about £10,000;
whereas, on his first tour, he bought up, four years ago, all that were to be had
for the sum of £40. Single specimens have recently been found worth as
much as £60.
From the middle of last century till about 1860 the Scottish pearl-fisheries
were quite neglected, and large pearls were found only as it were by accident
in occasional dry seasons, when the rivers were scant of water, and the
mussels were consequently accessible without much trouble. It was left for
Mr. Unger to discern the capabilities of the Scottish pearl as an ornamental
gem of great value; and it is now a fact that the beautiful pink-hued pearls of
our Scottish streams are admired even beyond the Oriental pearls of Ceylon.
The Empress Eugenie, Queen Victoria, and other royal ladies, as well as
many of the nobility, have been making large purchases of these Scottish
gems. In some rural districts the peasantry are making little fortunes by pearl-
seeking for only a few hours a day. Many of the undemonstrative weavers
and cobblers, whose residence is near a pearl-producing stream, contrive, in
the early morning, or after the usual day’s work, to step out and gather a few
hundreds of the pearl-containing mussels, in which they are almost sure to
find a few gems of more or less value. The pearl-fisher requires no capital to
set him up in his trade; he needs no costly instruments, but has only to wade
into the stream, put forth his hand, and gather what he finds.
An intelligent pearl-fisher, who resides near the river Doon, has sent me
the following graphic account of what he calls “the pearl fever:”—“For many
years back the boys were in the habit of amusing themselves in the summer-
time, when the water was shallow, by gathering mussels and searching them
for pearls, having heard somehow that money could be obtained for them; but
meantime, of such gems as he could get from the peasantry, and paying them
a liberal price. The consequence is, that now, instead of there being but one
professed pearl-seeker in Scotland, there are hundreds who cling to pearl-
fishing as their sole occupation, and, being sober and industrious men, they
make a good living by it.
The Scotch pearls were, in the middle ages, celebrated all over Europe for
their size and beauty. Just one hundred years ago—between the years 1761
and 1764—pearls to the value of £10,000 were sent to London from the rivers
Tay and Isla; but the trade carried on in the corresponding years of this
century is far more than double that amount. Mr. Unger estimates the pearls
found last summer (1864) to be of the value to the finders of about £10,000;
whereas, on his first tour, he bought up, four years ago, all that were to be had
for the sum of £40. Single specimens have recently been found worth as
much as £60.
From the middle of last century till about 1860 the Scottish pearl-fisheries
were quite neglected, and large pearls were found only as it were by accident
in occasional dry seasons, when the rivers were scant of water, and the
mussels were consequently accessible without much trouble. It was left for
Mr. Unger to discern the capabilities of the Scottish pearl as an ornamental
gem of great value; and it is now a fact that the beautiful pink-hued pearls of
our Scottish streams are admired even beyond the Oriental pearls of Ceylon.
The Empress Eugenie, Queen Victoria, and other royal ladies, as well as
many of the nobility, have been making large purchases of these Scottish
gems. In some rural districts the peasantry are making little fortunes by pearl-
seeking for only a few hours a day. Many of the undemonstrative weavers
and cobblers, whose residence is near a pearl-producing stream, contrive, in
the early morning, or after the usual day’s work, to step out and gather a few
hundreds of the pearl-containing mussels, in which they are almost sure to
find a few gems of more or less value. The pearl-fisher requires no capital to
set him up in his trade; he needs no costly instruments, but has only to wade
into the stream, put forth his hand, and gather what he finds.
An intelligent pearl-fisher, who resides near the river Doon, has sent me
the following graphic account of what he calls “the pearl fever:”—“For many
years back the boys were in the habit of amusing themselves in the summer-
time, when the water was shallow, by gathering mussels and searching them
for pearls, having heard somehow that money could be obtained for them; but
Page 327
they often enough found that, however difficult it might be to secure the
pearl, it was still more difficult to get it converted into cash—threepence,
sixpence, or a shilling, being the ordinary run of prices, buyers and sellers
being alike ignorant of the commodity in which they were dealing. It was not
until the middle of the summer of 1863 that the fever of pearl-seeking broke
out thoroughly on the banks of the classic Doon. The weather had been
uncommonly dry for some time, and the river had in many places become
extremely shallow; some of the women and children had been employing
their spare time in gathering mussels and opening them, and few of those who
had given it a trial failed to become the possessors of one or more pearls. Just
then Mr. Unger made his appearance, and bought up all he could get at prices
which perfectly startled the people; and, as a consequence, young and old,
male and female, rushed like ducks to the water, and waded, dived, and
swam, till the excitement became so intense as to be called by many the
‘pearl fever.’ The banks of the river for some time presented an extraordinary
scene. Here a solitary female, very lightly clad indeed, is seen wading up to
the breast, and as she stoops to pick up a mussel, her head is of necessity
immersed in the water. Having got hold of a shell she throws it on to the
opposite bank and stoops for another, and in this manner secures as many as
her apron will hold, and carries them home to find that, very likely, she has
more blanks than prizes among them. There, in a shallow part of the stream, a
swarm of boys are trying their fortune; there is a great degree of impatience
in their mode of fishing, for each shell is opened and examined so soon as it
is lifted. A little above them are two scantily-clad females earnestly at work;
one of them is actually stone blind, but she gropes with her naked feet for a
shell, then picks it up with her hand, carefully opens it with a stout knife, and
with her thumb feels every part of its interior. She has been pretty successful,
and her tidy dress when she is resting from her labour betokens the good use
she makes of the proceeds of her fishing. The spectator may next pass
through the crowds of men, women, and boys similarly employed, where the
grassy banks are reddened by the constant tread of many feet, and the smell
of heaps upon heaps of putrid mussels tells the magnitude of the slaughter.
The eye is then attracted by the sight of a man on crutches making for the
river. He soon gets seated on the right bank of the stream, where his better
half, in water almost beyond her depth, is gathering from the bottom of the
muddy and all but stagnant part of the river a quantity of shells for him to
examine. Nor were the labours of this couple unrewarded; by their united
exertions they earned in a few weeks somewhat above £8, and so little idea
pearl, it was still more difficult to get it converted into cash—threepence,
sixpence, or a shilling, being the ordinary run of prices, buyers and sellers
being alike ignorant of the commodity in which they were dealing. It was not
until the middle of the summer of 1863 that the fever of pearl-seeking broke
out thoroughly on the banks of the classic Doon. The weather had been
uncommonly dry for some time, and the river had in many places become
extremely shallow; some of the women and children had been employing
their spare time in gathering mussels and opening them, and few of those who
had given it a trial failed to become the possessors of one or more pearls. Just
then Mr. Unger made his appearance, and bought up all he could get at prices
which perfectly startled the people; and, as a consequence, young and old,
male and female, rushed like ducks to the water, and waded, dived, and
swam, till the excitement became so intense as to be called by many the
‘pearl fever.’ The banks of the river for some time presented an extraordinary
scene. Here a solitary female, very lightly clad indeed, is seen wading up to
the breast, and as she stoops to pick up a mussel, her head is of necessity
immersed in the water. Having got hold of a shell she throws it on to the
opposite bank and stoops for another, and in this manner secures as many as
her apron will hold, and carries them home to find that, very likely, she has
more blanks than prizes among them. There, in a shallow part of the stream, a
swarm of boys are trying their fortune; there is a great degree of impatience
in their mode of fishing, for each shell is opened and examined so soon as it
is lifted. A little above them are two scantily-clad females earnestly at work;
one of them is actually stone blind, but she gropes with her naked feet for a
shell, then picks it up with her hand, carefully opens it with a stout knife, and
with her thumb feels every part of its interior. She has been pretty successful,
and her tidy dress when she is resting from her labour betokens the good use
she makes of the proceeds of her fishing. The spectator may next pass
through the crowds of men, women, and boys similarly employed, where the
grassy banks are reddened by the constant tread of many feet, and the smell
of heaps upon heaps of putrid mussels tells the magnitude of the slaughter.
The eye is then attracted by the sight of a man on crutches making for the
river. He soon gets seated on the right bank of the stream, where his better
half, in water almost beyond her depth, is gathering from the bottom of the
muddy and all but stagnant part of the river a quantity of shells for him to
examine. Nor were the labours of this couple unrewarded; by their united
exertions they earned in a few weeks somewhat above £8, and so little idea
Page 328
had they of the value of the pearls, that on one occasion when they expected
about 15s. for a few they had despatched to the collector, they were agreeably
surprised at the receipt of three times the amount by return of post. It was
found that the fishing was most successful where the river was deep and its
motion sluggish. To get at the mussels in such places, large iron rakes, with
long teeth and handles about twenty feet in length, were procured, and by
means of these some of the deepest parts of the river were dragged and some
valuable pearls secured; many of which were disposed of at £1 each, others at
25s., and one at £2; while a great number ranged from 7s. 6d. to 15s. each.
But by far the greater portion were either entirely useless, or on account of
their smallness, bad shape, or colour, were parted with for a mere trifle. Some
idea of the extent of the pearl-fishery in 1863 of this one river may be
gathered from the fact that Mr. Unger paid to those engaged in it a sum
exceeding £150 for each month the fishing lasted; and a goodly number of
pearls were disposed of to private individuals in the vicinity for their own
special use, besides those that found their way into the markets. During the
continuance of the fishery the general cry was that so much exposure of the
body was likely to introduce a variety of diseases such as had not hitherto
been known in the place; but no such effects made their appearance. And
though there were exceptional cases where the extra cash (for it was like
found money) obtained for the pearls was worse than wasted, there are many
who can point to a new suit of clothes or a good lever watch, when asked
what they had to show as the reward of the many cold drenchings they got
while dredging the Doon for pearls.”
In 1863 a controversy arose as to which rivers produced the best pearls,
and it was then argued that only in those streams issuing from lochs was a
continuous supply of the pearl-mussel to be found, and although there are a
few pearl streams which take their rise in some little spring and gather
volume as they flow, yet their number, as far as is known, is only four—viz.
the Ugie, Ythan, Don, and Isla—and even these are now (1865) very nearly
exhausted. Many of the finest gems have been found in the Doon, Teith,
Forth, Earn, Tay, Lyon, Spey, Conan, etc. etc. Until this summer (1865) it has
been supposed that the lochs are the natural reservoirs of the pearl-mussel,
and when in 1860-1 a portion of Loch Venachar was laid dry for the purpose
of building a sluice for the Glasgow Waterworks, innumerable shells were
found, from which the labourers gathered a great many very fine pearls. The
above theory was thereby so much confirmed that Mr. Unger was induced in
about 15s. for a few they had despatched to the collector, they were agreeably
surprised at the receipt of three times the amount by return of post. It was
found that the fishing was most successful where the river was deep and its
motion sluggish. To get at the mussels in such places, large iron rakes, with
long teeth and handles about twenty feet in length, were procured, and by
means of these some of the deepest parts of the river were dragged and some
valuable pearls secured; many of which were disposed of at £1 each, others at
25s., and one at £2; while a great number ranged from 7s. 6d. to 15s. each.
But by far the greater portion were either entirely useless, or on account of
their smallness, bad shape, or colour, were parted with for a mere trifle. Some
idea of the extent of the pearl-fishery in 1863 of this one river may be
gathered from the fact that Mr. Unger paid to those engaged in it a sum
exceeding £150 for each month the fishing lasted; and a goodly number of
pearls were disposed of to private individuals in the vicinity for their own
special use, besides those that found their way into the markets. During the
continuance of the fishery the general cry was that so much exposure of the
body was likely to introduce a variety of diseases such as had not hitherto
been known in the place; but no such effects made their appearance. And
though there were exceptional cases where the extra cash (for it was like
found money) obtained for the pearls was worse than wasted, there are many
who can point to a new suit of clothes or a good lever watch, when asked
what they had to show as the reward of the many cold drenchings they got
while dredging the Doon for pearls.”
In 1863 a controversy arose as to which rivers produced the best pearls,
and it was then argued that only in those streams issuing from lochs was a
continuous supply of the pearl-mussel to be found, and although there are a
few pearl streams which take their rise in some little spring and gather
volume as they flow, yet their number, as far as is known, is only four—viz.
the Ugie, Ythan, Don, and Isla—and even these are now (1865) very nearly
exhausted. Many of the finest gems have been found in the Doon, Teith,
Forth, Earn, Tay, Lyon, Spey, Conan, etc. etc. Until this summer (1865) it has
been supposed that the lochs are the natural reservoirs of the pearl-mussel,
and when in 1860-1 a portion of Loch Venachar was laid dry for the purpose
of building a sluice for the Glasgow Waterworks, innumerable shells were
found, from which the labourers gathered a great many very fine pearls. The
above theory was thereby so much confirmed that Mr. Unger was induced in
Page 329
1864 to try further experiments on Lochs Venachar, Achray, and Lubnaig, by
means of dredging, which, considering the rough mode of procedure, was so
successful, especially on a place called Lynn Achore, at the east end of Loch
Venachar, that he at last considered himself justified in incurring considerable
expense. Accordingly he procured this summer (1865) one of Siebes’ diving
apparatus, and bringing down one of the best divers from London, proceeded
to search the bottoms of several lochs on a systematic plan. Many obstacles
were thrown in Mr. Unger’s way by the proprietors, and although he was
particularly anxious to experiment on Loch Tay, the present Earl of
Breadalbane would not grant permission for him to do so. But with the
consent of the Earl of Moray the first regular trial was made on Loch
Venachar, and it was ascertained beyond a doubt that shells were to be found
in all the sandy shallow parts of the loch; not however in beds, as people were
led to suppose from dredging experiments, but only here and there in clusters
of a dozen or so, except at the mouth of the loch, where they were more
extensive and in larger quantities. The diver also went down in various parts
of the loch to the depth of a hundred feet, where it was found to be quite
impracticable to search for anything so small as a pearl-mussel on account of
the thick muddy bottom. Mr. Unger, nothing daunted by this partial failure,
went to Sir Robert Menzies, who not only consented at once to his trying
Loch Rannoch, but generously placed all available boats and utensils, besides
the service of several men, at his disposal; after a week’s trial, however, Mr.
Unger was reluctantly compelled for the present to desist from any further
experiments.
Pearls are found in many of the Irish and Welsh rivers, and Mr. Unger now
receives constant accessions to his stock from the north of Ireland. The
Conway was noted for pearls in the days of Camden. The pearl-mussels are
called by the Welsh “Deluge shells,” and are thought by the ignorant to have
been left by the Flood. The river Irt, in Cumberland, was also at one time a
famous stream for pearls; and during last century several pearls were found in
the streams of Ireland, particularly in the counties of Tyrone and Donegal. We
read of specimens that fetched sums varying from £4 to £80.
If my readers be curious to know how many shells will have to be opened
before this toil is rewarded with a find of pearls, let them be told that, on the
average, the searcher never opens a hundred mussels without being made
happy with a few of the gems. It is remarked that they are more certain to
have pearls when they are taken from the stony places of the river. Thousands
means of dredging, which, considering the rough mode of procedure, was so
successful, especially on a place called Lynn Achore, at the east end of Loch
Venachar, that he at last considered himself justified in incurring considerable
expense. Accordingly he procured this summer (1865) one of Siebes’ diving
apparatus, and bringing down one of the best divers from London, proceeded
to search the bottoms of several lochs on a systematic plan. Many obstacles
were thrown in Mr. Unger’s way by the proprietors, and although he was
particularly anxious to experiment on Loch Tay, the present Earl of
Breadalbane would not grant permission for him to do so. But with the
consent of the Earl of Moray the first regular trial was made on Loch
Venachar, and it was ascertained beyond a doubt that shells were to be found
in all the sandy shallow parts of the loch; not however in beds, as people were
led to suppose from dredging experiments, but only here and there in clusters
of a dozen or so, except at the mouth of the loch, where they were more
extensive and in larger quantities. The diver also went down in various parts
of the loch to the depth of a hundred feet, where it was found to be quite
impracticable to search for anything so small as a pearl-mussel on account of
the thick muddy bottom. Mr. Unger, nothing daunted by this partial failure,
went to Sir Robert Menzies, who not only consented at once to his trying
Loch Rannoch, but generously placed all available boats and utensils, besides
the service of several men, at his disposal; after a week’s trial, however, Mr.
Unger was reluctantly compelled for the present to desist from any further
experiments.
Pearls are found in many of the Irish and Welsh rivers, and Mr. Unger now
receives constant accessions to his stock from the north of Ireland. The
Conway was noted for pearls in the days of Camden. The pearl-mussels are
called by the Welsh “Deluge shells,” and are thought by the ignorant to have
been left by the Flood. The river Irt, in Cumberland, was also at one time a
famous stream for pearls; and during last century several pearls were found in
the streams of Ireland, particularly in the counties of Tyrone and Donegal. We
read of specimens that fetched sums varying from £4 to £80.
If my readers be curious to know how many shells will have to be opened
before this toil is rewarded with a find of pearls, let them be told that, on the
average, the searcher never opens a hundred mussels without being made
happy with a few of the gems. It is remarked that they are more certain to
have pearls when they are taken from the stony places of the river. Thousands
Page 330
of mussels have been found in the sand, but these have rarely if ever
contained a single pearl; whilst the shells again that are found in soft and
muddy bottoms have plenty of gems, but they are poor in quality and bad in
colour. No pearls are ever found in a young shell, and all such may at once be
rejected. A skilful operator opens the mussel with a shell, in order to avoid
scratching the pearl; the opened fish is thrown into the water, and it is either
the mussels or the insects gathering about them that are greedily devoured by
the salmon and other fish, so that those proprietors of streams who were
becoming uneasy as to the effects of the pearl-fishery on the salmon may set
their minds at rest. Although at one time none of the London dealers in gems
would look at a Scotch pearl, it is an interesting fact that now the fame of the
Scottish fisheries has so extended as to bring buyers from France and other
Continental countries; and, as boats and dredges are now being introduced, it
is thought that any moderate demand may be supplied. Great quantities of
pearls have been sent to the collector through the post-office.
An Ayrshire paper says of the Doon fishery:—“That owing to the
wholesale slaughter of the mussels last season, the pearl-fishing this summer
(1864) in the river Doon has been neither so exciting nor remunerative. Few
have paid much attention to it; but even amongst those few rather more than
£100 has been obtained for pearls since the month of May, there being more
than one individual who has earned at least £13 during that period, having
followed their avocation daily, whilst the pearl-fishing was engaged in as a
profitable recreation. As a whole the pearls of the river Doon are of an
inferior quality, £2 being about the highest price at which any of them have
been sold; these weighed from eight to twelve grains, but were far from being
very bright in colour. ‘It is all a matter of chance,’ say some of the pearl-
fishers; ‘you may fish a whole day and not make sixpence, and one worth a
pound may be, yea has been, found in the second shell.’” Such things have
frequently happened, but the earnest plodding fisher has always been
handsomely paid for his work. Though on an average a pearl is found in
every thirty shells, only one pearl in every ten is fit for the market. It will thus
be seen that one hundred and thirty shells have to be gathered, opened, and
examined, and one hundred and thirty lives sacrificed, in order to secure one
marketable pearl.[16]
It is not unlikely that the present mania for pearl-gathering may very
speedily exhaust the supply of mussels. The energy with which the fishing is
carried on undoubtedly points to a very speedy diminution of a shell-fish
contained a single pearl; whilst the shells again that are found in soft and
muddy bottoms have plenty of gems, but they are poor in quality and bad in
colour. No pearls are ever found in a young shell, and all such may at once be
rejected. A skilful operator opens the mussel with a shell, in order to avoid
scratching the pearl; the opened fish is thrown into the water, and it is either
the mussels or the insects gathering about them that are greedily devoured by
the salmon and other fish, so that those proprietors of streams who were
becoming uneasy as to the effects of the pearl-fishery on the salmon may set
their minds at rest. Although at one time none of the London dealers in gems
would look at a Scotch pearl, it is an interesting fact that now the fame of the
Scottish fisheries has so extended as to bring buyers from France and other
Continental countries; and, as boats and dredges are now being introduced, it
is thought that any moderate demand may be supplied. Great quantities of
pearls have been sent to the collector through the post-office.
An Ayrshire paper says of the Doon fishery:—“That owing to the
wholesale slaughter of the mussels last season, the pearl-fishing this summer
(1864) in the river Doon has been neither so exciting nor remunerative. Few
have paid much attention to it; but even amongst those few rather more than
£100 has been obtained for pearls since the month of May, there being more
than one individual who has earned at least £13 during that period, having
followed their avocation daily, whilst the pearl-fishing was engaged in as a
profitable recreation. As a whole the pearls of the river Doon are of an
inferior quality, £2 being about the highest price at which any of them have
been sold; these weighed from eight to twelve grains, but were far from being
very bright in colour. ‘It is all a matter of chance,’ say some of the pearl-
fishers; ‘you may fish a whole day and not make sixpence, and one worth a
pound may be, yea has been, found in the second shell.’” Such things have
frequently happened, but the earnest plodding fisher has always been
handsomely paid for his work. Though on an average a pearl is found in
every thirty shells, only one pearl in every ten is fit for the market. It will thus
be seen that one hundred and thirty shells have to be gathered, opened, and
examined, and one hundred and thirty lives sacrificed, in order to secure one
marketable pearl.[16]
It is not unlikely that the present mania for pearl-gathering may very
speedily exhaust the supply of mussels. The energy with which the fishing is
carried on undoubtedly points to a very speedy diminution of a shell-fish
Page 331
which was never very plentiful, and it would be a very good plan to try the
system of culture on hurdles which has been found so successful for the
growth of the edible mussel of the Bay of Aiguillon, to be now described.
Considering the importance attached by fishermen to the easy attainment
of a cheap supply of bait, it is surprising that no attempt has been made in this
country to economise and regulate the various mussel-beds which abound on
the Scottish and English coasts. The mussel is very largely used for bait, and
fishermen have to go far, and pay dear, for what they require—their wives
and families being also employed to gather as many as they can possibly
procure on the accessible places of the coast, but usually the bait has to be
purchased and carried from long distances. I propose to show our fisher-
people how these matters are managed in France, and how they may obviate
the labour and expense connected with bait buying or gathering, by growing
such a crop of mussels as would not only suffice for an abundant supply of
bait, but produce a large quantity for sale as well.
MUSSEL-STAKES.
system of culture on hurdles which has been found so successful for the
growth of the edible mussel of the Bay of Aiguillon, to be now described.
Considering the importance attached by fishermen to the easy attainment
of a cheap supply of bait, it is surprising that no attempt has been made in this
country to economise and regulate the various mussel-beds which abound on
the Scottish and English coasts. The mussel is very largely used for bait, and
fishermen have to go far, and pay dear, for what they require—their wives
and families being also employed to gather as many as they can possibly
procure on the accessible places of the coast, but usually the bait has to be
purchased and carried from long distances. I propose to show our fisher-
people how these matters are managed in France, and how they may obviate
the labour and expense connected with bait buying or gathering, by growing
such a crop of mussels as would not only suffice for an abundant supply of
bait, but produce a large quantity for sale as well.
MUSSEL-STAKES.
Page 332
Mussel-culture has been carried on with immense success on a certain part
of the coast of France for a period of no less than seven centuries! So long
ago as the year of grace 1135 an Irish barque was wrecked in the Bay of
Aiguillon. The cargo and one of the crew were saved by the humanity of the
fishermen inhabiting the coast. The name of the one man who was thus saved
from shipwreck was Walton, and he gave to the people, in gratitude for
saving his life, the germ of a marvellous fish-breeding idea. He invented
artificial mussel-culture. An exile from Erin, Walton was ingenious enough to
create a “hurdle,” which, intercepting the spat of the mussels, served as a
place for them to grow. In a sense, the origin of this mussel-farm was
accidental. The bay where this industry is now flourishing was, at the time of
the shipwreck, and is at present, a vast expanse of mud, frequented by sea-
fowl, and it was while devising a kind of net or trap for the capture of these
that he obtained the germ of his future idea of mussel-culture. The net or bag-
trap which he employed in catching the night birds which floated on the
water was fixed in the mud by means of tolerably strong supports, and he
soon found out that the parts of his net which were sunk in the water had
intercepted large quantities of mussel-spat, which in time grew into the finest
possible mussels, larger in size and finer in quality than those grown upon the
neighbouring mud. From less to more this simple discovery progressed into a
regular industry, which at present forms almost the sole occupation of the
inhabitants of the neighbouring shores. The system pursued is that invented
by Walton about the middle of the twelfth century, and has been handed down
from generation to generation in all its original simplicity and ingenuity. The
apparatus for the growth of the mussel, with which the bay is now almost
covered, is called a bouchot, and is of very simple construction. A number of
strong piles or stakes, each 12 feet in length and 6 inches in diameter, are
driven into the mud to the depth of 6 feet, at a distance of about 2 feet from
each other, and are ranged in two converging rows, so as to form a V, the
sharp point of which is always turned towards the sea, that the stakes may
offer the least possible resistance to the waves. These two rows form the
framework of the bouchot. Strong branches of trees are then twisted and
interwoven into the upper part of the stakes, which are 6 feet in height, until
the whole length of the row is, by this species of basket-work on a large scale,
formed into a strong fence or palisade. A space of a few inches is left between
the bottom of the fence and the surface of the mud, to allow the water to pass
freely between the stakes when the tide ebbs and flows. The sides of the
bouchot are from 200 to 250 metres long, and each bouchot, therefore, forms
of the coast of France for a period of no less than seven centuries! So long
ago as the year of grace 1135 an Irish barque was wrecked in the Bay of
Aiguillon. The cargo and one of the crew were saved by the humanity of the
fishermen inhabiting the coast. The name of the one man who was thus saved
from shipwreck was Walton, and he gave to the people, in gratitude for
saving his life, the germ of a marvellous fish-breeding idea. He invented
artificial mussel-culture. An exile from Erin, Walton was ingenious enough to
create a “hurdle,” which, intercepting the spat of the mussels, served as a
place for them to grow. In a sense, the origin of this mussel-farm was
accidental. The bay where this industry is now flourishing was, at the time of
the shipwreck, and is at present, a vast expanse of mud, frequented by sea-
fowl, and it was while devising a kind of net or trap for the capture of these
that he obtained the germ of his future idea of mussel-culture. The net or bag-
trap which he employed in catching the night birds which floated on the
water was fixed in the mud by means of tolerably strong supports, and he
soon found out that the parts of his net which were sunk in the water had
intercepted large quantities of mussel-spat, which in time grew into the finest
possible mussels, larger in size and finer in quality than those grown upon the
neighbouring mud. From less to more this simple discovery progressed into a
regular industry, which at present forms almost the sole occupation of the
inhabitants of the neighbouring shores. The system pursued is that invented
by Walton about the middle of the twelfth century, and has been handed down
from generation to generation in all its original simplicity and ingenuity. The
apparatus for the growth of the mussel, with which the bay is now almost
covered, is called a bouchot, and is of very simple construction. A number of
strong piles or stakes, each 12 feet in length and 6 inches in diameter, are
driven into the mud to the depth of 6 feet, at a distance of about 2 feet from
each other, and are ranged in two converging rows, so as to form a V, the
sharp point of which is always turned towards the sea, that the stakes may
offer the least possible resistance to the waves. These two rows form the
framework of the bouchot. Strong branches of trees are then twisted and
interwoven into the upper part of the stakes, which are 6 feet in height, until
the whole length of the row is, by this species of basket-work on a large scale,
formed into a strong fence or palisade. A space of a few inches is left between
the bottom of the fence and the surface of the mud, to allow the water to pass
freely between the stakes when the tide ebbs and flows. The sides of the
bouchot are from 200 to 250 metres long, and each bouchot, therefore, forms
Page 333
a fence of about 450 metres, 6 feet high. There are now some 500 of these
bouchots or breeding-grounds in the Bay of Aiguillon, making a fence of
225,000 metres, extending over a space of 8 kilometres, or 5 miles, from the
point of St. Clemens to the mouth of the river of Marans.
A MUSSEL-FARM.
The Bay of Aiguillon, as has already been observed, is a vast field of mud,
and, when left dry at low water, it is impassable on foot. To enable him to
traverse it at low water, the boucholeur uses a canoe. This canoe, formed of
plain planks of wood, is about nine feet in length and eighteen inches in
breadth and depth, the fore-end being something like the usual shape of the
bow of a boat. The boucholeur places himself at the stern of the canoe, rests
his right knee on the bottom of the boat, leans his body forward, and, seizing
the two sides of the canoe with his hands, throws out his left leg, which is
encased in a strong boot, backwards to serve as an oar. In this position he
pushes his left leg in and out of the mud, and thus propels his light boat along
the surface to whatever part of the field he wishes to visit. Notwithstanding
the windings and twistings of the confused maze formed on the surface of the
bay by the bouchots, long habit enables the boucholeur, even in the darkest
bouchots or breeding-grounds in the Bay of Aiguillon, making a fence of
225,000 metres, extending over a space of 8 kilometres, or 5 miles, from the
point of St. Clemens to the mouth of the river of Marans.
A MUSSEL-FARM.
The Bay of Aiguillon, as has already been observed, is a vast field of mud,
and, when left dry at low water, it is impassable on foot. To enable him to
traverse it at low water, the boucholeur uses a canoe. This canoe, formed of
plain planks of wood, is about nine feet in length and eighteen inches in
breadth and depth, the fore-end being something like the usual shape of the
bow of a boat. The boucholeur places himself at the stern of the canoe, rests
his right knee on the bottom of the boat, leans his body forward, and, seizing
the two sides of the canoe with his hands, throws out his left leg, which is
encased in a strong boot, backwards to serve as an oar. In this position he
pushes his left leg in and out of the mud, and thus propels his light boat along
the surface to whatever part of the field he wishes to visit. Notwithstanding
the windings and twistings of the confused maze formed on the surface of the
bay by the bouchots, long habit enables the boucholeur, even in the darkest
Page 334
night, to distinguish his neighbour’s establishment in the crowd. The
boucholeur uses his canoe not only in transporting his mussels from the
bouchot to the shore, and attending to the various operations of the mussel-
field, but also in conveying to the proper spot the stakes and hurdles
necessary for the construction and repair of the bouchots. The furrows left by
the canoe in the mud might, in the summer time, by hardening in the sun,
render the propulsion of his canoe across the field a very arduous task to the
boucholeur. Nature has, however, provided an admirable remedy for this
possible evil. A small crustacean, the corophie, appears in great numbers in
the mud-field about the end of the month of April, and during the summer
months levels and overturns many leagues of these furrows, and mixes the
mud with water, in searching after the innumerable multitudes of worms
(annelidæ) of all species that infest the mud. The corophies, which are
remarkably fond of these marine worms, pursue them in every direction
through the mud; and, by their vigorous efforts to discover their prey, prevent
the furrows from forming an obstacle to the progress of the boucholeur. This
crustacean disappears suddenly, in a single night, towards the end of October.
The cultivation of mussels is carried on by the inhabitants of the
communes of Esnandes, Chavron, and Marsilly. Many of the boucholeurs
possess several bouchots, while the poorest of them have only a share of one
bouchot, cultivating it, together with the other owners, and dividing the
profits among them, according to their shares. The bouchots are arranged in
four divisions, according to their position in the bay, and are distinguished as
bouchots du bas or d’aval, bouchots batard, bouchots milieu, and bouchots
d’avant. The bouchots du bas, placed farthest from the shore, and only
uncovered during spring tides, are not formed of fences as the bouchots
proper, but consist simply of a row of stakes, planted about one boat distant
from each other, and in the most favourable position for the preservation of
the naissain, or young of the mussels. Upon these isolated stakes the spat is
allowed to collect, which is afterwards to be transplanted for the purpose of
peopling barren or poorly-furnished palisades in those divisions which,
planted nearer the shore, are more frequently uncovered by the tide.
The various operations of mussel-cultivation are designated by agricultural
terms—such as sowing, planting, transplanting, etc. Towards the end of April
the seed (semence) fixed during February and March to the stakes of the
bouchot du bas is about the size of a grain of flax, and is then called naissain.
By the month of July it attains the size of a bean, and is called renouvelain,
boucholeur uses his canoe not only in transporting his mussels from the
bouchot to the shore, and attending to the various operations of the mussel-
field, but also in conveying to the proper spot the stakes and hurdles
necessary for the construction and repair of the bouchots. The furrows left by
the canoe in the mud might, in the summer time, by hardening in the sun,
render the propulsion of his canoe across the field a very arduous task to the
boucholeur. Nature has, however, provided an admirable remedy for this
possible evil. A small crustacean, the corophie, appears in great numbers in
the mud-field about the end of the month of April, and during the summer
months levels and overturns many leagues of these furrows, and mixes the
mud with water, in searching after the innumerable multitudes of worms
(annelidæ) of all species that infest the mud. The corophies, which are
remarkably fond of these marine worms, pursue them in every direction
through the mud; and, by their vigorous efforts to discover their prey, prevent
the furrows from forming an obstacle to the progress of the boucholeur. This
crustacean disappears suddenly, in a single night, towards the end of October.
The cultivation of mussels is carried on by the inhabitants of the
communes of Esnandes, Chavron, and Marsilly. Many of the boucholeurs
possess several bouchots, while the poorest of them have only a share of one
bouchot, cultivating it, together with the other owners, and dividing the
profits among them, according to their shares. The bouchots are arranged in
four divisions, according to their position in the bay, and are distinguished as
bouchots du bas or d’aval, bouchots batard, bouchots milieu, and bouchots
d’avant. The bouchots du bas, placed farthest from the shore, and only
uncovered during spring tides, are not formed of fences as the bouchots
proper, but consist simply of a row of stakes, planted about one boat distant
from each other, and in the most favourable position for the preservation of
the naissain, or young of the mussels. Upon these isolated stakes the spat is
allowed to collect, which is afterwards to be transplanted for the purpose of
peopling barren or poorly-furnished palisades in those divisions which,
planted nearer the shore, are more frequently uncovered by the tide.
The various operations of mussel-cultivation are designated by agricultural
terms—such as sowing, planting, transplanting, etc. Towards the end of April
the seed (semence) fixed during February and March to the stakes of the
bouchot du bas is about the size of a grain of flax, and is then called naissain.
By the month of July it attains the size of a bean, and is called renouvelain,
Page 335
and is then ready for transplantation to a less favourable state of existence
upon the bouchot batard, where the action of the tide would probably have
retarded its growth if transplanted earlier. In the month of July, then, the
boucholeurs direct their canoes towards the isolated stakes, bearing the
semence, now developed into the renouvelain, which they detach by means of
a hook fixed to the end of a pole. Care is taken to gather such a quantity as
they are able to transplant during low water—the only time when this
operation can be carried on. The semence, placed in baskets, is transported by
means of the canoe to the fences of the bouchot batard. The operation of
fixing the renouvelain upon the palisades of the bouchot batard is called la
batrisse. The semence, enclosed in bags of old net, is placed in all the empty
spaces along the palisades until the hurdles are quite covered, sufficient space
being left between the bags to admit of the growth of the young mussels. The
bags soon rot and fall to pieces, leaving the young mussels adhering to the
sides of the bouchot. The mussels by and by attain a large size, and grow so
close to each other that the whole fence looks like a wall blackened by fire.
When the mussels grow so large that they touch and overlap each other, the
cultivator thins the too-crowded ranks of the bouchots batard, in order to
make way for a younger generation of mussels. The mussels thus obtained are
transplanted and placed on the empty or partially-covered hurdles, and
transplanted to the bouchot milieu, which is uncovered during neap-tides.
This operation is performed in the manner already described, only the larger
size of the mussels renders the use of a net to enclose them unnecessary. The
labour of transplanting is continued so long as there remain upon the bouchot
du bas any renouvelain fit for being placed on the bouchots nearer the shore.
The work must be carried on at all times of the day and night during low
water, as that is the only period that the bouchots are uncovered. There is also
the labour of replacing and covering with mussels any of the palisades that
may have sunk or been broken.
After about a year’s sojourn on these artificial beds the mussels are fit for
the market. Before being ready for sale, they are transplanted to the buchots
d’avant, which are placed close to the shore to admit of the mussels being
easily gathered by the hand when ready for the market. A very perceptible
difference in quality is seen in the mussels grown on different parts of the bay
—those of the upper division possessing the finest flavour, while those of the
lower divisions are much inferior, a circumstance caused no doubt by their
suffering much more from the influence of the wind.
upon the bouchot batard, where the action of the tide would probably have
retarded its growth if transplanted earlier. In the month of July, then, the
boucholeurs direct their canoes towards the isolated stakes, bearing the
semence, now developed into the renouvelain, which they detach by means of
a hook fixed to the end of a pole. Care is taken to gather such a quantity as
they are able to transplant during low water—the only time when this
operation can be carried on. The semence, placed in baskets, is transported by
means of the canoe to the fences of the bouchot batard. The operation of
fixing the renouvelain upon the palisades of the bouchot batard is called la
batrisse. The semence, enclosed in bags of old net, is placed in all the empty
spaces along the palisades until the hurdles are quite covered, sufficient space
being left between the bags to admit of the growth of the young mussels. The
bags soon rot and fall to pieces, leaving the young mussels adhering to the
sides of the bouchot. The mussels by and by attain a large size, and grow so
close to each other that the whole fence looks like a wall blackened by fire.
When the mussels grow so large that they touch and overlap each other, the
cultivator thins the too-crowded ranks of the bouchots batard, in order to
make way for a younger generation of mussels. The mussels thus obtained are
transplanted and placed on the empty or partially-covered hurdles, and
transplanted to the bouchot milieu, which is uncovered during neap-tides.
This operation is performed in the manner already described, only the larger
size of the mussels renders the use of a net to enclose them unnecessary. The
labour of transplanting is continued so long as there remain upon the bouchot
du bas any renouvelain fit for being placed on the bouchots nearer the shore.
The work must be carried on at all times of the day and night during low
water, as that is the only period that the bouchots are uncovered. There is also
the labour of replacing and covering with mussels any of the palisades that
may have sunk or been broken.
After about a year’s sojourn on these artificial beds the mussels are fit for
the market. Before being ready for sale, they are transplanted to the buchots
d’avant, which are placed close to the shore to admit of the mussels being
easily gathered by the hand when ready for the market. A very perceptible
difference in quality is seen in the mussels grown on different parts of the bay
—those of the upper division possessing the finest flavour, while those of the
lower divisions are much inferior, a circumstance caused no doubt by their
suffering much more from the influence of the wind.
Page 336
The mussel has become, by its abundance and cheapness, the daily food of
the poorer classes, and sells well throughout the year. It is, however, only in
season from the month of July till the end of January, and it is during that
period that the most important operations of the farmer are carried on, and
that the great part of the harvest is sent to the market. During the spawning
season, which lasts from the end of February to the end of April, they lose
their good flavour and become meagre and tough.
At the foot of the cliffs, along the shores, the boucholeurs dig large holes
for the purpose of storing their implements of labour. When a supply of
mussels is required for a neighbouring market the boucholeurs bring them in
their canoes to the landing-place, whence they are conveyed by the wives to
these stores, where they are cleared and packed in hampers and baskets,
which are placed upon the backs of horses or in carts, and driven during the
night to the place of destination, which is reached in good time for the
opening of the market in the morning. About 140 horses and 90 carts are
employed for the purpose of thus supplying the neighbouring towns and
villages.
A well-peopled bouchot usually yields, according to the length of its sides,
from 400 to 500 loads of mussels—that is at the rate of a load per metre. A
load weighs 150 kilogrammes (about 3 cwts.), and sells for 5 francs. A single
bouchot, therefore, bears about 60,000 or 75,000 kilogrammes annually in
weight, of the value of from 2000 to 2500 francs. The whole harvest of these
bouchots would therefore weigh from 30 to 35 millions of kilogrammes,
which would yield a revenue of something like a million francs.
I hope this plan of mussel-culture will speedily be adopted on our own
coasts; it would be a saving of both time and money to the fishermen, who
cannot do without bait in large quantities, seeing that the number of hooks
required for the line-fishing has so largely increased during late years. The
procuring of the necessary quantity of mussels is sometimes impossible; and
when that is the case the men cannot proceed to the fishing, but have to
remain at home in forced idleness till the bait can be obtained. This plan of
growing the mussels might be easily adopted by our fisher-folks, whom it is
now my province to describe.
the poorer classes, and sells well throughout the year. It is, however, only in
season from the month of July till the end of January, and it is during that
period that the most important operations of the farmer are carried on, and
that the great part of the harvest is sent to the market. During the spawning
season, which lasts from the end of February to the end of April, they lose
their good flavour and become meagre and tough.
At the foot of the cliffs, along the shores, the boucholeurs dig large holes
for the purpose of storing their implements of labour. When a supply of
mussels is required for a neighbouring market the boucholeurs bring them in
their canoes to the landing-place, whence they are conveyed by the wives to
these stores, where they are cleared and packed in hampers and baskets,
which are placed upon the backs of horses or in carts, and driven during the
night to the place of destination, which is reached in good time for the
opening of the market in the morning. About 140 horses and 90 carts are
employed for the purpose of thus supplying the neighbouring towns and
villages.
A well-peopled bouchot usually yields, according to the length of its sides,
from 400 to 500 loads of mussels—that is at the rate of a load per metre. A
load weighs 150 kilogrammes (about 3 cwts.), and sells for 5 francs. A single
bouchot, therefore, bears about 60,000 or 75,000 kilogrammes annually in
weight, of the value of from 2000 to 2500 francs. The whole harvest of these
bouchots would therefore weigh from 30 to 35 millions of kilogrammes,
which would yield a revenue of something like a million francs.
I hope this plan of mussel-culture will speedily be adopted on our own
coasts; it would be a saving of both time and money to the fishermen, who
cannot do without bait in large quantities, seeing that the number of hooks
required for the line-fishing has so largely increased during late years. The
procuring of the necessary quantity of mussels is sometimes impossible; and
when that is the case the men cannot proceed to the fishing, but have to
remain at home in forced idleness till the bait can be obtained. This plan of
growing the mussels might be easily adopted by our fisher-folks, whom it is
now my province to describe.
Page 337
CHAPTER X.
THE FISHER-FOLK.
The Fisher-People the same everywhere—Growth of a Fishing Village—Marrying and giving in
Marriage—The Fisher-Folks’ Dance—Newhaven near Edinburgh—Newhaven Fishwives—A
Fishwife’s mode of doing Business—Superstitions—Fisherrow—Dunbar—Buckhaven—Cost of
a Boat and its Gear—Scene of the Antiquary: Auchmithie—Smoking Haddocks—The Round of
Fisher Life—“Finnan Haddies”—Fittie and its quaint Inhabitants—Across to Dieppe—Bay of
the Departed—The Eel-Breeders of Comacchio—The French Fishwives—Narrative of a
Fishwife—Buckie—Nicknames of the Fisher-Folk—Effects of a Storm on the Coast.
book professing to describe the harvest of the sea must of necessity
A have a chapter about the quaint people who gather in the harvest,
otherwise it would be like playing “Hamlet” without the hero.
I have a considerable acquaintance with the fisher-folk; and while
engaged in collecting information about the fisheries, and in investigating
the natural history of the herring and other food-fishes, have visited most of
the Scottish fishing villages and many of the English ones, nor have I
neglected Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy; and wherever I went I found
the fisher-folk to be the same, no matter whether they talked a French patois
or a Scottish dialect, such as one may hear at Buckie on the Moray Firth, or
in the Rue de Pollet of Dieppe. The manners, customs, mode of life, and
even the dress and superstitions, are nearly the same on the coast of France
as they are on the coast of Fife, and used-up gentlemen in search of seaside
sensations could scarcely do better than take a tour among the Scottish
fisher-folks, in order to view the wonders of the fishing season, its curious
industry, and the quaint people.
There are scenes on the coast worthy of any sketch-book; there are also
curious seaside resorts that have not yet been vulgarised by hordes of
summer visitors—infant fishing villages, set down by accident in the most
romantic spots, occupied by hardy men and rosy women, who have children
“paidling” in the water or building castles upon the sand. Such seascapes—
for they look more like pictures than realities—may be witnessed from the
deck of the steamboat on the way to Inverness or Ultima Thule. Looking
from the steamer—if one cannot see the coast in any other way—at one of
THE FISHER-FOLK.
The Fisher-People the same everywhere—Growth of a Fishing Village—Marrying and giving in
Marriage—The Fisher-Folks’ Dance—Newhaven near Edinburgh—Newhaven Fishwives—A
Fishwife’s mode of doing Business—Superstitions—Fisherrow—Dunbar—Buckhaven—Cost of
a Boat and its Gear—Scene of the Antiquary: Auchmithie—Smoking Haddocks—The Round of
Fisher Life—“Finnan Haddies”—Fittie and its quaint Inhabitants—Across to Dieppe—Bay of
the Departed—The Eel-Breeders of Comacchio—The French Fishwives—Narrative of a
Fishwife—Buckie—Nicknames of the Fisher-Folk—Effects of a Storm on the Coast.
book professing to describe the harvest of the sea must of necessity
A have a chapter about the quaint people who gather in the harvest,
otherwise it would be like playing “Hamlet” without the hero.
I have a considerable acquaintance with the fisher-folk; and while
engaged in collecting information about the fisheries, and in investigating
the natural history of the herring and other food-fishes, have visited most of
the Scottish fishing villages and many of the English ones, nor have I
neglected Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy; and wherever I went I found
the fisher-folk to be the same, no matter whether they talked a French patois
or a Scottish dialect, such as one may hear at Buckie on the Moray Firth, or
in the Rue de Pollet of Dieppe. The manners, customs, mode of life, and
even the dress and superstitions, are nearly the same on the coast of France
as they are on the coast of Fife, and used-up gentlemen in search of seaside
sensations could scarcely do better than take a tour among the Scottish
fisher-folks, in order to view the wonders of the fishing season, its curious
industry, and the quaint people.
There are scenes on the coast worthy of any sketch-book; there are also
curious seaside resorts that have not yet been vulgarised by hordes of
summer visitors—infant fishing villages, set down by accident in the most
romantic spots, occupied by hardy men and rosy women, who have children
“paidling” in the water or building castles upon the sand. Such seascapes—
for they look more like pictures than realities—may be witnessed from the
deck of the steamboat on the way to Inverness or Ultima Thule. Looking
from the steamer—if one cannot see the coast in any other way—at one of
Page 338
these embryo communities, one may readily guess, from the fond attitude of
the youthful pair who are leaning on the old boat, that another cottage will
speedily require to be added to the two now existing. In a few years there
will be another; in course of time the four may be eight, the eight sixteen;
and lo! in a generation there is built a large village, with its adult population
gaining wealth by mining in the silvery quarries of the sea; and by and by
we will see with a pleased eye groups of youngsters splashing in the water
or gathering sea-ware on the shore, and old men pottering about the rocks
setting lobster-pots, doing business in the crustaceous delicacies of the
season. And on glorious afternoons, when the atmosphere is pure, and the
briny perfume delicious to inhale—when the water glances merrily in the
sunlight, and the sails of the dancing boats are just filled by a capful of
wind—the people will be out to view the scene and note the growing
industry of the place; and, as the old song says—
“O weel may the boatie row,
And better may she speed;
And muckle luck attend the boat
That wins the bairnies’ bread.”
In good time the little community will have its annals of births,
marriages, and deaths; its chronicles of storms, its records of disasters, and
its glimpses of prosperity; and in two hundred years its origin may be lost,
and the inhabitants of the original village represented by descendants in the
sixth generation. At any rate, boats will increase, curers of herrings and
merchants who buy fish will visit the village and circulate their money, and
so the place will thrive. If a pier should be built, and a railway branch out to
it, who knows but it may become a great port.
I first became acquainted with the fisher-folk by assisting at a
fisherman’s marriage. Marrying and giving in marriage involves an
occasional festival among the fisher-folks of Newhaven of drinking and
dancing—and all the fisher-folks are fond of the dance. In the more
populous fishing towns there are usually a dozen or two of marriages to
celebrate at the close of each herring season; and as these weddings are
what are called in Scotland penny weddings—i.e. weddings at which each
guest pays a small sum for his entertainment—there is no difficulty in
the youthful pair who are leaning on the old boat, that another cottage will
speedily require to be added to the two now existing. In a few years there
will be another; in course of time the four may be eight, the eight sixteen;
and lo! in a generation there is built a large village, with its adult population
gaining wealth by mining in the silvery quarries of the sea; and by and by
we will see with a pleased eye groups of youngsters splashing in the water
or gathering sea-ware on the shore, and old men pottering about the rocks
setting lobster-pots, doing business in the crustaceous delicacies of the
season. And on glorious afternoons, when the atmosphere is pure, and the
briny perfume delicious to inhale—when the water glances merrily in the
sunlight, and the sails of the dancing boats are just filled by a capful of
wind—the people will be out to view the scene and note the growing
industry of the place; and, as the old song says—
“O weel may the boatie row,
And better may she speed;
And muckle luck attend the boat
That wins the bairnies’ bread.”
In good time the little community will have its annals of births,
marriages, and deaths; its chronicles of storms, its records of disasters, and
its glimpses of prosperity; and in two hundred years its origin may be lost,
and the inhabitants of the original village represented by descendants in the
sixth generation. At any rate, boats will increase, curers of herrings and
merchants who buy fish will visit the village and circulate their money, and
so the place will thrive. If a pier should be built, and a railway branch out to
it, who knows but it may become a great port.
I first became acquainted with the fisher-folk by assisting at a
fisherman’s marriage. Marrying and giving in marriage involves an
occasional festival among the fisher-folks of Newhaven of drinking and
dancing—and all the fisher-folks are fond of the dance. In the more
populous fishing towns there are usually a dozen or two of marriages to
celebrate at the close of each herring season; and as these weddings are
what are called in Scotland penny weddings—i.e. weddings at which each
guest pays a small sum for his entertainment—there is no difficulty in
Page 339
obtaining admission to the ceremony and customary rejoicings. Young men
often wait till the close of the annual fishing before they venture into the
matrimonial noose; and I have seen at Newhaven as many as eight
marriages in one evening. It has been said that a “lucky” day, or rather
night, is usually chosen for the ceremony, for “luck” is the ruling deity of
the fishermen; but as regards the marriage customs of the fisher-class, it
was explained to me that marriages were always held on a Friday (usually
thought to be an unlucky day), from no superstitious feeling or notion, as
was sometimes considered by strangers, but simply that the fishermen
might have the last day of the week (Saturday) and the Sunday to enjoy
themselves with their friends and acquaintances, instead of, if their
weddings took place on Monday or Tuesday, breaking up the whole week
afterwards. I considered this a sort of feasible and reasonable explanation of
the matter. On such occasions as those of marriage there is great bustle and
animation. The guests are invited two days beforehand by the happy couple
in propriis personis, and means are taken to remind their friends again of
the ceremony on the joyous day. At the proper time the parties meet—the
lad in his best blue suit, and the lass and all the other maidens dressed in
white—and walk to the manse or church, as the case may be, or the minister
is “trysted” to come to the bride’s father’s residence. There is a great dinner
provided for the happy occasion, usually served at a small inn or public-
house when there is a very large party. All the delicacies which can be
thought of are procured: fish, flesh, and fowl; porter, ale, and whisky, are all
to be had at these banquets, not forgetting the universal dish of skate, which
is produced at all fisher marriages. After dinner comes the collection, when
the best man, or some one of the company, goes round and gets a shilling or
a sixpence from each. This is the mode of celebrating a penny wedding, and
all are welcome who like to attend, the bidding being general. The evening
winds up, so far as the young folks are concerned, with unlimited dancing.
In fact dancing at one time used to be the favourite recreation of the fisher-
folk. In a dull season they would dance for “luck,” in a plentiful season for
joy—anything served as an excuse for a dance.[17] On the wedding night the
old folks sit and enjoy themselves with a bowl of punch and a smoke,
talking of old times and old fishing adventures, storms, miraculous hauls,
etc.; in short, like old military or naval veterans, they have a strong
penchant “to fight their battles o’er again.” The fun grows fast and furious
with all concerned, till the tired body gives warning that it is time to desist,
often wait till the close of the annual fishing before they venture into the
matrimonial noose; and I have seen at Newhaven as many as eight
marriages in one evening. It has been said that a “lucky” day, or rather
night, is usually chosen for the ceremony, for “luck” is the ruling deity of
the fishermen; but as regards the marriage customs of the fisher-class, it
was explained to me that marriages were always held on a Friday (usually
thought to be an unlucky day), from no superstitious feeling or notion, as
was sometimes considered by strangers, but simply that the fishermen
might have the last day of the week (Saturday) and the Sunday to enjoy
themselves with their friends and acquaintances, instead of, if their
weddings took place on Monday or Tuesday, breaking up the whole week
afterwards. I considered this a sort of feasible and reasonable explanation of
the matter. On such occasions as those of marriage there is great bustle and
animation. The guests are invited two days beforehand by the happy couple
in propriis personis, and means are taken to remind their friends again of
the ceremony on the joyous day. At the proper time the parties meet—the
lad in his best blue suit, and the lass and all the other maidens dressed in
white—and walk to the manse or church, as the case may be, or the minister
is “trysted” to come to the bride’s father’s residence. There is a great dinner
provided for the happy occasion, usually served at a small inn or public-
house when there is a very large party. All the delicacies which can be
thought of are procured: fish, flesh, and fowl; porter, ale, and whisky, are all
to be had at these banquets, not forgetting the universal dish of skate, which
is produced at all fisher marriages. After dinner comes the collection, when
the best man, or some one of the company, goes round and gets a shilling or
a sixpence from each. This is the mode of celebrating a penny wedding, and
all are welcome who like to attend, the bidding being general. The evening
winds up, so far as the young folks are concerned, with unlimited dancing.
In fact dancing at one time used to be the favourite recreation of the fisher-
folk. In a dull season they would dance for “luck,” in a plentiful season for
joy—anything served as an excuse for a dance.[17] On the wedding night the
old folks sit and enjoy themselves with a bowl of punch and a smoke,
talking of old times and old fishing adventures, storms, miraculous hauls,
etc.; in short, like old military or naval veterans, they have a strong
penchant “to fight their battles o’er again.” The fun grows fast and furious
with all concerned, till the tired body gives warning that it is time to desist,
Page 340
and by and by all retire, and life in the fishing village resumes its old jog-
trot.
It would take up too much space, and weary the reader besides, were I to
give in detail an account of all the fishing places I have visited during the
last ten years. My purpose will be amply served by a glance at a few of the
Scottish fishing villages, which, with the information I can interpolate about
the fisher-folks of the coast of France, and the eel-breeders of Comacchio,
not to mention those of Northumberland and Yorkshire, will be quite
sufficient to give the general reader a tolerable idea of this interesting class
of people; and to suit my own convenience I will begin at the place where I
witnessed the marriage, for Newhaven, near Edinburgh—“Our Lady’s Port
of Grace” as it was originally named—is the most accessible of all fishing
villages; and, although it is not the primitive place now that it was some
thirty years ago, having been considerably spoiled in its picturesqueness by
the encroachments of the modern architect, and the intrusion of summer
pleasure-seekers, it is still unique as the abode of a peculiar people who
keep up the social distinctiveness of the place. How Newhaven and similar
fishing colonies originated there is no record; it is said, however, that this
particular community was founded by King James III., who was extremely
anxious to extend the industrial resources of his kingdom by the prosecution
of the fisheries, and that to aid him in this design he brought over a colony
of foreigners to practise and teach the art. Some fishing villages are known
to have originated in the shipwreck of a foreign vessel, when the people
saved from destruction squatted on the nearest shore and grew in the fulness
of time into a community.
trot.
It would take up too much space, and weary the reader besides, were I to
give in detail an account of all the fishing places I have visited during the
last ten years. My purpose will be amply served by a glance at a few of the
Scottish fishing villages, which, with the information I can interpolate about
the fisher-folks of the coast of France, and the eel-breeders of Comacchio,
not to mention those of Northumberland and Yorkshire, will be quite
sufficient to give the general reader a tolerable idea of this interesting class
of people; and to suit my own convenience I will begin at the place where I
witnessed the marriage, for Newhaven, near Edinburgh—“Our Lady’s Port
of Grace” as it was originally named—is the most accessible of all fishing
villages; and, although it is not the primitive place now that it was some
thirty years ago, having been considerably spoiled in its picturesqueness by
the encroachments of the modern architect, and the intrusion of summer
pleasure-seekers, it is still unique as the abode of a peculiar people who
keep up the social distinctiveness of the place. How Newhaven and similar
fishing colonies originated there is no record; it is said, however, that this
particular community was founded by King James III., who was extremely
anxious to extend the industrial resources of his kingdom by the prosecution
of the fisheries, and that to aid him in this design he brought over a colony
of foreigners to practise and teach the art. Some fishing villages are known
to have originated in the shipwreck of a foreign vessel, when the people
saved from destruction squatted on the nearest shore and grew in the fulness
of time into a community.
Page 341
NEWHAVEN FISHWIVES.
Newhaven is most celebrated for its “fishwives,” who were declared by
King George IV. to be the handsomest women he had ever seen, and were
looked upon by Queen Victoria with eyes of wonder and admiration. The
Newhaven fishwife must not be confounded by those who are unacquainted
in the locality with the squalid fish-hawkers of Dublin; nor, although they
can use strong language occasionally, are they to be taken as examples of
the genus peculiar to Billingsgate. The Newhaven women are more like the
buxom dames of the market of Paris, though their glory of late years has
been somewhat dulled. There is this, however, to be said of them, that they
are as much of the past as the present; in dress and manners they are the
same now as they were a hundred years ago; they take a pride in conserving
all their traditions and characteristics, so that their customs appear
unchangeable, and are never, at any rate, influenced by the alterations
which art, science, and literature produce on the country at large. Before the
railway era, the Newhaven fishwife was a great fact, and could be met with
Newhaven is most celebrated for its “fishwives,” who were declared by
King George IV. to be the handsomest women he had ever seen, and were
looked upon by Queen Victoria with eyes of wonder and admiration. The
Newhaven fishwife must not be confounded by those who are unacquainted
in the locality with the squalid fish-hawkers of Dublin; nor, although they
can use strong language occasionally, are they to be taken as examples of
the genus peculiar to Billingsgate. The Newhaven women are more like the
buxom dames of the market of Paris, though their glory of late years has
been somewhat dulled. There is this, however, to be said of them, that they
are as much of the past as the present; in dress and manners they are the
same now as they were a hundred years ago; they take a pride in conserving
all their traditions and characteristics, so that their customs appear
unchangeable, and are never, at any rate, influenced by the alterations
which art, science, and literature produce on the country at large. Before the
railway era, the Newhaven fishwife was a great fact, and could be met with
Page 342
in Edinburgh in her picturesque costume of short but voluminous and gaudy
petticoats, shouting “Caller herrings!” or “Wha’ll buy my caller cod?” with
all the energy that a strong pair of lungs could supply. Then, in the evening,
there entered the city the oyster-wench, with her prolonged musical aria of
“Wha’ll o’ caller ou?” But the spread of fishmongers’ shops and the
increase of oyster-taverns is doing away with this picturesque branch of the
business. Thirty years ago nearly the whole of the fishermen of the Firth of
Forth, in view of the Edinburgh market, made for Newhaven with their
cargoes of white fish; and these, at that time, were all bought up by the
women, who carried them on their backs to Edinburgh in creels, and then
hawked them through the city. The sight of a bevy of fishwives in the
streets of the Modern Athens, although comparatively rare, may still
occasionally be enjoyed; but the railways have lightened their labours, and
we do not find them climbing the Whale Brae with a hundredweight, or two
hundredweight, perhaps, of fish, to be sold in driblets, for a few pence, all
through Edinburgh.
The industry of fishwives is proverbial, their chief maxim being, that “the
woman that canna work for a man is no worth ane;” and accordingly they
undertake the task of disposing of the merchandise, and acting as
Chancellor of the Exchequer.[18] Their husbands have only to catch the fish,
their labour being finished as soon as the boats touch the quay. The
Newhaven fishwife’s mode of doing business is well known. She is always
supposed to ask double or triple what she will take; and, on occasions of
bargaining, she is sure, in allusion to the hazardous nature of the gudeman’s
occupation, to tell her customers that “fish are no fish the day, they’re just
men’s lives.” The style of higgling adopted when dealing with the fisher-
folk, if attempted in other kinds of commerce, gives rise to the well-known
Scottish reproach of “D’ye tak’ me for a fishwife?” The style of bargain-
making carried on by the fishwives may be illustrated by the following little
scene:—
A servant girl having just beckoned to one of them is answered by the
usual interrogatory, “What’s yer wull the day, my bonnie lass?” and the
“mistress” being introduced, the following conversation takes place:—
“Come awa, mem, an’ see what bonnie fish I hae the day.”
“Have you any haddocks?”
petticoats, shouting “Caller herrings!” or “Wha’ll buy my caller cod?” with
all the energy that a strong pair of lungs could supply. Then, in the evening,
there entered the city the oyster-wench, with her prolonged musical aria of
“Wha’ll o’ caller ou?” But the spread of fishmongers’ shops and the
increase of oyster-taverns is doing away with this picturesque branch of the
business. Thirty years ago nearly the whole of the fishermen of the Firth of
Forth, in view of the Edinburgh market, made for Newhaven with their
cargoes of white fish; and these, at that time, were all bought up by the
women, who carried them on their backs to Edinburgh in creels, and then
hawked them through the city. The sight of a bevy of fishwives in the
streets of the Modern Athens, although comparatively rare, may still
occasionally be enjoyed; but the railways have lightened their labours, and
we do not find them climbing the Whale Brae with a hundredweight, or two
hundredweight, perhaps, of fish, to be sold in driblets, for a few pence, all
through Edinburgh.
The industry of fishwives is proverbial, their chief maxim being, that “the
woman that canna work for a man is no worth ane;” and accordingly they
undertake the task of disposing of the merchandise, and acting as
Chancellor of the Exchequer.[18] Their husbands have only to catch the fish,
their labour being finished as soon as the boats touch the quay. The
Newhaven fishwife’s mode of doing business is well known. She is always
supposed to ask double or triple what she will take; and, on occasions of
bargaining, she is sure, in allusion to the hazardous nature of the gudeman’s
occupation, to tell her customers that “fish are no fish the day, they’re just
men’s lives.” The style of higgling adopted when dealing with the fisher-
folk, if attempted in other kinds of commerce, gives rise to the well-known
Scottish reproach of “D’ye tak’ me for a fishwife?” The style of bargain-
making carried on by the fishwives may be illustrated by the following little
scene:—
A servant girl having just beckoned to one of them is answered by the
usual interrogatory, “What’s yer wull the day, my bonnie lass?” and the
“mistress” being introduced, the following conversation takes place:—
“Come awa, mem, an’ see what bonnie fish I hae the day.”
“Have you any haddocks?”
Page 343
“Ay hae I, mem, an’ as bonnie fish as ever ye clappit yer twa een on.”
“What’s the price of these four small ones?”
“What’s yer wull, mem?”
“I wish these small ones.”
“What d’ye say, mem? sma’ haddies! they’s no sma’ fish, an they’re the
bonniest I hae in a’ ma creel.”
“Well, never mind, what do you ask for them?”
“Weel, mem, it’s? been awfu’ wather o’ late, an’ the men canna get fish;
ye’ll no grudge me twentypence for thae four?”
“Twentypence!”
“Ay, mem, what for no?”
“They are too dear, I’ll give—”
“What d’ye say, mem? ower dear! I wish ye kent it: but what’ll ye gie me
for thae four?”
“I’ll give you a sixpence.”
“Ye’ll gie me a what?”
“A sixpence.”
“I daur say ye wull, ma bonny leddy, but ye’ll no get thae four fish for
twa sixpences this day.”
“I’ll not give more.”
“Weel, mem, gude day” (making preparations to go); “I’ll tak’
eighteenpence an’ be dune wi’t.”
“No; I’ll give you twopence each for them.”
And so the chaffering goes on, till ultimately the fishwife will take
tenpence for the lot, and this plan of asking double what will be taken,
which is common with them all and sometimes succeeds with simple
housewives, will be repeated from door to door, till the supply be
exhausted. The mode of doing business with a fishwife is admirably
illustrated in the Antiquary. When Monkbarns bargains for “the bannock-
“What’s the price of these four small ones?”
“What’s yer wull, mem?”
“I wish these small ones.”
“What d’ye say, mem? sma’ haddies! they’s no sma’ fish, an they’re the
bonniest I hae in a’ ma creel.”
“Well, never mind, what do you ask for them?”
“Weel, mem, it’s? been awfu’ wather o’ late, an’ the men canna get fish;
ye’ll no grudge me twentypence for thae four?”
“Twentypence!”
“Ay, mem, what for no?”
“They are too dear, I’ll give—”
“What d’ye say, mem? ower dear! I wish ye kent it: but what’ll ye gie me
for thae four?”
“I’ll give you a sixpence.”
“Ye’ll gie me a what?”
“A sixpence.”
“I daur say ye wull, ma bonny leddy, but ye’ll no get thae four fish for
twa sixpences this day.”
“I’ll not give more.”
“Weel, mem, gude day” (making preparations to go); “I’ll tak’
eighteenpence an’ be dune wi’t.”
“No; I’ll give you twopence each for them.”
And so the chaffering goes on, till ultimately the fishwife will take
tenpence for the lot, and this plan of asking double what will be taken,
which is common with them all and sometimes succeeds with simple
housewives, will be repeated from door to door, till the supply be
exhausted. The mode of doing business with a fishwife is admirably
illustrated in the Antiquary. When Monkbarns bargains for “the bannock-
Page 344
fluke” and “the cock-padle,” Maggie Mucklebackit asks four and sixpence,
and ends, after a little negotiation and much finesse, in accepting half-a-
crown and a dram; the latter commodity being worth siller just then, in
consequence of the stoppage of the distilleries.
The fishwives while selling their fish will often say something quaint to
the customer with whom they are dealing. I will give one instance of this,
which, though somewhat ludicrous, is characteristic, and have no doubt the
words were spoken from the poor woman’s heart. “A fishwife who was
crying her “caller cod” in George Street, Edinburgh, was stopped by a cook
at the head of one of the area stairs. A cod was wanted that day for the
dinner of the family, but the cook and the fishwife could not trade,
disagreeing about the price. The night had been stormy, and instead of the
fishwife flying into a passion, as is their general custom when bargaining
for their fish if opposed in getting their price, the poor woman shed tears,
and said to the cook, ‘Tak’ it or want it; ye may think it dear, but it’s a’
that’s left to me for a faither o’ four bairns.’”
Notwithstanding, however, their lying and cheating in the streets during
the week when selling their fish, there are no human beings in Scotland
more regular in their attendance at church. To go to their church on a
Sunday, and see the women all sitting with their smooth glossy hair and
snow-white caps, staring with open eyes and mouth at the minister, as he
exhorts them from the pulpit as to what they should do, one would think
them the most innocent and simple creatures in existence. But offer one of
them a penny less than she feels inclined to take for a haddock, and he is a
lucky fellow who escapes without its tail coming across his whiskers. Of
late our fishwives have been considering themselves of some importance.
When the Queen came first to Edinburgh, she happened to take notice of
them, and every printshop window is now stuck full of pictures of
Newhaven fishwives in their quaint costume of short petticoats of flaming
red and yellow colours.[19]
The sketch of fisher-life in the Antiquary applies as well to the fisher-folk
of to-day as to those of sixty years since. This is demonstrable at
Newhaven; which, though fortunate in having a pier as a rendezvous for its
boats, thus admitting of a vast saving of time and labour, is yet far behind
inland villages in point of sanitary arrangements. There is in the “town” an
everlasting scent of new tar, and a permanent smell of decaying fish, for the
and ends, after a little negotiation and much finesse, in accepting half-a-
crown and a dram; the latter commodity being worth siller just then, in
consequence of the stoppage of the distilleries.
The fishwives while selling their fish will often say something quaint to
the customer with whom they are dealing. I will give one instance of this,
which, though somewhat ludicrous, is characteristic, and have no doubt the
words were spoken from the poor woman’s heart. “A fishwife who was
crying her “caller cod” in George Street, Edinburgh, was stopped by a cook
at the head of one of the area stairs. A cod was wanted that day for the
dinner of the family, but the cook and the fishwife could not trade,
disagreeing about the price. The night had been stormy, and instead of the
fishwife flying into a passion, as is their general custom when bargaining
for their fish if opposed in getting their price, the poor woman shed tears,
and said to the cook, ‘Tak’ it or want it; ye may think it dear, but it’s a’
that’s left to me for a faither o’ four bairns.’”
Notwithstanding, however, their lying and cheating in the streets during
the week when selling their fish, there are no human beings in Scotland
more regular in their attendance at church. To go to their church on a
Sunday, and see the women all sitting with their smooth glossy hair and
snow-white caps, staring with open eyes and mouth at the minister, as he
exhorts them from the pulpit as to what they should do, one would think
them the most innocent and simple creatures in existence. But offer one of
them a penny less than she feels inclined to take for a haddock, and he is a
lucky fellow who escapes without its tail coming across his whiskers. Of
late our fishwives have been considering themselves of some importance.
When the Queen came first to Edinburgh, she happened to take notice of
them, and every printshop window is now stuck full of pictures of
Newhaven fishwives in their quaint costume of short petticoats of flaming
red and yellow colours.[19]
The sketch of fisher-life in the Antiquary applies as well to the fisher-folk
of to-day as to those of sixty years since. This is demonstrable at
Newhaven; which, though fortunate in having a pier as a rendezvous for its
boats, thus admitting of a vast saving of time and labour, is yet far behind
inland villages in point of sanitary arrangements. There is in the “town” an
everlasting scent of new tar, and a permanent smell of decaying fish, for the
Page 345
dainty visitors who go down to the village from Edinburgh to partake of the
fish-dinners for which it is so celebrated. Up the narrow closes, redolent of
“bark,” we see hanging on the outside stairs the paraphernalia of the
fisherman—his “properties,” as an actor would call them; nets, bladders,
lines, and oilskin unmentionables, with dozens of pairs of those particularly
blue stockings that seem to be the universal wear of both mothers and
maidens. On the stair itself sit, if it be seasonable weather, the wife and
daughters, repairing the nets and baiting the lines—gossiping of course with
opposite neighbours, who are engaged in a precisely similar pursuit; and to-
day, as half a century ago, the fishermen sit beside their hauled-up boats, in
their white canvas trousers and their Guernsey shirts, smoking their short
pipes, while their wives and daughters are so employed, seeming to have no
idea of anything in the shape of labour being a duty of theirs when ashore.
In the flowing gutter which trickles down the centre of the old village we
have the young idea developing itself in plenty of noise, and adding another
layer to the incrustation of dirt which it seems to be the sole business of
these children to collect on their bodies. These juvenile fisher-folk have
already learned from the mudlarks of the Thames the practice of sporting on
the sands before the hotel windows in the expectation of being rewarded
with a few halfpence. “What’s the use of asking for siller before they’ve
gotten their denner?” we once heard one of these precocious youths say to
another, who was proposing to solicit a bawbee from a party of strangers.
To see the people of Newhaven, both men and women, one would be apt
to think that their social condition was one of great hardship and
discomfort; but one has only to enter their dwellings in order to be
disabused of this notion, and to be convinced of the reverse of this, for there
are few houses among the working population of Scotland which can
compare with the well-decked and well-plenished dwellings of these
fishermen. Within doors all is neat and tidy. When at the marriage I have
mentioned, I thought the house I was invited to was the cleanest and the
cosiest-looking house I had ever seen. Never did I see before so many
plates and bowls in any private dwelling; and on all of them, cups and
saucers not excepted, fish, with their fins spread wide out, were painted in
glowing colours; and in their dwellings and domestic arrangements the
Newhaven fishwives are the cleanest women in Scotland, and the comfort
of their husbands when they return from their labours on the wild and
dangerous deep seems to be the fishwife’s chief delight. I may also mention
fish-dinners for which it is so celebrated. Up the narrow closes, redolent of
“bark,” we see hanging on the outside stairs the paraphernalia of the
fisherman—his “properties,” as an actor would call them; nets, bladders,
lines, and oilskin unmentionables, with dozens of pairs of those particularly
blue stockings that seem to be the universal wear of both mothers and
maidens. On the stair itself sit, if it be seasonable weather, the wife and
daughters, repairing the nets and baiting the lines—gossiping of course with
opposite neighbours, who are engaged in a precisely similar pursuit; and to-
day, as half a century ago, the fishermen sit beside their hauled-up boats, in
their white canvas trousers and their Guernsey shirts, smoking their short
pipes, while their wives and daughters are so employed, seeming to have no
idea of anything in the shape of labour being a duty of theirs when ashore.
In the flowing gutter which trickles down the centre of the old village we
have the young idea developing itself in plenty of noise, and adding another
layer to the incrustation of dirt which it seems to be the sole business of
these children to collect on their bodies. These juvenile fisher-folk have
already learned from the mudlarks of the Thames the practice of sporting on
the sands before the hotel windows in the expectation of being rewarded
with a few halfpence. “What’s the use of asking for siller before they’ve
gotten their denner?” we once heard one of these precocious youths say to
another, who was proposing to solicit a bawbee from a party of strangers.
To see the people of Newhaven, both men and women, one would be apt
to think that their social condition was one of great hardship and
discomfort; but one has only to enter their dwellings in order to be
disabused of this notion, and to be convinced of the reverse of this, for there
are few houses among the working population of Scotland which can
compare with the well-decked and well-plenished dwellings of these
fishermen. Within doors all is neat and tidy. When at the marriage I have
mentioned, I thought the house I was invited to was the cleanest and the
cosiest-looking house I had ever seen. Never did I see before so many
plates and bowls in any private dwelling; and on all of them, cups and
saucers not excepted, fish, with their fins spread wide out, were painted in
glowing colours; and in their dwellings and domestic arrangements the
Newhaven fishwives are the cleanest women in Scotland, and the comfort
of their husbands when they return from their labours on the wild and
dangerous deep seems to be the fishwife’s chief delight. I may also mention
Page 346
that none of the young women of Newhaven will take a husband out of their
own community, that they are as rigid in this matrimonial observance as if
they were all Jewesses.[20]
The following anecdotic illustration of the state of information in
Newhaven sixty years since is highly characteristic:—
A fisherman, named Adam L——, having been reproved pretty severely
for his want of Scripture knowledge, was resolved to baulk the minister on
his next catechetical visitation. The day appointed he kept out of sight for
some time; but at length, getting top-heavy with some of his companions,
he was compelled, after several falls, in one of which he met with an
accident that somewhat disfigured his countenance, to take shelter in his
own cottage. The minister arrived, and was informed by Jenny, the wife,
that her husband was absent at the fishing. The Doctor then inquired if she
had carefully perused the catechism he had left on his last visit, and being
answered in the affirmative, proceeded to follow up his conversation with a
question or two. “Weel, Jenny,” said the minister, “can ye tell me the cause
o’ Adam’s fall?” By no means versed in the history of the great progenitor
of the human race, and her mind being exclusively occupied by her own
Adam, Janet replied, with some warmth, “’Deed, sir, it was naething else
but drink!” at the same time calling upon her husband, “Adam, ye may as
weel rise, for the Doctor kens brawly what’s the matter; some clashin’
deevils o’ neebours hae telt him a’ aboot it!”
The remains of many old superstitions are still to be found about
Newhaven. I could easily fill a page or two of this volume with illustrative
anecdotes of sayings and doings that are abhorrent to the fisher mind. The
following are given as the merest sample of the number that might be
collected.
They have several times “gone the round” of the newspapers but are none
the worse for that:—
If an uninitiated greenhorn of a landsman chanced to be on board of a
Newhaven boat, and, in the ignorance and simplicity of his heart, talked
about “salmon,” the whole crew—at least a few years ago—would start,
grasp the nearest iron thowell, and exclaim, “Cauld iron!” “cauld iron!” in
order to avert the calamity which such a rash use of the appellation was
calculated to induce; and the said uninitiated gentleman would very likely
own community, that they are as rigid in this matrimonial observance as if
they were all Jewesses.[20]
The following anecdotic illustration of the state of information in
Newhaven sixty years since is highly characteristic:—
A fisherman, named Adam L——, having been reproved pretty severely
for his want of Scripture knowledge, was resolved to baulk the minister on
his next catechetical visitation. The day appointed he kept out of sight for
some time; but at length, getting top-heavy with some of his companions,
he was compelled, after several falls, in one of which he met with an
accident that somewhat disfigured his countenance, to take shelter in his
own cottage. The minister arrived, and was informed by Jenny, the wife,
that her husband was absent at the fishing. The Doctor then inquired if she
had carefully perused the catechism he had left on his last visit, and being
answered in the affirmative, proceeded to follow up his conversation with a
question or two. “Weel, Jenny,” said the minister, “can ye tell me the cause
o’ Adam’s fall?” By no means versed in the history of the great progenitor
of the human race, and her mind being exclusively occupied by her own
Adam, Janet replied, with some warmth, “’Deed, sir, it was naething else
but drink!” at the same time calling upon her husband, “Adam, ye may as
weel rise, for the Doctor kens brawly what’s the matter; some clashin’
deevils o’ neebours hae telt him a’ aboot it!”
The remains of many old superstitions are still to be found about
Newhaven. I could easily fill a page or two of this volume with illustrative
anecdotes of sayings and doings that are abhorrent to the fisher mind. The
following are given as the merest sample of the number that might be
collected.
They have several times “gone the round” of the newspapers but are none
the worse for that:—
If an uninitiated greenhorn of a landsman chanced to be on board of a
Newhaven boat, and, in the ignorance and simplicity of his heart, talked
about “salmon,” the whole crew—at least a few years ago—would start,
grasp the nearest iron thowell, and exclaim, “Cauld iron!” “cauld iron!” in
order to avert the calamity which such a rash use of the appellation was
calculated to induce; and the said uninitiated gentleman would very likely
Page 347
have been addressed in some such courteous terms as “O ye igrant brute,
cud ye no ca’d it redfish?” Woe to the unfortunate wight—be he
Episcopalian or Presbyterian, Churchman or Dissenter—who being afloat
talks about “the minister:” there is a kind of undefined terror visible on
every countenance if haply this unlucky word is spoken; and I would advise
my readers, should they hereafter have occasion, when water-borne, to
speak of a clergyman, to call him “the man in the black coat;” the thing will
be equally well understood, and can give offence to none. I warn them,
moreover, to be guarded and circumspect should the idea of a cat or a pig
flit across their minds; and should necessity demand the utterance of their
names, let the one be called “Theebet” and the other “Sandy;” so shall they
be landed on terra firma in safety, and neither their ears nor their feelings
be insulted by piscatory wit. In the same category must be placed every
four-footed beast, from the elephant moving amongst the jungles of
Hindostan to the mouse that burrows under the cottage hearth-stone. Some
quadrupeds, however, are more “unlucky” than others; dogs are detestable,
hogs horrible, and hares hideous! It would appear that Friday, for certain
operations, is the most unfortunate; for others the most auspicious day in
the week. On that day no sane fisherman would commence a Greenland
voyage, or proceed to the herring-ground, and on no other day of the week
would he be married.
In illustration of the peculiar dread and antipathy of fishermen to swine, I
give the following extract from a volume published by a schoolmaster,
entitled An Historical Account of St. Monance. The town is divided into two
divisions, the one called Nethertown and the other Overtown—the former
being inhabited entirely by fishermen, and the latter by agriculturists and
petty tradesmen:—“The inhabitants of the Nethertown entertained a most
deadly hatred towards swine, as ominous of evil, insomuch that not one was
kept amongst them; and if their eyes haplessly lighted upon one in any
quarter, they abandoned their mission and fled from it as they would from a
lion, and their occupation was suspended till the ebbing and flowing of the
tide had effectually removed the spell. The same devils were kept, however,
in the Uppertown, frequently affording much annoyance to their neighbours
below, on account of their casual intrusions, producing much damage by
suspension of labour. At last, becoming quite exasperated, the decision of
their oracle was to go in a body and destroy not the animals (for they dared
not hurt them), but all who bred and fostered such demons, looking on them
cud ye no ca’d it redfish?” Woe to the unfortunate wight—be he
Episcopalian or Presbyterian, Churchman or Dissenter—who being afloat
talks about “the minister:” there is a kind of undefined terror visible on
every countenance if haply this unlucky word is spoken; and I would advise
my readers, should they hereafter have occasion, when water-borne, to
speak of a clergyman, to call him “the man in the black coat;” the thing will
be equally well understood, and can give offence to none. I warn them,
moreover, to be guarded and circumspect should the idea of a cat or a pig
flit across their minds; and should necessity demand the utterance of their
names, let the one be called “Theebet” and the other “Sandy;” so shall they
be landed on terra firma in safety, and neither their ears nor their feelings
be insulted by piscatory wit. In the same category must be placed every
four-footed beast, from the elephant moving amongst the jungles of
Hindostan to the mouse that burrows under the cottage hearth-stone. Some
quadrupeds, however, are more “unlucky” than others; dogs are detestable,
hogs horrible, and hares hideous! It would appear that Friday, for certain
operations, is the most unfortunate; for others the most auspicious day in
the week. On that day no sane fisherman would commence a Greenland
voyage, or proceed to the herring-ground, and on no other day of the week
would he be married.
In illustration of the peculiar dread and antipathy of fishermen to swine, I
give the following extract from a volume published by a schoolmaster,
entitled An Historical Account of St. Monance. The town is divided into two
divisions, the one called Nethertown and the other Overtown—the former
being inhabited entirely by fishermen, and the latter by agriculturists and
petty tradesmen:—“The inhabitants of the Nethertown entertained a most
deadly hatred towards swine, as ominous of evil, insomuch that not one was
kept amongst them; and if their eyes haplessly lighted upon one in any
quarter, they abandoned their mission and fled from it as they would from a
lion, and their occupation was suspended till the ebbing and flowing of the
tide had effectually removed the spell. The same devils were kept, however,
in the Uppertown, frequently affording much annoyance to their neighbours
below, on account of their casual intrusions, producing much damage by
suspension of labour. At last, becoming quite exasperated, the decision of
their oracle was to go in a body and destroy not the animals (for they dared
not hurt them), but all who bred and fostered such demons, looking on them
Page 348
with a jealous eye, on account of their traffic. Armed with boat-hooks, they
ascended the hill in formidable procession, and dreadful had been the
consequence had they not been discovered. But the Uppertown, profiting by
previous remonstrance, immediately let loose their swine, whose grunt and
squeak chilled the most heroic blood of the enemy, who, on beholding
them, turned and fled down the hill with tenfold speed, more exasperated
than ever, secreting themselves till the flux and reflux of the tide had
undone the enchantment.... According to the most authentic tradition, not an
animal of the kind existed in the whole territories of St. Monance for nearly
a century; and, even at the present day, though they are fed and eaten, the
fisher people are extremely averse to looking on them or speaking of them
by that name; but, when necessitated to mention the animal, it is called ‘the
beast’ or ‘the brute’ and, in case the real name of the animal should
accidentally be mentioned, the spell is undone by a less tedious process—
the exclamation of ‘cauld iron’ by the person affected being perfectly
sufficient to counteract the evil influence. Cauld iron, touched or expressed,
is understood to be the first antidote against enchantment.”
At Fisherrow, a few miles east from Newhaven, there is another fishing
community, who also do business in Edinburgh, and whose manners and
customs are quite as superstitious as those of the folks I have been
describing. “The Fisher-raw wives,” in the pre-railway times, had a much
longer walk with their fish than the Newhaven women; neither were they
held in such esteem, the latter looking upon themselves as the salt of their
profession. Dr. Carlyle of Inveresk, whose memoirs were recently
published, in writing of the Fisherrow women of his time, says:—“When
the boats come in late to the harbour in the forenoon, so as to leave them no
more than time to reach Edinburgh before dinner, it is not unusual for them
to perform their journey of five miles by relays, three of them being
employed in carrying one basket, and shifting it from one to another every
hundred yards, by which means they have been known to arrive at the
fishmarket in less than three quarters of an hour. It is a well-known fact,
that three of these women went from Dunbar to Edinburgh, a distance of
twenty-seven miles, with each of them a load of herrings on her back of 200
pounds, in five hours.” Fatiguing journeys with heavy loads of fish are now
saved to the wives of both villages, as dealers attend the arrival of the boats,
and buy up all the sea produce that is for sale. In former times there used to
be great battles between the men of Newhaven and the men of Fisherrow,
ascended the hill in formidable procession, and dreadful had been the
consequence had they not been discovered. But the Uppertown, profiting by
previous remonstrance, immediately let loose their swine, whose grunt and
squeak chilled the most heroic blood of the enemy, who, on beholding
them, turned and fled down the hill with tenfold speed, more exasperated
than ever, secreting themselves till the flux and reflux of the tide had
undone the enchantment.... According to the most authentic tradition, not an
animal of the kind existed in the whole territories of St. Monance for nearly
a century; and, even at the present day, though they are fed and eaten, the
fisher people are extremely averse to looking on them or speaking of them
by that name; but, when necessitated to mention the animal, it is called ‘the
beast’ or ‘the brute’ and, in case the real name of the animal should
accidentally be mentioned, the spell is undone by a less tedious process—
the exclamation of ‘cauld iron’ by the person affected being perfectly
sufficient to counteract the evil influence. Cauld iron, touched or expressed,
is understood to be the first antidote against enchantment.”
At Fisherrow, a few miles east from Newhaven, there is another fishing
community, who also do business in Edinburgh, and whose manners and
customs are quite as superstitious as those of the folks I have been
describing. “The Fisher-raw wives,” in the pre-railway times, had a much
longer walk with their fish than the Newhaven women; neither were they
held in such esteem, the latter looking upon themselves as the salt of their
profession. Dr. Carlyle of Inveresk, whose memoirs were recently
published, in writing of the Fisherrow women of his time, says:—“When
the boats come in late to the harbour in the forenoon, so as to leave them no
more than time to reach Edinburgh before dinner, it is not unusual for them
to perform their journey of five miles by relays, three of them being
employed in carrying one basket, and shifting it from one to another every
hundred yards, by which means they have been known to arrive at the
fishmarket in less than three quarters of an hour. It is a well-known fact,
that three of these women went from Dunbar to Edinburgh, a distance of
twenty-seven miles, with each of them a load of herrings on her back of 200
pounds, in five hours.” Fatiguing journeys with heavy loads of fish are now
saved to the wives of both villages, as dealers attend the arrival of the boats,
and buy up all the sea produce that is for sale. In former times there used to
be great battles between the men of Newhaven and the men of Fisherrow,
Page 349
principally about their rights to certain oyster-scalps. The Montagues and
Capulets were not more deadly in their hatreds than these rival fishermen.
Now the oyster-grounds are so well defined that battles upon that question
are never fought.
Fisherrow has long been distinguished for its race of hardy and
industrious fishermen, of whom there are about two hundred in all. They go
to the herring-fishing at Caithness, at North Sunderland, at Berwick, North
Berwick, and Dunbar, and about sixty men go to Yarmouth, on the east
coast of England, a distance of about 300 miles. Ten boats, with a
complement of eight men each, go to the deep-sea white-fishing, and two or
three boats to the oyster-dredging.
The white-fishing of Fisherrow has long been a staple source of income.
At what time a colony of fishermen was established at that village is
unknown. They are most likely coeval with the place itself. When the
Reverend Dr. Carlyle, minister of the parish of Inveresk, wrote (about 1790)
there were forty-nine fishermen and ninety fishwives, but since that time
the numbers of both have of course much increased.
The system of merchandise followed by the fishwives in the old days of
creel-hawking, and even yet to a considerable extent, was very simple.
Having procured a supply of fish, which having bestowed in a basket of a
form fitted to the back, they used to trudge off to market under a load which
most men would have had difficulty in carrying, and which would have
made even the strongest stagger. Many of them still proceed to the market,
and display their commodities; but the majority, perhaps, perambulate the
streets of the city, emitting cries which, to some persons, are more loud than
agreeable, and which a stranger would never imagine to have the most
distant connection with fish. Occasionally, too, they may be seen pulling the
door-bell of some house where they are in the habit of disposing of their
merchandise, with the blunt inquiry, “Ony haddies the day?”[21]
While treating of the peculiarities of these people, I may record the
following characteristic anecdote:—“A clergyman, in whose parish a pretty
large fishing-village is situated, in his visitations among the families of the
fish-carriers found that the majority of them had never partaken of the
sacrament. Interrogating them regarding the reason of this neglect, they
candidly admitted to him that their trade necessarily led them so much to
Capulets were not more deadly in their hatreds than these rival fishermen.
Now the oyster-grounds are so well defined that battles upon that question
are never fought.
Fisherrow has long been distinguished for its race of hardy and
industrious fishermen, of whom there are about two hundred in all. They go
to the herring-fishing at Caithness, at North Sunderland, at Berwick, North
Berwick, and Dunbar, and about sixty men go to Yarmouth, on the east
coast of England, a distance of about 300 miles. Ten boats, with a
complement of eight men each, go to the deep-sea white-fishing, and two or
three boats to the oyster-dredging.
The white-fishing of Fisherrow has long been a staple source of income.
At what time a colony of fishermen was established at that village is
unknown. They are most likely coeval with the place itself. When the
Reverend Dr. Carlyle, minister of the parish of Inveresk, wrote (about 1790)
there were forty-nine fishermen and ninety fishwives, but since that time
the numbers of both have of course much increased.
The system of merchandise followed by the fishwives in the old days of
creel-hawking, and even yet to a considerable extent, was very simple.
Having procured a supply of fish, which having bestowed in a basket of a
form fitted to the back, they used to trudge off to market under a load which
most men would have had difficulty in carrying, and which would have
made even the strongest stagger. Many of them still proceed to the market,
and display their commodities; but the majority, perhaps, perambulate the
streets of the city, emitting cries which, to some persons, are more loud than
agreeable, and which a stranger would never imagine to have the most
distant connection with fish. Occasionally, too, they may be seen pulling the
door-bell of some house where they are in the habit of disposing of their
merchandise, with the blunt inquiry, “Ony haddies the day?”[21]
While treating of the peculiarities of these people, I may record the
following characteristic anecdote:—“A clergyman, in whose parish a pretty
large fishing-village is situated, in his visitations among the families of the
fish-carriers found that the majority of them had never partaken of the
sacrament. Interrogating them regarding the reason of this neglect, they
candidly admitted to him that their trade necessarily led them so much to
Page 350
cheat and tell lies, that they felt themselves unqualified to join in that
religious duty.” It is but justice, however, to add that, when confidence is
reposed in them, nothing can be more fair and upright than the dealings of
the fisher class; and, as dealers in a commodity of very fluctuating value,
they cannot perhaps be justly blamed for endeavouring to sell it to the best
advantage.
At Prestonpans, and the neighbouring village of Cockenzie, the modern
system, as I may call it, for Scotland, of selling the fish wholesale, may be
seen in daily operation. When the boats arrive at the boat-shore, the wives
of those engaged in the fishing are in readiness to obtain the fish, and carry
them from the boats to the place of sale. They are at once divided into lots,
and put up to auction, the skipper’s wife acting as the George Robins of the
company, and the price obtained being divided among the crew, who are
also, generally speaking, owners of the boat. Buyers, or their agents, from
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, etc., are always ready to
purchase, and in a few hours the scaly produce of the Firth of Forth is being
whisked along the railway at the rate of twenty miles an hour. This system,
which is certainly a great improvement on the old creel-hawking plan, is a
faint imitation of what is done in England, where the owners of fishing-
smacks consign their produce to a wholesale agent at Billingsgate, who
sells it by auction in lots to the retail dealers and costermongers.
Farther along on the Scottish east coast is North Berwick, now a bathing
resort, and a fishing town as well; and farther east still is Dunbar, the seat of
an important herring-fishery—grown from a fishing village into a country
town, in which a mixture of agricultural and fishing interests gives the place
a somewhat heterogeneous aspect; and between St. Abb’s Head and
Berwick-on-Tweed is situated Eyemouth, a fishing-village pure and simple,
with all that wonderful filth scattered about which is a sanitary peculiarity
of such towns. The population of Eyemouth is in keeping with the outward
appearance of the place. As a whole, they are a rough uncultivated people,
and more drunken in their habits than the fishermen of the neighbouring
villages. Coldingham shore, for instance, is only three miles distant, and has
a population of about one hundred fishermen, of a very respectable class,
sober, well dressed, and “well-to-do.” A year or two ago an outburst of what
is called “revivalism” took place at Eyemouth, and seemed greatly to affect
it. The change produced for a time was unmistakable. These rude unlettered
religious duty.” It is but justice, however, to add that, when confidence is
reposed in them, nothing can be more fair and upright than the dealings of
the fisher class; and, as dealers in a commodity of very fluctuating value,
they cannot perhaps be justly blamed for endeavouring to sell it to the best
advantage.
At Prestonpans, and the neighbouring village of Cockenzie, the modern
system, as I may call it, for Scotland, of selling the fish wholesale, may be
seen in daily operation. When the boats arrive at the boat-shore, the wives
of those engaged in the fishing are in readiness to obtain the fish, and carry
them from the boats to the place of sale. They are at once divided into lots,
and put up to auction, the skipper’s wife acting as the George Robins of the
company, and the price obtained being divided among the crew, who are
also, generally speaking, owners of the boat. Buyers, or their agents, from
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, etc., are always ready to
purchase, and in a few hours the scaly produce of the Firth of Forth is being
whisked along the railway at the rate of twenty miles an hour. This system,
which is certainly a great improvement on the old creel-hawking plan, is a
faint imitation of what is done in England, where the owners of fishing-
smacks consign their produce to a wholesale agent at Billingsgate, who
sells it by auction in lots to the retail dealers and costermongers.
Farther along on the Scottish east coast is North Berwick, now a bathing
resort, and a fishing town as well; and farther east still is Dunbar, the seat of
an important herring-fishery—grown from a fishing village into a country
town, in which a mixture of agricultural and fishing interests gives the place
a somewhat heterogeneous aspect; and between St. Abb’s Head and
Berwick-on-Tweed is situated Eyemouth, a fishing-village pure and simple,
with all that wonderful filth scattered about which is a sanitary peculiarity
of such towns. The population of Eyemouth is in keeping with the outward
appearance of the place. As a whole, they are a rough uncultivated people,
and more drunken in their habits than the fishermen of the neighbouring
villages. Coldingham shore, for instance, is only three miles distant, and has
a population of about one hundred fishermen, of a very respectable class,
sober, well dressed, and “well-to-do.” A year or two ago an outburst of what
is called “revivalism” took place at Eyemouth, and seemed greatly to affect
it. The change produced for a time was unmistakable. These rude unlettered
Page 351
fishermen ceased to visit the public-houses, refrained from the use of oaths,
and instead sang psalms and said prayers. But this wave of revivalism,
which passed over other villages besides Eyemouth, has rolled away back,
and in some instances left the people worse than it found them; and I may
perhaps be allowed to cite the fish-tithe riots as a proof of what I say. These
riots, for which the rioters were tried before the High Court of Justiciary at
Edinburgh, and some of them punished, arose out of a demand by the
minister for his tithe of fish.
Crossing the Firth of Forth, the cost of Fife, from Burntisland to “the East
Neuk,” will be found studded at intervals with quaint fishing-villages; and
the quaintest among the quaint is Buckhaven. Buckhaven, or, as it is locally
named, Buckhyne, as seen from the sea, is a picturesque group of houses
sown broadcast on a low cliff. Indeed, most fishing villages seem thrown
together without any kind of plan. The local architects had never thought of
building their villages in rows or streets; as the fisher-folks themselves say,
their houses are “a’ heids and thraws,” that is, set down here and there
without regard to architectural arrangement. The origin of Buckhaven is
rather obscure: it is supposed to have been founded by the crew of a
Brabant vessel, wrecked on that portion of the Fife coast in the reign of
Philip II. The population are, like most of their class, a peculiar people,
living entirely among themselves; and any stranger settling among them is
viewed with such suspicion that years will often elapse before he is adopted
as one of the community. One of the old Scottish chap-books is devoted to a
satire of the Buckhaven people. These old chap-books are now rare, and to
obtain them involves a considerable amount of trouble. Thirty years ago the
chapmen were still carrying them about in their packs; now it is pleasing to
think they have been superseded by the admirable cheap periodicals which
are so numerous and so easy to purchase. The title of the chap-book referred
to above is, The History of Buckhaven in Fifeshire, containing the Witty and
Entertaining Exploits of Wise Willie and Witty Eppie, the Ale-wife, with a
description of their College, Coats of Arms, etc. It would be a strong breach
of etiquette to mention the title of this book to any of the Buckhaven
people; it is difficult to understand how they should feel so sore on the
point, as the pamphlet in question is a collection of very vulgar witticisms
tinged with such a dash of obscenity as prevents their being quoted here.
The industrious fishermen of Buckhaven are moral, sober, and
comparatively wealthy. Indeed, many of the Scottish fisher-folk are what
and instead sang psalms and said prayers. But this wave of revivalism,
which passed over other villages besides Eyemouth, has rolled away back,
and in some instances left the people worse than it found them; and I may
perhaps be allowed to cite the fish-tithe riots as a proof of what I say. These
riots, for which the rioters were tried before the High Court of Justiciary at
Edinburgh, and some of them punished, arose out of a demand by the
minister for his tithe of fish.
Crossing the Firth of Forth, the cost of Fife, from Burntisland to “the East
Neuk,” will be found studded at intervals with quaint fishing-villages; and
the quaintest among the quaint is Buckhaven. Buckhaven, or, as it is locally
named, Buckhyne, as seen from the sea, is a picturesque group of houses
sown broadcast on a low cliff. Indeed, most fishing villages seem thrown
together without any kind of plan. The local architects had never thought of
building their villages in rows or streets; as the fisher-folks themselves say,
their houses are “a’ heids and thraws,” that is, set down here and there
without regard to architectural arrangement. The origin of Buckhaven is
rather obscure: it is supposed to have been founded by the crew of a
Brabant vessel, wrecked on that portion of the Fife coast in the reign of
Philip II. The population are, like most of their class, a peculiar people,
living entirely among themselves; and any stranger settling among them is
viewed with such suspicion that years will often elapse before he is adopted
as one of the community. One of the old Scottish chap-books is devoted to a
satire of the Buckhaven people. These old chap-books are now rare, and to
obtain them involves a considerable amount of trouble. Thirty years ago the
chapmen were still carrying them about in their packs; now it is pleasing to
think they have been superseded by the admirable cheap periodicals which
are so numerous and so easy to purchase. The title of the chap-book referred
to above is, The History of Buckhaven in Fifeshire, containing the Witty and
Entertaining Exploits of Wise Willie and Witty Eppie, the Ale-wife, with a
description of their College, Coats of Arms, etc. It would be a strong breach
of etiquette to mention the title of this book to any of the Buckhaven
people; it is difficult to understand how they should feel so sore on the
point, as the pamphlet in question is a collection of very vulgar witticisms
tinged with such a dash of obscenity as prevents their being quoted here.
The industrious fishermen of Buckhaven are moral, sober, and
comparatively wealthy. Indeed, many of the Scottish fisher-folk are what
Page 352
are called “warm” people; and there are not in our fishing villages such
violent alternations of poverty and prosperity as are to be found in places
devoted entirely to manufacturing industry. There is usually on the average
of the year a steady income, the people seldom suffering from “a hunger
and a burst,” like weavers or other handicraftsmen.
As denoting the prosperous state of the people of Buckhaven, it may be
stated that most of the families there have saved money; and, indeed, some
of them are comparatively wealthy, having a bank account, as well as
considerable capital in boats, nets, and lines. Fishermen, being much away
from home, at the herring-fishery or out at the deep-sea fishing, have no
temptation to spend their earnings or waste their time in the tavern. Indeed,
in some Scottish fishing villages there is not even a single public-house.
The Buckhaven men delight in their boats, which are mostly “Firth-
built,”—i.e. built at Leith, on the Firth of Forth. Many of the boats used by
the Scottish fishermen are built at that port: they are all constructed with
overlapping planks; and the hull alone of a boat thirty-eight feet in length
will cost a sum of £60. Each boat, before it can be used for the herring or
deep-sea fishery must be equipped with a set of nets and lines; say, a train
of thirty-five nets, at a cost of £4 each, making a sum of £140; which, with
the price of the hull, makes the cost £200, leaving the masts and sails, as
well as inshore and deep-sea lines and many other etceteras, to be provided
for before the total cost can be summed up. The hundred boats which
belong to the men of Buckhaven consequently represent a considerable
amount of capital. Each boat with its appurtenances has generally more than
one owner; in other words, it is held in shares. This is rather an advantage
than otherwise, as every vessel requires a crew of four men at any rate, so
that each boat is usually manned by two or three of its owners—a pledge
that it will be looked carefully after and not be exposed to needless danger.
With all the youngsters of a fishing village it is a point of ambition to obtain
a share of a boat as soon as ever they can; so that they save hard from their
allowances as extra hands, in order to attain as early as possible to the
dignity of proprietorship. We look in vain, except at such wonderful places
as Rochdale, to find manufacturing operatives in a similar financial position
to these Buckhaven men; in fact, our fishermen have been practising the
plan of co-operation for years without knowing it, and without making it
known. The co-operative system seems to prevail among the English fisher-
folk as well. At Filey, on the Yorkshire coast, many of the large fishing
violent alternations of poverty and prosperity as are to be found in places
devoted entirely to manufacturing industry. There is usually on the average
of the year a steady income, the people seldom suffering from “a hunger
and a burst,” like weavers or other handicraftsmen.
As denoting the prosperous state of the people of Buckhaven, it may be
stated that most of the families there have saved money; and, indeed, some
of them are comparatively wealthy, having a bank account, as well as
considerable capital in boats, nets, and lines. Fishermen, being much away
from home, at the herring-fishery or out at the deep-sea fishing, have no
temptation to spend their earnings or waste their time in the tavern. Indeed,
in some Scottish fishing villages there is not even a single public-house.
The Buckhaven men delight in their boats, which are mostly “Firth-
built,”—i.e. built at Leith, on the Firth of Forth. Many of the boats used by
the Scottish fishermen are built at that port: they are all constructed with
overlapping planks; and the hull alone of a boat thirty-eight feet in length
will cost a sum of £60. Each boat, before it can be used for the herring or
deep-sea fishery must be equipped with a set of nets and lines; say, a train
of thirty-five nets, at a cost of £4 each, making a sum of £140; which, with
the price of the hull, makes the cost £200, leaving the masts and sails, as
well as inshore and deep-sea lines and many other etceteras, to be provided
for before the total cost can be summed up. The hundred boats which
belong to the men of Buckhaven consequently represent a considerable
amount of capital. Each boat with its appurtenances has generally more than
one owner; in other words, it is held in shares. This is rather an advantage
than otherwise, as every vessel requires a crew of four men at any rate, so
that each boat is usually manned by two or three of its owners—a pledge
that it will be looked carefully after and not be exposed to needless danger.
With all the youngsters of a fishing village it is a point of ambition to obtain
a share of a boat as soon as ever they can; so that they save hard from their
allowances as extra hands, in order to attain as early as possible to the
dignity of proprietorship. We look in vain, except at such wonderful places
as Rochdale, to find manufacturing operatives in a similar financial position
to these Buckhaven men; in fact, our fishermen have been practising the
plan of co-operation for years without knowing it, and without making it
known. The co-operative system seems to prevail among the English fisher-
folk as well. At Filey, on the Yorkshire coast, many of the large fishing
Page 353
yawls—these vessels average about 40 tons each—are built by little
companies and worked on the sharing principle: so much to the men who
find the bait, and so much to each man who provides a net; and a few
shillings per pound of the weekly earnings of the ship go to the owners. In
France there are various ways of engaging the boats and conducting the
fisheries. There are some men who fish on their own account, who have
their own boat, sail, and nets, etc., and who find their own bait, whether at
the sardine-fishery or when prosecuting any other branch of the sea
fisheries. Of course these boat-owners hire what assistance they require,
and pay for it. There are other men again who hire a boat and work it on the
sharing plan, each man getting so much, the remainder being left for the
owner. A third class of persons are those who work off their advances: these
are a class of men so poor as to be obliged to pawn their labour to the boat-
owners long before it is required. We can parallel this at home in the
herring-fishery, where the advance of money to the men has become
something very like a curse to all concerned.
The joint-stock fishing system has been prevalent in Scotland, with
various modifications, for a very long period. Ship-carpenters at one time
used to speculate in the fisheries, and build boats in order to give fishermen
a share in them, and persons who had nets would lend them out on
condition of getting a share in the speculation. The two or three fishermen
chiefly concerned would assume a few landsmen as assistants. At the end of
the season the proceeds of the fishing were divided; the proprietors of the
boat drew each one deal, every man half a deal, and every net was awarded
half a deal. The landsmen, being counted as boys, only drew a quarter of a
deal.
The retired Buckhaven fishermen can give interesting information about
the money value of the fisheries. One, who was a young fellow five-and-
twenty years ago, told me the herring-fishery was a kind of lottery, but that,
on an average of years, each boat would take annually something like a
hundred crans—the produce, in all cases where the crew were part owners,
after deducting a fifth part or so to keep up the boat, being equally divided.
“When I was a younker, sir,” said this person, “there was lots o’ herrin’, an’
we had a fine winter fishin’ as well, an’ sprats in plenty. As to white fish,
they were abundant five-an’-twenty year ago. Haddocks now are scarce to
be had; being an inshore fish, they’ve been a’ ta’en, in my opinion. Line-
companies and worked on the sharing principle: so much to the men who
find the bait, and so much to each man who provides a net; and a few
shillings per pound of the weekly earnings of the ship go to the owners. In
France there are various ways of engaging the boats and conducting the
fisheries. There are some men who fish on their own account, who have
their own boat, sail, and nets, etc., and who find their own bait, whether at
the sardine-fishery or when prosecuting any other branch of the sea
fisheries. Of course these boat-owners hire what assistance they require,
and pay for it. There are other men again who hire a boat and work it on the
sharing plan, each man getting so much, the remainder being left for the
owner. A third class of persons are those who work off their advances: these
are a class of men so poor as to be obliged to pawn their labour to the boat-
owners long before it is required. We can parallel this at home in the
herring-fishery, where the advance of money to the men has become
something very like a curse to all concerned.
The joint-stock fishing system has been prevalent in Scotland, with
various modifications, for a very long period. Ship-carpenters at one time
used to speculate in the fisheries, and build boats in order to give fishermen
a share in them, and persons who had nets would lend them out on
condition of getting a share in the speculation. The two or three fishermen
chiefly concerned would assume a few landsmen as assistants. At the end of
the season the proceeds of the fishing were divided; the proprietors of the
boat drew each one deal, every man half a deal, and every net was awarded
half a deal. The landsmen, being counted as boys, only drew a quarter of a
deal.
The retired Buckhaven fishermen can give interesting information about
the money value of the fisheries. One, who was a young fellow five-and-
twenty years ago, told me the herring-fishery was a kind of lottery, but that,
on an average of years, each boat would take annually something like a
hundred crans—the produce, in all cases where the crew were part owners,
after deducting a fifth part or so to keep up the boat, being equally divided.
“When I was a younker, sir,” said this person, “there was lots o’ herrin’, an’
we had a fine winter fishin’ as well, an’ sprats in plenty. As to white fish,
they were abundant five-an’-twenty year ago. Haddocks now are scarce to
be had; being an inshore fish, they’ve been a’ ta’en, in my opinion. Line-
Page 354
fishin’ was very profitable from 1830 to 1840. I’ve seen as many as a
hunder thoosand fish o’ ae kind or anither ta’en by the Buckhyne boats in a
week—that is, countin’ baith inshore boats an’ them awa at the Dogger
Bank. The lot brocht four hunder pound; but a’ kinds of fish are now sae
scarce that it taks mair than dooble the labour to mak the same money that
was made then.”
In the pre-railway era, most of the fishermen along the east coast of Fife
(at Buckhaven, Cellardyke, St. Monance, and Pittenweem), as also the
fishermen along the south coast (North Bewick, Dunbar, Eyemouth, and
Burnmouth), used to carry their catchings of white fish to villages up the
Firth of Forth, and dispose of them to cadgers and creel-hawkers, who had
the retail trade of Edinburgh and Leith in their own hands. These persons
distributed themselves over the country in order to dispose of their fish, and
some of them would return with farm-produce in its place. The profits
realised from thus retailing the produce of fishermen belonging to distant
villages enabled those who resided on firths bordering the large towns and
cities quietly to lie on their oars. Railways having given facilities to the east
coast of Fife fishers, as well as those on the opposite coast, to send their
produce to market from their own respective villages, and a new class of
traders having arisen—viz. fishmongers having retail shops—the creel-
hawking trade is now fast declining, and as a following result so also must
be the material wealth of the villages that were in a great measure
dependent upon it. In fact, railways have quite revolutionised the fish trade.
There are a few females, formerly creel-hawkers, who continue still to act
as retailers of fish. But many of them have taken shops, and others stalls in
retail markets, and attend the wholesale market regularly to purchase their
supplies. These retail dealers in fish do remarkably well; but those who still
continue to hawk about a few haddocks or whitings when they can be
procured find that creel-hawking is but a precarious trade.
I will now carry the reader with me to a very quaint place indeed, the
scene of Sir Walter Scott’s novel of The Antiquary—Auchmithie; and then
on to Fittie, at Aberdeen—another fishing quarter of great originality: we
will go in the steamer.
Steamboat travelling has been in some degree superseded by the railway
carriage; but to tourists going to Inverness or Thurso the steamer has its
attractions. It is preferable to the railroad when the time occupied in the
hunder thoosand fish o’ ae kind or anither ta’en by the Buckhyne boats in a
week—that is, countin’ baith inshore boats an’ them awa at the Dogger
Bank. The lot brocht four hunder pound; but a’ kinds of fish are now sae
scarce that it taks mair than dooble the labour to mak the same money that
was made then.”
In the pre-railway era, most of the fishermen along the east coast of Fife
(at Buckhaven, Cellardyke, St. Monance, and Pittenweem), as also the
fishermen along the south coast (North Bewick, Dunbar, Eyemouth, and
Burnmouth), used to carry their catchings of white fish to villages up the
Firth of Forth, and dispose of them to cadgers and creel-hawkers, who had
the retail trade of Edinburgh and Leith in their own hands. These persons
distributed themselves over the country in order to dispose of their fish, and
some of them would return with farm-produce in its place. The profits
realised from thus retailing the produce of fishermen belonging to distant
villages enabled those who resided on firths bordering the large towns and
cities quietly to lie on their oars. Railways having given facilities to the east
coast of Fife fishers, as well as those on the opposite coast, to send their
produce to market from their own respective villages, and a new class of
traders having arisen—viz. fishmongers having retail shops—the creel-
hawking trade is now fast declining, and as a following result so also must
be the material wealth of the villages that were in a great measure
dependent upon it. In fact, railways have quite revolutionised the fish trade.
There are a few females, formerly creel-hawkers, who continue still to act
as retailers of fish. But many of them have taken shops, and others stalls in
retail markets, and attend the wholesale market regularly to purchase their
supplies. These retail dealers in fish do remarkably well; but those who still
continue to hawk about a few haddocks or whitings when they can be
procured find that creel-hawking is but a precarious trade.
I will now carry the reader with me to a very quaint place indeed, the
scene of Sir Walter Scott’s novel of The Antiquary—Auchmithie; and then
on to Fittie, at Aberdeen—another fishing quarter of great originality: we
will go in the steamer.
Steamboat travelling has been in some degree superseded by the railway
carriage; but to tourists going to Inverness or Thurso the steamer has its
attractions. It is preferable to the railroad when the time occupied in the
Page 355
journey is not an object. On board a fine steamboat one has opportunities to
study character, and there are always a few characters on board a coasting
steam-vessel. And going north from Edinburgh the coast is interesting. The
steamer may pass the Anster or Dunbar herring-fleet.
“Up the waters steerin’,
The boats are thick and thrang;
Aboon the Bass they’re bearin’,
They’ll shoot their nets ere lang.
“The morn, like siller glancin’,
They’ll haul them han’ to han’;
Syne doon the water dancin’,
Come hame wi’ sixty cran.”
The passengers can see the Bell Rock lighthouse, and think of the old
legend of the pirate who took away the floating bell that had been erected
by a pious abbot on the Inchcape Rock as a warning to mariners, and who
was promptly punished for his sin by being shipwrecked on the very rock
from which he had carried off the bell. After leaving Aberdeen, the Buffers
of Buchan are among the wonders of the shore, and the sea soughs at times
with mournful cadence in the great caverns carved out by the waves on the
precipitous coast, or it foams and lashes with majestic fury, seeking to add
to its dominions. All the way, till the Old Man of Wick is descried, guarding
the entrance of Pulteneytown harbour, there are ruined castles, and ancient
spires, and curious towers perched on high sea-cliffs; or there are frowning
hills and screaming sea-birds to add to the poetry of the scene. And along
these storm-washed coasts there are wonders of nature that show the strong
arm of the water, and mark out works that human ingenuity could never
have achieved. Loch Katrine and the Pass of Glencoe have been the fashion
ever since Sir Walter Scott made Scotland; but there are other places
besides these that are worth visiting.
The supposed scene of Sir Walter Scott’s novel of The Antiquary, on the
coast of Forfarshire, presents a conjunction of scenic and industrial features
which commends it to notice. At Auchmithie, which is distant a few miles
from Arbroath, there is often some cause for excitement; and a real storm or
study character, and there are always a few characters on board a coasting
steam-vessel. And going north from Edinburgh the coast is interesting. The
steamer may pass the Anster or Dunbar herring-fleet.
“Up the waters steerin’,
The boats are thick and thrang;
Aboon the Bass they’re bearin’,
They’ll shoot their nets ere lang.
“The morn, like siller glancin’,
They’ll haul them han’ to han’;
Syne doon the water dancin’,
Come hame wi’ sixty cran.”
The passengers can see the Bell Rock lighthouse, and think of the old
legend of the pirate who took away the floating bell that had been erected
by a pious abbot on the Inchcape Rock as a warning to mariners, and who
was promptly punished for his sin by being shipwrecked on the very rock
from which he had carried off the bell. After leaving Aberdeen, the Buffers
of Buchan are among the wonders of the shore, and the sea soughs at times
with mournful cadence in the great caverns carved out by the waves on the
precipitous coast, or it foams and lashes with majestic fury, seeking to add
to its dominions. All the way, till the Old Man of Wick is descried, guarding
the entrance of Pulteneytown harbour, there are ruined castles, and ancient
spires, and curious towers perched on high sea-cliffs; or there are frowning
hills and screaming sea-birds to add to the poetry of the scene. And along
these storm-washed coasts there are wonders of nature that show the strong
arm of the water, and mark out works that human ingenuity could never
have achieved. Loch Katrine and the Pass of Glencoe have been the fashion
ever since Sir Walter Scott made Scotland; but there are other places
besides these that are worth visiting.
The supposed scene of Sir Walter Scott’s novel of The Antiquary, on the
coast of Forfarshire, presents a conjunction of scenic and industrial features
which commends it to notice. At Auchmithie, which is distant a few miles
from Arbroath, there is often some cause for excitement; and a real storm or
Page 356
a real drowning is something vastly different from the shipwreck in the
drama of The Tempest, or the death of the Colleen Bawn. The beetling cliffs
barricading the sea from the land may be traversed by the tourist to the
music of the everlasting waves, the dashing of which only makes the deep
solitude more solemn; the sea-gull sweeps around with its shrill cry, and
playful whales gambol in the placid waters.
The village of Auchmithie, which is wildly grand and romantic, stands on
the top of the cliffs, and as the road to it is steep a great amount of labour
devolves on the fishermen in carrying down their lines and nets, and
carrying up their produce, etc. One customary feature observed by strangers
on entering Auchmithie is, that when met by female children they
invariably stoop down, making a very low curtsey, and for this piece of
polite condescension they expect that a few halfpence will be thrown to
them. If you pass on without noticing them they will not ask for anything,
but once throw them a few halfpence and a pocketful will be required to
satisfy their importunities. There are two roads leading to Auchmithie from
Arbroath, one along the sea-coast, the other through the country. The
distance is about 3½ miles in a north-east direction, and the country road is
the best; and approaching the village in that direction it has a very fair
aspect. Two rows of low-built slate-roofed houses, and a school and chapel,
stand a few yards off by themselves. On the north side of the village is a
stately farm-house, surrounded by trees, and on the south side a Coast-
Guard station, clean, white-washed, and with a flagstaff, giving the whole a
regular and picturesque appearance. Entering the village of Auchmithie
from the west, and walking through to the extreme east end, the imagination
gets staggered to think how any class of men could have selected such a
wild and rugged part of the coast for pursuing the fishing trade—a trade
above all others that requires a safe harbour where boats can be launched
and put to sea at a moment’s warning if any signals of distress be given. The
bight of Auchmithie is an indentation into rocky cliffs several hundred feet
in perpendicular height. About the middle of the bight there is a steep ravine
or gully with a small stream, and at the bottom of this ravine there is a small
piece of level ground where a fish-curing house is erected, and where also
the fishermen pull up their boats that they may be safe from easterly gales.
There are in all about seventeen boats’ crews at Auchmithie. Winding roads
with steps lead down the side of the steep brae to the beach. There are a few
half-tide rocks in the bight that may help to break the fury of waves raised
drama of The Tempest, or the death of the Colleen Bawn. The beetling cliffs
barricading the sea from the land may be traversed by the tourist to the
music of the everlasting waves, the dashing of which only makes the deep
solitude more solemn; the sea-gull sweeps around with its shrill cry, and
playful whales gambol in the placid waters.
The village of Auchmithie, which is wildly grand and romantic, stands on
the top of the cliffs, and as the road to it is steep a great amount of labour
devolves on the fishermen in carrying down their lines and nets, and
carrying up their produce, etc. One customary feature observed by strangers
on entering Auchmithie is, that when met by female children they
invariably stoop down, making a very low curtsey, and for this piece of
polite condescension they expect that a few halfpence will be thrown to
them. If you pass on without noticing them they will not ask for anything,
but once throw them a few halfpence and a pocketful will be required to
satisfy their importunities. There are two roads leading to Auchmithie from
Arbroath, one along the sea-coast, the other through the country. The
distance is about 3½ miles in a north-east direction, and the country road is
the best; and approaching the village in that direction it has a very fair
aspect. Two rows of low-built slate-roofed houses, and a school and chapel,
stand a few yards off by themselves. On the north side of the village is a
stately farm-house, surrounded by trees, and on the south side a Coast-
Guard station, clean, white-washed, and with a flagstaff, giving the whole a
regular and picturesque appearance. Entering the village of Auchmithie
from the west, and walking through to the extreme east end, the imagination
gets staggered to think how any class of men could have selected such a
wild and rugged part of the coast for pursuing the fishing trade—a trade
above all others that requires a safe harbour where boats can be launched
and put to sea at a moment’s warning if any signals of distress be given. The
bight of Auchmithie is an indentation into rocky cliffs several hundred feet
in perpendicular height. About the middle of the bight there is a steep ravine
or gully with a small stream, and at the bottom of this ravine there is a small
piece of level ground where a fish-curing house is erected, and where also
the fishermen pull up their boats that they may be safe from easterly gales.
There are in all about seventeen boats’ crews at Auchmithie. Winding roads
with steps lead down the side of the steep brae to the beach. There are a few
half-tide rocks in the bight that may help to break the fury of waves raised
Page 357
by easterly winds; but there is no harbour or pier for the boats to land at or
receive shelter from, and this the fishermen complain of, as they have to
pay £2 a year for the privilege of each boat. The beach is steep, and strewed
with large pebbles, excellently adapted, they say, for drying fish upon.
The visitor, in addition to studying the quaint people, may explore one of
the vast caves which only a few years ago were the nightly refuge of the
smuggler. Brandy Cove and Gaylet Pot are worth inspection, and inspire a
mingled feeling of terror and grandeur. The visitor may also take a look at
the “Spindle”—a large detached piece of the cliffs, shaped something like a
corn-stack, or a boy’s top with the apex uppermost. When the tide is full
this rock is surrounded with water, and appears like an island. Fisher-life
may be witnessed here in all its unvarnished simplicity. Indeed nothing
could well be more primitive than their habits and mode of life. I have seen
the women of Auchmithie “kilt their coats” and rush into the water in order
to aid in shoving off the boats, and on the return of the little fleet carry the
men ashore on their brawny shoulders with the greatest ease and all the
nonchalance imaginable, no matter who might be looking at them. Their
peculiar way of smoking their haddocks may be taken as a very good
example of their other modes of industry. Instead of splitting the fish after
cleaning them, as the regular curers do, they smoke them in their round
shape. They use a barrel without top or bottom as a substitute for a curing-
house. The barrel being inserted a little distance in the ground, an old kail-
pot or kettle, filled with sawdust, is placed at the bottom, and the inside is
then filled with as many fish as can conveniently be hung in it. The sawdust
is then set fire to, and a piece of canvas thrown over the top of the barrel: by
this means the females of Auchmithie smoke their haddocks in a round
state, and very excellent they are when the fish are caught in season. The
daily routine of fisher-life at Auchmithie is simple and unvarying; year by
year, and all the year round, it changes only from one branch of the fishery
to another. The season, of course, brings about its joys and sorrows: sad
deaths, which overshadow the village with gloom; or marriages, when the
people may venture to hold some simple fête, but only to send them back
with renewed vigour to their occupations. Time, as it sweeps over them,
only indicates a period when the deep-sea hand-lines must be laid aside for
the herring-drift, or when the men must take a toilsome journey in search of
bait for their lines. Their scene of labour is on the sea, ever on the sea; and,
trusting themselves on the mighty waters, they pursue their simple craft
receive shelter from, and this the fishermen complain of, as they have to
pay £2 a year for the privilege of each boat. The beach is steep, and strewed
with large pebbles, excellently adapted, they say, for drying fish upon.
The visitor, in addition to studying the quaint people, may explore one of
the vast caves which only a few years ago were the nightly refuge of the
smuggler. Brandy Cove and Gaylet Pot are worth inspection, and inspire a
mingled feeling of terror and grandeur. The visitor may also take a look at
the “Spindle”—a large detached piece of the cliffs, shaped something like a
corn-stack, or a boy’s top with the apex uppermost. When the tide is full
this rock is surrounded with water, and appears like an island. Fisher-life
may be witnessed here in all its unvarnished simplicity. Indeed nothing
could well be more primitive than their habits and mode of life. I have seen
the women of Auchmithie “kilt their coats” and rush into the water in order
to aid in shoving off the boats, and on the return of the little fleet carry the
men ashore on their brawny shoulders with the greatest ease and all the
nonchalance imaginable, no matter who might be looking at them. Their
peculiar way of smoking their haddocks may be taken as a very good
example of their other modes of industry. Instead of splitting the fish after
cleaning them, as the regular curers do, they smoke them in their round
shape. They use a barrel without top or bottom as a substitute for a curing-
house. The barrel being inserted a little distance in the ground, an old kail-
pot or kettle, filled with sawdust, is placed at the bottom, and the inside is
then filled with as many fish as can conveniently be hung in it. The sawdust
is then set fire to, and a piece of canvas thrown over the top of the barrel: by
this means the females of Auchmithie smoke their haddocks in a round
state, and very excellent they are when the fish are caught in season. The
daily routine of fisher-life at Auchmithie is simple and unvarying; year by
year, and all the year round, it changes only from one branch of the fishery
to another. The season, of course, brings about its joys and sorrows: sad
deaths, which overshadow the village with gloom; or marriages, when the
people may venture to hold some simple fête, but only to send them back
with renewed vigour to their occupations. Time, as it sweeps over them,
only indicates a period when the deep-sea hand-lines must be laid aside for
the herring-drift, or when the men must take a toilsome journey in search of
bait for their lines. Their scene of labour is on the sea, ever on the sea; and,
trusting themselves on the mighty waters, they pursue their simple craft
Page 358
with persevering industry, never heeding that they are scorched by the suns
of summer or benumbed by the frosts of winter. There is, of course, an
appropriate season for the capture of each particular kind of fish. There are
days when the men fish inshore for haddocks; and there are times when,
with their frail vessels, the fishermen sail long distances to procure larger
fish in the deep seas, and when they must remain in their open boats for a
few days and nights. But the El-dorado of all the coast tribe is “the herring.”
This abounding and delightful fish, which can be taken at one place or
another from January to December, yields a six weeks’ fishing in the
autumn of the year, to which, as has already been stated, all the fisher-folk
look forward with hope, as a period of money-making, and which, so far as
the young people are concerned, is generally expected to end, like the third
volume of a love-story, in matrimony.
Taking a jump from Auchmithie, it is desirable to pause a moment at the
small fishing village of Findon, in the parish of Banchory-Devenick, in
Kincardineshire, in order to say a few words about a branch of industry in
connection with the fisheries that is peculiar to Scotland. Yarmouth is famed
for its “bloaters,” a preparation of herrings slightly smoked, well known
over England; and in Scotland, as has already been mentioned in a previous
chapter, there is that unparagoned dainty, the “Finnan haddock,” the best
accompaniment that can be got to the other substantial components of a
Scottish breakfast. Indeed, the Finnan haddock is celebrated as a breakfast
luxury all over the world, although it is so delicate in its flavour, and
requires such nicety in the cure, that it cannot be enjoyed in perfection at
any great distance from the sea-coast. George IV., who had certainly,
whatever may have been his other virtues, a kingly genius in the matter of
relishes for the palate (does not the world owe to him the discovery of the
exquisite propriety of the sequence of port wine after cheese?), used to have
genuine Finnan haddocks always on his breakfast-table, selected at
Aberdeen and sent express by coach every day for his Majesty’s use. Great
houses of brick have now been erected at various places on the Moray Firth
and elsewhere; and in these immense quantities of haddocks and other fish
are smoked for the market by means of burning billets of green wood.
Formerly the fisher-folk used to smoke a few haddocks in their cottages
over their peat-fires for family use. I have already described how the fame
of the Finnan haddock arose. The trade soon grew so large that it required a
collection to be made in the fishing districts in order to get together the
of summer or benumbed by the frosts of winter. There is, of course, an
appropriate season for the capture of each particular kind of fish. There are
days when the men fish inshore for haddocks; and there are times when,
with their frail vessels, the fishermen sail long distances to procure larger
fish in the deep seas, and when they must remain in their open boats for a
few days and nights. But the El-dorado of all the coast tribe is “the herring.”
This abounding and delightful fish, which can be taken at one place or
another from January to December, yields a six weeks’ fishing in the
autumn of the year, to which, as has already been stated, all the fisher-folk
look forward with hope, as a period of money-making, and which, so far as
the young people are concerned, is generally expected to end, like the third
volume of a love-story, in matrimony.
Taking a jump from Auchmithie, it is desirable to pause a moment at the
small fishing village of Findon, in the parish of Banchory-Devenick, in
Kincardineshire, in order to say a few words about a branch of industry in
connection with the fisheries that is peculiar to Scotland. Yarmouth is famed
for its “bloaters,” a preparation of herrings slightly smoked, well known
over England; and in Scotland, as has already been mentioned in a previous
chapter, there is that unparagoned dainty, the “Finnan haddock,” the best
accompaniment that can be got to the other substantial components of a
Scottish breakfast. Indeed, the Finnan haddock is celebrated as a breakfast
luxury all over the world, although it is so delicate in its flavour, and
requires such nicety in the cure, that it cannot be enjoyed in perfection at
any great distance from the sea-coast. George IV., who had certainly,
whatever may have been his other virtues, a kingly genius in the matter of
relishes for the palate (does not the world owe to him the discovery of the
exquisite propriety of the sequence of port wine after cheese?), used to have
genuine Finnan haddocks always on his breakfast-table, selected at
Aberdeen and sent express by coach every day for his Majesty’s use. Great
houses of brick have now been erected at various places on the Moray Firth
and elsewhere; and in these immense quantities of haddocks and other fish
are smoked for the market by means of burning billets of green wood.
Formerly the fisher-folk used to smoke a few haddocks in their cottages
over their peat-fires for family use. I have already described how the fame
of the Finnan haddock arose. The trade soon grew so large that it required a
collection to be made in the fishing districts in order to get together the
Page 359
requisite quantity; so that what was once a mere local effort has now
become a prominent branch of the fish trade. But it is seldom that the home-
smoked fish can be obtained, with its delicate flavour of peat-reek. The
manufactured Finnan or yellow haddock, smoked in a huge warehouse, is
more plentiful, of course, but it has lost the old relish. It is pleasant to see
the clean fireside and the clear peat-fire in the comfortably-furnished
cottage, with the children sitting round the ingle on the long winter
evenings, listening to the tales and traditions of the coast, the fish hanging
all over the reeking peats, acquiring the while that delicate yellow tinge so
refreshing to the eyes of all lovers of a choice dish.
Footdee, or “Fittie” as it is locally called, is a quaint suburb of Aberdeen,
figuring not a little, and always with a kind of comic quaintness, in the
traditions of that northern city, and in the stories which the inhabitants tell
of each other. They tell there of one Aberdeen man, who, being in London
for the first time, and visiting St. Paul’s, was surprised by his astonishment
at its dimensions into an unusual burst of candour. “My stars!” he said, “this
maks a perfect feel (fool) o’ the kirk o’ Fittie.” Part of the quaint interest
thus attached to this particular suburb by the Aberdonians themselves arises
from its containing a little colony or nest of fisher-folk, of immemorial
antiquity. There are about a hundred families living in Fittie, or Footdee
Square, close to the sea, where the Dee has its mouth. This community, like
all others made up of fishing-folk, is a peculiar one, and differs of course
from those of other working-people in its neighbourhood. In many things
the Footdee people are like the gipsies. They rarely marry, except with their
own class; and those born in a community of fishers seldom leave it, and
very seldom engage in any other avocation than that of their fathers. The
squares of houses at Footdee are peculiarly constructed. There are neither
doors nor windows in the outside walls, although these look to all the points
of the compass; and none live within the square but the fishermen and their
families, so that they are as completely isolated and secluded from public
gaze as are a regiment of soldiers within the dead walls of a barrack. The
Rev. Mr. Spence, of Free St. Clement’s, lately completed plans of the entire
“toun,” giving the number and the names of the tenants in every house; and
from these exhaustive plans it appears that the total population of the two
squares was 584—giving about nine inmates for each of these two-roomed
houses. But the case is even worse than this average indicates. “In the South
Square only eight of the houses are occupied by single families; and in the
become a prominent branch of the fish trade. But it is seldom that the home-
smoked fish can be obtained, with its delicate flavour of peat-reek. The
manufactured Finnan or yellow haddock, smoked in a huge warehouse, is
more plentiful, of course, but it has lost the old relish. It is pleasant to see
the clean fireside and the clear peat-fire in the comfortably-furnished
cottage, with the children sitting round the ingle on the long winter
evenings, listening to the tales and traditions of the coast, the fish hanging
all over the reeking peats, acquiring the while that delicate yellow tinge so
refreshing to the eyes of all lovers of a choice dish.
Footdee, or “Fittie” as it is locally called, is a quaint suburb of Aberdeen,
figuring not a little, and always with a kind of comic quaintness, in the
traditions of that northern city, and in the stories which the inhabitants tell
of each other. They tell there of one Aberdeen man, who, being in London
for the first time, and visiting St. Paul’s, was surprised by his astonishment
at its dimensions into an unusual burst of candour. “My stars!” he said, “this
maks a perfect feel (fool) o’ the kirk o’ Fittie.” Part of the quaint interest
thus attached to this particular suburb by the Aberdonians themselves arises
from its containing a little colony or nest of fisher-folk, of immemorial
antiquity. There are about a hundred families living in Fittie, or Footdee
Square, close to the sea, where the Dee has its mouth. This community, like
all others made up of fishing-folk, is a peculiar one, and differs of course
from those of other working-people in its neighbourhood. In many things
the Footdee people are like the gipsies. They rarely marry, except with their
own class; and those born in a community of fishers seldom leave it, and
very seldom engage in any other avocation than that of their fathers. The
squares of houses at Footdee are peculiarly constructed. There are neither
doors nor windows in the outside walls, although these look to all the points
of the compass; and none live within the square but the fishermen and their
families, so that they are as completely isolated and secluded from public
gaze as are a regiment of soldiers within the dead walls of a barrack. The
Rev. Mr. Spence, of Free St. Clement’s, lately completed plans of the entire
“toun,” giving the number and the names of the tenants in every house; and
from these exhaustive plans it appears that the total population of the two
squares was 584—giving about nine inmates for each of these two-roomed
houses. But the case is even worse than this average indicates. “In the South
Square only eight of the houses are occupied by single families; and in the
Page 360
North Square only three, the others being occupied by at least two families
each—one room apiece—and four single rooms in the North Square contain
two families each! There are thirty-six married couples and nineteen
widows in the twenty-eight houses; and the number of distinct families in
them is fifty-four.” The Fittie men seem poorer than the generality of their
brethren. They purchase the crazy old boats of other fishermen, and with
these, except in very fine weather, they dare not venture very far from “the
seething harbour-bar;” and the moment they come home with a quantity of
fish the men consider their labours over, the duty of turning the fish into
cash devolving, as in all other fishing communities, on the women. The
young girls, or “queans,” as they are called in Fittie, carry the fish to
market, and the women sit there and sell them; and it is thought that it is the
officious desire of their wives to be the treasurers of their earnings that
keeps the fishermen from being more enterprising. The women enslave the
men to their will, and keep them chained under petticoat government. Did
the women remain at home in their domestic sphere, looking after the
children and their husbands’ comforts, the men would then pluck up spirit
and exert themselves to make money in order to keep their families at home
comfortable and respectable. Just now there are many fishermen who will
not go to sea as long as they imagine their wives have got a penny left from
the last hawking excursion. There is no necessity for the females labouring
at out-door work. There are few trades in this country where industrious
men have a better chance to make money than fishermen have, especially
when they are equipped with proper machinery for their calling. At
Arbroath, Auchmithie, and Footdee (Fittie), the fishing population are at the
very bottom of the scale for enterprising habits and social progress. When
the wind is in any way from the eastward, or in fact blowing hard from any
direction, the fishermen at these places are very chary about going to sea
unless dire necessity urges them.
The people of “Fittie” are progressing in morals and civilisation. One of
the local journalists who took the trouble to visit the place lately, in order to
describe truthfully what he saw, says:—“They have the reputation of being
a very peculiar people, and so in many respects they are; but they have also
the reputation of being a dirtily-inclined and degraded people, and this we
can certify from personal inspection they are not. We have visited both
squares, and found the interior of the houses as clean, sweet, and
wholesome as could well be desired. Their white-washed walls and ceiling,
each—one room apiece—and four single rooms in the North Square contain
two families each! There are thirty-six married couples and nineteen
widows in the twenty-eight houses; and the number of distinct families in
them is fifty-four.” The Fittie men seem poorer than the generality of their
brethren. They purchase the crazy old boats of other fishermen, and with
these, except in very fine weather, they dare not venture very far from “the
seething harbour-bar;” and the moment they come home with a quantity of
fish the men consider their labours over, the duty of turning the fish into
cash devolving, as in all other fishing communities, on the women. The
young girls, or “queans,” as they are called in Fittie, carry the fish to
market, and the women sit there and sell them; and it is thought that it is the
officious desire of their wives to be the treasurers of their earnings that
keeps the fishermen from being more enterprising. The women enslave the
men to their will, and keep them chained under petticoat government. Did
the women remain at home in their domestic sphere, looking after the
children and their husbands’ comforts, the men would then pluck up spirit
and exert themselves to make money in order to keep their families at home
comfortable and respectable. Just now there are many fishermen who will
not go to sea as long as they imagine their wives have got a penny left from
the last hawking excursion. There is no necessity for the females labouring
at out-door work. There are few trades in this country where industrious
men have a better chance to make money than fishermen have, especially
when they are equipped with proper machinery for their calling. At
Arbroath, Auchmithie, and Footdee (Fittie), the fishing population are at the
very bottom of the scale for enterprising habits and social progress. When
the wind is in any way from the eastward, or in fact blowing hard from any
direction, the fishermen at these places are very chary about going to sea
unless dire necessity urges them.
The people of “Fittie” are progressing in morals and civilisation. One of
the local journalists who took the trouble to visit the place lately, in order to
describe truthfully what he saw, says:—“They have the reputation of being
a very peculiar people, and so in many respects they are; but they have also
the reputation of being a dirtily-inclined and degraded people, and this we
can certify from personal inspection they are not. We have visited both
squares, and found the interior of the houses as clean, sweet, and
wholesome as could well be desired. Their white-washed walls and ceiling,
Page 361
their well-rubbed furniture, clean bedding, and freshly-sanded floors,
present a picture of tidiness such as is seldom to be met with among classes
of the population reckoned higher in the social scale. And this external
order is only the index of a still more important change in the habits and
character of our fisher-toun, the population of which, all who know it agree
in testifying, has within the past few years undergone a remarkable change
for the better in a moral point of view. Especially is this noticed in the care
of their children, whose education might, in some cases, bring a tinge of
shame to the cheek of well-to-do town’s folks. Go down to the fisher
squares, and lay hold of some little fellow hardly able to waddle about
without assistance in his thick made-down moleskins, and you will find he
has the Shorter Catechism at his tongue-end. Ask any employer of labour in
the neighbourhood of the shore where he gets his best apprentices, and he
will tell you that for industry and integrity he finds no lads who surpass
those from the fisher squares. Inquire about the families of the fishermen
who have lost their lives while following their perilous occupation, and you
will find that they have been divided among other families in the square,
and treated by the heads of these families as affectionately as if they had
been their own.”
As regards the constant intermarrying of the fisher class, and the working
habits of their women, I have read an Italian fable to the following effect:
—“A man of distinction, in rambling one day through a fishing-village,
accosted one of the fishermen with the remark that he wondered greatly that
men of his line of life should chiefly confine themselves, in their
matrimonial connections, to women of their own caste, and not take them
from other classes of society, where a greater security would be obtained for
their wives keeping a house properly, and rearing a family more in
accordance with the refinement and courtesies of life. To this the fisherman
replied, that to him, and men of his laborious profession, such wives as they
usually took were as indispensable to their vocation as their boat and nets.
Their wives took their fish to market, obtained bait for their lines, mended
their nets, and performed a thousand different and necessary things, which
husbands could not do for themselves, and which women taken from any
other of the labouring classes of society would be unable to do. ‘The labour
and drudgery of our wives,’ continued he, ‘is a necessary part of our
peculiar craft, and cannot by any means be dispensed with, without
entailing irreparable injury upon our social interests.’ Moral.—This is one
present a picture of tidiness such as is seldom to be met with among classes
of the population reckoned higher in the social scale. And this external
order is only the index of a still more important change in the habits and
character of our fisher-toun, the population of which, all who know it agree
in testifying, has within the past few years undergone a remarkable change
for the better in a moral point of view. Especially is this noticed in the care
of their children, whose education might, in some cases, bring a tinge of
shame to the cheek of well-to-do town’s folks. Go down to the fisher
squares, and lay hold of some little fellow hardly able to waddle about
without assistance in his thick made-down moleskins, and you will find he
has the Shorter Catechism at his tongue-end. Ask any employer of labour in
the neighbourhood of the shore where he gets his best apprentices, and he
will tell you that for industry and integrity he finds no lads who surpass
those from the fisher squares. Inquire about the families of the fishermen
who have lost their lives while following their perilous occupation, and you
will find that they have been divided among other families in the square,
and treated by the heads of these families as affectionately as if they had
been their own.”
As regards the constant intermarrying of the fisher class, and the working
habits of their women, I have read an Italian fable to the following effect:
—“A man of distinction, in rambling one day through a fishing-village,
accosted one of the fishermen with the remark that he wondered greatly that
men of his line of life should chiefly confine themselves, in their
matrimonial connections, to women of their own caste, and not take them
from other classes of society, where a greater security would be obtained for
their wives keeping a house properly, and rearing a family more in
accordance with the refinement and courtesies of life. To this the fisherman
replied, that to him, and men of his laborious profession, such wives as they
usually took were as indispensable to their vocation as their boat and nets.
Their wives took their fish to market, obtained bait for their lines, mended
their nets, and performed a thousand different and necessary things, which
husbands could not do for themselves, and which women taken from any
other of the labouring classes of society would be unable to do. ‘The labour
and drudgery of our wives,’ continued he, ‘is a necessary part of our
peculiar craft, and cannot by any means be dispensed with, without
entailing irreparable injury upon our social interests.’ Moral.—This is one
Page 362
among many instances, where the solid and the useful must take precedence
of the showy and the elegant.”
As I have already mentioned, the fishers are intensely superstitious. No
matter where we view them, they are as much given to signs and omens at
Portel near Boulogne as at Portessie near Banff. For instance, whilst
standing or walking they don’t like to be numbered. Rude boys will
sometimes annoy them by shouting—
“Ane, twa, three;
What a lot o’ fisher mannies I see!”
It is also considered very offensive to ask fisher-people, whilst on their way
to their boats, where they are going to-day; and they do not like to see,
considering it unlucky, the impression of a very flat foot upon the sand;
neither, as I have already explained, can they go to work if on leaving their
homes in the morning a pig should cross their path. This is considered a
particularly unlucky omen, and at once drives them home. Before a storm, it
is usually thought, there is some kind of warning vouchsafed to them; they
see, in their mind’s eye doubtless, a comrade wafted homeward in a sheet of
flame, or the wraith of some one beckons them with solemn gesture
landward, as if saying, “Go not upon the waters.” When an accident
happens from an open boat, and any person is drowned, that boat is never
again used, but is laid up high and dry, and allowed to rot away—rather a
costly superstition. Then, again, some fisher-people perform a kind of “rite”
before going to the herring-fishery, in drinking to a “white lug”—that is,
that when they “pree” or examine a corner or lug of their nets, they may
find it glitter with the silvery sheen of the fish, a sure sign of a heavy
draught.
But the fishermen of other coasts are quite as quaint, superstitious, and
peculiar as those of our own. The residents in the Faubourg de Pollet of
Dieppe are just as much alive to the signs and tokens of the hour as the
dwellers in the square of Fittie, or those who inhabit the fishing quarter of
Boulogne. It is a pity that the guide-books say so little about these and
similar places. The fishing quarter of Boulogne is not unlike Newhaven:
there is the same “ancient and fish-like smell,” the same kind of women
with a very short petticoat, the only difference being that our Scottish
of the showy and the elegant.”
As I have already mentioned, the fishers are intensely superstitious. No
matter where we view them, they are as much given to signs and omens at
Portel near Boulogne as at Portessie near Banff. For instance, whilst
standing or walking they don’t like to be numbered. Rude boys will
sometimes annoy them by shouting—
“Ane, twa, three;
What a lot o’ fisher mannies I see!”
It is also considered very offensive to ask fisher-people, whilst on their way
to their boats, where they are going to-day; and they do not like to see,
considering it unlucky, the impression of a very flat foot upon the sand;
neither, as I have already explained, can they go to work if on leaving their
homes in the morning a pig should cross their path. This is considered a
particularly unlucky omen, and at once drives them home. Before a storm, it
is usually thought, there is some kind of warning vouchsafed to them; they
see, in their mind’s eye doubtless, a comrade wafted homeward in a sheet of
flame, or the wraith of some one beckons them with solemn gesture
landward, as if saying, “Go not upon the waters.” When an accident
happens from an open boat, and any person is drowned, that boat is never
again used, but is laid up high and dry, and allowed to rot away—rather a
costly superstition. Then, again, some fisher-people perform a kind of “rite”
before going to the herring-fishery, in drinking to a “white lug”—that is,
that when they “pree” or examine a corner or lug of their nets, they may
find it glitter with the silvery sheen of the fish, a sure sign of a heavy
draught.
But the fishermen of other coasts are quite as quaint, superstitious, and
peculiar as those of our own. The residents in the Faubourg de Pollet of
Dieppe are just as much alive to the signs and tokens of the hour as the
dwellers in the square of Fittie, or those who inhabit the fishing quarter of
Boulogne. It is a pity that the guide-books say so little about these and
similar places. The fishing quarter of Boulogne is not unlike Newhaven:
there is the same “ancient and fish-like smell,” the same kind of women
with a very short petticoat, the only difference being that our Scottish
Page 363
fishwives wear comfortable shoes and stockings. We can see too the
dripping nets hung up to dry from the windows of the tumble-down-like
houses, and the gamins of Boulogne lounge about the gutter’s side on the
large side stones, or run up and down the long series of steps just the same
as the fisher-folks’ children do at home.
A FRENCH FISHWOMAN.
It is only, however, by penetrating into the quaint villages situated on the
coasts of Normandy and Brittany, that we can gain a knowledge of the
manners and customs of those persons who are daily engaged in
prosecuting the fisheries. The clergymen of their districts, as may be
supposed, have great power over them, and all along the French coast the
fisher-people have churches of their own, and they are constantly praying
for “luck,” or leaving propitiatory gifts upon the altars, as well as going
pilgrimages in order that their wishes may be realised. A dream is thought
of such great consequence among these people, that the women will hold a
dripping nets hung up to dry from the windows of the tumble-down-like
houses, and the gamins of Boulogne lounge about the gutter’s side on the
large side stones, or run up and down the long series of steps just the same
as the fisher-folks’ children do at home.
A FRENCH FISHWOMAN.
It is only, however, by penetrating into the quaint villages situated on the
coasts of Normandy and Brittany, that we can gain a knowledge of the
manners and customs of those persons who are daily engaged in
prosecuting the fisheries. The clergymen of their districts, as may be
supposed, have great power over them, and all along the French coast the
fisher-people have churches of their own, and they are constantly praying
for “luck,” or leaving propitiatory gifts upon the altars, as well as going
pilgrimages in order that their wishes may be realised. A dream is thought
of such great consequence among these people, that the women will hold a
Page 364
conference, early in the day, in order to its interpretation. Each little village
has its storied traditions, many of them of great interest, and some of them
very romantic. I can only briefly allude, however, to one of these little
stories. Some of my readers may have heard of the Bay of the Departed on
the coast of Brittany, where, in the dead hour of night, the boatmen are
summoned by some unseen power to launch their boats and ferry over to a
sacred island the souls of men who had been drowned in the surging waters.
The fishermen tell that, on the occasion of those midnight freights, the boat
is so crowded with invisible passengers as to sink quite low in the water,
and the wails and cries of the shipwrecked are heard as the melancholy
voyage progresses. On their arrival at the Island of Sein, invisible beings
are said to number the invisible passengers, and the wondering awe-struck
crew then return to await the next supernatural summons to boat over the
ghosts to the storied isle, which was in long back days the chief haunt of the
Druidesses in Brittany. A similar story may be heard at Guildo on the same
coast. Small skiffs, phantom ones it is currently believed, may be seen when
the moon is bright darting out from under the castle cliffs, manned by
phantom figures, ferrying over the treacherous sands the spirits whose
bodies lie engulphed in the neighbourhood. Not one of the native
population, so strong is the dread of the scene, will pass the spot after
nightfall, and strange stories are told of phantom lights and woeful demons
that lure the unsuspecting wayfarer to a treacherous death.
The Parisian fishwives are clean and buxom women, like their sisters of
Newhaven, and they are quite as celebrated if not so picturesque in their
costume. About a century and a half ago—and I need not go further back—
there were a great number of fishwives in Paris, there being not less than
4000 oyster-women, who pursued their business with much dexterity, and
were able to cheat their customers as well, if not better than any modern
fishwife. One of their best tricks was to swallow many of the finest oysters
under the pretence of their not being fresh. Among the Parisian fishwives of
the last century we are able to pick out Madame Picard, who was famed for
her poetical talent, and was personally known to many of the eminent
Frenchmen of the last century. Her poems were collected and published in a
little volume, and ultimately by marriage this fishwife became a lady,
having married a very wealthy silk merchant. The fishwives of Paris have
long been historical: they have figured prominently in all the great events
connected with the history of that city. A deputation from these market-
has its storied traditions, many of them of great interest, and some of them
very romantic. I can only briefly allude, however, to one of these little
stories. Some of my readers may have heard of the Bay of the Departed on
the coast of Brittany, where, in the dead hour of night, the boatmen are
summoned by some unseen power to launch their boats and ferry over to a
sacred island the souls of men who had been drowned in the surging waters.
The fishermen tell that, on the occasion of those midnight freights, the boat
is so crowded with invisible passengers as to sink quite low in the water,
and the wails and cries of the shipwrecked are heard as the melancholy
voyage progresses. On their arrival at the Island of Sein, invisible beings
are said to number the invisible passengers, and the wondering awe-struck
crew then return to await the next supernatural summons to boat over the
ghosts to the storied isle, which was in long back days the chief haunt of the
Druidesses in Brittany. A similar story may be heard at Guildo on the same
coast. Small skiffs, phantom ones it is currently believed, may be seen when
the moon is bright darting out from under the castle cliffs, manned by
phantom figures, ferrying over the treacherous sands the spirits whose
bodies lie engulphed in the neighbourhood. Not one of the native
population, so strong is the dread of the scene, will pass the spot after
nightfall, and strange stories are told of phantom lights and woeful demons
that lure the unsuspecting wayfarer to a treacherous death.
The Parisian fishwives are clean and buxom women, like their sisters of
Newhaven, and they are quite as celebrated if not so picturesque in their
costume. About a century and a half ago—and I need not go further back—
there were a great number of fishwives in Paris, there being not less than
4000 oyster-women, who pursued their business with much dexterity, and
were able to cheat their customers as well, if not better than any modern
fishwife. One of their best tricks was to swallow many of the finest oysters
under the pretence of their not being fresh. Among the Parisian fishwives of
the last century we are able to pick out Madame Picard, who was famed for
her poetical talent, and was personally known to many of the eminent
Frenchmen of the last century. Her poems were collected and published in a
little volume, and ultimately by marriage this fishwife became a lady,
having married a very wealthy silk merchant. The fishwives of Paris have
long been historical: they have figured prominently in all the great events
connected with the history of that city. A deputation from these market-
Page 365
women, gorgeously dressed in silk and lace, and bedecked with diamonds
and other precious stones, frequently took part in public affairs. Mirabeau
was a great favourite of the Parisian fishwives; at his death they attended
his funeral and wore mourning for him. These Poissardes took an active
part in the revolution of 1789, and did deeds of horror and charity that one
has a difficulty in reconciling. It was no uncommon sight, for instance, to
see the fishwives carrying about on poles the heads of obnoxious persons
who had been murdered by the mob.
As I am on the subject of the foreign fisher-folk, I may as well say a few
words more about the quaint eel-breeders of Comacchio, to whom I have
already had occasion to allude. According to M. Coste, the social life of the
people at Comacchio, who are engaged in the work of eel-culture, is very
curious; but I think the industrial phase is so much mixed up with the social
as to render the two inseparable. The community is in a sense—that is, so
far as discipline is concerned—a military one, and strict laws are laid down
for the conduct of the fishery. A large number of the men live in barracks,
and observe the monkish rule of passive obedience. Each of the islands of
the lagoon may be described as a small farm, having a chief cultivator, a
few servants, a plentiful supply of the necessary implements of labour, its
living-house, and its store for the harvest. It appears so natural to the people
to suppose these stations to be farms, that they have from the very earliest
times described the various basins as fields, just as if they were composed
of earth instead of water; and of these places there are no less than four
hundred, the most important of them belonging to the state, the rest being
private property. The government of the whole lagoon is exclusively in the
hands of the farmer-general or his representative, who rents the fisheries
from the Pope. There is a large body of men employed by him, who are
divided into brigades, and whose business lies in the construction of the
dykes, and in the management of the flood-gates during the seeding of the
lagoon, and the organisation of the labyrinths during the fishing-season.
This cultivating brigade numbers about three hundred men; the police
brigade consists of one hundred and twenty persons; and besides these there
is an administrative brigade of one hundred individuals. A great deal of
work has to be done by the persons employed, whether at the various farms,
in the offices, or in the kitchen, for at Comacchio a large portion of the fish
is cooked for the market. Upon each farm there are about twelve labourers,
who live in a barrack under severe discipline, having all things in common.
and other precious stones, frequently took part in public affairs. Mirabeau
was a great favourite of the Parisian fishwives; at his death they attended
his funeral and wore mourning for him. These Poissardes took an active
part in the revolution of 1789, and did deeds of horror and charity that one
has a difficulty in reconciling. It was no uncommon sight, for instance, to
see the fishwives carrying about on poles the heads of obnoxious persons
who had been murdered by the mob.
As I am on the subject of the foreign fisher-folk, I may as well say a few
words more about the quaint eel-breeders of Comacchio, to whom I have
already had occasion to allude. According to M. Coste, the social life of the
people at Comacchio, who are engaged in the work of eel-culture, is very
curious; but I think the industrial phase is so much mixed up with the social
as to render the two inseparable. The community is in a sense—that is, so
far as discipline is concerned—a military one, and strict laws are laid down
for the conduct of the fishery. A large number of the men live in barracks,
and observe the monkish rule of passive obedience. Each of the islands of
the lagoon may be described as a small farm, having a chief cultivator, a
few servants, a plentiful supply of the necessary implements of labour, its
living-house, and its store for the harvest. It appears so natural to the people
to suppose these stations to be farms, that they have from the very earliest
times described the various basins as fields, just as if they were composed
of earth instead of water; and of these places there are no less than four
hundred, the most important of them belonging to the state, the rest being
private property. The government of the whole lagoon is exclusively in the
hands of the farmer-general or his representative, who rents the fisheries
from the Pope. There is a large body of men employed by him, who are
divided into brigades, and whose business lies in the construction of the
dykes, and in the management of the flood-gates during the seeding of the
lagoon, and the organisation of the labyrinths during the fishing-season.
This cultivating brigade numbers about three hundred men; the police
brigade consists of one hundred and twenty persons; and besides these there
is an administrative brigade of one hundred individuals. A great deal of
work has to be done by the persons employed, whether at the various farms,
in the offices, or in the kitchen, for at Comacchio a large portion of the fish
is cooked for the market. Upon each farm there are about twelve labourers,
who live in a barrack under severe discipline, having all things in common.
Page 366
There is a master who exercises absolute power in his own domain; he is
paid a salary of four scudi seventy-five baiocchi per month, with two and a
half pounds of fish per day, and during summer-time, when the fish are
scarce, he gets an additional allowance of money. The rate of wages at this
place appears exceedingly small when contrasted with the payment of
English labour. The wages of the learners or apprentices are exceedingly
modest; they are remunerated with the “sair-won penny-fee” of 26s. per
annum, in addition to their food! But then the poor people of Comacchio—
the widow, the orphan, the aged and the infirm labourer—are all maintained
at the expense of the community.
But it is right to mention also that a greater than a mere salaried interest
in the labours incidental to the working of these fish-farms is kept up by the
greater portion of the employes having a share of or commission on the
produce, which in good years amounts to as much as twelve Roman ecus
for each man. The captain is, of course, responsible in every way for his
farm, both that the labour be properly carried on, and also for the moral
conduct of the men under his charge, to whom he is bound to set a good
example, as well of neatness in dress as activity in business.
Exiled in the valley which they cultivate, each family finds it necessary
to devote its attention to those domestic offices so necessary for economy
and comfort. The vallanti take in turn, as our soldiers do, the duty of
cooking. They place the fish which they receive as a part of their wages in a
common stock, to which is added such provision as the messenger may
have brought from the town. When the cook has prepared the repast, they
all sit down to table in one company, from the head man to the most humble
servant; but although they mix thus promiscuously together, military
etiquette is strictly observed—the foreman occupies the place of honour,
having the under-foreman and the secretary by his side, next come the
vallanti, and then the apprentices and cleaners. A benediction is then
pronounced, after which the foreman serves out to each man his proper
modicum of food, taking care to respect those rights of precedence which
have been indicated. Eels, cooked upon the gridiron, form the staple of the
repast, and the dinner is washed down with a little bosco-eli-esco wine.
After dinner is over, the labourers return to their work. When evening
arrives some remain awake all night, seated in arm-chairs, and others lie
down in hard beds similar to those of the barracks. None of the employes of
paid a salary of four scudi seventy-five baiocchi per month, with two and a
half pounds of fish per day, and during summer-time, when the fish are
scarce, he gets an additional allowance of money. The rate of wages at this
place appears exceedingly small when contrasted with the payment of
English labour. The wages of the learners or apprentices are exceedingly
modest; they are remunerated with the “sair-won penny-fee” of 26s. per
annum, in addition to their food! But then the poor people of Comacchio—
the widow, the orphan, the aged and the infirm labourer—are all maintained
at the expense of the community.
But it is right to mention also that a greater than a mere salaried interest
in the labours incidental to the working of these fish-farms is kept up by the
greater portion of the employes having a share of or commission on the
produce, which in good years amounts to as much as twelve Roman ecus
for each man. The captain is, of course, responsible in every way for his
farm, both that the labour be properly carried on, and also for the moral
conduct of the men under his charge, to whom he is bound to set a good
example, as well of neatness in dress as activity in business.
Exiled in the valley which they cultivate, each family finds it necessary
to devote its attention to those domestic offices so necessary for economy
and comfort. The vallanti take in turn, as our soldiers do, the duty of
cooking. They place the fish which they receive as a part of their wages in a
common stock, to which is added such provision as the messenger may
have brought from the town. When the cook has prepared the repast, they
all sit down to table in one company, from the head man to the most humble
servant; but although they mix thus promiscuously together, military
etiquette is strictly observed—the foreman occupies the place of honour,
having the under-foreman and the secretary by his side, next come the
vallanti, and then the apprentices and cleaners. A benediction is then
pronounced, after which the foreman serves out to each man his proper
modicum of food, taking care to respect those rights of precedence which
have been indicated. Eels, cooked upon the gridiron, form the staple of the
repast, and the dinner is washed down with a little bosco-eli-esco wine.
After dinner is over, the labourers return to their work. When evening
arrives some remain awake all night, seated in arm-chairs, and others lie
down in hard beds similar to those of the barracks. None of the employes of
Page 367
the valley are allowed to be absent from duty without a written permission,
and heavy fines are exacted on any occasion of this rule being infringed.
The discipline of each valley is the same, and one cannot conceive of a
more monotonous life than that led by these humble fishermen, which
season after season is ever the same, and goes on for years in one dull
unvarying round. An unexpected tourist excites quite a commotion among
the simple people, and they have great hopes that as the place becomes
known to the outer world their prison life will ultimately be ameliorated.
The fish season is opened with great solemnity of prayer, and many of
those other ceremonies of the church peculiar to Roman Catholic
communities—one of which is the consecration of the lagoon. The
labyrinths, which have been constructed from hurdles in each watery field
(see plan in “Fish Culture”) are crowded with fish, so that there is
comparatively little trouble in the capture, and the salter waters of the sea
being let in, the migratory instinct of the animal is excited, so that it
becomes an easy prey to the fishermen. Upon the occasion of taking a great
haul of fish in any particular valley, a gun is fired to announce the glad
tidings to the other islanders, and next day a feast is held to celebrate the
capture, which must, however, be of a certain amount.
The town of Comacchio is chiefly a long street of one-storied houses,
situated on the principal island of the lagoon. There is a cathedral in the
town, but it is entirely destitute of any architectural character, and there is a
tower, from the top of which a good view of the lagoon and its various
islands may be obtained; but in an industrial point of view the chief feature
of the place is the great kitchen where the cure of the fish is carried on, one
of the peculiarities of Comacchio being that a large portion of the eels are
cooked before being sent to market. The kitchen where the eels are cooked
is a large room containing a number of fireplaces ranged along one side.
These fireplaces are about five feet square, and in front of each of them are
hung six or seven spits on which the eels are impaled and roasted. The fire
is placed on a low grate, and immediately below the spits is a trough or duct
to catch the grease, that drops from the eels while cooking. Before being
roasted the fish undergo an operation. A workman seated before a block of
wood, with a small hatchet in his hand, seizes the eels one by one and with
great dexterity cuts off the head and tail, which are given to the poor,
divides the body of the eel into several pieces of equal length according to
and heavy fines are exacted on any occasion of this rule being infringed.
The discipline of each valley is the same, and one cannot conceive of a
more monotonous life than that led by these humble fishermen, which
season after season is ever the same, and goes on for years in one dull
unvarying round. An unexpected tourist excites quite a commotion among
the simple people, and they have great hopes that as the place becomes
known to the outer world their prison life will ultimately be ameliorated.
The fish season is opened with great solemnity of prayer, and many of
those other ceremonies of the church peculiar to Roman Catholic
communities—one of which is the consecration of the lagoon. The
labyrinths, which have been constructed from hurdles in each watery field
(see plan in “Fish Culture”) are crowded with fish, so that there is
comparatively little trouble in the capture, and the salter waters of the sea
being let in, the migratory instinct of the animal is excited, so that it
becomes an easy prey to the fishermen. Upon the occasion of taking a great
haul of fish in any particular valley, a gun is fired to announce the glad
tidings to the other islanders, and next day a feast is held to celebrate the
capture, which must, however, be of a certain amount.
The town of Comacchio is chiefly a long street of one-storied houses,
situated on the principal island of the lagoon. There is a cathedral in the
town, but it is entirely destitute of any architectural character, and there is a
tower, from the top of which a good view of the lagoon and its various
islands may be obtained; but in an industrial point of view the chief feature
of the place is the great kitchen where the cure of the fish is carried on, one
of the peculiarities of Comacchio being that a large portion of the eels are
cooked before being sent to market. The kitchen where the eels are cooked
is a large room containing a number of fireplaces ranged along one side.
These fireplaces are about five feet square, and in front of each of them are
hung six or seven spits on which the eels are impaled and roasted. The fire
is placed on a low grate, and immediately below the spits is a trough or duct
to catch the grease, that drops from the eels while cooking. Before being
roasted the fish undergo an operation. A workman seated before a block of
wood, with a small hatchet in his hand, seizes the eels one by one and with
great dexterity cuts off the head and tail, which are given to the poor,
divides the body of the eel into several pieces of equal length according to
Page 368
its size, and throws them into a basket at his side. Each piece at the same
time is slightly notched to facilitate the work of the next operator, who with
equal skill and quickness puts the bits on the spit. It is only the large eels,
however, that are decapitated and divided, the smaller ones are simply
notched and stuck on the spit. The spits thus filled are next handed to the
women in front of the fire. Two women are necessary for each fireplace:
one regulates the fire; the second looks after the roasting of the eels, which
is the most important part of the labour, carefully shifting the spits from a
higher to a lower position in front of the fire until the fish are properly
done, when the spits are taken off by the woman, who places them aside for
the next operation. This woman also attends to the grease that collects in the
trough below the spits, and puts it in jars for future use. Besides these
fireplaces, there are a number of furnaces fitted with large circular frying-
pans, which are exclusively attended to by men. All the fish for which the
spit is unsuitable are fried in these pans with a mixture of the grease
dropped from the eels and olive-oil. They are exposed to the air for some
time, even during very warm weather, before being cooked. This operation
renders them fitter for preservation. The eels roasted on spits, and the fish
cooked in the frying-pans, are placed in baskets of openwork to dreep and
cool. They are then packed in barrels of large and small sizes. The packing
is carefully and regularly done similar to the method of packing herrings. A
mixture of vinegar and salt is poured into the barrel before it is closed up.
The vinegar must be of the strongest, and the salt employed is grey rock-
salt instead of white salt. Previous to exportation the barrels are branded
with different letters according to the nature of the fish contained in them.
Another method of preserving the fish is by salting. In the room devoted
to this operation is a raised quadrangular space inclined so as to have a flow
into a kind of ditch or trough, similar to that which receives the grease from
the eels in the kitchen. On this raised space a layer of grey rock-salt is
spread, and upon this salt the eels are disposed, laid at full length and
closely squeezed together. Another layer of salt is spread upon the eels, and
then another layer of eels is disposed crosswise on the first row, and so on
until the pile is sufficiently high. A layer of salt is spread on the top, which
is crowned by a board heavy with weights to press the fish close together
and prevent the air from penetrating into the pile. The brine that exudes
from the heap of fish and salt flows into the trough already mentioned.
When the fish are considered to be well impregnated with the salt, which
time is slightly notched to facilitate the work of the next operator, who with
equal skill and quickness puts the bits on the spit. It is only the large eels,
however, that are decapitated and divided, the smaller ones are simply
notched and stuck on the spit. The spits thus filled are next handed to the
women in front of the fire. Two women are necessary for each fireplace:
one regulates the fire; the second looks after the roasting of the eels, which
is the most important part of the labour, carefully shifting the spits from a
higher to a lower position in front of the fire until the fish are properly
done, when the spits are taken off by the woman, who places them aside for
the next operation. This woman also attends to the grease that collects in the
trough below the spits, and puts it in jars for future use. Besides these
fireplaces, there are a number of furnaces fitted with large circular frying-
pans, which are exclusively attended to by men. All the fish for which the
spit is unsuitable are fried in these pans with a mixture of the grease
dropped from the eels and olive-oil. They are exposed to the air for some
time, even during very warm weather, before being cooked. This operation
renders them fitter for preservation. The eels roasted on spits, and the fish
cooked in the frying-pans, are placed in baskets of openwork to dreep and
cool. They are then packed in barrels of large and small sizes. The packing
is carefully and regularly done similar to the method of packing herrings. A
mixture of vinegar and salt is poured into the barrel before it is closed up.
The vinegar must be of the strongest, and the salt employed is grey rock-
salt instead of white salt. Previous to exportation the barrels are branded
with different letters according to the nature of the fish contained in them.
Another method of preserving the fish is by salting. In the room devoted
to this operation is a raised quadrangular space inclined so as to have a flow
into a kind of ditch or trough, similar to that which receives the grease from
the eels in the kitchen. On this raised space a layer of grey rock-salt is
spread, and upon this salt the eels are disposed, laid at full length and
closely squeezed together. Another layer of salt is spread upon the eels, and
then another layer of eels is disposed crosswise on the first row, and so on
until the pile is sufficiently high. A layer of salt is spread on the top, which
is crowned by a board heavy with weights to press the fish close together
and prevent the air from penetrating into the pile. The brine that exudes
from the heap of fish and salt flows into the trough already mentioned.
When the fish are considered to be well impregnated with the salt, which
Page 369
requires a period of twelve or fifteen days according to the size of the eels,
the fish are taken down and packed in barrels, the same as the cooked eels,
but without any liquid. There is a third mode of preparation, which consists
in first immersing them for some time in the brine obtained from the above
process of salting and then drying them. It is found necessary to put them
into this liquid when alive, as otherwise the entrails would not absorb
enough of salt to preserve them. In order to render the operation still more
effective, powdered salt is introduced into the intestines by a wooden rod.
After this they are washed in lukewarm water, and then hung up to dry
below the ceiling of the kitchen or in a room somewhat smoky. The eels
dried in this manner become of a bronze colour and are called smoked, a
name which is also applied to all the fish prepared by the drying process,
although smoke has nothing to do with the process. When the fish are
destined for speedy consumption they are only half-dried. A barrel of
pickled eels contains one hundred and fifty pounds weight, and costs a little
more than ninety-seven francs. The fish of Comacchio are sent to all parts
of Italy, and in Venice, Rome, and Naples they are greatly in demand.
As I have already indicated, the income obtained at Comacchio from this
one fish is something wonderful; labour being so cheap, the profits are of
course proportionately large. The population of the lagoon is about seven
thousand individuals, and, as I have endeavoured to show, their mode of life
is exceedingly primitive, the one grand idea being the fishery, of the
ingenuity and productiveness of which the population are very proud.
The short and simple annals of the fisher-folk are all tinged with
melancholy—there is a skeleton in every closet. There is no household but
has to mourn the loss of a father or a son. Annals of storms and chronicles
of deaths form the talk of the aged in all the fishing villages. The following
narrative is a sample of hundreds of other sad tales that might be collected
from the coast people of Scotland. It was related to a friend by a woman at
Musselburgh:—“Weel, ye see, sir, I hae’na ony great story till tell. At the
time I lost my guidman I was livin’ doon by at the Pans (Prestonpans, a
fishing village). The herrin’ season was ower aboot a month, and my
guidman had laid by a guid pickle siller, and we had skytched oot a lot o’
plans for the futur’. We had nae bairns o’ oor ain, although we had been
married for mony years; but we had been lang thinkin’ o’ takin’ in a wee
orphint till bring up as oor ain; and noo that the siller was geyan’ plenty, we
the fish are taken down and packed in barrels, the same as the cooked eels,
but without any liquid. There is a third mode of preparation, which consists
in first immersing them for some time in the brine obtained from the above
process of salting and then drying them. It is found necessary to put them
into this liquid when alive, as otherwise the entrails would not absorb
enough of salt to preserve them. In order to render the operation still more
effective, powdered salt is introduced into the intestines by a wooden rod.
After this they are washed in lukewarm water, and then hung up to dry
below the ceiling of the kitchen or in a room somewhat smoky. The eels
dried in this manner become of a bronze colour and are called smoked, a
name which is also applied to all the fish prepared by the drying process,
although smoke has nothing to do with the process. When the fish are
destined for speedy consumption they are only half-dried. A barrel of
pickled eels contains one hundred and fifty pounds weight, and costs a little
more than ninety-seven francs. The fish of Comacchio are sent to all parts
of Italy, and in Venice, Rome, and Naples they are greatly in demand.
As I have already indicated, the income obtained at Comacchio from this
one fish is something wonderful; labour being so cheap, the profits are of
course proportionately large. The population of the lagoon is about seven
thousand individuals, and, as I have endeavoured to show, their mode of life
is exceedingly primitive, the one grand idea being the fishery, of the
ingenuity and productiveness of which the population are very proud.
The short and simple annals of the fisher-folk are all tinged with
melancholy—there is a skeleton in every closet. There is no household but
has to mourn the loss of a father or a son. Annals of storms and chronicles
of deaths form the talk of the aged in all the fishing villages. The following
narrative is a sample of hundreds of other sad tales that might be collected
from the coast people of Scotland. It was related to a friend by a woman at
Musselburgh:—“Weel, ye see, sir, I hae’na ony great story till tell. At the
time I lost my guidman I was livin’ doon by at the Pans (Prestonpans, a
fishing village). The herrin’ season was ower aboot a month, and my
guidman had laid by a guid pickle siller, and we had skytched oot a lot o’
plans for the futur’. We had nae bairns o’ oor ain, although we had been
married for mony years; but we had been lang thinkin’ o’ takin’ in a wee
orphint till bring up as oor ain; and noo that the siller was geyan’ plenty, we
Page 370
settled that Mairon M’Farlane should come hame till us by the beginnin’ o’
November. My guidman was thinkin’ aboot buyin’ a new boat, although his
auld ane was no sae muckle the waur for wear. I was thinkin’ aboot askin’
the guidman for a new Sunday’s goon; in fac’, we were biggin’ castles in
the air a’ on the foundation o’ the herrin’ siller; but hech, sir, it’s ower true
that man—ay, and woman tae—purposes, but the Great Almighty disposes.
The wee orphint wasna till find a new faither and mither in my guidman
and me; the auld boat wasna till mak’ room for a new ane; and my braw
Sunday goon, which, gin I had had my choice, would hae been a bricht sky-
blue ane, was changed intae black—black as nicht, black as sorrow and as
death could mak’ it. There was a fine fishin’ o’ the haddies, and the siller in
the bank was growing bigger ilka week, for the wather was at its best, and
the fish plentifu’. Aweel, on the nicht o’ the seventeent o’ November, after I
had put a’ the lines in order, and gien Archibald his supper, aff he gangs frae
the herbour wi’ his boat, and four as nice young chiels as ye ever set an ee
on for a crew. An’ there wasna muckle fear o’ dirty wather, although the sun
had gaen doon rayther redder than we could hae wished. Some o’ the new
married, and some o’ the lasses that were sune tae be married, used tae gang
doon tae the herbour, and see their guidmen and their sweethearts awa’. I
was lang by wi’ that sort o’ thing; no that my love was less, but my
confidence was mair, seein’ that it had been tried and faund true through the
lang period o’ fourteen years. As I was tidyin’ up the hoose afore gangin’ till
my bed, I heard the men in the boats cryin’ till ane anither, as they were
workin’ oot intae the firth. Tae bed I gaed, and lookin’ at the low o’ the fire,
as it keepit flichterin’ up and deein’ awa’, sune set me soond asleep. What
daftlike things folks think, see, and dae in their sleep. I dreamt that nicht
that I was walkin’ alang the sands till meet my guidman, wha had landed his
boat at Morrison’s Haven. The sun was shinin’ beautifu’, and the waves
were comin’ tumlin’ up the sand, sparklin’ and lauchin’ in the sunlicht,
dancin’ as if they never did ony ill. I saw my guidman at the distance, and I
put my best fit forrit till meet him. I was as near him as tae see his face
distinckly, and was aboot tae cry oot, ‘Archibald, what sort o’ fishin’ hae ye
had?‘ when a’ on a suddint a great muckle hand cam’ doon frae the sky, and
puttin’ its finger and thoom roond my guidman, lifted him clean oot o’ my
sicht jist in a meenit. The fricht o’ the dream waukened me, and I turned on
my side and lookit at whaur the fire ought tae be, but it was a’ blackness.
The hoose was shakin’ as if the great muckle hand had gruppit it by the
November. My guidman was thinkin’ aboot buyin’ a new boat, although his
auld ane was no sae muckle the waur for wear. I was thinkin’ aboot askin’
the guidman for a new Sunday’s goon; in fac’, we were biggin’ castles in
the air a’ on the foundation o’ the herrin’ siller; but hech, sir, it’s ower true
that man—ay, and woman tae—purposes, but the Great Almighty disposes.
The wee orphint wasna till find a new faither and mither in my guidman
and me; the auld boat wasna till mak’ room for a new ane; and my braw
Sunday goon, which, gin I had had my choice, would hae been a bricht sky-
blue ane, was changed intae black—black as nicht, black as sorrow and as
death could mak’ it. There was a fine fishin’ o’ the haddies, and the siller in
the bank was growing bigger ilka week, for the wather was at its best, and
the fish plentifu’. Aweel, on the nicht o’ the seventeent o’ November, after I
had put a’ the lines in order, and gien Archibald his supper, aff he gangs frae
the herbour wi’ his boat, and four as nice young chiels as ye ever set an ee
on for a crew. An’ there wasna muckle fear o’ dirty wather, although the sun
had gaen doon rayther redder than we could hae wished. Some o’ the new
married, and some o’ the lasses that were sune tae be married, used tae gang
doon tae the herbour, and see their guidmen and their sweethearts awa’. I
was lang by wi’ that sort o’ thing; no that my love was less, but my
confidence was mair, seein’ that it had been tried and faund true through the
lang period o’ fourteen years. As I was tidyin’ up the hoose afore gangin’ till
my bed, I heard the men in the boats cryin’ till ane anither, as they were
workin’ oot intae the firth. Tae bed I gaed, and lookin’ at the low o’ the fire,
as it keepit flichterin’ up and deein’ awa’, sune set me soond asleep. What
daftlike things folks think, see, and dae in their sleep. I dreamt that nicht
that I was walkin’ alang the sands till meet my guidman, wha had landed his
boat at Morrison’s Haven. The sun was shinin’ beautifu’, and the waves
were comin’ tumlin’ up the sand, sparklin’ and lauchin’ in the sunlicht,
dancin’ as if they never did ony ill. I saw my guidman at the distance, and I
put my best fit forrit till meet him. I was as near him as tae see his face
distinckly, and was aboot tae cry oot, ‘Archibald, what sort o’ fishin’ hae ye
had?‘ when a’ on a suddint a great muckle hand cam’ doon frae the sky, and
puttin’ its finger and thoom roond my guidman, lifted him clean oot o’ my
sicht jist in a meenit. The fricht o’ the dream waukened me, and I turned on
my side and lookit at whaur the fire ought tae be, but it was a’ blackness.
The hoose was shakin’ as if the great muckle hand had gruppit it by the
Page 371
gavel, and was shakin’ it like a wunnelstraw. Hech, sir, ye leeve up in a toon
o’ lands, and dinna ken what a storm is. Aiblins ye get up in the mornin’ and
see a tree or twa lyin’ across the road, and a lum tummilt ower the rufe, and
a kittlin’ or twa smoort aneath an auld barrel; but bless ye, sir, that’s no a
storm sic as we folk on the seaside ken o’. Na, na! The sky—sky! there’s
nae sky, a’ is as black as black can be; ye may put your hand oot and fill
your nieve wi’ the darkness, exceppin’ the times when the lichtnin’ flashes
doon like a twisted threid o’ purple gowd; and then ye can see the waves
lookin’ ower ane anither’s heads, and gnashin’ their teeth, as ye micht think,
and cryin’ oot in their anger for puir folk’s lives. Siccan a nicht it was when
I waukened. My guidman had been oot in mony a storm afore, sae I
comforted mysel’ wi’ thinkin’ that he would gey and likely mak for North
Berwick or Dunbar when he saw the wather airtin’ for coorse. I wasna
frightened, yet I couldna sleep for the roarin’ o’ the wind. Mornin’ cam’. I
gaed doon till the shore, and a’ the wives and sweethearts o’ the Pans gaed
wi’ me. There was a heavy fog on the sea, sae thick that neither Inchkeith
nor the Law were to be seen. Naething was there but the sea and the muckle
waves lowpin’ up and dashin’ themselves tae death on the rocks and the
sands. Eastwards and westwards we lookit, an’ better lookit, but naething
was till be seen but the fog and the angry roaring sea—no a boat, no a sail
was visible on a’ the wild waters. Weel, we had a lang confab on the shore
as tae what our guidmen and our sweethearts micht aiblins hae dune. It was
settled amang us without a doot that they had gane intill North Berwick or
Dunbar, and sae we expeckit that in the afternoon they would maybe tak’
the road and come hame till comfort us. After denner we—that is, the wives
and sweethearts—took the gait and went as far as Gosfort Sands till meet
our guidmen and the lads. The rain was pourin’ doon like mad; but what
was that till us? we were lookin’ for what was a’ the world till our bosoms,
and through wind and weet we went tae find it, and we nayther felt the
cauld blast nor the showers. Cauldly and greyly the short day fell upon the
Berwick Law. Darker and darker grew the gloamin’, but nae word o’ them
we loo’d afore a’ the world. The nicht closed in at lang and last, and no a
soond o’ the welcome voices. Eh, sir, aften and aften hae I said, and sang
ower till mysel’, the bonny words o’ poetry that says—
o’ lands, and dinna ken what a storm is. Aiblins ye get up in the mornin’ and
see a tree or twa lyin’ across the road, and a lum tummilt ower the rufe, and
a kittlin’ or twa smoort aneath an auld barrel; but bless ye, sir, that’s no a
storm sic as we folk on the seaside ken o’. Na, na! The sky—sky! there’s
nae sky, a’ is as black as black can be; ye may put your hand oot and fill
your nieve wi’ the darkness, exceppin’ the times when the lichtnin’ flashes
doon like a twisted threid o’ purple gowd; and then ye can see the waves
lookin’ ower ane anither’s heads, and gnashin’ their teeth, as ye micht think,
and cryin’ oot in their anger for puir folk’s lives. Siccan a nicht it was when
I waukened. My guidman had been oot in mony a storm afore, sae I
comforted mysel’ wi’ thinkin’ that he would gey and likely mak for North
Berwick or Dunbar when he saw the wather airtin’ for coorse. I wasna
frightened, yet I couldna sleep for the roarin’ o’ the wind. Mornin’ cam’. I
gaed doon till the shore, and a’ the wives and sweethearts o’ the Pans gaed
wi’ me. There was a heavy fog on the sea, sae thick that neither Inchkeith
nor the Law were to be seen. Naething was there but the sea and the muckle
waves lowpin’ up and dashin’ themselves tae death on the rocks and the
sands. Eastwards and westwards we lookit, an’ better lookit, but naething
was till be seen but the fog and the angry roaring sea—no a boat, no a sail
was visible on a’ the wild waters. Weel, we had a lang confab on the shore
as tae what our guidmen and our sweethearts micht aiblins hae dune. It was
settled amang us without a doot that they had gane intill North Berwick or
Dunbar, and sae we expeckit that in the afternoon they would maybe tak’
the road and come hame till comfort us. After denner we—that is, the wives
and sweethearts—took the gait and went as far as Gosfort Sands till meet
our guidmen and the lads. The rain was pourin’ doon like mad; but what
was that till us? we were lookin’ for what was a’ the world till our bosoms,
and through wind and weet we went tae find it, and we nayther felt the
cauld blast nor the showers. Cauldly and greyly the short day fell upon the
Berwick Law. Darker and darker grew the gloamin’, but nae word o’ them
we loo’d afore a’ the world. The nicht closed in at lang and last, and no a
soond o’ the welcome voices. Eh, sir, aften and aften hae I said, and sang
ower till mysel’, the bonny words o’ poetry that says—
Page 372
‘His very foot has music in’t,
As he comes up the stair.’
But Archibald’s feet were never mair till come pap, pappin, in at the door.
Twa sorrowfu’ and lang lang days passed awa’, and the big waves, as if
mockin’ our sorrow, flang the spars o’ the boats up amang the rocks, and
there was weepin’ and wailin’ when we saw them, or in the grand words o’
the Book, there was ‘lamentation and sorrow and woe.’ We kent then that
we micht look across the sea, but ower the waters would never blink the een
that made sunshine around our hearths; ower the waters would never come
the voices that were mair delightfu’ than the music o’ the simmer winds
when the leaves gang dancing till their sang. My story, sir, is dune. I hae nae
mair tae tell. Sufficient and suffice it till say, that there was great grief at the
Pans—Rachel weepin’ for her weans, and wouldna be comforted. The
windows were darkened, and the air was heavy wi’ sighin’ and sabbin’.”
Resuming our tour, I may hint to the reader that it is well worth while, by
way of variety, to see the fishing population of the various towns on the
Moray Firth. Taking the south side as the best point of advantage, it may be
safely said that from Gamrie to Portgordon there may be found many
studies of character, and bits of land-, or rather sea-scape, that cannot be
found anywhere else. Portsoy, Cullen, Portessie, Buckie, Portgordon, are
every one of them places where all the specialities of fisher life may be
studied. Buckie, from its size, may be named as a kind of metropolis among
these ports; and it differs from some of them inasmuch as it contains, in
addition to its fisher-folk, a mercantile population as well. The town is
divided and subdivided by means of its natural situation. There is Buckie-
east-the-burn, New Buckie, Nether Buckie, Buckie-below-the-brae, Buckie-
aboon-the-brae, and, of course, Buckie-west-the-burn. A curious system of
“nicknames” prevails among the fisher-people, and most notably among
those on the Moray Firth, and in some of the Scottish weaving villages as
well. In all communications with the people their “to” (i.e. additional), or,
as the local pronunciation has it, “tee” names, must be used. At a public
dinner a few months ago several of the Buckie fishermen were present; and
it was noticeable that the gentlemen of the press were careful, in their
reports of the proceedings, to couple with the real names of the men the
As he comes up the stair.’
But Archibald’s feet were never mair till come pap, pappin, in at the door.
Twa sorrowfu’ and lang lang days passed awa’, and the big waves, as if
mockin’ our sorrow, flang the spars o’ the boats up amang the rocks, and
there was weepin’ and wailin’ when we saw them, or in the grand words o’
the Book, there was ‘lamentation and sorrow and woe.’ We kent then that
we micht look across the sea, but ower the waters would never blink the een
that made sunshine around our hearths; ower the waters would never come
the voices that were mair delightfu’ than the music o’ the simmer winds
when the leaves gang dancing till their sang. My story, sir, is dune. I hae nae
mair tae tell. Sufficient and suffice it till say, that there was great grief at the
Pans—Rachel weepin’ for her weans, and wouldna be comforted. The
windows were darkened, and the air was heavy wi’ sighin’ and sabbin’.”
Resuming our tour, I may hint to the reader that it is well worth while, by
way of variety, to see the fishing population of the various towns on the
Moray Firth. Taking the south side as the best point of advantage, it may be
safely said that from Gamrie to Portgordon there may be found many
studies of character, and bits of land-, or rather sea-scape, that cannot be
found anywhere else. Portsoy, Cullen, Portessie, Buckie, Portgordon, are
every one of them places where all the specialities of fisher life may be
studied. Buckie, from its size, may be named as a kind of metropolis among
these ports; and it differs from some of them inasmuch as it contains, in
addition to its fisher-folk, a mercantile population as well. The town is
divided and subdivided by means of its natural situation. There is Buckie-
east-the-burn, New Buckie, Nether Buckie, Buckie-below-the-brae, Buckie-
aboon-the-brae, and, of course, Buckie-west-the-burn. A curious system of
“nicknames” prevails among the fisher-people, and most notably among
those on the Moray Firth, and in some of the Scottish weaving villages as
well. In all communications with the people their “to” (i.e. additional), or,
as the local pronunciation has it, “tee” names, must be used. At a public
dinner a few months ago several of the Buckie fishermen were present; and
it was noticeable that the gentlemen of the press were careful, in their
reports of the proceedings, to couple with the real names of the men the
Page 373
appellations by which they were best known—as “Mr. Peter Cowie,
‘langlegs,’ proposed the health, etc.” So, upon all occasions of registering
births, marriages, or deaths, the “tee” name must be recorded. If a
fisherman be summoned to answer in a court of justice, he is called not only
by his proper name, but by his nickname as well. In many of the fishing
villages, where the population is only a few hundreds, there will not,
perhaps, be half a dozen surnames, and the whole of the inhabitants
therefore will be related “through-ither,” as such intermixture is called in
Scotland. The variety of nicknames, therefore, is wonderful, but necessary
in order to the identification of the different members of the few families
who inhabit the fishing villages. The different divisions of Buckie, for
instance, are inhabited by different clans; on the west side of the river or
burn there are none but Reids and Stewarts, while on the east side we have
only Cowies and Murrays. Cowie is a very common name on the shores of
the Moray Firth; at Whitehills, and other villages, there are many bearing
that surname, and to distinguish one from the other, such nicknames as
Shavie, Pinchie, Howdie, Doddlies, etc., are employed. In some families the
nickname has come to be as hereditary as the surname; and when Shavie
senior crosses “that bourne,” etc., Shavie junior will still perpetuate the
family “tee” name. All kinds of circumstances are indicated by these names
—personal blemishes, peculiarities of manner, etc. There is, in
consequence, Gley’d Sandy Cowie, Gley’d Sandy Cowie, dumpie, and Big
Gley’d Sandy Cowie; there is Souples, Goup-the-Lift, Lang-nose, Brandy,
Stottie, Hawkie, etc. Every name in church or state is represented—kings,
barons, bishops, doctors, parsons, and deacons; and others, in countless
variety, that have neither rhyme nor reason to account for them.
As an instance of the many awkward contretemps which occur through
the multiplicity of similar names in the northern fishing villages, the
following may be recorded:—In a certain town lived two married men, each
of them yclept Adam Flucker, and their individuality was preserved by
those who knew them entitling them as Fleukie (Flounder) Flucker, and
Haddie (Haddock) Flucker. Fleukie was blessed with a large family, with
probable increase of the same, and cursed with a wife who ruled him like a
despot. Haddie had possessed for many years a treasure of a wife, but
prospect of a family there was none. Now these things were unknown to the
carrier, who had newly entered on his office. From the store of an inland
town he had received two packages, one for Haddie (a fashionable petticoat
‘langlegs,’ proposed the health, etc.” So, upon all occasions of registering
births, marriages, or deaths, the “tee” name must be recorded. If a
fisherman be summoned to answer in a court of justice, he is called not only
by his proper name, but by his nickname as well. In many of the fishing
villages, where the population is only a few hundreds, there will not,
perhaps, be half a dozen surnames, and the whole of the inhabitants
therefore will be related “through-ither,” as such intermixture is called in
Scotland. The variety of nicknames, therefore, is wonderful, but necessary
in order to the identification of the different members of the few families
who inhabit the fishing villages. The different divisions of Buckie, for
instance, are inhabited by different clans; on the west side of the river or
burn there are none but Reids and Stewarts, while on the east side we have
only Cowies and Murrays. Cowie is a very common name on the shores of
the Moray Firth; at Whitehills, and other villages, there are many bearing
that surname, and to distinguish one from the other, such nicknames as
Shavie, Pinchie, Howdie, Doddlies, etc., are employed. In some families the
nickname has come to be as hereditary as the surname; and when Shavie
senior crosses “that bourne,” etc., Shavie junior will still perpetuate the
family “tee” name. All kinds of circumstances are indicated by these names
—personal blemishes, peculiarities of manner, etc. There is, in
consequence, Gley’d Sandy Cowie, Gley’d Sandy Cowie, dumpie, and Big
Gley’d Sandy Cowie; there is Souples, Goup-the-Lift, Lang-nose, Brandy,
Stottie, Hawkie, etc. Every name in church or state is represented—kings,
barons, bishops, doctors, parsons, and deacons; and others, in countless
variety, that have neither rhyme nor reason to account for them.
As an instance of the many awkward contretemps which occur through
the multiplicity of similar names in the northern fishing villages, the
following may be recorded:—In a certain town lived two married men, each
of them yclept Adam Flucker, and their individuality was preserved by
those who knew them entitling them as Fleukie (Flounder) Flucker, and
Haddie (Haddock) Flucker. Fleukie was blessed with a large family, with
probable increase of the same, and cursed with a wife who ruled him like a
despot. Haddie had possessed for many years a treasure of a wife, but
prospect of a family there was none. Now these things were unknown to the
carrier, who had newly entered on his office. From the store of an inland
town he had received two packages, one for Haddie (a fashionable petticoat
Page 374
of the gaudiest red), and the other for Fleukie (a stout wooden cradle), to
supply the place of a similar article worn out by long service. The carrier, in
simplicity of ignorance, reversed the destination of the packages, which, of
course, were returned to the inland merchant with threats of vengeance and
vows never to patronise his store again.
Let the reader take, as an example of the quaint ways and absurd
superstitions of the Moray Firth fisher-folk, the following little episode,
which took place in the Small-Debt Court at Buckie, at the instance of a
man who had been hired to assist at the herring-fishery, and who was
pursuing his employer for his wages:—
On the case being called, the pursuer stated that he had been dismissed
by the defender from his employment without just cause, indeed without
any cause at all; and the defender, on being asked what he had to say, at
once admitted the dismissal, and to the great astonishment of the Sheriff,
confessed that he had nothing to assign as a reason for it, except the fact
that the pursuer’s name was “Ross.”
“Ye see, my Lord, I did engage him, though I was weel tauld by my
neibors that I sudna dee’t, and that I cudna expect te hae ony luck wi’ him,
as it was weel kent that ‘Ross’ was an unlucky name. I thocht this was
nonsense, but I ken better noo. He gaed te sea wi’ us for a week, and I canna
say but that he did’s wark weel eneuch; but we never gat a scale. Sae the
next week, I began to think there beet te be something in fat my neibors
said; sae upo’ the Monday I wadna tak’ him oot, and left him ashore, and
that very night we had a gran’ shot; and ye ken yersel’, my Lord, that it wad
hae been ower superstishus to keep him after that, and sae I wad hae
naething mair te dae wi’ him, and pat him aboot’s business.”
The Sheriff was much amused with this novel application of the word
“superstitious;” but, in spite of that application, he had no difficulty in at
once deciding against the defender, with expenses, taking occasion while
doing so to read him a severe lecture upon his ignorance and folly. The
lecture, however, has not been of much use, for I have ascertained that the
“freit” in question is still as rife as ever, and that there is scarcely an
individual among the communities of white-fishers on the Banffshire coast
who, if he can avoid it, will have any transaction with any one bearing the
obnoxious name of “Ross.”
supply the place of a similar article worn out by long service. The carrier, in
simplicity of ignorance, reversed the destination of the packages, which, of
course, were returned to the inland merchant with threats of vengeance and
vows never to patronise his store again.
Let the reader take, as an example of the quaint ways and absurd
superstitions of the Moray Firth fisher-folk, the following little episode,
which took place in the Small-Debt Court at Buckie, at the instance of a
man who had been hired to assist at the herring-fishery, and who was
pursuing his employer for his wages:—
On the case being called, the pursuer stated that he had been dismissed
by the defender from his employment without just cause, indeed without
any cause at all; and the defender, on being asked what he had to say, at
once admitted the dismissal, and to the great astonishment of the Sheriff,
confessed that he had nothing to assign as a reason for it, except the fact
that the pursuer’s name was “Ross.”
“Ye see, my Lord, I did engage him, though I was weel tauld by my
neibors that I sudna dee’t, and that I cudna expect te hae ony luck wi’ him,
as it was weel kent that ‘Ross’ was an unlucky name. I thocht this was
nonsense, but I ken better noo. He gaed te sea wi’ us for a week, and I canna
say but that he did’s wark weel eneuch; but we never gat a scale. Sae the
next week, I began to think there beet te be something in fat my neibors
said; sae upo’ the Monday I wadna tak’ him oot, and left him ashore, and
that very night we had a gran’ shot; and ye ken yersel’, my Lord, that it wad
hae been ower superstishus to keep him after that, and sae I wad hae
naething mair te dae wi’ him, and pat him aboot’s business.”
The Sheriff was much amused with this novel application of the word
“superstitious;” but, in spite of that application, he had no difficulty in at
once deciding against the defender, with expenses, taking occasion while
doing so to read him a severe lecture upon his ignorance and folly. The
lecture, however, has not been of much use, for I have ascertained that the
“freit” in question is still as rife as ever, and that there is scarcely an
individual among the communities of white-fishers on the Banffshire coast
who, if he can avoid it, will have any transaction with any one bearing the
obnoxious name of “Ross.”
Page 375
I should now like to give my readers a specimen of the patois or dialect
spoken by the Moray Firth fisher-folk, although it is somewhat difficult to
do it effectively on paper; but I will try, taking a little dialogue between the
fishermen and the curer about a herring-fishing engagement as the best
mode of giving an idea of the language and pronunciation of the Buckie
bodies:—
Scene—A Curer’s Office. Present—The Curer and the three “Shavies.”
Curer—Well, Shavie, ye’ve had a pretty good fishing this year.
Shavie senior—Ou ay, it’s been geyan gweed.
Shavie tertius—Fat did ye say, man? gweed—it’s nae been better than
last.
Curer—Well, laddie, what was wrong with last year’s fishing?
Bowed Shavie—Weel awat, man, it was naething till brag o’, an’ fat’s
mair, I lost my beets at it; ye’ll be gaun till gie’s a new pair neist fishin’.
Shavie senior—Ay, that was whan he k-nockit his k-nee again the boat-
shore and brak his cweet.
Curer—Well, but lads, what about next fishing?
Shavie senior—Ou, is’t neist fishin’ ye’re wantin’ till speak o’?
Curer—Yes; will you engage?
Shavie junior—Fat are ye gaun till offer?
Curer—Same as last.
Bowed Shavie—Fat d’ye say, man?
Curer—Fourteen shillings a cran and fifteen pound bounty.
Shavie senior—Na, na, Maister Cowie; that winna dee ava, man.
Bowed Shavie—We can get mair nor that at Fitehills.
Shavie junior—I’ll be fuppit, lathie, if I dinna hae mair siller an’ mair
boonty tee.
Curer—Well, make me an offer.
spoken by the Moray Firth fisher-folk, although it is somewhat difficult to
do it effectively on paper; but I will try, taking a little dialogue between the
fishermen and the curer about a herring-fishing engagement as the best
mode of giving an idea of the language and pronunciation of the Buckie
bodies:—
Scene—A Curer’s Office. Present—The Curer and the three “Shavies.”
Curer—Well, Shavie, ye’ve had a pretty good fishing this year.
Shavie senior—Ou ay, it’s been geyan gweed.
Shavie tertius—Fat did ye say, man? gweed—it’s nae been better than
last.
Curer—Well, laddie, what was wrong with last year’s fishing?
Bowed Shavie—Weel awat, man, it was naething till brag o’, an’ fat’s
mair, I lost my beets at it; ye’ll be gaun till gie’s a new pair neist fishin’.
Shavie senior—Ay, that was whan he k-nockit his k-nee again the boat-
shore and brak his cweet.
Curer—Well, but lads, what about next fishing?
Shavie senior—Ou, is’t neist fishin’ ye’re wantin’ till speak o’?
Curer—Yes; will you engage?
Shavie junior—Fat are ye gaun till offer?
Curer—Same as last.
Bowed Shavie—Fat d’ye say, man?
Curer—Fourteen shillings a cran and fifteen pound bounty.
Shavie senior—Na, na, Maister Cowie; that winna dee ava, man.
Bowed Shavie—We can get mair nor that at Fitehills.
Shavie junior—I’ll be fuppit, lathie, if I dinna hae mair siller an’ mair
boonty tee.
Curer—Well, make me an offer.
Page 376
Shavie senior—Ou ay, man; we’ll tak’ saxteen shillin’ the cran an’ a
boonty o’ twunty pound, an’ a pickle cutch, an’ a drappie whisky; an’ that’s
ower little siller.
Curer—Well, I suppose I must give it.
Bowed Shavie—Gie’s oor five shillin’ then, an we’re fixed wi’ you an’
clear o’ a’ ither body.
And so, on the payment of these five shillings by way of arles, the
bargain is settled, and the men engaged for the next herring-season.
As will be inferred from these details, the fisher-folk, as a body, are not
literary or intellectual. They have few books, and many of them never look
at a newspaper. It is not surprising, therefore, that only one author has
arisen among the fisher-people—Thomas Mathers, fisherman, St. Monance,
Fifeshire. We have had many poets from the mechanic class, and even the
colliers from the deep caverns of the earth have begun to sing. Mathers’
volume is entitled, Musings in Verse by Sea and Shore. The following lines
will at once explain the author’s ambition and exhibit his style:—
“I crave not the harp o’ a Burns sae strong,
Nor the lyre o’ a sweet Tannahill;
For those are the poets unrivalled in song,
Can melt every heart, and inspire every tongue,
Frae the prince to the peasant, at will.
“To weep wi’ the wretched, the hapless to mourn,
To glow wi’ the guid and the brave;
To cheer the lone pilgrim, faint and forlorn,
Wi’ breathin’s that kindle and language that burn,
Is the wealth and the world I would crave.”
The British fisher-people as a class are very sober and industrious, and
they are becoming more intelligent, and, it is to be presumed, less
superstitious. The children in the fishing villages are being educated; and in
time, when they grow to man’s and woman’s estate, they will no doubt
influence the fisheries for the better. Many of the seniors are now teetotal,
and while at the herring-fishing prefer tea to whisky. The homes of some of
boonty o’ twunty pound, an’ a pickle cutch, an’ a drappie whisky; an’ that’s
ower little siller.
Curer—Well, I suppose I must give it.
Bowed Shavie—Gie’s oor five shillin’ then, an we’re fixed wi’ you an’
clear o’ a’ ither body.
And so, on the payment of these five shillings by way of arles, the
bargain is settled, and the men engaged for the next herring-season.
As will be inferred from these details, the fisher-folk, as a body, are not
literary or intellectual. They have few books, and many of them never look
at a newspaper. It is not surprising, therefore, that only one author has
arisen among the fisher-people—Thomas Mathers, fisherman, St. Monance,
Fifeshire. We have had many poets from the mechanic class, and even the
colliers from the deep caverns of the earth have begun to sing. Mathers’
volume is entitled, Musings in Verse by Sea and Shore. The following lines
will at once explain the author’s ambition and exhibit his style:—
“I crave not the harp o’ a Burns sae strong,
Nor the lyre o’ a sweet Tannahill;
For those are the poets unrivalled in song,
Can melt every heart, and inspire every tongue,
Frae the prince to the peasant, at will.
“To weep wi’ the wretched, the hapless to mourn,
To glow wi’ the guid and the brave;
To cheer the lone pilgrim, faint and forlorn,
Wi’ breathin’s that kindle and language that burn,
Is the wealth and the world I would crave.”
The British fisher-people as a class are very sober and industrious, and
they are becoming more intelligent, and, it is to be presumed, less
superstitious. The children in the fishing villages are being educated; and in
time, when they grow to man’s and woman’s estate, they will no doubt
influence the fisheries for the better. Many of the seniors are now teetotal,
and while at the herring-fishing prefer tea to whisky. The homes of some of
Page 377
the fisher-folks, on the Berwickshire and Northumberland coasts, are clean
and tidy, and the proprietors seem to be in possession of a great abundance
of good cheer.
It is, no doubt, considered by some to be an easy way to wealth to
prosecute the herring or white fisheries, and secure a harvest grown on a
farm where there is no rent payable, the seed of which is sown in bountiful
plenty by nature, which requires no manure to force it to maturity, and no
wages for its cultivation. But it is not all gold that glitters. There are risks of
life and property connected with the fishery which are unknown to the
industries that are followed on the land. There are times, as I have just been
endeavouring to show, when there is weeping and wailing along the shore.
The days are not always suffused in sunshine, nor is the sea always calm.
The boats go out in the peaceful afternoon, and the sun, gilding their brown
sails, may sink in golden beauty in its western home of rosy-hued clouds;
but anon the wind will freshen, and the storm rise apace. The black speck
on the distant horizon, unheeded at first, soon grows into a series of fast-
flying clouds; and the wind, which a little ago was but a mere capful, soon
begins to rage and roar, the waves are tossed into a wilder and wilder
velocity, and in a few hours a great storm is agitating the bosom of the
wondrous deep. The fishermen become alarmed; hasty preparations are
made to return, nets are hauled on board, sails are set and dashed about by
the pitiless winds, forcing the boats to seek the nearest haven. Soon the
hurricane bursts in relentless fury; the fleet of fishing-boats toss wildly on
the maddening waves; gloomy clouds spread like a pall over the scene;
while on the coast the waters break with ravening fury, and many a strong-
built boat is dashed to atoms on the iron rocks in the sight of those who are
powerless to aid, and many a gallant soul spent in death, within a span of
the firm-set earth. Morning, so eagerly prayed for by the disconsolate ones
who have all the long and miserable night been watching from the land, at
length slowly dawns, and reveals a shore covered with fragments of wood
and clothes, which too surely indicate the disasters of the night. The débris
of boats and nets lie scattered on the rocks and boulders, dumb talebearers
that bring sorrow and chill penury to many a household. Anxious children
and gaunt women—
“Wives and mithers maist despairin’”—
and tidy, and the proprietors seem to be in possession of a great abundance
of good cheer.
It is, no doubt, considered by some to be an easy way to wealth to
prosecute the herring or white fisheries, and secure a harvest grown on a
farm where there is no rent payable, the seed of which is sown in bountiful
plenty by nature, which requires no manure to force it to maturity, and no
wages for its cultivation. But it is not all gold that glitters. There are risks of
life and property connected with the fishery which are unknown to the
industries that are followed on the land. There are times, as I have just been
endeavouring to show, when there is weeping and wailing along the shore.
The days are not always suffused in sunshine, nor is the sea always calm.
The boats go out in the peaceful afternoon, and the sun, gilding their brown
sails, may sink in golden beauty in its western home of rosy-hued clouds;
but anon the wind will freshen, and the storm rise apace. The black speck
on the distant horizon, unheeded at first, soon grows into a series of fast-
flying clouds; and the wind, which a little ago was but a mere capful, soon
begins to rage and roar, the waves are tossed into a wilder and wilder
velocity, and in a few hours a great storm is agitating the bosom of the
wondrous deep. The fishermen become alarmed; hasty preparations are
made to return, nets are hauled on board, sails are set and dashed about by
the pitiless winds, forcing the boats to seek the nearest haven. Soon the
hurricane bursts in relentless fury; the fleet of fishing-boats toss wildly on
the maddening waves; gloomy clouds spread like a pall over the scene;
while on the coast the waters break with ravening fury, and many a strong-
built boat is dashed to atoms on the iron rocks in the sight of those who are
powerless to aid, and many a gallant soul spent in death, within a span of
the firm-set earth. Morning, so eagerly prayed for by the disconsolate ones
who have all the long and miserable night been watching from the land, at
length slowly dawns, and reveals a shore covered with fragments of wood
and clothes, which too surely indicate the disasters of the night. The débris
of boats and nets lie scattered on the rocks and boulders, dumb talebearers
that bring sorrow and chill penury to many a household. Anxious children
and gaunt women—
“Wives and mithers maist despairin’”—
Page 378
with questioning eyes, rush wildly about the shore, piercing with their
frightened looks the hidden secrets of the subsiding waters; and here and
there a manly form, grim and stark and cold, cold in the icy embrace of
death, his pale brow bound with wreaths of matted seaweed, gives silent
token of the majesty of the storm.
frightened looks the hidden secrets of the subsiding waters; and here and
there a manly form, grim and stark and cold, cold in the icy embrace of
death, his pale brow bound with wreaths of matted seaweed, gives silent
token of the majesty of the storm.
Page 379
CHAPTER XI.
CONCLUDING REMARKS.
Are there more Fish in the Sea than ever came out of it?—Modern Writers on the Fisheries—Were
Fish ever so abundant as is said?—Salmon-Poaching—Value of Salmon—Sea-Fish—
Destruction of the Young—Is the demand for Fish beginning to exceed the Supply?—Evils of
Exaggeration—Fish quite Local—Incongruity of Protecting one Fish and not another—
Difficulties in the way of a Close-Time—Duties of the Board of White-Fisheries—Regulation of
Salmon Rivers—Justice to Upper Proprietors—The one Object of the Fishermen—Conclusion.
he idea of a slowly but surely diminishing supply of fish is no doubt
T alarming, for the public have hitherto believed so devoutly in the
frequently-quoted proverb of “more fish in the sea than ever came out
of it,” that it has never, except by a discerning few, been thought possible to
overfish; and, consequently, while endeavouring to supply the constantly-
increasing demand, it has never sufficiently been brought home to the
public mind that it is possible to reduce the breeding stock of our best kinds
of sea-fish to such an extent as may render it difficult to repopulate those
exhausted ocean colonies which in years gone by yielded, as we have been
often told, such miraculous draughts. It is worthy of being noticed that most
of our public writers who venture to treat the subject of the fisheries
proceed at once to argue that the supply of fish is unlimited, and that the sea
is a gigantic fish-preserve into which man requires but to dip his net to
obtain at all times an enormous amount of wholesome and nutritious food.
This style of writing on the fisheries comes largely into use whenever
there is a project of a joint-stock fishing company placed before the public.
When that is the case obscure little villages are pointed to as the future seats
of enormous prosperity, just because they happen to be thought of by some
enterprising speculator as the nucleus of a fishing town; and we are
straightway told that Buckhorn or Kirksalt, or some equally obscure place,
could be made to rival those towns in Holland whose wealth and prosperity
originated in even smaller beginnings. We are likewise informed, on the
occasions of giving publicity to such speculations, that “the sea is a liquid
mine of boundless wealth, and that thousands of pounds might be earned by
simply stretching forth our hands and pulling out the fish that have scarcely
room to live in the teeming waters of Great Britain,” etc. etc. I would be
CONCLUDING REMARKS.
Are there more Fish in the Sea than ever came out of it?—Modern Writers on the Fisheries—Were
Fish ever so abundant as is said?—Salmon-Poaching—Value of Salmon—Sea-Fish—
Destruction of the Young—Is the demand for Fish beginning to exceed the Supply?—Evils of
Exaggeration—Fish quite Local—Incongruity of Protecting one Fish and not another—
Difficulties in the way of a Close-Time—Duties of the Board of White-Fisheries—Regulation of
Salmon Rivers—Justice to Upper Proprietors—The one Object of the Fishermen—Conclusion.
he idea of a slowly but surely diminishing supply of fish is no doubt
T alarming, for the public have hitherto believed so devoutly in the
frequently-quoted proverb of “more fish in the sea than ever came out
of it,” that it has never, except by a discerning few, been thought possible to
overfish; and, consequently, while endeavouring to supply the constantly-
increasing demand, it has never sufficiently been brought home to the
public mind that it is possible to reduce the breeding stock of our best kinds
of sea-fish to such an extent as may render it difficult to repopulate those
exhausted ocean colonies which in years gone by yielded, as we have been
often told, such miraculous draughts. It is worthy of being noticed that most
of our public writers who venture to treat the subject of the fisheries
proceed at once to argue that the supply of fish is unlimited, and that the sea
is a gigantic fish-preserve into which man requires but to dip his net to
obtain at all times an enormous amount of wholesome and nutritious food.
This style of writing on the fisheries comes largely into use whenever
there is a project of a joint-stock fishing company placed before the public.
When that is the case obscure little villages are pointed to as the future seats
of enormous prosperity, just because they happen to be thought of by some
enterprising speculator as the nucleus of a fishing town; and we are
straightway told that Buckhorn or Kirksalt, or some equally obscure place,
could be made to rival those towns in Holland whose wealth and prosperity
originated in even smaller beginnings. We are likewise informed, on the
occasions of giving publicity to such speculations, that “the sea is a liquid
mine of boundless wealth, and that thousands of pounds might be earned by
simply stretching forth our hands and pulling out the fish that have scarcely
room to live in the teeming waters of Great Britain,” etc. etc. I would be
Page 380
glad to believe in these general statements regarding our food fisheries,
were I not convinced, from personal inquiry, that they are a mere coinage of
the brain. There are doubtless plenty of fish still in the sea, but the trouble
of capturing them increases daily, and the instruments of capture have to be
yearly augmented, indicating but too clearly to all who have studied the
subject that we are beginning to overfish. We already know, in the case of
the salmon, that the greed of man, when thoroughly excited, can extirpate,
for mere immediate gain, any animal, however prolific it may be. Some of
the British game birds have so narrowly escaped destruction that their
existence, in anything like quantity, when set against the armies of
sportsmen who seek their annihilation, is wonderful.
The salmon has just had a very narrow escape from extermination. It was
at one time a comparatively plentiful fish, that could be obtained for food
purposes at an almost nominal expense, and a period dating eighty years
back is thought to have been a golden age so far as the salmon-fisheries
were concerned. But, in my opinion, it is more than questionable if salmon,
or indeed any of our sea or river animals, ever were so magically abundant
as has been represented. At the time, a rather indefinite time, however—
ranging from the beginning to the end of last century, and frequently
referred to by writers on the salmon question—when farm-servants were
compelled to eat of that fish more frequently than seemed good for their
stomachs, or when the country laird, visiting London, ordered a steak for
himself, with “a bit o’ saumon for the laddie,” and was thunderstruck at the
price of the fish, we must bear in mind, as a strong element of the question,
that there were few distant markets available; it was only on the Tweed,
Tay, Severn, and other salmon streams that the salmon was really plentiful.
No such regular commerce as that now prevailing was carried on in fresh
salmon at the period indicated. In fact, properly speaking, there was no
commerce beyond an occasional dispatch to London per smack, or the sale
of a few fish in country market-towns, and salmon has been known to be
sold in these places at so low a rate as a penny or twopence a pound weight.
Most of these fish, at the time I have indicated, were boiled in pickle, or
split up and cured as kippers. In those days there were neither steamboats
nor railways to hurry away the produce of the sea or river to London or
Liverpool; it is not surprising, therefore, that in those good old times
salmon could almost be had for the capturing. Poaching—that is poaching
were I not convinced, from personal inquiry, that they are a mere coinage of
the brain. There are doubtless plenty of fish still in the sea, but the trouble
of capturing them increases daily, and the instruments of capture have to be
yearly augmented, indicating but too clearly to all who have studied the
subject that we are beginning to overfish. We already know, in the case of
the salmon, that the greed of man, when thoroughly excited, can extirpate,
for mere immediate gain, any animal, however prolific it may be. Some of
the British game birds have so narrowly escaped destruction that their
existence, in anything like quantity, when set against the armies of
sportsmen who seek their annihilation, is wonderful.
The salmon has just had a very narrow escape from extermination. It was
at one time a comparatively plentiful fish, that could be obtained for food
purposes at an almost nominal expense, and a period dating eighty years
back is thought to have been a golden age so far as the salmon-fisheries
were concerned. But, in my opinion, it is more than questionable if salmon,
or indeed any of our sea or river animals, ever were so magically abundant
as has been represented. At the time, a rather indefinite time, however—
ranging from the beginning to the end of last century, and frequently
referred to by writers on the salmon question—when farm-servants were
compelled to eat of that fish more frequently than seemed good for their
stomachs, or when the country laird, visiting London, ordered a steak for
himself, with “a bit o’ saumon for the laddie,” and was thunderstruck at the
price of the fish, we must bear in mind, as a strong element of the question,
that there were few distant markets available; it was only on the Tweed,
Tay, Severn, and other salmon streams that the salmon was really plentiful.
No such regular commerce as that now prevailing was carried on in fresh
salmon at the period indicated. In fact, properly speaking, there was no
commerce beyond an occasional dispatch to London per smack, or the sale
of a few fish in country market-towns, and salmon has been known to be
sold in these places at so low a rate as a penny or twopence a pound weight.
Most of these fish, at the time I have indicated, were boiled in pickle, or
split up and cured as kippers. In those days there were neither steamboats
nor railways to hurry away the produce of the sea or river to London or
Liverpool; it is not surprising, therefore, that in those good old times
salmon could almost be had for the capturing. Poaching—that is poaching
Page 381
as a trade—was unknown. As I have already stated, when the people
resident on a river were allowed to capture as many fish as they pleased, or
when they could purchase all they required at a nominal price, there was no
necessity for them to capture the salmon while it was on the beds in order to
breed. Farm-servants on the Tay or Tweed had usually a few poached fish,
in the shape of a barrel of pickled salmon, for winter use. At that time, as I
have already said in treating of the salmon, men went out on a winter night
to “burn the water,” but then it was simply by way of having a frolic. In
those halcyon days country gentlemen killed their salmon in the same sense
as they killed their own mutton—viz. for household eating; there was no
other demand for the fish than that of their own servants or retainers.
Farmers kept their smoked or pickled salmon for winter use, in the same
way as they did pickled pork or smoked bacon. The fish, comparatively
speaking, were allowed to fulfil the instincts of their nature and breed in
peace: those owners, too, of either upper or lower waters, who delighted in
angling, had abundance of attractive sport; and, so far as can be gleaned
from personal inquiry or reading, there was during the golden age of the
salmon a rude plenty of home-prepared food of the fish kind, which, even
with the best-regulated fisheries, we can never again, in these times of
increasing population, steam-power, and augmented demand, hope to see.
At present the very opposite of all this prevails. Farmers or cottars cannot
now make salmon a portion of their winter’s store: permission to angle for
that fish is a favour not very easily procured, because even the worst upper
waters can be let each season at a good figure; and more than all that, the
fish has become individually so valuable as to tempt persons, by way of
business, to engage extensively in its capture at times when it is unlawful to
take it, and the animal is totally unfit for food. A prime salmon is, on the
average, quite as valuable as a Southdown sheep or an obese pig, both of
which cost money to rear and fatten; and at certain periods of the year
salmon has been known to bring as much as ten shillings per pound weight
in a London fish-shop! There have been many causes at work to bring about
this falling-off in our supplies; but ignorance of the natural history of the
fish, the want of accord between the upper and lower proprietors of salmon
rivers, the use of stake and bag nets, poaching during close-times, and the
consequent capture of thousands of gravid fish, as well as the immense
amount of overfishing by the lessees of fishing stations, are doubtless
among the chief reasons.
resident on a river were allowed to capture as many fish as they pleased, or
when they could purchase all they required at a nominal price, there was no
necessity for them to capture the salmon while it was on the beds in order to
breed. Farm-servants on the Tay or Tweed had usually a few poached fish,
in the shape of a barrel of pickled salmon, for winter use. At that time, as I
have already said in treating of the salmon, men went out on a winter night
to “burn the water,” but then it was simply by way of having a frolic. In
those halcyon days country gentlemen killed their salmon in the same sense
as they killed their own mutton—viz. for household eating; there was no
other demand for the fish than that of their own servants or retainers.
Farmers kept their smoked or pickled salmon for winter use, in the same
way as they did pickled pork or smoked bacon. The fish, comparatively
speaking, were allowed to fulfil the instincts of their nature and breed in
peace: those owners, too, of either upper or lower waters, who delighted in
angling, had abundance of attractive sport; and, so far as can be gleaned
from personal inquiry or reading, there was during the golden age of the
salmon a rude plenty of home-prepared food of the fish kind, which, even
with the best-regulated fisheries, we can never again, in these times of
increasing population, steam-power, and augmented demand, hope to see.
At present the very opposite of all this prevails. Farmers or cottars cannot
now make salmon a portion of their winter’s store: permission to angle for
that fish is a favour not very easily procured, because even the worst upper
waters can be let each season at a good figure; and more than all that, the
fish has become individually so valuable as to tempt persons, by way of
business, to engage extensively in its capture at times when it is unlawful to
take it, and the animal is totally unfit for food. A prime salmon is, on the
average, quite as valuable as a Southdown sheep or an obese pig, both of
which cost money to rear and fatten; and at certain periods of the year
salmon has been known to bring as much as ten shillings per pound weight
in a London fish-shop! There have been many causes at work to bring about
this falling-off in our supplies; but ignorance of the natural history of the
fish, the want of accord between the upper and lower proprietors of salmon
rivers, the use of stake and bag nets, poaching during close-times, and the
consequent capture of thousands of gravid fish, as well as the immense
amount of overfishing by the lessees of fishing stations, are doubtless
among the chief reasons.
Page 382
If these misfortunes occur with an important and individually valuable
fish like the salmon, which is so well hedged round by protective laws, and
which is so accessible that we can watch it day by day in our rivers—and
that such misfortunes have occurred is quite patent to the world, indeed
some of the best streams of England, at one time noted for their salmon, are
at this moment nearly destitute of fish—how much more is it likely, then,
that similar misfortunes may occur to the unwatched and unprotected fishes
of the sea, which spawn in a greater world of water, with thousands of
chances against their seed being even so much as fructified, let alone any
hope of its ever being developed into fish fit for table purposes? In the sea
the larger fish are constantly preying on the smaller, and the waste of life, as
I have elsewhere explained, is enormous: the young fish, so soon as they
emerge from their fragile shell, are devoured in countless millions, not one
in a thousand perhaps escaping the dangers of its youth. Shoals of
haddocks, for instance, find their way to the deposits of herring-spawn just
as the eggs are bursting into life, or immediately after they have vivified, so
that hundreds of thousands of these infantile fry and quickening ova are
annually devoured. The hungry codfish are eternally devouring the young
of other kinds, and their own young as well; and all throughout the depths
of ocean the strong fishes are found to be preying on the weak, and a
perpetual war is being waged for daily food. Reliable information, it is true,
cannot easily be obtained on these points, it being so difficult to observe the
habits of animals in the depths of the ocean; and none of our naturalists can
inform us how long it is before our white fish arrive at maturity, and at what
age a codfish or a turbot becomes reproductive; nor can our economists do
more than guess the percentage of eggs that ripen into fish, or the number of
these that are likely to reach our tables as food.
As has been mentioned in a previous chapter of this volume, the supply
of haddocks and other Gadidæ was once so plentiful around the British
coasts, that a short line, with perhaps a score of hooks, frequently
replenished with bait, would be quite sufficient to capture a few thousand
fish. The number of hooks was gradually extended, till now they are
counted by the thousand, the fishermen having to multiply the means of
capture as the fish become less plentiful. About forty years ago the
percentage of fish to each line was very considerable. Eight hundred hooks
would take about 750 fish; but now, with a line studded with 4000 hooks,
the fishermen sometimes do not take 100 fish. It was recently stated by a
fish like the salmon, which is so well hedged round by protective laws, and
which is so accessible that we can watch it day by day in our rivers—and
that such misfortunes have occurred is quite patent to the world, indeed
some of the best streams of England, at one time noted for their salmon, are
at this moment nearly destitute of fish—how much more is it likely, then,
that similar misfortunes may occur to the unwatched and unprotected fishes
of the sea, which spawn in a greater world of water, with thousands of
chances against their seed being even so much as fructified, let alone any
hope of its ever being developed into fish fit for table purposes? In the sea
the larger fish are constantly preying on the smaller, and the waste of life, as
I have elsewhere explained, is enormous: the young fish, so soon as they
emerge from their fragile shell, are devoured in countless millions, not one
in a thousand perhaps escaping the dangers of its youth. Shoals of
haddocks, for instance, find their way to the deposits of herring-spawn just
as the eggs are bursting into life, or immediately after they have vivified, so
that hundreds of thousands of these infantile fry and quickening ova are
annually devoured. The hungry codfish are eternally devouring the young
of other kinds, and their own young as well; and all throughout the depths
of ocean the strong fishes are found to be preying on the weak, and a
perpetual war is being waged for daily food. Reliable information, it is true,
cannot easily be obtained on these points, it being so difficult to observe the
habits of animals in the depths of the ocean; and none of our naturalists can
inform us how long it is before our white fish arrive at maturity, and at what
age a codfish or a turbot becomes reproductive; nor can our economists do
more than guess the percentage of eggs that ripen into fish, or the number of
these that are likely to reach our tables as food.
As has been mentioned in a previous chapter of this volume, the supply
of haddocks and other Gadidæ was once so plentiful around the British
coasts, that a short line, with perhaps a score of hooks, frequently
replenished with bait, would be quite sufficient to capture a few thousand
fish. The number of hooks was gradually extended, till now they are
counted by the thousand, the fishermen having to multiply the means of
capture as the fish become less plentiful. About forty years ago the
percentage of fish to each line was very considerable. Eight hundred hooks
would take about 750 fish; but now, with a line studded with 4000 hooks,
the fishermen sometimes do not take 100 fish. It was recently stated by a
Page 383
correspondent of the John o’ Groat Journal, a newspaper published in the
fishing town of Wick, that a fish-curer there contracted some years ago with
the boats for haddocks at 3s. 6d. per hundred, and that at that low price the
fishing yielded the men from £20 to £40 each season; but that now,
although he has offered the fishermen 12s. a hundred, he cannot procure
anything like an adequate supply.
As the British sea-fisheries afford remunerative employment to a large
body of the population, and offer a favourable investment for capital, it is
surely time that we should know authoritatively whether or not there be
truth in the falling-off in our supplies of herring and other white fish. At one
of the Glasgow fish-merchants’ annual soirees, held a year or two ago it was
distinctly stated that all kinds of fish were less abundant now than in former
years, and that in proportion to the means of capture the result was less. Mr.
Methuen reiterated such opinions again and again. “I reckon our fisheries,”
said this enterprising fish-merchant on one occasion, “if fostered and
properly fished, a national source of wealth of more importance and value
than the gold-mines of Australia, because the gold mines are exhaustible;
but the living, propagating, self-cultivating gift of God is inexhaustible, if
rightly fished by man, to whom they are given for food. It is evident
anything God gives is ripe and fit for food. ‘Have dominion,’ not
destruction, was the command. Any farmer cutting his ripe clover grass
would not only be reckoned mad, but would, in fact, be so, were he to tear
up the roots along with the clover, under the idea that he was thus obtaining
more food for his cattle, and then wondering why he had no second crop to
cut. His cattle would starve, himself and family be beggared, and turned out
of their farm as improvident and destructive, who not only beggared
themselves, but to the extent of their power impoverished the people by
destroying the resources of their country. The farmer who thus destroys the
hopes of a rising crop by injudicious farming is not only his own enemy, but
the enemy of his country as well.” Such evidence could be multiplied to any
extent if it were necessary, but I feel that quite enough has been said to
prove the point. It is a point I have no doubt upon whatever, and persons
who have studied the question are alarmed, and say it is no use blinking the
matter any longer—that the demand for fish as an article of food is not only
beginning to exceed the supply, but that the supply obtained, combined with
waste of spawn and other causes, is beginning to exceed the breeding power
of the fish. In the olden time, when people only caught to supply individual
fishing town of Wick, that a fish-curer there contracted some years ago with
the boats for haddocks at 3s. 6d. per hundred, and that at that low price the
fishing yielded the men from £20 to £40 each season; but that now,
although he has offered the fishermen 12s. a hundred, he cannot procure
anything like an adequate supply.
As the British sea-fisheries afford remunerative employment to a large
body of the population, and offer a favourable investment for capital, it is
surely time that we should know authoritatively whether or not there be
truth in the falling-off in our supplies of herring and other white fish. At one
of the Glasgow fish-merchants’ annual soirees, held a year or two ago it was
distinctly stated that all kinds of fish were less abundant now than in former
years, and that in proportion to the means of capture the result was less. Mr.
Methuen reiterated such opinions again and again. “I reckon our fisheries,”
said this enterprising fish-merchant on one occasion, “if fostered and
properly fished, a national source of wealth of more importance and value
than the gold-mines of Australia, because the gold mines are exhaustible;
but the living, propagating, self-cultivating gift of God is inexhaustible, if
rightly fished by man, to whom they are given for food. It is evident
anything God gives is ripe and fit for food. ‘Have dominion,’ not
destruction, was the command. Any farmer cutting his ripe clover grass
would not only be reckoned mad, but would, in fact, be so, were he to tear
up the roots along with the clover, under the idea that he was thus obtaining
more food for his cattle, and then wondering why he had no second crop to
cut. His cattle would starve, himself and family be beggared, and turned out
of their farm as improvident and destructive, who not only beggared
themselves, but to the extent of their power impoverished the people by
destroying the resources of their country. The farmer who thus destroys the
hopes of a rising crop by injudicious farming is not only his own enemy, but
the enemy of his country as well.” Such evidence could be multiplied to any
extent if it were necessary, but I feel that quite enough has been said to
prove the point. It is a point I have no doubt upon whatever, and persons
who have studied the question are alarmed, and say it is no use blinking the
matter any longer—that the demand for fish as an article of food is not only
beginning to exceed the supply, but that the supply obtained, combined with
waste of spawn and other causes, is beginning to exceed the breeding power
of the fish. In the olden time, when people only caught to supply individual
Page 384
wants, fish were plentiful, in the sense that no scarcity was ever
experienced, and the shoals of sea-fish, it was thought at one time, would
never diminish; but since the traffic became a commercial speculation the
question has assumed a totally different aspect, and a sufficient quantity
cannot now be obtained. Who ever hears now of monster turbot being taken
by the trawlers? Where are the miraculous hauls of mackerel that used to
gladden the eyes of the fishermen? Where are now the waggon-loads of
herring to use as manure, as in the golden age of the fisheries? I do not
require to pause for the reply—echo would only mock my question by
repeating it. Exhausted shoals and inferior fish tell us but too plainly that
there is reason for alarm, and that we have in all probability broken at last
upon our capital stock!
What then, if this be so, will be the future of the British fisheries? I have
already, and more than once, in preceding pages, hinted my doubts of the
existence of the enormous fish-supplies of former days; in my opinion the
supposed plentifulness of all kinds of fish must in a large degree have been
a myth, or at least but relative, founded in all probability on the fluctuating
demand and the irregular supply. Were there not an active but unseen
demolition of the fish-shoals, and were these shoals as gigantic as people
imagine them to be, the sea would speedily become like stirabout, so that in
time ships would not be able to sail from port to port. Imagine a few
billions of herrings, each pair multiplying at the rate of thirty thousand per
annum! picture the codfish, with its million ratio of increase; and then add,
by way of enhancing the bargain, a million or two of the flat fish family
throwing in their annual quota to the total, and figures would be arrived at
far too vast for human comprehension. In fact, without some compensating
balance, the waters on the globe would not contain a couple of years’
increase! If fish have that tendency to multiply which is said, how comes it
that in former years, when there was not a tithe of the present demand,
when the population was but scant, and the means of inland carriage to the
larger seats of population rude and uncertain, the ocean did not overflow
and leave its inhabitants on its shores?
It seems perfectly clear that we have hitherto seriously exaggerated the
stock; it could never have been of the extent indicated, because then no
draughts could have had any great effect, no matter how enormous they
might have been. From various natural causes, some of which I have
experienced, and the shoals of sea-fish, it was thought at one time, would
never diminish; but since the traffic became a commercial speculation the
question has assumed a totally different aspect, and a sufficient quantity
cannot now be obtained. Who ever hears now of monster turbot being taken
by the trawlers? Where are the miraculous hauls of mackerel that used to
gladden the eyes of the fishermen? Where are now the waggon-loads of
herring to use as manure, as in the golden age of the fisheries? I do not
require to pause for the reply—echo would only mock my question by
repeating it. Exhausted shoals and inferior fish tell us but too plainly that
there is reason for alarm, and that we have in all probability broken at last
upon our capital stock!
What then, if this be so, will be the future of the British fisheries? I have
already, and more than once, in preceding pages, hinted my doubts of the
existence of the enormous fish-supplies of former days; in my opinion the
supposed plentifulness of all kinds of fish must in a large degree have been
a myth, or at least but relative, founded in all probability on the fluctuating
demand and the irregular supply. Were there not an active but unseen
demolition of the fish-shoals, and were these shoals as gigantic as people
imagine them to be, the sea would speedily become like stirabout, so that in
time ships would not be able to sail from port to port. Imagine a few
billions of herrings, each pair multiplying at the rate of thirty thousand per
annum! picture the codfish, with its million ratio of increase; and then add,
by way of enhancing the bargain, a million or two of the flat fish family
throwing in their annual quota to the total, and figures would be arrived at
far too vast for human comprehension. In fact, without some compensating
balance, the waters on the globe would not contain a couple of years’
increase! If fish have that tendency to multiply which is said, how comes it
that in former years, when there was not a tithe of the present demand,
when the population was but scant, and the means of inland carriage to the
larger seats of population rude and uncertain, the ocean did not overflow
and leave its inhabitants on its shores?
It seems perfectly clear that we have hitherto seriously exaggerated the
stock; it could never have been of the extent indicated, because then no
draughts could have had any great effect, no matter how enormous they
might have been. From various natural causes, some of which I have
Page 385
indicated in a former chapter, the stock has been kept in balance; and it
seems now perfectly clear that by a course of fishing so excessive as that
carried on at present, coupled with the destruction incidental to unprotected
breeding, we must at all events speedily narrow if not exhaust the capital
stock. We have done so in the case of the salmon; and the best remedy for
that evil which has yet been discovered is cultivation—pisciculture, in fact
—which science, or rather art, I have already treated of on its own merits.
In ancient days the land yielded sufficient roots and fruits for the wants of
its then population without cultivation; but as population increased and
larger supplies became necessary, cultivation was tried, and now in all
countries the culture of the land is one of the main employments of the
people. The sea, too, must be cultivated, and the river also, if we desire to
multiply or replenish our stock of fish.
As to the introduction of strange fishes, either sea or river, I for one will
be glad to see them, if they are suitable. It would of course be a great
misfortune to introduce any fish into our waters that would only become fat
by preying on those fishes which are at present plentiful. Some naturalists
think that the introduction of Silurus is a misfortune; I am not of that
opinion, because in the kind of water suitable for the growth of Silurus
glanis no other fish of any value is to be found, so that no ill could be done.
The introduction into our British waters of another fish has been advocated
—viz. the Goorami. It is a Chinese fish and has been introduced with great
success into the Mauritius, and M. Coste is of opinion that it may be
acclimatised in France, indeed he is trying the experiment. The Goorami, it
seems, is a delicious fish, so far as its flavour is concerned, and grows to a
great size in a short time. I need not say any more on this part of my
subject. If the man is a benefactor to his country who makes two blades of
grass grow where only one grew before, what shall be said of the man who
introduces to us a new food-fish?
Were we better acquainted with the natural history of fish, it would be
easy to regulate the fisheries. The everlasting demand for sea-produce has
caused the sea-fishing, like the salmon-fishing, to be prosecuted at improper
seasons, and fish have been, indeed are daily, to a large extent, sold in a
state that renders them quite improper for human food. Another cause of the
constantly-lessening supplies may be also mentioned. Up till a recent period
it was thought all fish were migratory, and the reason usually assigned for
seems now perfectly clear that by a course of fishing so excessive as that
carried on at present, coupled with the destruction incidental to unprotected
breeding, we must at all events speedily narrow if not exhaust the capital
stock. We have done so in the case of the salmon; and the best remedy for
that evil which has yet been discovered is cultivation—pisciculture, in fact
—which science, or rather art, I have already treated of on its own merits.
In ancient days the land yielded sufficient roots and fruits for the wants of
its then population without cultivation; but as population increased and
larger supplies became necessary, cultivation was tried, and now in all
countries the culture of the land is one of the main employments of the
people. The sea, too, must be cultivated, and the river also, if we desire to
multiply or replenish our stock of fish.
As to the introduction of strange fishes, either sea or river, I for one will
be glad to see them, if they are suitable. It would of course be a great
misfortune to introduce any fish into our waters that would only become fat
by preying on those fishes which are at present plentiful. Some naturalists
think that the introduction of Silurus is a misfortune; I am not of that
opinion, because in the kind of water suitable for the growth of Silurus
glanis no other fish of any value is to be found, so that no ill could be done.
The introduction into our British waters of another fish has been advocated
—viz. the Goorami. It is a Chinese fish and has been introduced with great
success into the Mauritius, and M. Coste is of opinion that it may be
acclimatised in France, indeed he is trying the experiment. The Goorami, it
seems, is a delicious fish, so far as its flavour is concerned, and grows to a
great size in a short time. I need not say any more on this part of my
subject. If the man is a benefactor to his country who makes two blades of
grass grow where only one grew before, what shall be said of the man who
introduces to us a new food-fish?
Were we better acquainted with the natural history of fish, it would be
easy to regulate the fisheries. The everlasting demand for sea-produce has
caused the sea-fishing, like the salmon-fishing, to be prosecuted at improper
seasons, and fish have been, indeed are daily, to a large extent, sold in a
state that renders them quite improper for human food. Another cause of the
constantly-lessening supplies may be also mentioned. Up till a recent period
it was thought all fish were migratory, and the reason usually assigned for
Page 386
unsuccessful fishing was that the fish had removed to some other place!
Thus the fact of a particular colony having been fished up was in some
degree hidden, chiefly from ignorance of the habits of the animal. This
migratory instinct, so far as our principal sea-fish are concerned, is purely
mythical. The rediscovery of the Rockall cod-bank must tend to dissipate
these old-fashioned suppositions of our naturalists. All fish are local, from
the salmon to the sprat, and each kind has its own abiding-place. The
salmon keeps unfailingly to its own stream, the oyster to its own bank, the
lobster to its particular rock, and the herring to its own bay. Fishermen are
beginning now to understand this, and can tell the locality to which a
particular fish belongs, from the marks upon it. A Tay salmon differs from a
Tweed one, and Norway lobsters can be readily distinguished from those
brought from Orcadia. Then, again, the fine haddocks caught in the bay of
Dublin differ much from those taken in the Firth of Forth, whilst Lochfyne
herrings and Caithness herrings have each distinct peculiarities.
In regard to the enormous waste of spawn which I have chronicled, what
more can I say? I have in various pages of this work shown how fish-roe is
wasted, and at the risk of censure for again repeating myself (I have already
more than once done so purposely), I must once more ask attention to the
millions of cod ova criminally wasted in the French sardine-fishery. I am
presuming, in making this allusion, that cod are expressly caught with full
roes for the purpose of supplying this bait. The English fishermen can hit on
the sprat shoals without a ground-bait; surely the French fishermen can do
what we do.
The regulation of the herring-fisheries (and the proper protection of the
herring) is surrounded with innumerable difficulties, because of our scant
knowledge of the natural history of the animal. I have already, and more
than once, in the preceding pages of this work, alluded to the striking
incongruity of protecting one fish during its spawning time, and yet making
the same time in the life of another fish the legal period for its capture. But
a close-time for the herring, from the fact of that fish breeding on some part
of the coast all the year round, although not impossible, will be difficult to
arrange. If, as is pretty certain, there be races of herring that breed in every
month of the year, would it be advisable to shut up the fisheries? and if, as
some writers on the natural history of the herring assert, that fish only
collects into shoals at the time it is called on to obey its procreative instinct,
Thus the fact of a particular colony having been fished up was in some
degree hidden, chiefly from ignorance of the habits of the animal. This
migratory instinct, so far as our principal sea-fish are concerned, is purely
mythical. The rediscovery of the Rockall cod-bank must tend to dissipate
these old-fashioned suppositions of our naturalists. All fish are local, from
the salmon to the sprat, and each kind has its own abiding-place. The
salmon keeps unfailingly to its own stream, the oyster to its own bank, the
lobster to its particular rock, and the herring to its own bay. Fishermen are
beginning now to understand this, and can tell the locality to which a
particular fish belongs, from the marks upon it. A Tay salmon differs from a
Tweed one, and Norway lobsters can be readily distinguished from those
brought from Orcadia. Then, again, the fine haddocks caught in the bay of
Dublin differ much from those taken in the Firth of Forth, whilst Lochfyne
herrings and Caithness herrings have each distinct peculiarities.
In regard to the enormous waste of spawn which I have chronicled, what
more can I say? I have in various pages of this work shown how fish-roe is
wasted, and at the risk of censure for again repeating myself (I have already
more than once done so purposely), I must once more ask attention to the
millions of cod ova criminally wasted in the French sardine-fishery. I am
presuming, in making this allusion, that cod are expressly caught with full
roes for the purpose of supplying this bait. The English fishermen can hit on
the sprat shoals without a ground-bait; surely the French fishermen can do
what we do.
The regulation of the herring-fisheries (and the proper protection of the
herring) is surrounded with innumerable difficulties, because of our scant
knowledge of the natural history of the animal. I have already, and more
than once, in the preceding pages of this work, alluded to the striking
incongruity of protecting one fish during its spawning time, and yet making
the same time in the life of another fish the legal period for its capture. But
a close-time for the herring, from the fact of that fish breeding on some part
of the coast all the year round, although not impossible, will be difficult to
arrange. If, as is pretty certain, there be races of herring that breed in every
month of the year, would it be advisable to shut up the fisheries? and if, as
some writers on the natural history of the herring assert, that fish only
collects into shoals at the time it is called on to obey its procreative instinct,
Page 387
at what other period of its existence could it be captured, even admitting
that at that time of its life it is least fitted to become the food of mankind?
True, we have only gone on fishing for herrings in a routine way at
particular seasons of the year, and, were the experiment tried, we might hit
on the shoals at a more congenial time. The shoals of particular districts—
if, as I assume, the herring is very local—will have each their own
spawning time, and there might be a few weeks’ close season then—not so
much to save the taking of the gravid fish, as to allow them a quiet interval,
during which they might deposit their spawn. The period of the herring’s
reproduction might, I think, be easily determined by constructing a sea-
pond, where a few of these fish could breed, and the growth of the young
fish be carefully watched.
In the case of the salmon there is no difficulty about a close-time,
because we know the breeding seasons of each river; but it would be
difficult to divide the sea into compartments; and even if we could, and a
close-time were to be instituted, would not the strict logic of the position
dictate that the close-time should be for the protection of the fish during
their breeding season? But again, if it be granted that the breeding season is
the only time that we can take the fish, would not such a close-time be
practically putting an end to the fishing? It is a curious fact, as well as a
curious fishing anomaly, that we have had a close-time for herrings on the
west coast of Scotland but not on the east coast! And I can trace no good
that the close-time has accomplished; it is not known that it increases the
supply of fish, but it is known that a close-time impedes the prosecution of
the other fisheries by depriving the poor men of a supply of bait. The
fishermen often use the herring as a bait for other fishes.
Although Scotland is the main seat of the herring-fishery, I should like to
see statistics, similar to those collected in Scotland, taken at a few English
ports for a period of years, in order that we might obtain additional data
from which to arrive at a right conclusion as to the increase or decrease of
the fishery for herring. So far as the capture and cure of herrings are
concerned, we have in Scotland, what ought to be in every country, an
excellent fishery police. The Hon. Mr. Bouverie Primrose, when giving
evidence before a fishery commission, described the official duties of the
Board of Scottish White-fish Fisheries as being:—“To give clearances to
herring-fishery vessels going out to sea, and to receive notices from curers
that at that time of its life it is least fitted to become the food of mankind?
True, we have only gone on fishing for herrings in a routine way at
particular seasons of the year, and, were the experiment tried, we might hit
on the shoals at a more congenial time. The shoals of particular districts—
if, as I assume, the herring is very local—will have each their own
spawning time, and there might be a few weeks’ close season then—not so
much to save the taking of the gravid fish, as to allow them a quiet interval,
during which they might deposit their spawn. The period of the herring’s
reproduction might, I think, be easily determined by constructing a sea-
pond, where a few of these fish could breed, and the growth of the young
fish be carefully watched.
In the case of the salmon there is no difficulty about a close-time,
because we know the breeding seasons of each river; but it would be
difficult to divide the sea into compartments; and even if we could, and a
close-time were to be instituted, would not the strict logic of the position
dictate that the close-time should be for the protection of the fish during
their breeding season? But again, if it be granted that the breeding season is
the only time that we can take the fish, would not such a close-time be
practically putting an end to the fishing? It is a curious fact, as well as a
curious fishing anomaly, that we have had a close-time for herrings on the
west coast of Scotland but not on the east coast! And I can trace no good
that the close-time has accomplished; it is not known that it increases the
supply of fish, but it is known that a close-time impedes the prosecution of
the other fisheries by depriving the poor men of a supply of bait. The
fishermen often use the herring as a bait for other fishes.
Although Scotland is the main seat of the herring-fishery, I should like to
see statistics, similar to those collected in Scotland, taken at a few English
ports for a period of years, in order that we might obtain additional data
from which to arrive at a right conclusion as to the increase or decrease of
the fishery for herring. So far as the capture and cure of herrings are
concerned, we have in Scotland, what ought to be in every country, an
excellent fishery police. The Hon. Mr. Bouverie Primrose, when giving
evidence before a fishery commission, described the official duties of the
Board of Scottish White-fish Fisheries as being:—“To give clearances to
herring-fishery vessels going out to sea, and to receive notices from curers
Page 388
on shore of their intention to cure; to see to the measures for the delivery of
fresh herring, as between buyer and seller; to the size of the barrel for
British white cured herring, and to the quality of the cure, branding the first
quality, and collecting the fees for the same; attending on the exportation; to
inspect the exports in order to see that they were in proper order; preventing
the use of such nets as Parliament had declared to be illegal; protecting the
sprat fishermen in their rights of boundary; maintaining order on the fishery
grounds, and in connection therewith carrying out the police regulations for
naming and numbering boats and their sails; receiving and restoring lost
fishing property; building fishery piers and harbours; protecting the spawn
of herring and the herring-fisheries generally, according to Act of
Parliament; maintaining herring close-time as fixed and appointed by
Parliament; furnishing returns and statistics of the herring-fisheries of
Scotland and the Isle of Man, and aiding in maintaining the fishery
convention with France. The functions of the Board extended over the
whole coast of Scotland, and in regard to statistics to the Isle of Man, and in
respect to the branding of herring over the northern portion of the coast of
Northumberland.”
Might not the functions of the Board be so extended as to embrace a
statistical inquiry into the capture of haddocks, cod, and ling (other than
those to be cured), turbot, etc., in Scotland? We all agree heartily enough in
Scotland with the Board’s functions of harbour improvement and fishery
police, and we do not grudge, therefore, in any degree, the £15,000 which
are expended for its maintenance. Scotland gets so small a portion of the
public money in proportion to what it contributes to the revenue that no one
would desire to see it deprived of this small grant. The only question
connected with it is its proper expenditure. I object entirely to a portion of
the duties of the Board—i.e. certifying the quality of the cure. Government
might as well step in to certify the manufacture of Dunlop cheese or
Glasgow cotton. True, the brand has now to be paid for, and moreover is not
at all compulsory, so that curers may trade on their own name if they please,
and it is satisfactory to think that they are now doing so in an annually
increasing degree.
The salmon-fisheries may be left to their proprietors; the county
gentlemen, and others who own salmon-fisheries, seem now to be
thoroughly alive to the great danger of overfishing, which has hitherto been
fresh herring, as between buyer and seller; to the size of the barrel for
British white cured herring, and to the quality of the cure, branding the first
quality, and collecting the fees for the same; attending on the exportation; to
inspect the exports in order to see that they were in proper order; preventing
the use of such nets as Parliament had declared to be illegal; protecting the
sprat fishermen in their rights of boundary; maintaining order on the fishery
grounds, and in connection therewith carrying out the police regulations for
naming and numbering boats and their sails; receiving and restoring lost
fishing property; building fishery piers and harbours; protecting the spawn
of herring and the herring-fisheries generally, according to Act of
Parliament; maintaining herring close-time as fixed and appointed by
Parliament; furnishing returns and statistics of the herring-fisheries of
Scotland and the Isle of Man, and aiding in maintaining the fishery
convention with France. The functions of the Board extended over the
whole coast of Scotland, and in regard to statistics to the Isle of Man, and in
respect to the branding of herring over the northern portion of the coast of
Northumberland.”
Might not the functions of the Board be so extended as to embrace a
statistical inquiry into the capture of haddocks, cod, and ling (other than
those to be cured), turbot, etc., in Scotland? We all agree heartily enough in
Scotland with the Board’s functions of harbour improvement and fishery
police, and we do not grudge, therefore, in any degree, the £15,000 which
are expended for its maintenance. Scotland gets so small a portion of the
public money in proportion to what it contributes to the revenue that no one
would desire to see it deprived of this small grant. The only question
connected with it is its proper expenditure. I object entirely to a portion of
the duties of the Board—i.e. certifying the quality of the cure. Government
might as well step in to certify the manufacture of Dunlop cheese or
Glasgow cotton. True, the brand has now to be paid for, and moreover is not
at all compulsory, so that curers may trade on their own name if they please,
and it is satisfactory to think that they are now doing so in an annually
increasing degree.
The salmon-fisheries may be left to their proprietors; the county
gentlemen, and others who own salmon-fisheries, seem now to be
thoroughly alive to the great danger of overfishing, which has hitherto been
Page 389
the bane of this valuable animal. The chief requisites for a great salmon
river and a series of healthy and productive fisheries are—first, a good
spawning ground and a provision for the fish attaining it with the least
possible trouble; second, a long rest during the spawning season; as also,
third, a weekly close-time of many hours. To insure protection to the eggs
and to the young fish during the tenderest period of their lives, I would
have, as an aid to the natural spawning-beds, artificial breeding-ponds and
egg-boxes on every large river; and it would be well if the proprietors of all
our larger salmon streams would agree to work their fisheries, as was long
ago proposed, on the plan of a joint-stock company, the shares to be
allocated on some equitable plan so that both lower and upper proprietors
would share in the produce of the river. It is needless to point out to owners
of salmon properties the advantages and saving that would at once accrue
from such a mode, and such a plan would especially be the best way of
settling the existing differences between the upper and lower holders. It was
well said by the Commissioners appointed to inquire into the salmon-
fisheries of England and Wales, that “it has been found by experience in all
the three countries that the surest way to increase the stock is to give the
upper proprietors an interest in preserving them. The upper waters are, in
fact, the nursery of the fish; it is there that the breeding operations take
place, it is there that the wasteful destruction committed by poachers and
depredators, if suffered to have their way, is carried on. It lies with those to
whom the rights of fishing, and the lands adjacent to those parts of the
streams belong, either to permit the ruinous waste of the breeding fish to go
on, or to take measures for protecting them. They cannot take either course
without in the one case conferring a benefit, and in the other permitting an
injury, to all the parties lower down. But it is almost needless to say that
they will not make exertions or incur expense to preserve the fish, unless
encouraged to do so by being allowed to reap some share of the produce of
the waters.”
The laws of Scotland as to her salmon rivers are confessedly defective—
confessed by the constant efforts to amend them, often ending in only
making them worse. This will be eternal if some attempt be not made to act
according to the reason of the thing; clearing the ground, and starting on a
new and rational principle, instead of tinkering or trying to tinker what is
past mending, and never ought to have been. Rivers are subjects entirely
different in their nature from lands. A man, having secured a patch of land,
river and a series of healthy and productive fisheries are—first, a good
spawning ground and a provision for the fish attaining it with the least
possible trouble; second, a long rest during the spawning season; as also,
third, a weekly close-time of many hours. To insure protection to the eggs
and to the young fish during the tenderest period of their lives, I would
have, as an aid to the natural spawning-beds, artificial breeding-ponds and
egg-boxes on every large river; and it would be well if the proprietors of all
our larger salmon streams would agree to work their fisheries, as was long
ago proposed, on the plan of a joint-stock company, the shares to be
allocated on some equitable plan so that both lower and upper proprietors
would share in the produce of the river. It is needless to point out to owners
of salmon properties the advantages and saving that would at once accrue
from such a mode, and such a plan would especially be the best way of
settling the existing differences between the upper and lower holders. It was
well said by the Commissioners appointed to inquire into the salmon-
fisheries of England and Wales, that “it has been found by experience in all
the three countries that the surest way to increase the stock is to give the
upper proprietors an interest in preserving them. The upper waters are, in
fact, the nursery of the fish; it is there that the breeding operations take
place, it is there that the wasteful destruction committed by poachers and
depredators, if suffered to have their way, is carried on. It lies with those to
whom the rights of fishing, and the lands adjacent to those parts of the
streams belong, either to permit the ruinous waste of the breeding fish to go
on, or to take measures for protecting them. They cannot take either course
without in the one case conferring a benefit, and in the other permitting an
injury, to all the parties lower down. But it is almost needless to say that
they will not make exertions or incur expense to preserve the fish, unless
encouraged to do so by being allowed to reap some share of the produce of
the waters.”
The laws of Scotland as to her salmon rivers are confessedly defective—
confessed by the constant efforts to amend them, often ending in only
making them worse. This will be eternal if some attempt be not made to act
according to the reason of the thing; clearing the ground, and starting on a
new and rational principle, instead of tinkering or trying to tinker what is
past mending, and never ought to have been. Rivers are subjects entirely
different in their nature from lands. A man, having secured a patch of land,
Page 390
may (as is generally understood) do anything he pleases with what he calls
“his own” but render it a nuisance. This is wrong; for his obligation to the
country, if not to himself, is to use it to the best advantage for the public
good. As to rivers, this obligation is more distinct. They are more of the
nature of public property, both as regards the public generally and those
holding property on their banks and so having private interests in them. No
man at the mouth of a river has any moral or legal right to stop the fish from
ascending to their breeding-places. This, clear as it may seem, is not
generally recognised, and hence the loss to the country, and misery to the
useful and valuable animals bred in them, or that might be bred in them,
from the ignorant and reckless self-seeking of some, and the negligence or
pointed disregard of all interests displayed by others.[22]
I have not in the course of this work intruded many of my own theories
as to fish and fishing upon the reader; but I have not been studying the
subject for twelve years without theorising a little, and when the proper
time comes I shall have a great deal more to say about the natural history of
our food-fishes than I have said in the present volume. In the meantime I
am anxious, as regards the whole of the sea fisheries, to inculcate the duty
of collecting more and better statistics than we have ever yet obtained.
Our great farm, the sea, is free to all—too free; there is no seed or
manure to provide, and no rent to pay. Every adventurer who can procure a
boat may go out and spoliate the shoals; he has no care for the growth or
preservation of animals which he has been taught to think inexhaustible. In
one sense it is of no consequence to a fisherman that he catches codlings
instead of cod; whatever size his fish may be, they yield him what he fishes
for—money. What if all the herrings he captures be crowded with spawn?
what if they be virgin fish that have never added a quota to the general
stock? That is all as nothing to the fisherman as long as they bring him
money. It is the same in all fisheries. Our free unregulated fisheries are, in
my humble opinion, a thorough mistake. If a fisherman, say with a capital
of £500 in boats, nets, etc., had invested the same amount of money in a
breeding-farm, how would he act? Would he not earn his living and increase
his capital by allowing his animals to breed? and he would certainly never
cut down oats or wheat in a green state. But the fish-farmers do all these
things, and the Fishery Board stamps them with approval. We must look
better into these matters; and I would crave the expenditure by government
“his own” but render it a nuisance. This is wrong; for his obligation to the
country, if not to himself, is to use it to the best advantage for the public
good. As to rivers, this obligation is more distinct. They are more of the
nature of public property, both as regards the public generally and those
holding property on their banks and so having private interests in them. No
man at the mouth of a river has any moral or legal right to stop the fish from
ascending to their breeding-places. This, clear as it may seem, is not
generally recognised, and hence the loss to the country, and misery to the
useful and valuable animals bred in them, or that might be bred in them,
from the ignorant and reckless self-seeking of some, and the negligence or
pointed disregard of all interests displayed by others.[22]
I have not in the course of this work intruded many of my own theories
as to fish and fishing upon the reader; but I have not been studying the
subject for twelve years without theorising a little, and when the proper
time comes I shall have a great deal more to say about the natural history of
our food-fishes than I have said in the present volume. In the meantime I
am anxious, as regards the whole of the sea fisheries, to inculcate the duty
of collecting more and better statistics than we have ever yet obtained.
Our great farm, the sea, is free to all—too free; there is no seed or
manure to provide, and no rent to pay. Every adventurer who can procure a
boat may go out and spoliate the shoals; he has no care for the growth or
preservation of animals which he has been taught to think inexhaustible. In
one sense it is of no consequence to a fisherman that he catches codlings
instead of cod; whatever size his fish may be, they yield him what he fishes
for—money. What if all the herrings he captures be crowded with spawn?
what if they be virgin fish that have never added a quota to the general
stock? That is all as nothing to the fisherman as long as they bring him
money. It is the same in all fisheries. Our free unregulated fisheries are, in
my humble opinion, a thorough mistake. If a fisherman, say with a capital
of £500 in boats, nets, etc., had invested the same amount of money in a
breeding-farm, how would he act? Would he not earn his living and increase
his capital by allowing his animals to breed? and he would certainly never
cut down oats or wheat in a green state. But the fish-farmers do all these
things, and the Fishery Board stamps them with approval. We must look
better into these matters; and I would crave the expenditure by government
Page 391
of a few thousand pounds definitely to settle, by well-devised experiments,
all those points in the natural history of the herring and other white fish
which clog the prosecution of these particular fisheries. Surely it would not
be difficult, as I have already suggested, to construct a sea-pond where we
could observe the spawn from the time of its deposit till the period at which
it quickened into life; and we could note the growth of the fish and so fix
beyond cavil the period at which our most important food fishes become
reproductive. Further, could not the fisherman be made to pay a small sum
of money annually by way of licence, he being bound at the same time to
give in a schedule to a registrar, or some other officer to be appointed, of
the number and gross weight of the different kinds of fish caught, the
number of lines and hooks used in the capture, and the time taken to capture
them? Many other changes might be made in the machinery and time of
capture; these, however, I will take another opportunity to point out; my
present purpose has simply been to bring into a focus our various fishing
industries and describe to the public the Harvest of the Sea.
all those points in the natural history of the herring and other white fish
which clog the prosecution of these particular fisheries. Surely it would not
be difficult, as I have already suggested, to construct a sea-pond where we
could observe the spawn from the time of its deposit till the period at which
it quickened into life; and we could note the growth of the fish and so fix
beyond cavil the period at which our most important food fishes become
reproductive. Further, could not the fisherman be made to pay a small sum
of money annually by way of licence, he being bound at the same time to
give in a schedule to a registrar, or some other officer to be appointed, of
the number and gross weight of the different kinds of fish caught, the
number of lines and hooks used in the capture, and the time taken to capture
them? Many other changes might be made in the machinery and time of
capture; these, however, I will take another opportunity to point out; my
present purpose has simply been to bring into a focus our various fishing
industries and describe to the public the Harvest of the Sea.
Page 392
APPENDIX.
I. OBSERVATIONS ON FISH-GUANO.
“The importance of this field of industry has been fully appreciated in
France, and a factory has been established at Concarneau, in the department
of Finisterre. A full report of a visit to the factory having been made by the
distinguished chemist M. Payen, and the well-known agriculturist M.
Pommier, to the French Agricultural Society, we purpose presenting our
readers with the chief points contained in that report, in the hope that
another year may not pass over without some attempt of the like kind being
made upon our coasts.
“The experiments which led to the establishment of the factory, of which
we are now to speak, were made by a M. de Molon, and have extended over
a period of four years. On several occasions he had employed the offal
obtained in the preparation of sardines, on the coast of Brittany, to manure
his land in Finisterre. The results which he obtained led him to imagine that
this offal, and a multitude of marine fish of little commercial value, might
furnish an important resource to agriculture. This fact, observed since a
long time, especially in countries where deep-sea fishing is a permanent
industry, was not new; but such a manure was by its very nature restricted
to the agriculture of the coasts—fish or fish-offal not being capable of being
economically transported more than short distances. It is also evident that
these materials should be immediately employed—that they are not
susceptible of preservation, and that the manure not admitting of being
applied to the soil, except at certain seasons, it must at once be evident that
the employment of fish-offal, spite of its richness in fecundating elements,
could never be generalised, or offer large resources to agriculture.
“M. de Molon, however, conceived that a far vaster and more
advantageous agricultural resource might be drawn from this inexhaustible
wealth of the ocean, by so treating the offal of the coast fisheries, and the
immense quantities of common fish which are of no use to the fishermen, as
to ensure their preservation, concentrate their fecundatory properties, and
I. OBSERVATIONS ON FISH-GUANO.
“The importance of this field of industry has been fully appreciated in
France, and a factory has been established at Concarneau, in the department
of Finisterre. A full report of a visit to the factory having been made by the
distinguished chemist M. Payen, and the well-known agriculturist M.
Pommier, to the French Agricultural Society, we purpose presenting our
readers with the chief points contained in that report, in the hope that
another year may not pass over without some attempt of the like kind being
made upon our coasts.
“The experiments which led to the establishment of the factory, of which
we are now to speak, were made by a M. de Molon, and have extended over
a period of four years. On several occasions he had employed the offal
obtained in the preparation of sardines, on the coast of Brittany, to manure
his land in Finisterre. The results which he obtained led him to imagine that
this offal, and a multitude of marine fish of little commercial value, might
furnish an important resource to agriculture. This fact, observed since a
long time, especially in countries where deep-sea fishing is a permanent
industry, was not new; but such a manure was by its very nature restricted
to the agriculture of the coasts—fish or fish-offal not being capable of being
economically transported more than short distances. It is also evident that
these materials should be immediately employed—that they are not
susceptible of preservation, and that the manure not admitting of being
applied to the soil, except at certain seasons, it must at once be evident that
the employment of fish-offal, spite of its richness in fecundating elements,
could never be generalised, or offer large resources to agriculture.
“M. de Molon, however, conceived that a far vaster and more
advantageous agricultural resource might be drawn from this inexhaustible
wealth of the ocean, by so treating the offal of the coast fisheries, and the
immense quantities of common fish which are of no use to the fishermen, as
to ensure their preservation, concentrate their fecundatory properties, and
Page 393
render them as transportable as Peruvian guano—to do, in fine, what we
have shown to be practicable in our former article.
“M. de Molon made a number of experiments from this point of view,
and finally settled upon this plan: To boil the fish; to extract as much as
possible of the water and oil which they contain; dry them and reduce them
to powder. After he had obtained this powder in a perfectly dry state he had
it analysed, first by M. Moride, at Nantes; then at Rennes, by M. Malaguti;
and finally, by M. Payen, in Paris.
“These analyses, several times repeated, yielded as a mean the following
percentage as results:—
Water 1·00
Nitrogenous organic matter 80·10
Soluble salts, consisting principally of chloride of sodium, carbonate of ammonia, and traces
of sulphate 4·50
Phosphate of lime and magnesia 14·10
Carbonate of lime 0·06
Silica 0·02
Magnesia and loss 0·22
100·00
“In other words, these repeated analyses indicate that dried fish-powder
would contain about—
12 per cent of nitrogen, and
14 per cent of bone earth——
that is to say, it would be nearly as rich as the best Peruvian guano.
(According to the results of analyses made on herrings, an average manure
made from that fish, and containing 10 per cent of water, would contain
about 13½ per cent of nitrogen, and between 11 and 12 per cent of bone
earth. The small fish containing but little bone earth accounts for the
difference in both cases.) To the scientific analysis M. de Molon wished to
add the sanction of practice; he applied 400 kilogrammes (880·8 lbs.) per
hectare (2 acres, 1 rood, and 35 perches), or 3 cwts. 0 qr. 20 lbs. per statute
acre, of the fish-powder, half in autumn and half in spring, as a top-dressing
to wheat. The results which he obtained were so evident that his doubts
were dissipated, his conviction became full and entire, and he resolved to
make every effort to discover a means of rendering as economical as
have shown to be practicable in our former article.
“M. de Molon made a number of experiments from this point of view,
and finally settled upon this plan: To boil the fish; to extract as much as
possible of the water and oil which they contain; dry them and reduce them
to powder. After he had obtained this powder in a perfectly dry state he had
it analysed, first by M. Moride, at Nantes; then at Rennes, by M. Malaguti;
and finally, by M. Payen, in Paris.
“These analyses, several times repeated, yielded as a mean the following
percentage as results:—
Water 1·00
Nitrogenous organic matter 80·10
Soluble salts, consisting principally of chloride of sodium, carbonate of ammonia, and traces
of sulphate 4·50
Phosphate of lime and magnesia 14·10
Carbonate of lime 0·06
Silica 0·02
Magnesia and loss 0·22
100·00
“In other words, these repeated analyses indicate that dried fish-powder
would contain about—
12 per cent of nitrogen, and
14 per cent of bone earth——
that is to say, it would be nearly as rich as the best Peruvian guano.
(According to the results of analyses made on herrings, an average manure
made from that fish, and containing 10 per cent of water, would contain
about 13½ per cent of nitrogen, and between 11 and 12 per cent of bone
earth. The small fish containing but little bone earth accounts for the
difference in both cases.) To the scientific analysis M. de Molon wished to
add the sanction of practice; he applied 400 kilogrammes (880·8 lbs.) per
hectare (2 acres, 1 rood, and 35 perches), or 3 cwts. 0 qr. 20 lbs. per statute
acre, of the fish-powder, half in autumn and half in spring, as a top-dressing
to wheat. The results which he obtained were so evident that his doubts
were dissipated, his conviction became full and entire, and he resolved to
make every effort to discover a means of rendering as economical as
Page 394
possible the manufacture of a manure equally powerful, and which should
advantageously compete with Peruvian guano.
“Having made his calculations, his ideas were at once directed to
Newfoundland, where the produce of the cod-fishery in a fresh condition
amounts to more than 1,400,000 tons annually.
“The cod, previous to being salted and dried, is deprived of its head, its
intestines, and the backbone, which together make about one-half of its total
weight. This offal, which amounts to at least 700,000 tons, is thrown into
the sea, or is lost without utility.
“In 1850 M. de Molon fitted out a vessel, and confided his project to one
of his brothers, furnishing him with the utensils necessary to experiment
upon and manufacture the fish-powder. The results of this voyage
confirmed his anticipations, and M. de Molon junior brought back to France
a certain quantity of fish-manure, which was found to be identical in
composition with that manufactured in France.
“In 1851 M. de Molon junior again departed for Newfoundland, taking
with him all the means of manufacturing, the materials necessary to
construct a factory, and houses for one hundred and fifty workmen, whom
he also took with him; finally, all the means necessary to found a permanent
establishment. He fixed himself at Kerpon, at the extremity of the island,
near the Strait of Belle-isle, on a creek which was visited every year by a
great number of fishing vessels, and whose shores abound in fish. At
present this establishment is in regular work, and has, we believe, sent
within the last two or three months a considerable quantity of fish-manure
to France.
“Whilst his younger brother was thus establishing himself in
Newfoundland, M. de Molon wished to have in France an establishment of
the same kind placed immediately under his own eyes, which would serve
to perfect the process of manufacture, and offer to all the practical
confirmation of facts, the importance of which had long since been
indelibly fixed upon his own mind. It was at this epoch that M. de Molon
associated himself with a M. Thurnyssen, who understood the vast field of
enterprise which was thus opened up.
advantageously compete with Peruvian guano.
“Having made his calculations, his ideas were at once directed to
Newfoundland, where the produce of the cod-fishery in a fresh condition
amounts to more than 1,400,000 tons annually.
“The cod, previous to being salted and dried, is deprived of its head, its
intestines, and the backbone, which together make about one-half of its total
weight. This offal, which amounts to at least 700,000 tons, is thrown into
the sea, or is lost without utility.
“In 1850 M. de Molon fitted out a vessel, and confided his project to one
of his brothers, furnishing him with the utensils necessary to experiment
upon and manufacture the fish-powder. The results of this voyage
confirmed his anticipations, and M. de Molon junior brought back to France
a certain quantity of fish-manure, which was found to be identical in
composition with that manufactured in France.
“In 1851 M. de Molon junior again departed for Newfoundland, taking
with him all the means of manufacturing, the materials necessary to
construct a factory, and houses for one hundred and fifty workmen, whom
he also took with him; finally, all the means necessary to found a permanent
establishment. He fixed himself at Kerpon, at the extremity of the island,
near the Strait of Belle-isle, on a creek which was visited every year by a
great number of fishing vessels, and whose shores abound in fish. At
present this establishment is in regular work, and has, we believe, sent
within the last two or three months a considerable quantity of fish-manure
to France.
“Whilst his younger brother was thus establishing himself in
Newfoundland, M. de Molon wished to have in France an establishment of
the same kind placed immediately under his own eyes, which would serve
to perfect the process of manufacture, and offer to all the practical
confirmation of facts, the importance of which had long since been
indelibly fixed upon his own mind. It was at this epoch that M. de Molon
associated himself with a M. Thurnyssen, who understood the vast field of
enterprise which was thus opened up.
Page 395
“This factory was erected by them at Concarneau, between Lorient and
Brest, in the department of Finisterre. This is a mere fishing village, not far
from the town of Quimper, containing scarcely two thousand inhabitants,
and built upon a rock in the middle of a bay formed by the ocean. The
catching and preparation of the sardine, which employs about three hundred
to four hundred boats annually, is almost the only industry of the district, if
we except a factory for the manufacture of iodine.
“The factory of MM. de Molon and Thurnyssen is placed at the end of
the port, and the boats come and discharge their fish under its walls. In its
actual condition this factory is capable of manufacturing daily about 4 to 5
tons of fish-manure, in a perfectly dry condition, which represents 16 to 20
tons of fish or of fish-offal in its fresh state. The proprietors receive all the
offal of the curing-houses of Concarneau and those of Lorient; and in
addition all the coarse fish which were previously thrown into the sea, or
which were even abandoned on the very quays of Concarneau, to the great
detriment of public health.
“The factory is entirely constructed of deal planks—that is to say, with all
the economy possible, and contains the following articles of plant: A steam-
engine of ten-horse power, and a boiler of eighteen-horse power; two
boiling-pans à la bascule, with steam-jackets for boiling the fish at the
temperature of a water bath; twenty-four screw presses to press the material
when boiled; a rasp exactly similar to those employed in beet-sugar
factories; a large stove; a Chaussenot’s coccle-furnace, for heating the
stove; a conical iron mill, similar to a coffee-mill.
“The following is the mode of employing these various utensils: The fish
or the offal is introduced by the upper part of the boiling-pans into the
interior, one of which is capable of containing about 10 cwts., and the other
from 16 cwts. to one ton. The vessel is then hermetically closed, and steam
of about 50 to 55 lbs. pressure admitted into the steam-jacket, the steam-
room of which is about two inches wide, and into a tube nearly eight inches
in diameter, placed vertically in the interior of the pan. The boiling is
completed in an hour; then by a simple movement the pan may be made to
swing upon its bearings, the steam allowed to escape, and the cover being
removed, the boiled fish is allowed to fall into a receptacle. Workmen then
convey it in baskets to the presses placed alongside the boilers.
Brest, in the department of Finisterre. This is a mere fishing village, not far
from the town of Quimper, containing scarcely two thousand inhabitants,
and built upon a rock in the middle of a bay formed by the ocean. The
catching and preparation of the sardine, which employs about three hundred
to four hundred boats annually, is almost the only industry of the district, if
we except a factory for the manufacture of iodine.
“The factory of MM. de Molon and Thurnyssen is placed at the end of
the port, and the boats come and discharge their fish under its walls. In its
actual condition this factory is capable of manufacturing daily about 4 to 5
tons of fish-manure, in a perfectly dry condition, which represents 16 to 20
tons of fish or of fish-offal in its fresh state. The proprietors receive all the
offal of the curing-houses of Concarneau and those of Lorient; and in
addition all the coarse fish which were previously thrown into the sea, or
which were even abandoned on the very quays of Concarneau, to the great
detriment of public health.
“The factory is entirely constructed of deal planks—that is to say, with all
the economy possible, and contains the following articles of plant: A steam-
engine of ten-horse power, and a boiler of eighteen-horse power; two
boiling-pans à la bascule, with steam-jackets for boiling the fish at the
temperature of a water bath; twenty-four screw presses to press the material
when boiled; a rasp exactly similar to those employed in beet-sugar
factories; a large stove; a Chaussenot’s coccle-furnace, for heating the
stove; a conical iron mill, similar to a coffee-mill.
“The following is the mode of employing these various utensils: The fish
or the offal is introduced by the upper part of the boiling-pans into the
interior, one of which is capable of containing about 10 cwts., and the other
from 16 cwts. to one ton. The vessel is then hermetically closed, and steam
of about 50 to 55 lbs. pressure admitted into the steam-jacket, the steam-
room of which is about two inches wide, and into a tube nearly eight inches
in diameter, placed vertically in the interior of the pan. The boiling is
completed in an hour; then by a simple movement the pan may be made to
swing upon its bearings, the steam allowed to escape, and the cover being
removed, the boiled fish is allowed to fall into a receptacle. Workmen then
convey it in baskets to the presses placed alongside the boilers.
Page 396
“The great difficulty was to find a means of submitting this fish-magma
to the action of the press without losing the fine portions. This was
accomplished in this way: Under each of the presses is placed a cylinder of
sheet iron open at both ends, about twenty inches high, and twelve inches in
diameter. This cylinder is strengthened by four small iron rings or hoops,
and is pierced with a number of very fine holes. A loose bottom or wooden
plate is fitted into this cylinder, which is then nearly filled with the boiled
fish, and upon this is laid another plate of wood similar to the bottom. One
or two blocks are then laid upon this cover, and when all the cylinders are
filled, a man turns alternately the screw of each press. In proportion as the
pressure operates, the water and oil contained in the fish is seen to exude
from the perforations of the cylinder. These liquids flow into gutters which
conduct them to a common channel by which they flow into barrels placed
underneath, and so graduated that when the first is filled, the overflow
passes into the second, and so on in succession, without the intervention of
any workman. After reposing for some time, the oil floats on the surface,
and is collected and stored in barrels in the cellar. The average quantity of
fish-oil thus extracted represents very nearly 2½ per cent of the fresh fish.
“When the boiled mass is sufficiently pressed, the presses are loosened,
and the cylinders removed and turned upside down, close to the reservoir, to
allow any liquid which may have mounted to the surface to flow away; on
then tapping the bottom wooden plate, the pressed mass may be taken out
of the cylinder in the form of two compact cakes about four inches in
thickness. These cakes are immediately conveyed by a workman to the
hopper of the rasp, placed close at hand; this rasp, set in motion by the
steam-engine, reduces the cakes to a sort of pulp, which is carried by
children as fast as formed to the stove.
“The stove, situate on the first floor, is externally 20 metres long (65 feet
7½ inches), and 5 metres (16 feet 5 inches, nearly) wide; it is divided
lengthwise into five chambers, 85 centimetres (2 feet 9½ inches, nearly)
wide. Each of these chambers contains in its length twenty frames or trays,
1 metre (3 feet 3⅓ inches) long, and 85 centimetres (2 feet 9½ inches,
nearly) wide, having a bottom of coarse linen. These trays rest upon two
bars, which run the whole length of the chamber. Five series of such trays
are superimposed in each chamber, which makes one hundred in each
chamber, or five hundred in the whole stove. At each end of these chambers
to the action of the press without losing the fine portions. This was
accomplished in this way: Under each of the presses is placed a cylinder of
sheet iron open at both ends, about twenty inches high, and twelve inches in
diameter. This cylinder is strengthened by four small iron rings or hoops,
and is pierced with a number of very fine holes. A loose bottom or wooden
plate is fitted into this cylinder, which is then nearly filled with the boiled
fish, and upon this is laid another plate of wood similar to the bottom. One
or two blocks are then laid upon this cover, and when all the cylinders are
filled, a man turns alternately the screw of each press. In proportion as the
pressure operates, the water and oil contained in the fish is seen to exude
from the perforations of the cylinder. These liquids flow into gutters which
conduct them to a common channel by which they flow into barrels placed
underneath, and so graduated that when the first is filled, the overflow
passes into the second, and so on in succession, without the intervention of
any workman. After reposing for some time, the oil floats on the surface,
and is collected and stored in barrels in the cellar. The average quantity of
fish-oil thus extracted represents very nearly 2½ per cent of the fresh fish.
“When the boiled mass is sufficiently pressed, the presses are loosened,
and the cylinders removed and turned upside down, close to the reservoir, to
allow any liquid which may have mounted to the surface to flow away; on
then tapping the bottom wooden plate, the pressed mass may be taken out
of the cylinder in the form of two compact cakes about four inches in
thickness. These cakes are immediately conveyed by a workman to the
hopper of the rasp, placed close at hand; this rasp, set in motion by the
steam-engine, reduces the cakes to a sort of pulp, which is carried by
children as fast as formed to the stove.
“The stove, situate on the first floor, is externally 20 metres long (65 feet
7½ inches), and 5 metres (16 feet 5 inches, nearly) wide; it is divided
lengthwise into five chambers, 85 centimetres (2 feet 9½ inches, nearly)
wide. Each of these chambers contains in its length twenty frames or trays,
1 metre (3 feet 3⅓ inches) long, and 85 centimetres (2 feet 9½ inches,
nearly) wide, having a bottom of coarse linen. These trays rest upon two
bars, which run the whole length of the chamber. Five series of such trays
are superimposed in each chamber, which makes one hundred in each
chamber, or five hundred in the whole stove. At each end of these chambers
Page 397
is a number of openings, which can be closed by a door; each opening
corresponds with a series of trays.
“When the rasped fish-cake is put upon a frame, it is introduced into the
stove through one of the openings just mentioned; a second is then
introduced, which causes the first to slide along the bars; then a third, and
so on until twenty have been placed. The second series of trays is then
introduced in the same way by the opening next above. The operation is
proceeded with in this way until the five series are introduced into each of
the five chambers. It takes about two hours to two hours and a half to fill
the stove with the five hundred trays which it is capable of receiving.
“A current of air heated by the coccle-oven of Chaussenot to a
temperature of from 140° to 158° Fahr., circulates through the five
chambers, according as each is filled with the trays of fish, the draft being
maintained by a chimney.
“As soon as the last tray is introduced into the stove, the first is fit to be
withdrawn. This is effected in the simplest manner; a child placed at one
extremity of the stove introduces a tray freshly charged, this pushes without
any effort the whole series ranged upon the bars, and causes the last in the
series at the lower end of the stove to slide out, where it is received by
another child; a fresh tray is again introduced, and another is pushed out,
and so on for the whole stove. In this way the action of the stove is
constant, being filled as fast as it is emptied, without the workpeople being
exposed to the action of the heat, and without suffering in the least from it,
and being nevertheless able to communicate to one another the details of
the work, the chambers acting as conductors for the voice.
“This stove constitutes one of the most important features in the system
of M. de Molon; it dries rapidly, regularly, and with comparatively small
expenditure of heat, since 100 kilogrammes (220 lbs.) of coal a day are
sufficient for heating the coccle; and the continuity of its action is perfect.
“According as the dried fish is withdrawn from the chambers it is thrown
into a heap, on a board close by, from which it is put with a shovel into the
mill-hopper by a child. The mill reduces it to a sufficiently fine and
perfectly dry powder, which is at once put in sacks or casks, and sealed in
order that there may be no means of adulterating it.
corresponds with a series of trays.
“When the rasped fish-cake is put upon a frame, it is introduced into the
stove through one of the openings just mentioned; a second is then
introduced, which causes the first to slide along the bars; then a third, and
so on until twenty have been placed. The second series of trays is then
introduced in the same way by the opening next above. The operation is
proceeded with in this way until the five series are introduced into each of
the five chambers. It takes about two hours to two hours and a half to fill
the stove with the five hundred trays which it is capable of receiving.
“A current of air heated by the coccle-oven of Chaussenot to a
temperature of from 140° to 158° Fahr., circulates through the five
chambers, according as each is filled with the trays of fish, the draft being
maintained by a chimney.
“As soon as the last tray is introduced into the stove, the first is fit to be
withdrawn. This is effected in the simplest manner; a child placed at one
extremity of the stove introduces a tray freshly charged, this pushes without
any effort the whole series ranged upon the bars, and causes the last in the
series at the lower end of the stove to slide out, where it is received by
another child; a fresh tray is again introduced, and another is pushed out,
and so on for the whole stove. In this way the action of the stove is
constant, being filled as fast as it is emptied, without the workpeople being
exposed to the action of the heat, and without suffering in the least from it,
and being nevertheless able to communicate to one another the details of
the work, the chambers acting as conductors for the voice.
“This stove constitutes one of the most important features in the system
of M. de Molon; it dries rapidly, regularly, and with comparatively small
expenditure of heat, since 100 kilogrammes (220 lbs.) of coal a day are
sufficient for heating the coccle; and the continuity of its action is perfect.
“According as the dried fish is withdrawn from the chambers it is thrown
into a heap, on a board close by, from which it is put with a shovel into the
mill-hopper by a child. The mill reduces it to a sufficiently fine and
perfectly dry powder, which is at once put in sacks or casks, and sealed in
order that there may be no means of adulterating it.
Page 398
“To any one acquainted with the processes and machinery employed in
the manufacture of beet-sugar, it will at once be evident that the
organisation of the process just described was the result of an acquaintance
with that manufacture. This is another instance of the benefits conferred
upon France by the beet-sugar industry, for to that branch of manufacture it
may be truly said to owe the rise of its present manufacturing system. A
branch of industry requiring a combination of chemical and mechanical
skill carried on in the midst of a rural population, especially if connected
with agriculture, has far more influence upon the permanent prosperity of a
people materially and intellectually, than the greatest branch of industry
entirely confined to the civic population.
“To carry on all the operations just described, only six men are employed
at Concarneau, who receive about 1s. a day, and ten children, who receive
from sixpence to sevenpence. Under those conditions, and without working
at night, this factory is capable, as we have already remarked, of producing
from four to five tons of dry manure a day, representing about eighteen to
twenty tons of fish or offal; that is, one hundred parts of fresh fish yield
about twenty-two parts of fish-powder. By working at night, which will be
done during the ensuing year, when the fishery shall have been better
organised, this establishment will be able to produce from eight to ten tons
of manure. M. de Molon estimates the number of days in the year during
which the fishermen could fish at from 200 to 250. In only counting 200
working days, the establishment at Concarneau could thus produce from
1600 to 2000 tons of manure annually, which, at the rate of three cwts. per
statute acre, would suffice to manure from 10,000 to 13,000 acres of land,
and would represent, at 22 per cent of dried manure, a fishing of 9000 to
10,000 tons. The sardine-fishery and the offal of the curing-houses,
formerly lost, would furnish about one-half of that quantity; but M. de
Molon has pointed out a fact from which would appear to result the
incontestable facility of obtaining at Concarneau far greater quantities of
fish than those mentioned above, by the fishery of the coal-fish, which is
sometimes found in immense quantities on the coast, but which the
fishermen do not often take, as they could find no sale for them.
“The factory of Concarneau, with the organised fishery which M. de
Molon intends to establish (sixty to seventy-eight well-equipped boats), and
by doubling its present plant, which is also intended, will quadruple the
the manufacture of beet-sugar, it will at once be evident that the
organisation of the process just described was the result of an acquaintance
with that manufacture. This is another instance of the benefits conferred
upon France by the beet-sugar industry, for to that branch of manufacture it
may be truly said to owe the rise of its present manufacturing system. A
branch of industry requiring a combination of chemical and mechanical
skill carried on in the midst of a rural population, especially if connected
with agriculture, has far more influence upon the permanent prosperity of a
people materially and intellectually, than the greatest branch of industry
entirely confined to the civic population.
“To carry on all the operations just described, only six men are employed
at Concarneau, who receive about 1s. a day, and ten children, who receive
from sixpence to sevenpence. Under those conditions, and without working
at night, this factory is capable, as we have already remarked, of producing
from four to five tons of dry manure a day, representing about eighteen to
twenty tons of fish or offal; that is, one hundred parts of fresh fish yield
about twenty-two parts of fish-powder. By working at night, which will be
done during the ensuing year, when the fishery shall have been better
organised, this establishment will be able to produce from eight to ten tons
of manure. M. de Molon estimates the number of days in the year during
which the fishermen could fish at from 200 to 250. In only counting 200
working days, the establishment at Concarneau could thus produce from
1600 to 2000 tons of manure annually, which, at the rate of three cwts. per
statute acre, would suffice to manure from 10,000 to 13,000 acres of land,
and would represent, at 22 per cent of dried manure, a fishing of 9000 to
10,000 tons. The sardine-fishery and the offal of the curing-houses,
formerly lost, would furnish about one-half of that quantity; but M. de
Molon has pointed out a fact from which would appear to result the
incontestable facility of obtaining at Concarneau far greater quantities of
fish than those mentioned above, by the fishery of the coal-fish, which is
sometimes found in immense quantities on the coast, but which the
fishermen do not often take, as they could find no sale for them.
“The factory of Concarneau, with the organised fishery which M. de
Molon intends to establish (sixty to seventy-eight well-equipped boats), and
by doubling its present plant, which is also intended, will quadruple the
Page 399
quantity of dry manure which is now produced in working only ten hours
per day.
“In addition to the 180 kilogrammes of coal burned in heating the stove,
we may add that 130 more (286½ lbs.) are consumed by the steam-engine,
making a total of 230 kilogrammes, or little more than four and a half cwts.,
or about one cwt. of coal to one ton of manure.
“The fish-manure fetches about 8s. per cwt. in the locality, and is eagerly
sought after by the farmers, who expect the most signal results to
agriculture from the extension of the manufacture; while the oil which, as
already remarked, constitutes about 2½ per cent of the raw fish, would be
worth from 3s. to 3s. 4d. per gallon. These figures show at once that the
manufacture must be profitable—a fact which is fully guaranteed by
Messrs. Payen and Pommier, who, as a commission sent from the
Agricultural Society in order to report upon the project, had the privilege of
examining the books of the concern, and of thus satisfying themselves of its
commercial success.
“The factory of Concarneau, as we have already noticed, was only
founded in order to serve as a model, not alone for those which may be
established on different points of the French coast, but also in foreign
countries. In addition to the factory established under the superintendence
of M. de Molon junior, in Newfoundland, and which in its actual condition
is capable of furnishing from 8000 to 10,000 tons of manure annually, it is
proposed to establish others on the same coast, and also on the coasts of the
North Sea, on such a scale as will furnish sufficient manure to completely
replace the guano now imported from Peru.
“When we recollect what a large amount of offal has hitherto been
wasted upon our coasts, the vast quantity of coarse fish which have been
rejected and thrown again into the sea; but above all, when we consider the
enormous extent of ocean, teeming with animal life, which has contributed
so little to the sustenance of mankind, we cannot help thinking that at
Concarneau has been laid the foundation of a great branch of industry,
which is destined to renovate the worn-out soils of the richly-populated
countries of Europe.”
II. LIST OF AUTHORITIES.
per day.
“In addition to the 180 kilogrammes of coal burned in heating the stove,
we may add that 130 more (286½ lbs.) are consumed by the steam-engine,
making a total of 230 kilogrammes, or little more than four and a half cwts.,
or about one cwt. of coal to one ton of manure.
“The fish-manure fetches about 8s. per cwt. in the locality, and is eagerly
sought after by the farmers, who expect the most signal results to
agriculture from the extension of the manufacture; while the oil which, as
already remarked, constitutes about 2½ per cent of the raw fish, would be
worth from 3s. to 3s. 4d. per gallon. These figures show at once that the
manufacture must be profitable—a fact which is fully guaranteed by
Messrs. Payen and Pommier, who, as a commission sent from the
Agricultural Society in order to report upon the project, had the privilege of
examining the books of the concern, and of thus satisfying themselves of its
commercial success.
“The factory of Concarneau, as we have already noticed, was only
founded in order to serve as a model, not alone for those which may be
established on different points of the French coast, but also in foreign
countries. In addition to the factory established under the superintendence
of M. de Molon junior, in Newfoundland, and which in its actual condition
is capable of furnishing from 8000 to 10,000 tons of manure annually, it is
proposed to establish others on the same coast, and also on the coasts of the
North Sea, on such a scale as will furnish sufficient manure to completely
replace the guano now imported from Peru.
“When we recollect what a large amount of offal has hitherto been
wasted upon our coasts, the vast quantity of coarse fish which have been
rejected and thrown again into the sea; but above all, when we consider the
enormous extent of ocean, teeming with animal life, which has contributed
so little to the sustenance of mankind, we cannot help thinking that at
Concarneau has been laid the foundation of a great branch of industry,
which is destined to renovate the worn-out soils of the richly-populated
countries of Europe.”
II. LIST OF AUTHORITIES.
Page 400
Having been frequently asked by correspondents for a list of the chief
authorities on fish, I beg to subjoin the titles of a few of the works I have
had occasion to consult while preparing this volume:—
A Review of the Domestic Fisheries of Great Britain and
Ireland, by Robert Fraser, Esq. Edinburgh, 1818.
A Short Narrative of the Proceedings of the Society appointed
to manage the British White Herring Fishery, etc., by Thos.
Cole. London, 1750.
A Treatise on Food and Diet, by Jonathan Pereira, M.D., etc.,
1843. London: Longman and Co.
A Treatise on the Management of Fresh-Water Fish, by
Gottlieb Boccius, 1841. London: Van Voorst.
An Account of the Fish-Pool, etc., by Sir Richard Steell.
London, 1718.
An Account of Three New Specimens of British Fishes, by
Richard Parnell, 1837. Royal Society, Edinburgh.
An Essay towards a Natural History of the Herring, by James
Solas Dodd, Surgeon. London, 1752.
Angler’s and Tourist’s Guide, by Andrew Young, Invershin,
1857. A. and C. Black, Edinburgh.
British Fish and Fisheries. Religious Tract Society.
Ceylon, Notes on, by James Steuart, Esq. of Colpetty. Printed
for Private Circulation, 1862.
Couch’s Fishes of the British Islands, 1865. Groombridge.
Directions for Taking and Curing Herrings; and for Curing
Cod, Ling, Tusk, and Hake, by Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, Bart.
Edinburgh 1846.
Elements de Pisciculture, par M. Isidore L’Amy. Paris, 1855.
Evidence of the Royal Commission on the operation of the
Acts relating to Trawling for Herring on the Coasts of Scotland.
authorities on fish, I beg to subjoin the titles of a few of the works I have
had occasion to consult while preparing this volume:—
A Review of the Domestic Fisheries of Great Britain and
Ireland, by Robert Fraser, Esq. Edinburgh, 1818.
A Short Narrative of the Proceedings of the Society appointed
to manage the British White Herring Fishery, etc., by Thos.
Cole. London, 1750.
A Treatise on Food and Diet, by Jonathan Pereira, M.D., etc.,
1843. London: Longman and Co.
A Treatise on the Management of Fresh-Water Fish, by
Gottlieb Boccius, 1841. London: Van Voorst.
An Account of the Fish-Pool, etc., by Sir Richard Steell.
London, 1718.
An Account of Three New Specimens of British Fishes, by
Richard Parnell, 1837. Royal Society, Edinburgh.
An Essay towards a Natural History of the Herring, by James
Solas Dodd, Surgeon. London, 1752.
Angler’s and Tourist’s Guide, by Andrew Young, Invershin,
1857. A. and C. Black, Edinburgh.
British Fish and Fisheries. Religious Tract Society.
Ceylon, Notes on, by James Steuart, Esq. of Colpetty. Printed
for Private Circulation, 1862.
Couch’s Fishes of the British Islands, 1865. Groombridge.
Directions for Taking and Curing Herrings; and for Curing
Cod, Ling, Tusk, and Hake, by Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, Bart.
Edinburgh 1846.
Elements de Pisciculture, par M. Isidore L’Amy. Paris, 1855.
Evidence of the Royal Commission on the operation of the
Acts relating to Trawling for Herring on the Coasts of Scotland.
Page 401
Presented to both Houses of Parliament by command of Her
Majesty. 1863.
Experimental Observations on the Development and Growth
of Salmon Fry, etc., by John Shaw, 1840. Edinburgh: A. and C.
Black.
Fish and Fishing in the Lone Glens of Scotland, by Dr. Knox,
1854. Routledge and Co.
Fish-Hatching, by Frank T. Buckland, 1863. Tinsley Brothers.
Fisheries, The, considered as a National Resource, etc., 1856.
Milliken, Dublin.
Forrester’s Fish and Fishing in the United States, 1864.
Townsend, New York.
Guide du Pisciculture, par J. Remy, 1854. Paris: Lacroix.
Guide Pratique du Pisciculture, par Pierre Carbonnier, 1864.
Paris: Lacroix.
Herring-Fishery, on the Existing State of the, 1854. Herald
Office, Aberdeen.
Howitt’s Angler’s Manual, 1808. Liverpool.
Ichthyonomy, 1857. Swinnerton and Brown, Macclesfield.
Illustrated London Almanac, 1864. London.
Irish Quarterly Review. W. B. Kelly, Dublin.
L’Alienation des Rivages, par M. Coste. Paris, 1863.
La Pêche en Eau Douce et en Eau Salée, par Alphonse Karr,
1860. Paris: Michel Levy Freres.
Letter to a Member of Parliament recommending the
Improvement of the Irish Fishery. Dublin, 1729.
Multiplication Artificelle des Poissons, par J. P. J. Koltz.
Paris: Lacroix.
Natural History and Habits of the Salmon, etc., by Andrew
Young, 1854. Longman and Co.
Majesty. 1863.
Experimental Observations on the Development and Growth
of Salmon Fry, etc., by John Shaw, 1840. Edinburgh: A. and C.
Black.
Fish and Fishing in the Lone Glens of Scotland, by Dr. Knox,
1854. Routledge and Co.
Fish-Hatching, by Frank T. Buckland, 1863. Tinsley Brothers.
Fisheries, The, considered as a National Resource, etc., 1856.
Milliken, Dublin.
Forrester’s Fish and Fishing in the United States, 1864.
Townsend, New York.
Guide du Pisciculture, par J. Remy, 1854. Paris: Lacroix.
Guide Pratique du Pisciculture, par Pierre Carbonnier, 1864.
Paris: Lacroix.
Herring-Fishery, on the Existing State of the, 1854. Herald
Office, Aberdeen.
Howitt’s Angler’s Manual, 1808. Liverpool.
Ichthyonomy, 1857. Swinnerton and Brown, Macclesfield.
Illustrated London Almanac, 1864. London.
Irish Quarterly Review. W. B. Kelly, Dublin.
L’Alienation des Rivages, par M. Coste. Paris, 1863.
La Pêche en Eau Douce et en Eau Salée, par Alphonse Karr,
1860. Paris: Michel Levy Freres.
Letter to a Member of Parliament recommending the
Improvement of the Irish Fishery. Dublin, 1729.
Multiplication Artificelle des Poissons, par J. P. J. Koltz.
Paris: Lacroix.
Natural History and Habits of the Salmon, etc., by Andrew
Young, 1854. Longman and Co.
Page 402
Natural History of the Salmon, as ascertained at
Stormontfield. By William Brown, 1862. Glasgow: Thomas
Murray.
Naturalist’s Library, by Sir William Jardine, 1843. Edinburgh.
Notice Historique sur L’Etablissement de Pisciculture de
Huningue, 1862. Strasbourg: Berger Levrault.
Note sur les Huitrieres Artificelles de Terrains Emergents, par
M. Coste. Paris.
Observations on the Fisheries of the West Coast of Ireland,
etc., by Thomas Edward Symons, 1856. London: Chapman and
Hall.
Oyster, The, where, how, and when to find, breed, cook, and
eat it. Trubner and Co.
Pisciculture, Pisciculteurs, et Poissons, par Eugene Voel,
1856. Paris: F. Chamerot.
Pisciculture et la Production des Sangsues, par Auguste
Jourdier, 1856. Paris: Hatchette and Co.
Pisciculture et Culture des Eaux, par P. Trigneaux. Paris:
Libraire Agricole de la Maison Rustique.
Pisciculture Pratique et sur l’Eleve et la Multiplication des
Sangsues, par Quenard, 1855. Paris: De Dusacq.
Propagation of Oysters, by M. Coste and Dr. Kemmerer.
Brighton, 1864. Pearce.
Proposals for Printing by Subscription a Complete Natural
History of Esculent Fish, etc., by James Solas Dodd.
Report by the Commissioners for the British Fisheries of their
Proceedings in the Year ended 31st December 1862, being the
Fishing of 1862.
Ditto for the years 1863-64.
Reports of the Commissioners of Crown Lands of Canada,
1863-64-65.
Stormontfield. By William Brown, 1862. Glasgow: Thomas
Murray.
Naturalist’s Library, by Sir William Jardine, 1843. Edinburgh.
Notice Historique sur L’Etablissement de Pisciculture de
Huningue, 1862. Strasbourg: Berger Levrault.
Note sur les Huitrieres Artificelles de Terrains Emergents, par
M. Coste. Paris.
Observations on the Fisheries of the West Coast of Ireland,
etc., by Thomas Edward Symons, 1856. London: Chapman and
Hall.
Oyster, The, where, how, and when to find, breed, cook, and
eat it. Trubner and Co.
Pisciculture, Pisciculteurs, et Poissons, par Eugene Voel,
1856. Paris: F. Chamerot.
Pisciculture et la Production des Sangsues, par Auguste
Jourdier, 1856. Paris: Hatchette and Co.
Pisciculture et Culture des Eaux, par P. Trigneaux. Paris:
Libraire Agricole de la Maison Rustique.
Pisciculture Pratique et sur l’Eleve et la Multiplication des
Sangsues, par Quenard, 1855. Paris: De Dusacq.
Propagation of Oysters, by M. Coste and Dr. Kemmerer.
Brighton, 1864. Pearce.
Proposals for Printing by Subscription a Complete Natural
History of Esculent Fish, etc., by James Solas Dodd.
Report by the Commissioners for the British Fisheries of their
Proceedings in the Year ended 31st December 1862, being the
Fishing of 1862.
Ditto for the years 1863-64.
Reports of the Commissioners of Crown Lands of Canada,
1863-64-65.
Page 403
Report of the Royal Commissioners on the operation of the
Acts relating to Trawling for Herring on the Coasts of Scotland.
Presented to both Houses of Parliament by command of Her
Majesty. 1863.
Salmon and other Fish, Propagation of, by Edward and
Thomas Ashworth, 1853. E. H. King, Stockport.
Sea-Side and Aquarium, by John Harper, 1858. Nimmo,
Edinburgh.
Sea-Side Divinity, by the Rev. Robert W. Fraser, M.A., 1861.
J. Hogg and Sons.
Shetland, Description of the Island of, etc., 1753. James,
London.
Sketches of the Natural History of Ceylon, by Sir J. Emerson
Tennent, 1861. London: Longman and Co.
The Field, the Country Gentleman’s Newspaper.
The Herring, its Natural History and National Importance, by
John Mitchell, F.R.S., etc. Edinburgh, 1864.
The Interest of Scotland Considered, etc. Edinburgh, 1733.
The Structure and Physiology of Fishes Explained, etc., by
Alexander Monro, M.D. Edinburgh, 1785.
The Young Angler’s Guide, etc., 1839. J. Cheek, London.
Tweed Fisheries Acts, 1857-59. Eyre and Spottiswoode.
Vacation Tourists, 1862-3. London: Macmillan, 1864.
Voyage d’Exploration sur la Littoral de la France et de
L’Italie, par M. Coste. Paris, 1861, Imprimerie Impériale.
Yarrell’s British Fishes. London: Van Voorst.
⁂ Various numbers of Macmillan’s Magazine, the Cornhill
Magazine, etc., have also been consulted, and quoted from, by
permission of the publishers.
Acts relating to Trawling for Herring on the Coasts of Scotland.
Presented to both Houses of Parliament by command of Her
Majesty. 1863.
Salmon and other Fish, Propagation of, by Edward and
Thomas Ashworth, 1853. E. H. King, Stockport.
Sea-Side and Aquarium, by John Harper, 1858. Nimmo,
Edinburgh.
Sea-Side Divinity, by the Rev. Robert W. Fraser, M.A., 1861.
J. Hogg and Sons.
Shetland, Description of the Island of, etc., 1753. James,
London.
Sketches of the Natural History of Ceylon, by Sir J. Emerson
Tennent, 1861. London: Longman and Co.
The Field, the Country Gentleman’s Newspaper.
The Herring, its Natural History and National Importance, by
John Mitchell, F.R.S., etc. Edinburgh, 1864.
The Interest of Scotland Considered, etc. Edinburgh, 1733.
The Structure and Physiology of Fishes Explained, etc., by
Alexander Monro, M.D. Edinburgh, 1785.
The Young Angler’s Guide, etc., 1839. J. Cheek, London.
Tweed Fisheries Acts, 1857-59. Eyre and Spottiswoode.
Vacation Tourists, 1862-3. London: Macmillan, 1864.
Voyage d’Exploration sur la Littoral de la France et de
L’Italie, par M. Coste. Paris, 1861, Imprimerie Impériale.
Yarrell’s British Fishes. London: Van Voorst.
⁂ Various numbers of Macmillan’s Magazine, the Cornhill
Magazine, etc., have also been consulted, and quoted from, by
permission of the publishers.
Page 404
III. WICK HERRING HARVEST OF 1865.
Daily Daily Season’s
Boats Season’s
Date. Average Catch Average Quality. Weather.
out. Catch Crans.
Crans. Crans. Crans.
June 23 19 5 97 0 1260 Good Wet
Cold and
” 24 14 ½ 7 0 133 Do.
blowy.
” 27 25 2 50 0 183 Do. Changeable.
” 28 25 2 50 0 233 Do. Thick.
” 30 30 6 180 0 413 Do. Do.
Mild and
July 1 34 3 102 ½ 515 Do.
clear.
” 4 75 0 10 ½ 525 Do. Do.
” 6 48 0 3 ½ 528 Do. Do.—rains.
11 120 1¾ 188 ¾ 716 Excellent Do.
” 12 200 ½ 100 ¾ 816 Do. Do.
” 13 50 1 50 ¾ 866 Do. Wet.
” 14 20 1 20 ¾ 886 Do. Wet.
” 15 100 0 10 ¾ 896 Do. Fine.
” 18 20 ½ 10 ¾ 906 Do. Do.
” 19 30 0 0 ¾ 906 Do.
” 20 56 0 0 ¾ 906 Do.
” 21 120 ¼ 30 ¾ 936 Mixed Do.
” 22 200 0 20 ¾ 956 Do. Mild.
Calm and
” 25 500 0 40 1 996 Excellent
clear.
” 26 500 0 80 1 1,076 Large Do.
” 27 500 0 40 1 1,116 Mixed Do.
” 29 60 2 120 1⅓ 1,236 Excellent Breezy.
Mild and
Aug. 1 900 ¾ 750 2 1,986 Do.
clear.
2” 950 ½ 500 2½ 2,486 Do. Very wet.
3” 970 ¾ 750 3 3,236 Do. Heavy rain.
4” 970 1 970 4 4,206 Do. Calm.
5” 970 1 970 5½ 5,176 Do. Do.
8” 976 2½ 2,440 8 7,616 Do. Do.
9” 970 12 11,640 20 19,256 Do. Do.
” 10 976 7 6,832 27 26,088 Do. Very clear.
Wet and
” 11 970 6 5,820 32½ 31,908 ¼ spent
rough.
” 15 50 1 50 32½ 31,958 Good Very rough.
” 16 900 ¼ 225 33 32,183 Do. Do.
” 17 100 1 100 33 32,283 Spent Do.
” 18 930 2 1,860 35 34,143 Excellent Fine.
Daily Daily Season’s
Boats Season’s
Date. Average Catch Average Quality. Weather.
out. Catch Crans.
Crans. Crans. Crans.
June 23 19 5 97 0 1260 Good Wet
Cold and
” 24 14 ½ 7 0 133 Do.
blowy.
” 27 25 2 50 0 183 Do. Changeable.
” 28 25 2 50 0 233 Do. Thick.
” 30 30 6 180 0 413 Do. Do.
Mild and
July 1 34 3 102 ½ 515 Do.
clear.
” 4 75 0 10 ½ 525 Do. Do.
” 6 48 0 3 ½ 528 Do. Do.—rains.
11 120 1¾ 188 ¾ 716 Excellent Do.
” 12 200 ½ 100 ¾ 816 Do. Do.
” 13 50 1 50 ¾ 866 Do. Wet.
” 14 20 1 20 ¾ 886 Do. Wet.
” 15 100 0 10 ¾ 896 Do. Fine.
” 18 20 ½ 10 ¾ 906 Do. Do.
” 19 30 0 0 ¾ 906 Do.
” 20 56 0 0 ¾ 906 Do.
” 21 120 ¼ 30 ¾ 936 Mixed Do.
” 22 200 0 20 ¾ 956 Do. Mild.
Calm and
” 25 500 0 40 1 996 Excellent
clear.
” 26 500 0 80 1 1,076 Large Do.
” 27 500 0 40 1 1,116 Mixed Do.
” 29 60 2 120 1⅓ 1,236 Excellent Breezy.
Mild and
Aug. 1 900 ¾ 750 2 1,986 Do.
clear.
2” 950 ½ 500 2½ 2,486 Do. Very wet.
3” 970 ¾ 750 3 3,236 Do. Heavy rain.
4” 970 1 970 4 4,206 Do. Calm.
5” 970 1 970 5½ 5,176 Do. Do.
8” 976 2½ 2,440 8 7,616 Do. Do.
9” 970 12 11,640 20 19,256 Do. Do.
” 10 976 7 6,832 27 26,088 Do. Very clear.
Wet and
” 11 970 6 5,820 32½ 31,908 ¼ spent
rough.
” 15 50 1 50 32½ 31,958 Good Very rough.
” 16 900 ¼ 225 33 32,183 Do. Do.
” 17 100 1 100 33 32,283 Spent Do.
” 18 930 2 1,860 35 34,143 Excellent Fine.
Page 405
” 19 977 ½ 487 35½ 34,630 Do. Do.
” 22 977 6 5,862 41½ 40,492 Do. Do.
” 23 977 6 5,862 47½ 46,354 ¼ spent Breezy.
” 24 977 12 11,724 59½ 58,978 ⅓ spent Mild.
” 25 977 10 9,770 69½ 67,848 ¼ spent Do.—frost.
” 26 975 8 7,800 77½ 75,648 ½ spent Breezy—rain.
” 29 977 0 10 77½ 75,658 Good Do.
” 30 30 0 0 77½ 75,658 Rough—rain.
” 31 200 ¼ 50 77½ 75,708 Do. Do.
Sept. 1 500 0 0 77½ 75,708 Very rough.
” 5 300 0 0 77½ 75,708 Changeable.
” 12 9 1 9 77½ 75,717 Excellent Fine.
” 13 30 1 30 77½ 75,747 Do. Changeable.
” 14 50 6 300 78 76,047 Do. Fine.
” 15 60 0 3 78 76,050 Do. Changeable.
IV. TOTAL CATCH of HERRINGS at all the Stations on the
North-East Coast during the last Five Years.
Stations. 1861. 1862. 1863. 1864. 1865.
Wick 89,728 90,644 90,099 90,033 76,055
Lybster, etc. 16,828 17,150 24,982 19,120 18,946
Dunbeath 6,720 6,162 6,800 5,248 5,100
Helmsdale 26,670 26,500 24,982 29,120 13,020
Brora 1,620 1,809 1,554 2,460 1,225
Cromarty 18,060 11,232 13,600 15,000 10,200
Burghhead 7,920 9,090 10,320 11,770 10,580
Hopeman 11,614 9,686 10,150 5,824 8,418
Findhorn 1,080 294 560
Lossiemouth 10,175 10,881 12,020 5,985 14,742
Portgordon 2,783 4,664 4,312 1,160 800
Portsoy 1,974 3,290 2,112 920 1,290
Cullen 2,380 4,200 3,424 1,320 406
Portknockie 2,691 3,542 3,092 1,872 2,695
Findochty 2,660 4,480 3,752 2,040 1,900
Portessie 1,881 2,180 1,350 1,380 1,320
Buckie 5,320 8,600 8,249 3,850 7,700
Whitehills 2,792 4,753 2,211 1,200 1,624
Macduff 4,200 7,884 4,898 2,400 3,962
Gardenstown 6,642 12,908 6,386 2,948 7,952
Pennan 819 1,215 368 265 520
Rosehearty 4,620 7,828 6,898 4,602 6,100
Pitullie 1,720 3,768 1,500 720 1,980
Fraserburgh 16,581 42,944 24,970 26,793 28,112
” 22 977 6 5,862 41½ 40,492 Do. Do.
” 23 977 6 5,862 47½ 46,354 ¼ spent Breezy.
” 24 977 12 11,724 59½ 58,978 ⅓ spent Mild.
” 25 977 10 9,770 69½ 67,848 ¼ spent Do.—frost.
” 26 975 8 7,800 77½ 75,648 ½ spent Breezy—rain.
” 29 977 0 10 77½ 75,658 Good Do.
” 30 30 0 0 77½ 75,658 Rough—rain.
” 31 200 ¼ 50 77½ 75,708 Do. Do.
Sept. 1 500 0 0 77½ 75,708 Very rough.
” 5 300 0 0 77½ 75,708 Changeable.
” 12 9 1 9 77½ 75,717 Excellent Fine.
” 13 30 1 30 77½ 75,747 Do. Changeable.
” 14 50 6 300 78 76,047 Do. Fine.
” 15 60 0 3 78 76,050 Do. Changeable.
IV. TOTAL CATCH of HERRINGS at all the Stations on the
North-East Coast during the last Five Years.
Stations. 1861. 1862. 1863. 1864. 1865.
Wick 89,728 90,644 90,099 90,033 76,055
Lybster, etc. 16,828 17,150 24,982 19,120 18,946
Dunbeath 6,720 6,162 6,800 5,248 5,100
Helmsdale 26,670 26,500 24,982 29,120 13,020
Brora 1,620 1,809 1,554 2,460 1,225
Cromarty 18,060 11,232 13,600 15,000 10,200
Burghhead 7,920 9,090 10,320 11,770 10,580
Hopeman 11,614 9,686 10,150 5,824 8,418
Findhorn 1,080 294 560
Lossiemouth 10,175 10,881 12,020 5,985 14,742
Portgordon 2,783 4,664 4,312 1,160 800
Portsoy 1,974 3,290 2,112 920 1,290
Cullen 2,380 4,200 3,424 1,320 406
Portknockie 2,691 3,542 3,092 1,872 2,695
Findochty 2,660 4,480 3,752 2,040 1,900
Portessie 1,881 2,180 1,350 1,380 1,320
Buckie 5,320 8,600 8,249 3,850 7,700
Whitehills 2,792 4,753 2,211 1,200 1,624
Macduff 4,200 7,884 4,898 2,400 3,962
Gardenstown 6,642 12,908 6,386 2,948 7,952
Pennan 819 1,215 368 265 520
Rosehearty 4,620 7,828 6,898 4,602 6,100
Pitullie 1,720 3,768 1,500 720 1,980
Fraserburgh 16,581 42,944 24,970 26,793 28,112
Page 406
Peterhead 32,600 52,461 31,535 32,680 35,741
Boddam 5,890 5,445 4,680 3,640 5,358
Total 285,878 353,610 304,780 272,350 266,211
Estimated Number of Hands Employed—1865.
Fishermen. Others. Total.
Caithness 6,500 3,100 9,600
Sutherland 2,100 1,500 3,600
Cromarty 1,200 1,000 2,200
Moray 1,800 1,200 3,000
Banff 1,800 1,200 3,000
Aberdeen 3,800 2,400 6,200
Total 17,200 10,400 27,600
Boddam 5,890 5,445 4,680 3,640 5,358
Total 285,878 353,610 304,780 272,350 266,211
Estimated Number of Hands Employed—1865.
Fishermen. Others. Total.
Caithness 6,500 3,100 9,600
Sutherland 2,100 1,500 3,600
Cromarty 1,200 1,000 2,200
Moray 1,800 1,200 3,000
Banff 1,800 1,200 3,000
Aberdeen 3,800 2,400 6,200
Total 17,200 10,400 27,600
Page 407
INDEX.
A fishing “toon” described, 446.
A fishwife’s proverb, 425.
A lobster-spill in the Thames, 389.
A Member of Parliament on the fish supply, 67.
A widow’s story, 463.
About “natives,” 369.
Absurd statement about herring spawn, 236.
Absurdity of eating cod-roe, 291.
Across the Channel, 56.
Acclimatisation of fish, 125, 482.
Account of a fisherman’s wedding-dance, 421.
Account of the latest spawning season at Stormontfield, 108.
Adaptability of means to end in shell-fish, 384.
Admiration of Scottish pearls, 403.
Advance of money in the herring trade, 255.
Advantages of a close-time for oysters, 338.
Advantages of the tile system in oyster-culture, 363.
Advice to fishermen as to bait, 417.
Age at which oysters are sent to be greened, 360.
Age at which oysters are sent to market, 339.
Age of herring before they spawn, 237.
Aggregate sailings of the Wick boats, 279.
Agriculture in France, 77.
A fishing “toon” described, 446.
A fishwife’s proverb, 425.
A lobster-spill in the Thames, 389.
A Member of Parliament on the fish supply, 67.
A widow’s story, 463.
About “natives,” 369.
Absurd statement about herring spawn, 236.
Absurdity of eating cod-roe, 291.
Across the Channel, 56.
Acclimatisation of fish, 125, 482.
Account of a fisherman’s wedding-dance, 421.
Account of the latest spawning season at Stormontfield, 108.
Adaptability of means to end in shell-fish, 384.
Admiration of Scottish pearls, 403.
Advance of money in the herring trade, 255.
Advantages of a close-time for oysters, 338.
Advantages of the tile system in oyster-culture, 363.
Advice to fishermen as to bait, 417.
Age at which oysters are sent to be greened, 360.
Age at which oysters are sent to market, 339.
Age of herring before they spawn, 237.
Aggregate sailings of the Wick boats, 279.
Agriculture in France, 77.
Page 408
All fish unwholesome at time of spawning, 242.
Allston the London oyster-merchant, 373.
Ambition of fisher lads, 440.
America, oysters in, 380.
American pike, 143.
American sociality over oysters, 346.
Amount of attention required by a large oyster-farm, 365.
Ancient fishing industries, 40.
Ancient ideas as to fish, 8.
Ancient knowledge of the oyster, 333.
Anecdote of a minister’s visit to a fisherman, 432.
Anecdote of a London litterateur, 379.
Anecdotes of a fishwife, 428.
Angler-fish, 156.
Anglers’ fishes, 129, 137.
Anglers and angling, 132.
Angling all the year round, 132.
Angling localities, 137.
Angling in the Thames, 150.
Angling on the Tay, 212.
Angling sport in Scotland, 130.
Annual revenue of the river Tay fisheries, 213.
Annual sacrifice to crustacean gastronomy, 397.
Anomalies in salmon growth, 105, 180.
Antidote to enchantment, the fisherman’s, 435.
Antiquity of pearls, 398.
Allston the London oyster-merchant, 373.
Ambition of fisher lads, 440.
America, oysters in, 380.
American pike, 143.
American sociality over oysters, 346.
Amount of attention required by a large oyster-farm, 365.
Ancient fishing industries, 40.
Ancient ideas as to fish, 8.
Ancient knowledge of the oyster, 333.
Anecdote of a minister’s visit to a fisherman, 432.
Anecdote of a London litterateur, 379.
Anecdotes of a fishwife, 428.
Angler-fish, 156.
Anglers’ fishes, 129, 137.
Anglers and angling, 132.
Angling all the year round, 132.
Angling localities, 137.
Angling in the Thames, 150.
Angling on the Tay, 212.
Angling sport in Scotland, 130.
Annual revenue of the river Tay fisheries, 213.
Annual sacrifice to crustacean gastronomy, 397.
Anomalies in salmon growth, 105, 180.
Antidote to enchantment, the fisherman’s, 435.
Antiquity of pearls, 398.
Page 409
Apparatus for catching lobsters, 161.
Apparatus for pisciculture, 115.
Appendix, 491.
Approach of the herring season, 246.
Arcachon, Bay of, 365.
Are herrings of the same shoal all of the same age?, 238.
Are the pisciculturists robbing Peter to pay Paul?, 88.
Are there more fish in the sea than ever came out of it?, 474.
Arran, the island of, 165.
Arrival of salmon ova in Australia, 120.
Arctic Seas, no herrings in the, 231.
Artificial oyster-breeding, 350.
Artificial oyster-breeding in Marennes, 75.
Artificial spawning, 86, 87.
Art of dredging oysters, 378.
Art of shrimping, 396.
Art of trawling, 311.
Ashworth’s experiments, 117.
Ashworth’s opinion of oyster-culture, 354.
Attention required by an oyster-farm, 365.
Auchmithie, 444.
Auctioneers of fish, 437.
August herring-fishery at Wick, 280.
Authentic contradiction to Pennant’s theory, 231.
Authorities, list of, quoted, 499.
Avarice of salmon-fishery lessees, 200.
Apparatus for pisciculture, 115.
Appendix, 491.
Approach of the herring season, 246.
Arcachon, Bay of, 365.
Are herrings of the same shoal all of the same age?, 238.
Are the pisciculturists robbing Peter to pay Paul?, 88.
Are there more fish in the sea than ever came out of it?, 474.
Arran, the island of, 165.
Arrival of salmon ova in Australia, 120.
Arctic Seas, no herrings in the, 231.
Artificial oyster-breeding, 350.
Artificial oyster-breeding in Marennes, 75.
Artificial spawning, 86, 87.
Art of dredging oysters, 378.
Art of shrimping, 396.
Art of trawling, 311.
Ashworth’s experiments, 117.
Ashworth’s opinion of oyster-culture, 354.
Attention required by an oyster-farm, 365.
Auchmithie, 444.
Auctioneers of fish, 437.
August herring-fishery at Wick, 280.
Authentic contradiction to Pennant’s theory, 231.
Authorities, list of, quoted, 499.
Avarice of salmon-fishery lessees, 200.
Page 410
Average age at which salmon are killed, 207.
Average capture of herrings per boat in 1820, 279.
Average number of crans of herring taken by each boat in 1862, 276.
Average of oyster-reproduction at Re, 358.
Averages of the catch of herrings in 1862, 276.
Aversion of fisher-people to be counted, 453.
Awkward contretemps, 468.
Bad effects of trawling, 315.
Bag-nets, their baneful influence on the salmon-fisheries, 208.
Bain, Mr. Donald, on the salmon question, 222, 489.
Bait for line-fishing, 306.
Bait for lobsters, 385.
Bait for sea-angling, 158.
Bait, importance of cheap, 410.
Balance of nature, 33.
Bale in Switzerland, 80.
Bannock-fluke, the, 297.
Bargain-making by fishwives, 426.
Bargains made by boat-owners, 257.
Barnet, Mr., of Kinross, 140.
Barking trawlers, 309.
Barrack-life in Comacchio, 458.
Barrels, great numbers of, on the quays at Wick, 268.
Basins for the young fish at Huningue, 85.
Bass, the, of Lake Wennern, 125.
Battle of the swine at St. Monance, 434.
Average capture of herrings per boat in 1820, 279.
Average number of crans of herring taken by each boat in 1862, 276.
Average of oyster-reproduction at Re, 358.
Averages of the catch of herrings in 1862, 276.
Aversion of fisher-people to be counted, 453.
Awkward contretemps, 468.
Bad effects of trawling, 315.
Bag-nets, their baneful influence on the salmon-fisheries, 208.
Bain, Mr. Donald, on the salmon question, 222, 489.
Bait for line-fishing, 306.
Bait for lobsters, 385.
Bait for sea-angling, 158.
Bait, importance of cheap, 410.
Balance of nature, 33.
Bale in Switzerland, 80.
Bannock-fluke, the, 297.
Bargain-making by fishwives, 426.
Bargains made by boat-owners, 257.
Barnet, Mr., of Kinross, 140.
Barking trawlers, 309.
Barrack-life in Comacchio, 458.
Barrels, great numbers of, on the quays at Wick, 268.
Basins for the young fish at Huningue, 85.
Bass, the, of Lake Wennern, 125.
Battle of the swine at St. Monance, 434.
Page 411
Bay of Aiguillon, 412.
Bay of the Departed, 455.
Bay of St. Brieuc, 351.
Beef, the stone-mason of the island of Re, 352.
Bell Rock, 444.
Benefits derived from a good fishery, 44.
Best conditions of fish for spawning, 341.
Best kind of boats for herring-fishing, 272.
Best kinds of fish to rear on the artificial plan, 97.
Best spawning-ground for herring, 238.
Best way of marking young salmon, 196.
Billingsgate, 65.
Billingsgate salesman’s, a, letter on trawling, 319.
Bird’s-eye view of Fusaro, 349.
Bit of dialogue, 470.
Black-beetle, a wonderful, 17.
Bloaters and red-herrings, 270.
Board of White Fisheries, 486.
Boat speculation by ship-carpenters, 441.
Bolam, evidence on trawling by Thomas, 314.
Bouchots for growing mussels, 411.
Boulogne, 454.
Bounty given in the herring-trade, 255.
Brand, the, 263.
Breeding-ponds for salmon at Stormontfield, 99.
Breeding-pyramid for oysters, 350.
Bay of the Departed, 455.
Bay of St. Brieuc, 351.
Beef, the stone-mason of the island of Re, 352.
Bell Rock, 444.
Benefits derived from a good fishery, 44.
Best conditions of fish for spawning, 341.
Best kind of boats for herring-fishing, 272.
Best kinds of fish to rear on the artificial plan, 97.
Best spawning-ground for herring, 238.
Best way of marking young salmon, 196.
Billingsgate, 65.
Billingsgate salesman’s, a, letter on trawling, 319.
Bird’s-eye view of Fusaro, 349.
Bit of dialogue, 470.
Black-beetle, a wonderful, 17.
Bloaters and red-herrings, 270.
Board of White Fisheries, 486.
Boat speculation by ship-carpenters, 441.
Bolam, evidence on trawling by Thomas, 314.
Bouchots for growing mussels, 411.
Boulogne, 454.
Bounty given in the herring-trade, 255.
Brand, the, 263.
Breeding-ponds for salmon at Stormontfield, 99.
Breeding-pyramid for oysters, 350.
Page 412
Brewing of oyster-spat, 337.
Brilliancy of fish-colour, 2.
British oyster-eaters, 345.
Brown, Mr. Wm., of Perth, on the salmon, 194.
Buckhaven, 438, 439.
Buckie, 466.
Buckie fishermen, 302.
Buisse, suite of ponds at, 93.
Burning the water, 204.
Business, how it is conducted at Re, 358.
Buist’s notes on Stormontfield, 111.
Buist’s opinions about the parr, 183.
Calculations as to herring increase, 7.
“Caller Ou,” 425.
Cancale, 58.
Cancale, the shell-middens of, 351.
Canoe used by the boucholeurs of Aiguillon, 413.
Capital of French oysterdom, 352.
Caprice of the herring, 244.
Capturing herrings with a seine-net, 250.
Carlisle of Inveresk, Dr., 435.
Carp, 144.
Carp-breeding, 147.
Carp-ponds, 147.
Carriage of fish in France, cost of, 61.
Catch of herrings in 1862-63, 272.
Brilliancy of fish-colour, 2.
British oyster-eaters, 345.
Brown, Mr. Wm., of Perth, on the salmon, 194.
Buckhaven, 438, 439.
Buckie, 466.
Buckie fishermen, 302.
Buisse, suite of ponds at, 93.
Burning the water, 204.
Business, how it is conducted at Re, 358.
Buist’s notes on Stormontfield, 111.
Buist’s opinions about the parr, 183.
Calculations as to herring increase, 7.
“Caller Ou,” 425.
Cancale, 58.
Cancale, the shell-middens of, 351.
Canoe used by the boucholeurs of Aiguillon, 413.
Capital of French oysterdom, 352.
Caprice of the herring, 244.
Capturing herrings with a seine-net, 250.
Carlisle of Inveresk, Dr., 435.
Carp, 144.
Carp-breeding, 147.
Carp-ponds, 147.
Carriage of fish in France, cost of, 61.
Catch of herrings in 1862-63, 272.
Page 413
Catching shell-fish, 385.
Causes assigned for caprice of herring, 244.
Cause of attraction to the male fish while spawning, 9.
Cause of the parr anomaly, 105.
Census of Fittie, 450.
Census of persons employed in the herring-fishery, 275.
Ceremonies among the eel-breeders of Comacchio, 459.
Ceremony of marriage among fishermen, 421.
Ceylon pearl-fishery, 398.
Chance fishing, 301.
Changes in the Crustacea, 392.
Character of the fisher-folk, 471.
Character of the Scottish fishwife, 324.
Charming May, 138.
Charitable fishery experiment, 388.
Charr, 153.
Cheek on angling, 135.
Chief British salmon-streams, 209.
Chief fishing-grounds in the North Sea, 306.
Chinese pisciculture, 69, 70.
Claires for greening oysters, 360.
Claires for oysters, view of, 357.
Clannishness of the fisher-folk, 481.
Classification of fish, 1.
Cleanliness of the Newhaven fisherwomen, 431.
Cleghorn, Mr. John, of Wick, on the herring, 231, 232.
Causes assigned for caprice of herring, 244.
Cause of attraction to the male fish while spawning, 9.
Cause of the parr anomaly, 105.
Census of Fittie, 450.
Census of persons employed in the herring-fishery, 275.
Ceremonies among the eel-breeders of Comacchio, 459.
Ceremony of marriage among fishermen, 421.
Ceylon pearl-fishery, 398.
Chance fishing, 301.
Changes in the Crustacea, 392.
Character of the fisher-folk, 471.
Character of the Scottish fishwife, 324.
Charming May, 138.
Charitable fishery experiment, 388.
Charr, 153.
Cheek on angling, 135.
Chief British salmon-streams, 209.
Chief fishing-grounds in the North Sea, 306.
Chinese pisciculture, 69, 70.
Claires for greening oysters, 360.
Claires for oysters, view of, 357.
Clannishness of the fisher-folk, 481.
Classification of fish, 1.
Cleanliness of the Newhaven fisherwomen, 431.
Cleghorn, Mr. John, of Wick, on the herring, 231, 232.
Page 414
Clements, John, of Hull, his evidence, 316.
Close-times for herrings quite possible, 242.
Close-time for lobsters in France, 391.
Close-time for oysters, 336.
Clyde, the river, 163.
Coarse work of the herring-gutters, 270.
Coast fishing-boats, 272.
Cod and haddock fishing very laborious, 301.
Codfish, number of eggs in a, 5.
Codfish, description of the, 291.
Codfish, how it grows, 31.
Cod-liver oil, 292.
Cod-roe at dinner, 243.
Coldingham fishermen, good behaviour of, 438.
Colne oyster-beds, 370.
Cold seasons unfavourable to oyster-breeding, 338.
Colour of fish, 2.
Comacchio, 19, 457.
Comacchio, drawing of a division of, 48.
Comfort of a fisherman’s dwelling, 430.
Commencement of the great gale on the Moray Firth, 324.
Commerce in fish, 34.
Commerce in herrings, 254.
Commerce in salmon, 198.
Commerce in shell-fish, 384.
Commercial value of salmon, 199.
Close-times for herrings quite possible, 242.
Close-time for lobsters in France, 391.
Close-time for oysters, 336.
Clyde, the river, 163.
Coarse work of the herring-gutters, 270.
Coast fishing-boats, 272.
Cod and haddock fishing very laborious, 301.
Codfish, number of eggs in a, 5.
Codfish, description of the, 291.
Codfish, how it grows, 31.
Cod-liver oil, 292.
Cod-roe at dinner, 243.
Coldingham fishermen, good behaviour of, 438.
Colne oyster-beds, 370.
Cold seasons unfavourable to oyster-breeding, 338.
Colour of fish, 2.
Comacchio, 19, 457.
Comacchio, drawing of a division of, 48.
Comfort of a fisherman’s dwelling, 430.
Commencement of the great gale on the Moray Firth, 324.
Commerce in fish, 34.
Commerce in herrings, 254.
Commerce in salmon, 198.
Commerce in shell-fish, 384.
Commercial value of salmon, 199.
Page 415
Commissioners’ report on the herring-fishery for 1864, 275.
Common carp, 146.
“Commons,” in oyster nomenclature, 368.
Community of fishers at Fittie, 449.
Comparative tables of the fishery at Wick, 281.
Concluding remarks on the Fisheries, 474.
Conclusion, 490.
Condition of trawl-fish, 320.
Conditions under which the herring is found, 240.
Conduct of the white-fisheries, 301.
Connecticut, fish-manufactory in, 136.
Consumption of fish, 67.
Consumption of oysters in London, 373.
Contents of a dredge, 378.
Continental demand on our fisheries, 286.
Controversies about oyster life, 335.
Controversies about the salmon, 178.
Controversy about the parr, 181.
Controversy about the pearl rivers, 406.
Controversy among fishermen at Lochfyne, 250.
Controversy in Scotland as to fixed engines of salmon-capture, 206.
Conversation with a Strasbourg pêcheur, 88.
Cooking of pike, 143.
Cooking of oysters, 346.
Co-operation among fishermen, 309, 441.
Co-operation better than competition, 223.
Common carp, 146.
“Commons,” in oyster nomenclature, 368.
Community of fishers at Fittie, 449.
Comparative tables of the fishery at Wick, 281.
Concluding remarks on the Fisheries, 474.
Conclusion, 490.
Condition of trawl-fish, 320.
Conditions under which the herring is found, 240.
Conduct of the white-fisheries, 301.
Connecticut, fish-manufactory in, 136.
Consumption of fish, 67.
Consumption of oysters in London, 373.
Contents of a dredge, 378.
Continental demand on our fisheries, 286.
Controversies about oyster life, 335.
Controversies about the salmon, 178.
Controversy about the parr, 181.
Controversy about the pearl rivers, 406.
Controversy among fishermen at Lochfyne, 250.
Controversy in Scotland as to fixed engines of salmon-capture, 206.
Conversation with a Strasbourg pêcheur, 88.
Cooking of pike, 143.
Cooking of oysters, 346.
Co-operation among fishermen, 309, 441.
Co-operation better than competition, 223.
Page 416
Cornwall in the pilchard season, 251.
Coromandel oysters, 379.
Corry in Arran, view of, 171.
Coste, Professor, 76.
Coste’s, Professor, plan of oyster-culture, 347.
Coste’s recommendation to the French Government, 350.
Couch, Mr. Jonathan, on the food of the pilchard, 251.
Couch on the mackerel, 21.
Couleur de rose statements as to the fisheries, 475.
Councillor Hawkins on the Colchester oyster, 370.
Course of the fisheries, 55.
Course of the herring-fishery, 229.
Course of oyster-farming, 365.
Course of work on the oyster-beds at Whitstable, 365.
Crab-catching, 386.
Cray-fish, 397.
Creel-hawking, 436.
Crustacean commerce, 387.
Cullercoats fisherman, evidence of a, 312.
Cultivating the mussel-farm, 413.
Cultivation of “natives,” 369.
Cultivation of our lochs, 140.
Culture of mussels, 410.
Culture of oysters, 346.
Culture of oysters, progress in, 354.
Culture of turtle on the artificial plan, 96.
Coromandel oysters, 379.
Corry in Arran, view of, 171.
Coste, Professor, 76.
Coste’s, Professor, plan of oyster-culture, 347.
Coste’s recommendation to the French Government, 350.
Couch, Mr. Jonathan, on the food of the pilchard, 251.
Couch on the mackerel, 21.
Couleur de rose statements as to the fisheries, 475.
Councillor Hawkins on the Colchester oyster, 370.
Course of the fisheries, 55.
Course of the herring-fishery, 229.
Course of oyster-farming, 365.
Course of work on the oyster-beds at Whitstable, 365.
Crab-catching, 386.
Cray-fish, 397.
Creel-hawking, 436.
Crustacean commerce, 387.
Cullercoats fisherman, evidence of a, 312.
Cultivating the mussel-farm, 413.
Cultivation of “natives,” 369.
Cultivation of our lochs, 140.
Culture of mussels, 410.
Culture of oysters, 346.
Culture of oysters, progress in, 354.
Culture of turtle on the artificial plan, 96.
Page 417
Curing of cod in Scotland, 293.
Cure of herrings in Scotland, 1862-63, 273.
Curing pilchards, 253.
Curing sprats to be sold as sardines, 253.
Curious forms of fish, 3.
Curiosities of superstition at Newhaven, 433.
Daily statement of the number of herring-boats at Wick in 1862, 276.
Danube salmon, 89, 98.
Dates marking chief incidents of salmon life, 195.
Dealing in herrings, 254.
Decline of creel-hawking in Scotland, 443.
Decline of the cod-fishery, 303.
Decrease of the Scottish haddock-fishery, 318.
Decreasing size of haddocks, 315.
Dee salmon-fisheries, 112, 113.
Delineation of flat fishes, 297.
Demand for fish in Catholic countries, 277.
Demand for oysters, 373.
Demand for white fish, 286.
Dempster’s discovery of packing salmon in ice, 36, 202.
Departure of the herring-fleet from the Texel, 45.
Description of Auchmithie, 445.
Description of a drift-net, 248.
Description of a lobster-trap, 385.
Description of a mussel-farm, 412.
Description of a periwinkle, 384.
Cure of herrings in Scotland, 1862-63, 273.
Curing pilchards, 253.
Curing sprats to be sold as sardines, 253.
Curious forms of fish, 3.
Curiosities of superstition at Newhaven, 433.
Daily statement of the number of herring-boats at Wick in 1862, 276.
Danube salmon, 89, 98.
Dates marking chief incidents of salmon life, 195.
Dealing in herrings, 254.
Decline of creel-hawking in Scotland, 443.
Decline of the cod-fishery, 303.
Decrease of the Scottish haddock-fishery, 318.
Decreasing size of haddocks, 315.
Dee salmon-fisheries, 112, 113.
Delineation of flat fishes, 297.
Demand for fish in Catholic countries, 277.
Demand for oysters, 373.
Demand for white fish, 286.
Dempster’s discovery of packing salmon in ice, 36, 202.
Departure of the herring-fleet from the Texel, 45.
Description of Auchmithie, 445.
Description of a drift-net, 248.
Description of a lobster-trap, 385.
Description of a mussel-farm, 412.
Description of a periwinkle, 384.
Page 418
Description of a trawler, 309.
Description of green oyster-claires, 359, 360.
Description of Newhaven, near Edinburgh, 430.
Description of the lobster, 390.
Description of the oyster, 334.
Description of the pilchard-fishery, 252.
Design for a complete suite of salmon-ponds, 103.
Desire for more herring statistics, 283.
Destruction of young fish, 478.
Destructive power of the trawl-net, 308.
Development of the herring, 240.
Dexterity of the herring-gutters, 270.
Diagram of herring-netting and fish, 282.
Dialect of the Moray Firth fisher-folk, 469.
Dialogue between a fishwife and her customer, 427.
Differences in size, shape, and flavour of the herrings of different
places, 230.
Different countries must have different fishing seasons, 299.
Different kinds of cured herrings, 271.
Different kinds of sea-fish, 155.
Difficulties in the way of collecting spat, 362.
Difficulties of obtaining accurate information about the herring, 235.
Difficulty of obtaining statistics of fisheries, 66, 285.
Dimensions of the great heer, 228.
Diminution of lobsters, 318.
Discipline of Comacchio, 457.
Description of green oyster-claires, 359, 360.
Description of Newhaven, near Edinburgh, 430.
Description of the lobster, 390.
Description of the oyster, 334.
Description of the pilchard-fishery, 252.
Design for a complete suite of salmon-ponds, 103.
Desire for more herring statistics, 283.
Destruction of young fish, 478.
Destructive power of the trawl-net, 308.
Development of the herring, 240.
Dexterity of the herring-gutters, 270.
Diagram of herring-netting and fish, 282.
Dialect of the Moray Firth fisher-folk, 469.
Dialogue between a fishwife and her customer, 427.
Differences in size, shape, and flavour of the herrings of different
places, 230.
Different countries must have different fishing seasons, 299.
Different kinds of cured herrings, 271.
Different kinds of sea-fish, 155.
Difficulties in the way of collecting spat, 362.
Difficulties of obtaining accurate information about the herring, 235.
Difficulty of obtaining statistics of fisheries, 66, 285.
Dimensions of the great heer, 228.
Diminution of lobsters, 318.
Discipline of Comacchio, 457.
Page 419
Disparity in size of young salmon, 106.
Distinct races of herrings, 230.
Dish of crablets, 344.
Distribution of cured eels, 462.
Distribution of fish, 37.
Diving for pearls in Scotland, 407.
Division of labour in Fittie, 450.
Do fish live a separate life?, 9.
Does an oyster yield its young in millions?, 339.
Dogfish, diminution of, in 1862, 274.
Dogger Bank fishery, 303.
Doon pearl-fishery, 408.
Doon pearls inferior, 409.
Do the herring live singly up till the period of spawning?, 238.
Double migration of the salmon, 193.
Doubts as to former abundance of fish, 479.
Dr. Dod on the herring and sprat, 239.
Drawbacks to oyster-farming in France, 354.
Drawing of a two-year-old smolt, 189.
Drawings of the pearl-mussel, 399.
Dredging for oysters at Cockenzie, 377.
Dredging for pearls, 407.
Dress of a Newhaven fishwife described, 429.
Drift versus trawl nets, 250.
Dunbar herring-fleet, 443.
Duke of Athole’s marked fish, 190.
Distinct races of herrings, 230.
Dish of crablets, 344.
Distribution of cured eels, 462.
Distribution of fish, 37.
Diving for pearls in Scotland, 407.
Division of labour in Fittie, 450.
Do fish live a separate life?, 9.
Does an oyster yield its young in millions?, 339.
Dogfish, diminution of, in 1862, 274.
Dogger Bank fishery, 303.
Doon pearl-fishery, 408.
Doon pearls inferior, 409.
Do the herring live singly up till the period of spawning?, 238.
Double migration of the salmon, 193.
Doubts as to former abundance of fish, 479.
Dr. Dod on the herring and sprat, 239.
Drawbacks to oyster-farming in France, 354.
Drawing of a two-year-old smolt, 189.
Drawings of the pearl-mussel, 399.
Dredging for oysters at Cockenzie, 377.
Dredging for pearls, 407.
Dress of a Newhaven fishwife described, 429.
Drift versus trawl nets, 250.
Dunbar herring-fleet, 443.
Duke of Athole’s marked fish, 190.
Page 420
Dutch fishing industry, 41.
Duties of fishermen, 490.
Duty charged on French fish, 61.
Duty of the coopers at the herring curing, 262.
Early fish commerce, 35.
Earnings of trawlers, 319.
Economy of the herring shoals, 277.
Edible Crustacea described, 391.
Edible molluscs, 384.
Edinburgh oyster-ploys, 345.
Edinburgh oyster-taverns, 345.
Eel-breeders, the, of Comacchio, 45.
Eel-cooking at Comacchio, 460.
Eel-curing at Comacchio, 461.
Eel-fair, 19.
Eel, the, 17.
Effects of the concentration of a thousand boats on one shoal of
herrings, 283.
Effects of a storm on the Moray Firth, 472, 473.
Effects of royal notice on the fishwives, 429.
Effects of the discovery of Mr. Dempster, 205.
Egg-boxes at Huningue, 83.
Egg-boxes at Stormontfield, 104.
Egg-laying by the hen lobster, 392.
Eggs of the salmon kind just hatching, 13.
Emotions of the first oyster-eater, 343.
Duties of fishermen, 490.
Duty charged on French fish, 61.
Duty of the coopers at the herring curing, 262.
Early fish commerce, 35.
Earnings of trawlers, 319.
Economy of the herring shoals, 277.
Edible Crustacea described, 391.
Edible molluscs, 384.
Edinburgh oyster-ploys, 345.
Edinburgh oyster-taverns, 345.
Eel-breeders, the, of Comacchio, 45.
Eel-cooking at Comacchio, 460.
Eel-curing at Comacchio, 461.
Eel-fair, 19.
Eel, the, 17.
Effects of the concentration of a thousand boats on one shoal of
herrings, 283.
Effects of a storm on the Moray Firth, 472, 473.
Effects of royal notice on the fishwives, 429.
Effects of the discovery of Mr. Dempster, 205.
Egg-boxes at Huningue, 83.
Egg-boxes at Stormontfield, 104.
Egg-laying by the hen lobster, 392.
Eggs of the salmon kind just hatching, 13.
Emotions of the first oyster-eater, 343.
Page 421
Enemies of the salmon, 199.
Engaging of boats for the herring-fishery, 255.
English lakes, the, 153.
English river scenery, 148.
English salmon-fisheries, 217.
English trawl fishermen, 308.
Enterprise of the Scottish herring-curers, 259.
Enthusiasm of those concerned in the herring-harvest, 246.
Episode of a cradle, 468.
Erroneous information as to pearls, 409.
Estimated quantity of oysters in various stages of growth, 368.
Evidence on the trawl question, 312.
Exaggeration as to supplies of fish, 481.
Example of a well-managed salmon stream, 215.
Examples of nicknames among fishermen, 467.
Excess of herrings cured in 1862, 273.
Excitement on shore during a storm, 326.
Excitement on the coast during the herring season, 247.
Expense of forming an oyster-bank, 352.
Expenses of fishing-vessels, 310.
Experience as to the Tweed fisheries, 224.
Experiment in fructifying fish-eggs, 8.
Experiments in oyster-breeding in the Bay of St. Brieuc, 351.
Experiments in pearl-fishing in the Scottish lochs, 406.
Experiments with salmon ova in ice, 119.
Exportation of salmon ova, 119.
Engaging of boats for the herring-fishery, 255.
English lakes, the, 153.
English river scenery, 148.
English salmon-fisheries, 217.
English trawl fishermen, 308.
Enterprise of the Scottish herring-curers, 259.
Enthusiasm of those concerned in the herring-harvest, 246.
Episode of a cradle, 468.
Erroneous information as to pearls, 409.
Estimated quantity of oysters in various stages of growth, 368.
Evidence on the trawl question, 312.
Exaggeration as to supplies of fish, 481.
Example of a well-managed salmon stream, 215.
Examples of nicknames among fishermen, 467.
Excess of herrings cured in 1862, 273.
Excitement on shore during a storm, 326.
Excitement on the coast during the herring season, 247.
Expense of forming an oyster-bank, 352.
Expenses of fishing-vessels, 310.
Experience as to the Tweed fisheries, 224.
Experiment in fructifying fish-eggs, 8.
Experiments in oyster-breeding in the Bay of St. Brieuc, 351.
Experiments in pearl-fishing in the Scottish lochs, 406.
Experiments with salmon ova in ice, 119.
Exportation of salmon ova, 119.
Page 422
Exquisite flavour of the green oyster, 362.
Extension of legislation on the salmon question, 204.
Extension of pisciculture, 117.
Extension of the Scotch pearl-fishery, 402.
Extension of the salmon trade, 205.
Extent of business done in oysters at Whitstable, 366.
Extent of French fisheries, 91.
Extent of oyster-beds in the Firth of Forth, 375.
Extent of the Gadidæ family, 287.
Extent of the mussel-farm in the Bay of Aiguillon, 412.
Extent of the river Tay, 209.
Extent of trawling, 311.
Extraordinary scene on the river Doon, 404.
Exuviation of the lobster, 391.
Eyemouth, 438.
Fable, Italian, 452.
Facts of the herring question, brought out before the British
Association, 232.
Failure of the Ceylon pearl-fisheries, 400.
Faithfulness of salmon to their old haunts, 193.
Falling-off in the herring supply attributed to the trawl, 314.
Falling-off of certain rivers, 205.
Falling-off of oyster supplies in France, 347.
Fancy picture of the growth of a fishing hamlet, 419.
Fascines for oyster-breeding, 351.
Farms for oysters in Kent and Sussex, 366.
Extension of legislation on the salmon question, 204.
Extension of pisciculture, 117.
Extension of the Scotch pearl-fishery, 402.
Extension of the salmon trade, 205.
Extent of business done in oysters at Whitstable, 366.
Extent of French fisheries, 91.
Extent of oyster-beds in the Firth of Forth, 375.
Extent of the Gadidæ family, 287.
Extent of the mussel-farm in the Bay of Aiguillon, 412.
Extent of the river Tay, 209.
Extent of trawling, 311.
Extraordinary scene on the river Doon, 404.
Exuviation of the lobster, 391.
Eyemouth, 438.
Fable, Italian, 452.
Facts of the herring question, brought out before the British
Association, 232.
Failure of the Ceylon pearl-fisheries, 400.
Faithfulness of salmon to their old haunts, 193.
Falling-off in the herring supply attributed to the trawl, 314.
Falling-off of certain rivers, 205.
Falling-off of oyster supplies in France, 347.
Fancy picture of the growth of a fishing hamlet, 419.
Fascines for oyster-breeding, 351.
Farms for oysters in Kent and Sussex, 366.
Page 423
Faroe cod-banks, exhaustion of, 303.
Faversham oyster-grounds, 367.
Fearful scene, 329.
Feats performed by Fisherrow women, 435.
Fecundity of crabs, 383.
Fecundity of fish, 5.
Fecundity of lobsters, 383.
Fecundity of shell-fish, 383.
Feeding and digestive power of fish, 4.
Feeding-ground, influence of the, on fish, 29.
Fife, the coast of, 438.
Figures appertaining to herring-fishery of 1862-63, 273.
Figures illustrating the August herring-fishery at Wick, 280.
Figures of the Dutch fishery, 44.
Figures of the Wick catch of herrings, 279.
Findon, 448.
Fine flavour of the green oyster, 362.
Finesse by a fishwife, 427.
Finnan haddocks, 290, 448.
Firth-built fishing-boats, 440.
Firth of Forth whitebait, 24.
Fish auctioneers, 437.
Fish cadgers and hawkers, 442.
Fish-breeding in Norway, 75.
Fish-capture by line, 305.
Fish-commerce, 34.
Faversham oyster-grounds, 367.
Fearful scene, 329.
Feats performed by Fisherrow women, 435.
Fecundity of crabs, 383.
Fecundity of fish, 5.
Fecundity of lobsters, 383.
Fecundity of shell-fish, 383.
Feeding and digestive power of fish, 4.
Feeding-ground, influence of the, on fish, 29.
Fife, the coast of, 438.
Figures appertaining to herring-fishery of 1862-63, 273.
Figures illustrating the August herring-fishery at Wick, 280.
Figures of the Dutch fishery, 44.
Figures of the Wick catch of herrings, 279.
Findon, 448.
Fine flavour of the green oyster, 362.
Finesse by a fishwife, 427.
Finnan haddocks, 290, 448.
Firth-built fishing-boats, 440.
Firth of Forth whitebait, 24.
Fish auctioneers, 437.
Fish cadgers and hawkers, 442.
Fish-breeding in Norway, 75.
Fish-capture by line, 305.
Fish-commerce, 34.
Page 424
Fish-commerce in France, 60.
Fish-communities, 295.
Fish-culture, 69.
Fish-culture in Italy, 71.
Fish-dinners, 23.
Fisher-folk’s philosophy of marriage, 431.
Fisher-folk, the, 418.
Fisheries of Holland, 44.
Fishermen’s antipathy to swine, 434.
Fishermen, differences of opinion among, 30.
Fishermen of Eyemouth, condition of the, 438.
Fishermen’s belief in luck, 257.
Fishermen’s children, 445.
Fishermen should grow their own bait, 147.
Fishermen’s nicknames, 466.
Fishermen’s wives, 323.
Fisher-names, 467.
Fisher-people’s notions of religious duty, 437.
Fisher-people the same everywhere, 418.
Fisherrow, 435.
Fisher weddings, 420.
Fishery statistics by a Buckhaven man, 442.
Fishes of the salmon family, 198.
Fish-guano, observations on, 491.
Fishing boats, best kind of, 272.
Fish insensible to pain, 3.
Fish-communities, 295.
Fish-culture, 69.
Fish-culture in Italy, 71.
Fish-dinners, 23.
Fisher-folk’s philosophy of marriage, 431.
Fisher-folk, the, 418.
Fisheries of Holland, 44.
Fishermen’s antipathy to swine, 434.
Fishermen, differences of opinion among, 30.
Fishermen of Eyemouth, condition of the, 438.
Fishermen’s belief in luck, 257.
Fishermen’s children, 445.
Fishermen should grow their own bait, 147.
Fishermen’s nicknames, 466.
Fishermen’s wives, 323.
Fisher-names, 467.
Fisher-people’s notions of religious duty, 437.
Fisher-people the same everywhere, 418.
Fisherrow, 435.
Fisher weddings, 420.
Fishery statistics by a Buckhaven man, 442.
Fishes of the salmon family, 198.
Fish-guano, observations on, 491.
Fishing boats, best kind of, 272.
Fish insensible to pain, 3.
Page 425
Fish labyrinth at Comacchio, 46.
Fish life and growth, 1.
Fishmarket at Bale, 81.
Fish-offal as manure, 331.
Fish-poachers, 135.
Fish-ponds, 38.
Fish quite local, 482.
Fish-shoal, growth of, 32.
Fish-table, 300.
Fish-tithe riots at Eyemouth, 438.
Fishwives at church, 428.
Fishwives’ finesse in bargaining, 427.
Fishwives of Newhaven, 424.
Fishwives of Paris, 456.
Fittie, 449.
Fixed engines of capture, 205, 206.
Flat fish, 156.
Flat fish consumed in London, 298.
Flat fish family, the, 297.
Flavour of different herrings, 230.
Flavour of fish, 28.
Floating with the tide, 266.
Fluctuation in the take of herrings at Wick, 232.
Fondness for dancing of the fisher-people, 421.
Fondness of gannets for herring, 283.
Food of the herring, 243.
Fish life and growth, 1.
Fishmarket at Bale, 81.
Fish-offal as manure, 331.
Fish-poachers, 135.
Fish-ponds, 38.
Fish quite local, 482.
Fish-shoal, growth of, 32.
Fish-table, 300.
Fish-tithe riots at Eyemouth, 438.
Fishwives at church, 428.
Fishwives’ finesse in bargaining, 427.
Fishwives of Newhaven, 424.
Fishwives of Paris, 456.
Fittie, 449.
Fixed engines of capture, 205, 206.
Flat fish, 156.
Flat fish consumed in London, 298.
Flat fish family, the, 297.
Flavour of different herrings, 230.
Flavour of fish, 28.
Floating with the tide, 266.
Fluctuation in the take of herrings at Wick, 232.
Fondness for dancing of the fisher-people, 421.
Fondness of gannets for herring, 283.
Food of the herring, 243.
Page 426
Food of the mussel, 414.
Food of the oyster, 361.
Food of the salmon, 192.
Footdee or Fittie, 449.
Forbes Stuart and Co.‘s tables of the London salmon supply, 221.
Foresight of the oyster, 342.
Former abundance of fish doubted, 479.
Former scarcity of the haddock, 288.
Forming an oyster-farm, 355.
Foul salmon at Billingsgate, 204.
Four years’ work at oyster-farming, 356.
France, fishing industry in, 58.
Francis Sinclair, a herring-fisherman of Wick, 265.
Free Dredgers’ Company at Whitstable, 366.
Free fisheries a mistake, 489.
Free oyster-grounds, 368.
French boats interfering with the fishery, 318.
French fishwoman, 454.
French foreshores, industry on, 57.
French legend, 455.
French North Sea fisheries, 59.
French oyster-eaters, 344.
Frequent examination of oysters at Whitstable, 369.
Fresh herrings, 258.
Fresh-water fish, commerce in, 35.
Fresh-water fish not of much food value, 129.
Food of the oyster, 361.
Food of the salmon, 192.
Footdee or Fittie, 449.
Forbes Stuart and Co.‘s tables of the London salmon supply, 221.
Foresight of the oyster, 342.
Former abundance of fish doubted, 479.
Former scarcity of the haddock, 288.
Forming an oyster-farm, 355.
Foul salmon at Billingsgate, 204.
Four years’ work at oyster-farming, 356.
France, fishing industry in, 58.
Francis Sinclair, a herring-fisherman of Wick, 265.
Free Dredgers’ Company at Whitstable, 366.
Free fisheries a mistake, 489.
Free oyster-grounds, 368.
French boats interfering with the fishery, 318.
French fishwoman, 454.
French foreshores, industry on, 57.
French legend, 455.
French North Sea fisheries, 59.
French oyster-eaters, 344.
Frequent examination of oysters at Whitstable, 369.
Fresh herrings, 258.
Fresh-water fish, commerce in, 35.
Fresh-water fish not of much food value, 129.
Page 427
Friday an unlucky day, 433.
From the parr to the smolt, 187.
Full versus shotten herrings, 241.
Functions of the Board of Fisheries, 486.
Fusaro, Lake, 348.
Future of the fisheries, 481.
Galbert’s trout establishment, 92.
Gadidæ, 285.
Gadidæ family, the, 289.
Galway fisheries, 117.
Gathering-in of the boats to the herring-fishery, 246.
Gathering the mussel-harvest in Aiguillon, 413.
General machinery of fish-capture, 304.
Geographical distribution of the herring, 234.
Geographical distribution of the oyster, 379.
Geologists’ paradise, 164.
George the Fourth’s fondness for Finnan haddocks, 448.
German pisciculture, 98.
Gipsy anglers, 135.
Glen Sannox, 175.
Glut of herrings at Billingsgate, 258.
Goatfell, 165.
Golden carp, 140, 145.
Gold-fish in factory ponds, 145.
Government by gyneocracy, 426.
Gravid salmon, treatment of, 114.
From the parr to the smolt, 187.
Full versus shotten herrings, 241.
Functions of the Board of Fisheries, 486.
Fusaro, Lake, 348.
Future of the fisheries, 481.
Galbert’s trout establishment, 92.
Gadidæ, 285.
Gadidæ family, the, 289.
Galway fisheries, 117.
Gathering-in of the boats to the herring-fishery, 246.
Gathering the mussel-harvest in Aiguillon, 413.
General machinery of fish-capture, 304.
Geographical distribution of the herring, 234.
Geographical distribution of the oyster, 379.
Geologists’ paradise, 164.
George the Fourth’s fondness for Finnan haddocks, 448.
German pisciculture, 98.
Gipsy anglers, 135.
Glen Sannox, 175.
Glut of herrings at Billingsgate, 258.
Goatfell, 165.
Golden carp, 140, 145.
Gold-fish in factory ponds, 145.
Government by gyneocracy, 426.
Gravid salmon, treatment of, 114.
Page 428
Great haul of salmon on the Thurso, 205.
Great storm on the Moray Firth, the, of 1857, 327.
Greed of Scottish dredgermen, 375.
Green oysters, 359.
Grieve, Mr., of the Café Royal, Edinburgh, 288.
Grilse growth, 191.
Grilse and smolt, 187.
Ground-plan of fish laboratory at Huningue, 82.
Ground suitable for breeding and fattening oysters, 361.
Group of Newhaven fishwives, 424.
Growth of a fishing village, 419.
Growth of a fish-shoal, 32.
Growth of fish, 1.
Growth of salmon ova, 12.
Growth of the mussel in the Bay of Aiguillon, 415.
Growth of the oyster-park system, 353.
Growth of the young salmon in Australia, 123.
Guano, fish, observations on, 491.
Gulf of Manaar pearl-fisheries, 400.
Gulf of St. Lawrence, 310.
Gunther’s opinion of the Silurus glanis, 126.
Gutters for hatching purposes at Huningue, 86.
Gutters of herring, 269.
Habits and character of the Fittie people, 451.
Habits of fish, 316.
Habits of the haddock, 289.
Great storm on the Moray Firth, the, of 1857, 327.
Greed of Scottish dredgermen, 375.
Green oysters, 359.
Grieve, Mr., of the Café Royal, Edinburgh, 288.
Grilse growth, 191.
Grilse and smolt, 187.
Ground-plan of fish laboratory at Huningue, 82.
Ground suitable for breeding and fattening oysters, 361.
Group of Newhaven fishwives, 424.
Growth of a fishing village, 419.
Growth of a fish-shoal, 32.
Growth of fish, 1.
Growth of salmon ova, 12.
Growth of the mussel in the Bay of Aiguillon, 415.
Growth of the oyster-park system, 353.
Growth of the young salmon in Australia, 123.
Guano, fish, observations on, 491.
Gulf of Manaar pearl-fisheries, 400.
Gulf of St. Lawrence, 310.
Gunther’s opinion of the Silurus glanis, 126.
Gutters for hatching purposes at Huningue, 86.
Gutters of herring, 269.
Habits and character of the Fittie people, 451.
Habits of fish, 316.
Habits of the haddock, 289.
Page 429
Habits of the pearl-oyster, 401.
Haddock, the, 287.
Haddocks, former scarcity of, 288.
Haddocks, where are they?, 30.
Half-decked boats, 307.
Happy fishing-grounds, 367.
Harbours, 302.
Harbour accommodation, want of, in Scotland, 272, 321.
Harvest of eels at Comacchio, 459.
Hashing of young fish not peculiar to the trawl, 320.
Has the oyster eyes?, 335.
Hatching of salmon, 11.
Hauling in the nets, 266.
Hawkers of fish, 442.
Hearing power of fish, 4.
Herring-buss, cost of, 51.
Herring-commerce, 254.
Herring-curing, 260.
Herring-fishing at Wick in August, 280.
Herring fishing at Wick in September, 281.
Herring, growth of the, 237.
Herring harvest, the, 263.
Herrings, calculations as to size of a shoal of, 6.
Herring spawn, 14.
Herring spawn offered for manure, 313.
Herring, the, described, 226.
Haddock, the, 287.
Haddocks, former scarcity of, 288.
Haddocks, where are they?, 30.
Half-decked boats, 307.
Happy fishing-grounds, 367.
Harbours, 302.
Harbour accommodation, want of, in Scotland, 272, 321.
Harvest of eels at Comacchio, 459.
Hashing of young fish not peculiar to the trawl, 320.
Has the oyster eyes?, 335.
Hatching of salmon, 11.
Hauling in the nets, 266.
Hawkers of fish, 442.
Hearing power of fish, 4.
Herring-buss, cost of, 51.
Herring-commerce, 254.
Herring-curing, 260.
Herring-fishing at Wick in August, 280.
Herring fishing at Wick in September, 281.
Herring, growth of the, 237.
Herring harvest, the, 263.
Herrings, calculations as to size of a shoal of, 6.
Herring spawn, 14.
Herring spawn offered for manure, 313.
Herring, the, described, 226.
Page 430
Herring, the, its natural and economic history, 226.
Herring, the, shoals at Wick, 278.
Hints to the oyster-farmers, 364.
History of the herring-fishery, 49.
Hired hands at the herring-fishery, 248.
Hole Haven in Essex, lobster-stores at, 389.
Holibut, 295.
Homeward bound, 267.
Hooks, number of, on a fishing-line, 305.
How a fish breathes, 1.
How cod are cured, 293.
How does an oyster lie on its bed?, 335.
How long do herrings take to grow?, 236.
How the herrings are manipulated on arrival, 269.
How the herring-nets are worked, 249.
How the salmon-poachers proceed to work, 203.
How to buy and sell fish, 427.
How to catch cray-fish, 397.
How to angle in the sea, 159.
How to find out a false pearl, 410.
How to mark smolts, 196.
How to test a pearl, 410.
How to open the pearl-mussel, 408.
Hull trawlers, 309.
Huningue described, 82-85.
Huningue, difficulty of finding it, 80.
Herring, the, shoals at Wick, 278.
Hints to the oyster-farmers, 364.
History of the herring-fishery, 49.
Hired hands at the herring-fishery, 248.
Hole Haven in Essex, lobster-stores at, 389.
Holibut, 295.
Homeward bound, 267.
Hooks, number of, on a fishing-line, 305.
How a fish breathes, 1.
How cod are cured, 293.
How does an oyster lie on its bed?, 335.
How long do herrings take to grow?, 236.
How the herrings are manipulated on arrival, 269.
How the herring-nets are worked, 249.
How the salmon-poachers proceed to work, 203.
How to buy and sell fish, 427.
How to catch cray-fish, 397.
How to angle in the sea, 159.
How to find out a false pearl, 410.
How to mark smolts, 196.
How to test a pearl, 410.
How to open the pearl-mussel, 408.
Hull trawlers, 309.
Huningue described, 82-85.
Huningue, difficulty of finding it, 80.
Page 431
Ignorance of naturalists and fishermen, 287.
Ile de Re, 352.
Illustrations of oyster-growth, 338, 339.
Imitation by fishermen of marked salmon, 197.
Importance of cheap bait, 410.
Impossibility of catching spawn in the trawl-net, 317.
Impregnation of fish-eggs, 7.
Improvement in the manufacture of herring-nets, 278.
Improvement of Scottish fishing-boats, 307.
Improvement of the salmon-fisheries, 224.
Increase in the quantity of netting used at the herring-fishery, 277, 278.
Increase of boats and fishermen, 313.
Increase of the enemies of the herring, 242.
Increase of the herring, 7.
Incubation-hall at Huningue, 84.
Incubation of oyster-ova, 337.
Industry of the women at Auchmithie, 447.
Industry at Fisherrow, 436.
Industry of Buckhaven men, 439.
Industry of fishwives, 425.
Inferiority of Doon pearls, 409.
Information about the fisher-folk, 422.
Information as to the colour and structure of pearls, 409.
Information for pearl-seekers, 408.
Information for the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, 376.
Instinct of the salmon for change, 188.
Ile de Re, 352.
Illustrations of oyster-growth, 338, 339.
Imitation by fishermen of marked salmon, 197.
Importance of cheap bait, 410.
Impossibility of catching spawn in the trawl-net, 317.
Impregnation of fish-eggs, 7.
Improvement in the manufacture of herring-nets, 278.
Improvement of Scottish fishing-boats, 307.
Improvement of the salmon-fisheries, 224.
Increase in the quantity of netting used at the herring-fishery, 277, 278.
Increase of boats and fishermen, 313.
Increase of the enemies of the herring, 242.
Increase of the herring, 7.
Incubation-hall at Huningue, 84.
Incubation of oyster-ova, 337.
Industry of the women at Auchmithie, 447.
Industry at Fisherrow, 436.
Industry of Buckhaven men, 439.
Industry of fishwives, 425.
Inferiority of Doon pearls, 409.
Information about the fisher-folk, 422.
Information as to the colour and structure of pearls, 409.
Information for pearl-seekers, 408.
Information for the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, 376.
Instinct of the salmon for change, 188.
Page 432
Interior of a fisherman’s house, 430.
Introduction into British waters of strange fishes, 482.
Invention of mussel-culture, 410.
Inventor of the first oyster-pond, 343.
Investigation by the Town Council of Edinburgh into the state of their
oyster-beds, 376.
Irish and Welsh pearls, 407.
Irish fish-carriage, 63.
Irish haddocks, 289.
Irish lobsters, 388.
Irish oyster blue-book, 371.
Irish white-fish fisheries, 304.
Italian fable, 452.
Italian pisciculture, 71.
Italian oyster-eaters, 344.
Jack in his element, drawing of, 141.
Jacobi’s experiments in artificial fish-breeding, 74.
Johnstone on the salmon-fisheries, 216.
Joint-stock fishing system, 441.
Joint-stock oyster company at Whitstable, 366.
Juries for regulating the oyster-fisheries, 371.
Justice to upper proprietors of salmon-fisheries, 487.
Juvenile fisher-folk, 430.
Keeping adult salmon till ripe for spawning, 107.
Kelaart’s account of the pearl, 401.
Kemmerer’s, Dr., tiles for oyster-culture, 361.
Introduction into British waters of strange fishes, 482.
Invention of mussel-culture, 410.
Inventor of the first oyster-pond, 343.
Investigation by the Town Council of Edinburgh into the state of their
oyster-beds, 376.
Irish and Welsh pearls, 407.
Irish fish-carriage, 63.
Irish haddocks, 289.
Irish lobsters, 388.
Irish oyster blue-book, 371.
Irish white-fish fisheries, 304.
Italian fable, 452.
Italian pisciculture, 71.
Italian oyster-eaters, 344.
Jack in his element, drawing of, 141.
Jacobi’s experiments in artificial fish-breeding, 74.
Johnstone on the salmon-fisheries, 216.
Joint-stock fishing system, 441.
Joint-stock oyster company at Whitstable, 366.
Juries for regulating the oyster-fisheries, 371.
Justice to upper proprietors of salmon-fisheries, 487.
Juvenile fisher-folk, 430.
Keeping adult salmon till ripe for spawning, 107.
Kelaart’s account of the pearl, 401.
Kemmerer’s, Dr., tiles for oyster-culture, 361.
Page 433
Killing of grilse hurtful to the fisheries, 207.
Kinsale oysters, 374.
Kitchen at Comacchio, 460.
Knox, Dr., opinion of the parr, 182.
Labours of Gehin and Remy in pisciculture, 76.
Lake Fusaro, 348.
Land-crabs, 393.
Land of a thousand lochs, 136.
Latest achievement in pisciculture, 126.
Laws devised for self-government at Ile de Re, 357.
Legal mode of capturing the herring, 248.
Legend of the first oyster-eater, 342.
Legend of the island of Sein, 455.
Leistering salmon, 204.
Length of white-fish fishing-lines, 305.
Lent, fish required during, 277.
Line-fishing, 306.
List of authorities, 499.
List of rivers in which the best pearls have been found, 406.
Living codfish, traffic in, 302.
Living crustacea, 387.
Lobster-bait, 162.
Lobsters “in berry,” 393.
Lobster-commerce, 337.
Lobster-farming, 385.
Lobsters good for food all the year round, 398.
Kinsale oysters, 374.
Kitchen at Comacchio, 460.
Knox, Dr., opinion of the parr, 182.
Labours of Gehin and Remy in pisciculture, 76.
Lake Fusaro, 348.
Land-crabs, 393.
Land of a thousand lochs, 136.
Latest achievement in pisciculture, 126.
Laws devised for self-government at Ile de Re, 357.
Legal mode of capturing the herring, 248.
Legend of the first oyster-eater, 342.
Legend of the island of Sein, 455.
Leistering salmon, 204.
Length of white-fish fishing-lines, 305.
Lent, fish required during, 277.
Line-fishing, 306.
List of authorities, 499.
List of rivers in which the best pearls have been found, 406.
Living codfish, traffic in, 302.
Living crustacea, 387.
Lobster-bait, 162.
Lobsters “in berry,” 393.
Lobster-commerce, 337.
Lobster-farming, 385.
Lobsters good for food all the year round, 398.
Page 434
Localities for sea-angling, 162.
Loch Awe trout, 138.
Lochfyne herring, 28.
Lochfyne, view of, 249.
Lochleven pike, 140.
Lochleven trout, 28, 139.
Lochmaben, 27.
Logan fish-pond, 39.
London demand for shell-fish, 385.
London fish-supply, inquiries into the, 285.
London oyster-saloons, 373.
Lord Advocate’s salmon bill of 1862, 205.
Loss of the “Shamrock,” 322.
Lottery nature of the herring-fishery, 267.
Love of oysters by the ancient Romans, 380.
Lowe’s, Mr. James, opinion about the position of the oyster, 335.
Low state of the English salmon-fisheries, 217.
Luck a creed of the fishermen, 257.
Lucullus, 344.
Machinery of fish-capture, 305.
Machinery of herring-capture, 248.
Mackerel-fishery, 299.
Mackerel-growth, 21.
Mackerel, the, 299.
Madame Picard, the French fishwife, 456.
Manufactured Finnans, 290, 449.
Loch Awe trout, 138.
Lochfyne herring, 28.
Lochfyne, view of, 249.
Lochleven pike, 140.
Lochleven trout, 28, 139.
Lochmaben, 27.
Logan fish-pond, 39.
London demand for shell-fish, 385.
London fish-supply, inquiries into the, 285.
London oyster-saloons, 373.
Lord Advocate’s salmon bill of 1862, 205.
Loss of the “Shamrock,” 322.
Lottery nature of the herring-fishery, 267.
Love of oysters by the ancient Romans, 380.
Lowe’s, Mr. James, opinion about the position of the oyster, 335.
Low state of the English salmon-fisheries, 217.
Luck a creed of the fishermen, 257.
Lucullus, 344.
Machinery of fish-capture, 305.
Machinery of herring-capture, 248.
Mackerel-fishery, 299.
Mackerel-growth, 21.
Mackerel, the, 299.
Madame Picard, the French fishwife, 456.
Manufactured Finnans, 290, 449.
Page 435
Manufacture of sardines, 253.
March of the land-crabs, 393.
Marennes, 359.
Marine Department of France, 56.
Marked fish of the salmon kind, 197.
Marriage dinners among the fisher-class, 421.
Marriage scenes at Newhaven, 420.
Marrying and giving in marriage among the fisher-folks, 420.
Marshall, Peter, of Stormontfield, on the salmon, 195.
Martin and Gillone’s breeding establishment, 112, 113.
Mascalogne, the, or pike of America, 143.
Masculine character of the fishwife, 323.
Mathers the fisher-poet, 471.
Mayhew’s figures, 67.
Measurement of nets, 248.
Members of the herring family, 245.
Memoir on fish by a Chinaman, 70.
Methuen on the white-fisheries, 288, 480.
Methuen, the late Mr., brief sketch of his career, 259.
Microscopic observation of oyster-spat, 339.
Migration of the eel, 19.
Migration of the herring a mistake, 228.
Milton oysters, 372.
Mitchell on the distribution of the herring, 234.
Mitchell on the herring, 231.
Mode of capturing turbot, 296.
March of the land-crabs, 393.
Marennes, 359.
Marine Department of France, 56.
Marked fish of the salmon kind, 197.
Marriage dinners among the fisher-class, 421.
Marriage scenes at Newhaven, 420.
Marrying and giving in marriage among the fisher-folks, 420.
Marshall, Peter, of Stormontfield, on the salmon, 195.
Martin and Gillone’s breeding establishment, 112, 113.
Mascalogne, the, or pike of America, 143.
Masculine character of the fishwife, 323.
Mathers the fisher-poet, 471.
Mayhew’s figures, 67.
Measurement of nets, 248.
Members of the herring family, 245.
Memoir on fish by a Chinaman, 70.
Methuen on the white-fisheries, 288, 480.
Methuen, the late Mr., brief sketch of his career, 259.
Microscopic observation of oyster-spat, 339.
Migration of the eel, 19.
Migration of the herring a mistake, 228.
Milton oysters, 372.
Mitchell on the distribution of the herring, 234.
Mitchell on the herring, 231.
Mode of capturing turbot, 296.
Page 436
Modes of cooking oysters in New York, 381.
Mode of curing Yarmouth bloaters, etc., 271.
Mode of doing business of the Fisherrow women, 436.
Mode of dredging for oysters, 378.
Mode of fishing by line, 305.
Mode of growing the mussels in the Bay of Aiguillon, 415.
Mode of life at Comacchio, 458.
Mode of packing ova in ice, 119.
Mode of salmon-fishing on the Tay, 213.
Mode of selling fish by Newhaven women, 425.
Mode of spawning by the land-crabs, 394.
Mode of taking pilchards in Cornwall, 251.
Modes of sea-fishing in France, 57.
Money paid by curers of herring in bounty and arles, 256.
Money value of fresh-water fish in France, 92.
Money value of the Colne oysters, 370.
Monkbarns and Maggie Mucklebackit, 428.
Monkeys catching crabs, 386.
Monotonous life of the eel-breeders of Comacchio, 459.
Moral success of oyster-farming, 357.
Moray Firth ports, 302.
More boats and less fish on the Dogger Bank, 313.
More ways of killing salmon than angling, 203.
Mortality of herring, 15.
Movements of the herring at spawning time, 238.
Mr. Ramsbottom’s salmon manipulations, 102.
Mode of curing Yarmouth bloaters, etc., 271.
Mode of doing business of the Fisherrow women, 436.
Mode of dredging for oysters, 378.
Mode of fishing by line, 305.
Mode of growing the mussels in the Bay of Aiguillon, 415.
Mode of life at Comacchio, 458.
Mode of packing ova in ice, 119.
Mode of salmon-fishing on the Tay, 213.
Mode of selling fish by Newhaven women, 425.
Mode of spawning by the land-crabs, 394.
Mode of taking pilchards in Cornwall, 251.
Modes of sea-fishing in France, 57.
Money paid by curers of herring in bounty and arles, 256.
Money value of fresh-water fish in France, 92.
Money value of the Colne oysters, 370.
Monkbarns and Maggie Mucklebackit, 428.
Monkeys catching crabs, 386.
Monotonous life of the eel-breeders of Comacchio, 459.
Moral success of oyster-farming, 357.
Moray Firth ports, 302.
More boats and less fish on the Dogger Bank, 313.
More ways of killing salmon than angling, 203.
Mortality of herring, 15.
Movements of the herring at spawning time, 238.
Mr. Ramsbottom’s salmon manipulations, 102.
Page 437
Multiplying power of the herring, 33.
Mussel-culture, 410.
Mussel-stakes, 411.
Mysterious fish, 26.
Narrow escape from extermination of the salmon, 475.
Natives, 368.
Natural and economic history of the oyster, 332.
Natural and economic history of the salmon, 177.
Natural enemies of the herring, 282, 283.
Natural history of the codfish, 291.
Natural history of the crustacea, 391.
Natural history of the eel, 47.
Natural history of the pearl-oyster of Ceylon, 401.
Natural history of the pilchard, 251.
Natural history of the sole, 298.
Natural history of whitebait, 23.
Naturalisation of fish in British rivers, 125.
Naturalist’s Library account of the herring, 235.
Necessity for two ponds at Stormontfield, 105.
Necessity of describing the fisher-folk, 418.
Nets, quantity used by a boat, 248.
Newbiggin, evidence by a fisherman of that place, 317.
New branch of shell-fishing, 398.
Newfoundland cod-fishery, 53.
Newhaven, 423.
Newhaven fishwives, 424.
Mussel-culture, 410.
Mussel-stakes, 411.
Mysterious fish, 26.
Narrow escape from extermination of the salmon, 475.
Natives, 368.
Natural and economic history of the oyster, 332.
Natural and economic history of the salmon, 177.
Natural enemies of the herring, 282, 283.
Natural history of the codfish, 291.
Natural history of the crustacea, 391.
Natural history of the eel, 47.
Natural history of the pearl-oyster of Ceylon, 401.
Natural history of the pilchard, 251.
Natural history of the sole, 298.
Natural history of whitebait, 23.
Naturalisation of fish in British rivers, 125.
Naturalist’s Library account of the herring, 235.
Necessity for two ponds at Stormontfield, 105.
Necessity of describing the fisher-folk, 418.
Nets, quantity used by a boat, 248.
Newbiggin, evidence by a fisherman of that place, 317.
New branch of shell-fishing, 398.
Newfoundland cod-fishery, 53.
Newhaven, 423.
Newhaven fishwives, 424.
Page 438
Newhaven oyster-beds, 375.
New York, oyster-eating in, 381.
Nicknames of fishermen, 466.
Non-success of the winter herring-fishery in 1864, 275.
Northern Ensign, the, on the herring-fishery, 279.
North Sea white-fish fisheries, 304.
Norway lobsters, 389.
Note from the novel of the Antiquary, 426.
Nothing but herring, 268.
Notice of a hermit crab, 392.
Notice of Newhaven fishwives by the Queen, 429.
Notice of valuable pearls, 400.
Nova Scotia and Canadian fisheries, 54.
Number of barrels of herring caught at Wick, 278.
Number of buckies, 466.
Number of eggs in a herring, 5.
Number of men drowned on the north-east coast, 330.
Number of oyster-farms in France, 347.
Number of oysters on a fascine, 352.
Number of shells that contain pearls, 409.
Number of vessels fitted out for herring-fishery, 274.
Number of white-fish falling off, 317.
Nursing oyster-brood at Whitstable, 367.
Nursing the salmon, 15.
Objects of the English Fishery Act of 1861, 220.
Observations on fish-guano, 491.
New York, oyster-eating in, 381.
Nicknames of fishermen, 466.
Non-success of the winter herring-fishery in 1864, 275.
Northern Ensign, the, on the herring-fishery, 279.
North Sea white-fish fisheries, 304.
Norway lobsters, 389.
Note from the novel of the Antiquary, 426.
Nothing but herring, 268.
Notice of a hermit crab, 392.
Notice of Newhaven fishwives by the Queen, 429.
Notice of valuable pearls, 400.
Nova Scotia and Canadian fisheries, 54.
Number of barrels of herring caught at Wick, 278.
Number of buckies, 466.
Number of eggs in a herring, 5.
Number of men drowned on the north-east coast, 330.
Number of oyster-farms in France, 347.
Number of oysters on a fascine, 352.
Number of shells that contain pearls, 409.
Number of vessels fitted out for herring-fishery, 274.
Number of white-fish falling off, 317.
Nursing oyster-brood at Whitstable, 367.
Nursing the salmon, 15.
Objects of the English Fishery Act of 1861, 220.
Observations on fish-guano, 491.
Page 439
Obvious abuses in connection with the economy of the fisheries, 284.
Occurrence at St. Monance, 434.
Oddities of the pearl-fisheries, 405.
Officer’s, Dr., account of the ova received in Australia, 120.
Official documents on the fisheries referred to, 66.
Official instructions to the herring-curer, 262.
Off to the herring, 264.
Old believers in old fish theories, 227.
One million of oysters eaten daily in Paris, 345.
Open versus decked boats, 272.
Operations of the Fishery Board, 284.
Opinion of Mr. Anderson on the salmon question, 207.
Opinion of Mr. Ffennell on the English Fishery Act of 1861, 220.
Opinions of a Billingsgate salesman, 320.
Opinions, different, about shell-fish, 333.
Orata, Sergius, 72, 343.
Organisation for supplying London with oysters, 366.
Origin of Buckhaven, 439.
Origin of Finnan haddocks, 290.
Origin of fisher colonies, 423.
Ossian, 174.
Our chief food fishes, 285.
Our Lady’s Port of Grace, 423.
Our skipper at Wick, 264.
Ova of the salmon, how it develops, 12.
Overfishing of the herring, 227.
Occurrence at St. Monance, 434.
Oddities of the pearl-fisheries, 405.
Officer’s, Dr., account of the ova received in Australia, 120.
Official documents on the fisheries referred to, 66.
Official instructions to the herring-curer, 262.
Off to the herring, 264.
Old believers in old fish theories, 227.
One million of oysters eaten daily in Paris, 345.
Open versus decked boats, 272.
Operations of the Fishery Board, 284.
Opinion of Mr. Anderson on the salmon question, 207.
Opinion of Mr. Ffennell on the English Fishery Act of 1861, 220.
Opinions of a Billingsgate salesman, 320.
Opinions, different, about shell-fish, 333.
Orata, Sergius, 72, 343.
Organisation for supplying London with oysters, 366.
Origin of Buckhaven, 439.
Origin of Finnan haddocks, 290.
Origin of fisher colonies, 423.
Ossian, 174.
Our chief food fishes, 285.
Our Lady’s Port of Grace, 423.
Our skipper at Wick, 264.
Ova of the salmon, how it develops, 12.
Overfishing of the herring, 227.
Page 440
Overfishing of the herring as pointed out by Mr. Cleghorn, 233.
Overfishing of the oyster, 347.
Overshooting, 169.
Owners of salmon fisheries on the Tay, 213.
Oyster-beds of Colne and Whitstable, 346.
Oyster-beds of Georgia, 380.
Oyster-breeding fascines, 351.
Oyster close-time, 336.
Oyster-eaters, 343.
Oyster-growth, 338.
Oyster, natural and economic history of, 332.
Oyster-parks described by Mr. Ashworth, 354.
Oyster-pyramid, 350.
Oyster-saloons of New York, 381.
Oyster-seekers, 373.
Oyster Street at Billingsgate, 374.
Oyster tiles, 363.
Oyster-women of Paris, 456.
Oysters able to move about, 342.
Oysters at one time nearly forgotten, 343.
Oysters hermaphrodite, 340.
Oysters, how they are made green, 359, 360.
Oysters in France, increase in price of, 64.
Oysters on trees, 379.
Oyster-ploys, 345.
Oysters, when in season, 336.
Overfishing of the oyster, 347.
Overshooting, 169.
Owners of salmon fisheries on the Tay, 213.
Oyster-beds of Colne and Whitstable, 346.
Oyster-beds of Georgia, 380.
Oyster-breeding fascines, 351.
Oyster close-time, 336.
Oyster-eaters, 343.
Oyster-growth, 338.
Oyster, natural and economic history of, 332.
Oyster-parks described by Mr. Ashworth, 354.
Oyster-pyramid, 350.
Oyster-saloons of New York, 381.
Oyster-seekers, 373.
Oyster Street at Billingsgate, 374.
Oyster tiles, 363.
Oyster-women of Paris, 456.
Oysters able to move about, 342.
Oysters at one time nearly forgotten, 343.
Oysters hermaphrodite, 340.
Oysters, how they are made green, 359, 360.
Oysters in France, increase in price of, 64.
Oysters on trees, 379.
Oyster-ploys, 345.
Oysters, when in season, 336.
Page 441
Packing herrings, 41.
Packing of trawled white fish, 311.
Pandore oysters, 377.
Paper on the herring read at British Association meeting, 1854, 231.
Paper on the sea fisheries of Ireland, 286.
Parr at a year old, 182.
Parr-growth, 180, 181.
Parr in salt water, 194, 195.
Parr-icide, 200.
Paris, revenue derived from fish by, 64.
Paucity of oyster-spawn during late years, 340.
Payment of fishermen on the St. Lawrence, 310.
Pearl-fisheries of Scotland, 398.
Pearl-seekers at work, 404.
Pearl-seekers, information for, 408.
Peat-smoked haddocks, 448.
Pennant’s opinion as to the haddock, 289.
Pennant’s story of the herring a myth, 228.
Percentage of salmon eggs hatched in Australia, 124.
Percentage of mussels that contain pearls, 408.
Percentage of oysters that arrive at maturity, 341.
Percentage of salmon ova that come to life, 200.
Perch, the, 151, 152.
Perforated chests for keeping lobsters alive, 387.
Perth as a centre for the angler, 213.
Periwinkle, a peep at the, 384.
Packing of trawled white fish, 311.
Pandore oysters, 377.
Paper on the herring read at British Association meeting, 1854, 231.
Paper on the sea fisheries of Ireland, 286.
Parr at a year old, 182.
Parr-growth, 180, 181.
Parr in salt water, 194, 195.
Parr-icide, 200.
Paris, revenue derived from fish by, 64.
Paucity of oyster-spawn during late years, 340.
Payment of fishermen on the St. Lawrence, 310.
Pearl-fisheries of Scotland, 398.
Pearl-seekers at work, 404.
Pearl-seekers, information for, 408.
Peat-smoked haddocks, 448.
Pennant’s opinion as to the haddock, 289.
Pennant’s story of the herring a myth, 228.
Percentage of salmon eggs hatched in Australia, 124.
Percentage of mussels that contain pearls, 408.
Percentage of oysters that arrive at maturity, 341.
Percentage of salmon ova that come to life, 200.
Perch, the, 151, 152.
Perforated chests for keeping lobsters alive, 387.
Perth as a centre for the angler, 213.
Periwinkle, a peep at the, 384.
Page 442
Peter Marshall of Stormontfield as a pisciculturist, 111.
Petticoat government, 450.
Pickled herrings, discovery of, by the Flemings, 43.
Pictures of the Dutch fishery, 42.
Pig-feeding by means of parr, 200.
Pike, 140.
Pilchard, the, 251.
Pisciculture, 69.
Piscicultural establishment at Huningue, 76.
Pisciculture in China, 69.
Plan of a turtle-farm, 96.
Plan of cultivating oysters, 346.
Plan of fishing adopted at Yarmouth, 271.
Plan of smoking haddocks in Auchmithie, 446.
Plan of the salmon-ponds at Stormontfield, 100.
Planting and transplanting mussels, 414.
Playing a salmon, 131.
Plea for the total abolition of the brand, 263.
Plentifulness of salmon long ago, 476.
“Please to remember the grotto,” 332.
Plessix oyster-bed, 364.
Pleuronectidæ, 285, 295, 297.
Poaching as a trade, 202.
Points in the natural and economic history of the herring, 232, 233.
Ponds for fish, 38.
Pont oyster-grounds, 368.
Petticoat government, 450.
Pickled herrings, discovery of, by the Flemings, 43.
Pictures of the Dutch fishery, 42.
Pig-feeding by means of parr, 200.
Pike, 140.
Pilchard, the, 251.
Pisciculture, 69.
Piscicultural establishment at Huningue, 76.
Pisciculture in China, 69.
Plan of a turtle-farm, 96.
Plan of cultivating oysters, 346.
Plan of fishing adopted at Yarmouth, 271.
Plan of smoking haddocks in Auchmithie, 446.
Plan of the salmon-ponds at Stormontfield, 100.
Planting and transplanting mussels, 414.
Playing a salmon, 131.
Plea for the total abolition of the brand, 263.
Plentifulness of salmon long ago, 476.
“Please to remember the grotto,” 332.
Plessix oyster-bed, 364.
Pleuronectidæ, 285, 295, 297.
Poaching as a trade, 202.
Points in the natural and economic history of the herring, 232, 233.
Ponds for fish, 38.
Pont oyster-grounds, 368.
Page 443
Pooldoodies, 374.
Pope and Swift as oyster-eaters, 345.
Portessie, 321.
Powan, the, 29.
Practicability of artificial breeding on the Severn, 219.
Practical nature of French fish-culture, 95.
Prawn-catching, 396.
Prawns and shrimps, 395.
Preparation of the eels at Comacchio, 462.
Present price of haddocks, 288.
Prestonpans, 437.
Price of fish in France, 62.
Progress of Beef’s oyster-farm on the Ile de Re, 353.
Progress of herring growth, 237.
Progress of salmon growth, 179.
Progress of the parr, 105.
Progress of the ova in Australian waters, 122.
Progress of the people of Fittie, 451.
Proper stock of fish for the Severn, 218.
Proper time to shoot the nets, 265.
Proposal for a jubilee on the Severn, 218.
Proposal for a tax on the boats, 284.
Proportion of netting used and herring taken, 282.
Proportions of meat and shell in the oyster, 341.
Proposal to make each salmon river a joint-stock property, 223.
Proposal to note growth of sea-fish in a marine observatory, 17.
Pope and Swift as oyster-eaters, 345.
Portessie, 321.
Powan, the, 29.
Practicability of artificial breeding on the Severn, 219.
Practical nature of French fish-culture, 95.
Prawn-catching, 396.
Prawns and shrimps, 395.
Preparation of the eels at Comacchio, 462.
Present price of haddocks, 288.
Prestonpans, 437.
Price of fish in France, 62.
Progress of Beef’s oyster-farm on the Ile de Re, 353.
Progress of herring growth, 237.
Progress of salmon growth, 179.
Progress of the parr, 105.
Progress of the ova in Australian waters, 122.
Progress of the people of Fittie, 451.
Proper stock of fish for the Severn, 218.
Proper time to shoot the nets, 265.
Proposal for a jubilee on the Severn, 218.
Proposal for a tax on the boats, 284.
Proportion of netting used and herring taken, 282.
Proportions of meat and shell in the oyster, 341.
Proposal to make each salmon river a joint-stock property, 223.
Proposal to note growth of sea-fish in a marine observatory, 17.
Page 444
Proposal to sell the herring as they are caught, 257.
Prosperity of the fisher-folk, 440.
Price paid for pearls, 405.
Price of three haddocks in 1790, 288.
Primitive hatching apparatus, 115.
Primrose, Hon. Mr. Bouverie, 485.
Principal changes introduced by Tweed Acts, 216.
Private oyster-layings, 371.
Probable extinction of the Firth of Forth oyster-beds, 375.
Problem in salmon life by the Ettrick Shepherd, 185.
Process of curing the herring, 261.
Process of gutting the herring, 269.
Produce of the oyster greening claires, 361.
Productive power of shell-fish, 382.
Productiveness of artificial system, 90.
Profile of the ponds at Stormontfield, 101.
Profit of Beef’s oyster-farm, 353.
Profits of oyster-farming, 372.
Prosperity of the oyster-growers, 358.
Provisions of the salmon and trout Act of 1861, 221.
Public writers on the British fisheries, 474.
Pulteneytown heights, 264.
Pulteneytown quay, scene at, 267.
Purchasers of Scottish pearls, 403.
Quaint fishing villages of Normandy and Brittany, 454.
Qualifications of an angler, 135.
Prosperity of the fisher-folk, 440.
Price paid for pearls, 405.
Price of three haddocks in 1790, 288.
Primitive hatching apparatus, 115.
Primrose, Hon. Mr. Bouverie, 485.
Principal changes introduced by Tweed Acts, 216.
Private oyster-layings, 371.
Probable extinction of the Firth of Forth oyster-beds, 375.
Problem in salmon life by the Ettrick Shepherd, 185.
Process of curing the herring, 261.
Process of gutting the herring, 269.
Produce of the oyster greening claires, 361.
Productive power of shell-fish, 382.
Productiveness of artificial system, 90.
Profile of the ponds at Stormontfield, 101.
Profit of Beef’s oyster-farm, 353.
Profits of oyster-farming, 372.
Prosperity of the oyster-growers, 358.
Provisions of the salmon and trout Act of 1861, 221.
Public writers on the British fisheries, 474.
Pulteneytown heights, 264.
Pulteneytown quay, scene at, 267.
Purchasers of Scottish pearls, 403.
Quaint fishing villages of Normandy and Brittany, 454.
Qualifications of an angler, 135.
Page 445
Quality of the herring captured in 1862, 276.
Quantity of herring branded in 1862, 273.
Quantity of netting employed in the herring-fishery, 277.
Quantity of pilchards sometimes obtained, 252.
Quantity of spawn from each oyster, 339.
Queensferry, whitebait ground near, 22.
Question of fish growth, 16.
Rapid growth of oyster-culture in Ile de Re, 352.
Rapid hatching of herring ova, 236.
Rapid transit, effect of, on the fisheries, 36.
Rapidity of salmon growth, 196.
Ravages of the herring shoals by codfish, 282.
Raw oysters the best for the stomach, 346.
Reasons of the fishermen for marrying on Friday, 420.
Recent fishing Acts for England, 219.
Recent reports of the Inspectors of English fisheries, 217.
Re-discovery of pisciculture, 73.
Red-letter days of August, 332.
Reel o’ Collieston, 422.
Regulation of British salmon-fisheries, 487.
Regulation of salmon-rivers, 488.
Regulation of the Scottish herring-fisheries, 484.
Relation between upper and lower proprietors of salmon rivers, 222.
Relation of the curer to the fishermen, 255.
Remedies for failing salmon supplies, 225.
Remy, the re-discoverer of pisciculture, 73.
Quantity of herring branded in 1862, 273.
Quantity of netting employed in the herring-fishery, 277.
Quantity of pilchards sometimes obtained, 252.
Quantity of spawn from each oyster, 339.
Queensferry, whitebait ground near, 22.
Question of fish growth, 16.
Rapid growth of oyster-culture in Ile de Re, 352.
Rapid hatching of herring ova, 236.
Rapid transit, effect of, on the fisheries, 36.
Rapidity of salmon growth, 196.
Ravages of the herring shoals by codfish, 282.
Raw oysters the best for the stomach, 346.
Reasons of the fishermen for marrying on Friday, 420.
Recent fishing Acts for England, 219.
Recent reports of the Inspectors of English fisheries, 217.
Re-discovery of pisciculture, 73.
Red-letter days of August, 332.
Reel o’ Collieston, 422.
Regulation of British salmon-fisheries, 487.
Regulation of salmon-rivers, 488.
Regulation of the Scottish herring-fisheries, 484.
Relation between upper and lower proprietors of salmon rivers, 222.
Relation of the curer to the fishermen, 255.
Remedies for failing salmon supplies, 225.
Remy, the re-discoverer of pisciculture, 73.
Page 446
Rental of French fisheries, 91.
Rental of Firth of Forth oyster-beds, 375.
Report of the Lochfyne commissioners on the herring, 235.
Reprehensible feature in herring commerce, 256.
Reproductive power of the oyster, 338.
Reproductive power of the oyster in green claires, 260.
Return from the beds on the Ile de Re, 356.
Revenue anticipated from licences on English rivers, 221.
Revenue from fish to the city of Paris, 64.
Revenue from oysters grown in Lake Fusaro, 349.
Revival of pearl-seeking in Scotland, 402.
Rev. Mr. Williamson on the double migration of salmon, 194.
Rhine salmon, 201.
Richmond’s, Duke of, salmon-fisheries, 215.
Rights of fishing in France, 91.
Rise in price of oysters at Ile de Re, 358.
Rise in the price of white fish, 301.
Rise of a herring-curer, 259.
River cray-fish, 397.
River Doon pearl-fever, 404.
Rivers of France, the, 73.
Roaming fish, 32.
Robertson’s Tweed salmon tables, 217.
Rockall fishery, 303.
Roe of the cod used in sardine-fishery, 254.
Round of labour at Auchmithie, 446.
Rental of Firth of Forth oyster-beds, 375.
Report of the Lochfyne commissioners on the herring, 235.
Reprehensible feature in herring commerce, 256.
Reproductive power of the oyster, 338.
Reproductive power of the oyster in green claires, 260.
Return from the beds on the Ile de Re, 356.
Revenue anticipated from licences on English rivers, 221.
Revenue from fish to the city of Paris, 64.
Revenue from oysters grown in Lake Fusaro, 349.
Revival of pearl-seeking in Scotland, 402.
Rev. Mr. Williamson on the double migration of salmon, 194.
Rhine salmon, 201.
Richmond’s, Duke of, salmon-fisheries, 215.
Rights of fishing in France, 91.
Rise in price of oysters at Ile de Re, 358.
Rise in the price of white fish, 301.
Rise of a herring-curer, 259.
River cray-fish, 397.
River Doon pearl-fever, 404.
Rivers of France, the, 73.
Roaming fish, 32.
Robertson’s Tweed salmon tables, 217.
Rockall fishery, 303.
Roe of the cod used in sardine-fishery, 254.
Round of labour at Auchmithie, 446.
Page 447
Routine of oyster-work at Whitstable, 369.
Roxburghe, Duke of, as an angler, 130.
Salmo Ferox, 138.
Salmon a day or two old, 14.
Salmon and herring contrasted, 15.
Salmon-angling in the north of Scotland, 131.
Salmon-culture, 102.
Salmon-beds in the tributaries of the Tay, 209.
Salmon, commercial value of, 199.
Salmon, double migration of, 193.
Salmon egg, description of a, 10.
Salmon-growth versus cod-growth, 20.
Salmon in Australia, 118.
Salmon, natural and economic history of the, 177.
Salmon ova, period required to hatch, 13.
Salmon, progress of, in coming to life, 12.
Salmon-poaching, 202.
Salmon rivers, regulation of, 488.
Salmon, what do they eat? 192.
Salmon-watcher’s tower on the Rhine, 201.
Salting eels at Comacchio, 461.
Sardine-fishery in Brittany, 59, 253.
Scarcity of white fish, 313.
Scattering of oyster-spat, 337.
Scene in a Scottish herring-curer’s office, 469.
Scene in the Buckie small-debt court, 468.
Roxburghe, Duke of, as an angler, 130.
Salmo Ferox, 138.
Salmon a day or two old, 14.
Salmon and herring contrasted, 15.
Salmon-angling in the north of Scotland, 131.
Salmon-culture, 102.
Salmon-beds in the tributaries of the Tay, 209.
Salmon, commercial value of, 199.
Salmon, double migration of, 193.
Salmon egg, description of a, 10.
Salmon-growth versus cod-growth, 20.
Salmon in Australia, 118.
Salmon, natural and economic history of the, 177.
Salmon ova, period required to hatch, 13.
Salmon, progress of, in coming to life, 12.
Salmon-poaching, 202.
Salmon rivers, regulation of, 488.
Salmon, what do they eat? 192.
Salmon-watcher’s tower on the Rhine, 201.
Salting eels at Comacchio, 461.
Sardine-fishery in Brittany, 59, 253.
Scarcity of white fish, 313.
Scattering of oyster-spat, 337.
Scene in a Scottish herring-curer’s office, 469.
Scene in the Buckie small-debt court, 468.
Page 448
Scene of Sir Walter Scott’s Antiquary, 444.
Scene on the waters, 265.
Scenes on the coast, 444.
Scenery on the Tay, 211.
Scientific and commercial fish-culture, 75.
Scotch name for the turbot, 297.
Scotch pearls in the middle ages, 402.
Scotland for trout, 134.
Scottish chap-books, 439.
Scottish fishing boats all open, 307.
Scottish fishing villages, glance at, 422.
Scottish herring-fishery, 50.
Scottish oyster-eaters, 345.
Scottish pearl-fisheries, 398.
Scottish prejudice against eels, 19.
Scottish salmon-streams, 209.
Scovell’s lobster-pond, 388.
Sea-angling, 154.
Sea-fish, proposal to note growth of, 17.
Sea-perch, 153.
Season for lobsters, 397.
Secret of oyster-culture, 346.
September fishery at Wick, 281.
September the right month for inaugurating the oyster season, 333.
Sergius Orata, 72, 343.
Series of ponds for artificial breeding on the Severn, 219.
Scene on the waters, 265.
Scenes on the coast, 444.
Scenery on the Tay, 211.
Scientific and commercial fish-culture, 75.
Scotch name for the turbot, 297.
Scotch pearls in the middle ages, 402.
Scotland for trout, 134.
Scottish chap-books, 439.
Scottish fishing boats all open, 307.
Scottish fishing villages, glance at, 422.
Scottish herring-fishery, 50.
Scottish oyster-eaters, 345.
Scottish pearl-fisheries, 398.
Scottish prejudice against eels, 19.
Scottish salmon-streams, 209.
Scovell’s lobster-pond, 388.
Sea-angling, 154.
Sea-fish, proposal to note growth of, 17.
Sea-perch, 153.
Season for lobsters, 397.
Secret of oyster-culture, 346.
September fishery at Wick, 281.
September the right month for inaugurating the oyster season, 333.
Sergius Orata, 72, 343.
Series of ponds for artificial breeding on the Severn, 219.
Page 449
Set-line fishing, 160.
Severn, the, 218.
Severn, suggestion for a pond on the, 116.
Sex of the oyster, 340.
Sexual instinct of fish, 10.
Shaking the herring out of the nets, 267.
Shape of a dredge, 378.
Shape of fish, 3.
Shad, 25.
Shaw of Drumlanrig, 74.
Shaw’s parr experiments, 185, 186.
Shell-fish fisheries, 382.
Short and simple annals of the fisher-folk, 462.
Shooting the nets, 265, 266.
Should there be a close-time for herring? 241, 242.
Shrimp-eggs, 383.
Shrimps and prawns, 395.
Shrimpers at work, 395.
Sickening of oysters, 336.
Signs and tokens among the fisher-people, 453.
Silurus glanis, 126-128.
Silver eel, the, 18.
Sillock-fishing in Shetland, 294.
Size and weight of salmon diminishing, 206, 207.
Size of oysters, 341.
Size of the codfish, 291.
Severn, the, 218.
Severn, suggestion for a pond on the, 116.
Sex of the oyster, 340.
Sexual instinct of fish, 10.
Shaking the herring out of the nets, 267.
Shape of a dredge, 378.
Shape of fish, 3.
Shad, 25.
Shaw of Drumlanrig, 74.
Shaw’s parr experiments, 185, 186.
Shell-fish fisheries, 382.
Short and simple annals of the fisher-folk, 462.
Shooting the nets, 265, 266.
Should there be a close-time for herring? 241, 242.
Shrimp-eggs, 383.
Shrimps and prawns, 395.
Shrimpers at work, 395.
Sickening of oysters, 336.
Signs and tokens among the fisher-people, 453.
Silurus glanis, 126-128.
Silver eel, the, 18.
Sillock-fishing in Shetland, 294.
Size and weight of salmon diminishing, 206, 207.
Size of oysters, 341.
Size of the codfish, 291.
Page 450
Skate-liver oil, 293.
Sketch of fisher-life in the Antiquary, 429.
Sketch of the river Tay, 210, 211.
Slaughter of small-sized fish, 320.
Smaller varieties of the flat-fish, 298.
Smelling power of fish, 3.
Smolt and grilse, 187.
Smolt exodus of 1861, 110.
Smolt growth, 180, 181.
Social condition of the Newhaven fisher-folk, 430.
Social history of the oyster, 342.
Société d’Ecorage in France, 60.
Society of Free Fishermen at Newhaven, 377.
Soft crabs, 393.
Soles of a moderate weight best for the table, 298.
Sole, the, 298.
Song sung by the dredgers, 379.
Sophisticated oysters, 374.
Source of the Tay, 210.
Sowing and planting mussels, 414.
Spat-collecting tiles, 363.
Spawn of herring just hatched, 14.
Spawning at Tongueland, 114.
Spawning of oysters, 337.
Spawning periods of the herring, 236.
Spear for killing flat fish, 161.
Sketch of fisher-life in the Antiquary, 429.
Sketch of the river Tay, 210, 211.
Slaughter of small-sized fish, 320.
Smaller varieties of the flat-fish, 298.
Smelling power of fish, 3.
Smolt and grilse, 187.
Smolt exodus of 1861, 110.
Smolt growth, 180, 181.
Social condition of the Newhaven fisher-folk, 430.
Social history of the oyster, 342.
Société d’Ecorage in France, 60.
Society of Free Fishermen at Newhaven, 377.
Soft crabs, 393.
Soles of a moderate weight best for the table, 298.
Sole, the, 298.
Song sung by the dredgers, 379.
Sophisticated oysters, 374.
Source of the Tay, 210.
Sowing and planting mussels, 414.
Spat-collecting tiles, 363.
Spawn of herring just hatched, 14.
Spawning at Tongueland, 114.
Spawning of oysters, 337.
Spawning periods of the herring, 236.
Spear for killing flat fish, 161.
Page 451
Spearing flat fish, 161.
Spey, the, as a salmon stream, 214.
Sprat-controversy, 237, 239.
Sprat-fishery, 253.
Stake and bag nets, 208.
Stake-nets on the river Solway, 208.
Stakes on which to grow oysters, 364.
State of knowledge in Newhaven sixty years ago, 431.
Statements of trawlers, 314.
Statistics of boats and herring ports, 275.
Statistics of Colne oyster-beds, 370.
Statistics of English oyster-grounds, 367.
Statistics of Newfoundland fishery, 54.
Statistics of oyster-culture in the Ile de Re, 356.
Statistics of oyster-growth in Ile de Re, 365.
Statistics of rent and produce of fisheries on Tay, 213.
Statistics of Tweed fisheries, 217.
Statistics of Wick Herring-Fishery, 1865, 502.
St. James’s Day for oysters, 333.
Steamboat travelling, 443.
Steuart of Colpetty on the pearl, 400.
Stock of breeding fish proper for Tay, 214.
Stock of fish kept by Lucullus, 71.
Stoddart’s calculations as to salmon growth, 111, 200.
Store-boxes for crabs and lobsters, 387.
Stories about the pike, 142.
Spey, the, as a salmon stream, 214.
Sprat-controversy, 237, 239.
Sprat-fishery, 253.
Stake and bag nets, 208.
Stake-nets on the river Solway, 208.
Stakes on which to grow oysters, 364.
State of knowledge in Newhaven sixty years ago, 431.
Statements of trawlers, 314.
Statistics of boats and herring ports, 275.
Statistics of Colne oyster-beds, 370.
Statistics of English oyster-grounds, 367.
Statistics of Newfoundland fishery, 54.
Statistics of oyster-culture in the Ile de Re, 356.
Statistics of oyster-growth in Ile de Re, 365.
Statistics of rent and produce of fisheries on Tay, 213.
Statistics of Tweed fisheries, 217.
Statistics of Wick Herring-Fishery, 1865, 502.
St. James’s Day for oysters, 333.
Steamboat travelling, 443.
Steuart of Colpetty on the pearl, 400.
Stock of breeding fish proper for Tay, 214.
Stock of fish kept by Lucullus, 71.
Stoddart’s calculations as to salmon growth, 111, 200.
Store-boxes for crabs and lobsters, 387.
Stories about the pike, 142.
Page 452
Storm scenes on the Moray Firth, 328.
Storm of October 1864, 322.
Stormontfield, proceedings at, 13.
Striking example of the effect of bag-nets on the Tay, 206.
Summer time of Wick’s existence, 247.
Superstition as to the name of Ross, 468.
Superstition of the fisher-folk, 432.
Supposed migration of turbot, 296.
Supposed spawn of turbot, 286.
Sutherland lochs, 136.
Table of oyster reproduction, 371.
Tabular view of the August and September herring-fishery at Wick,
280, 281.
Tabular view of the fish seasons, 300.
Tabular view of the herring-harvest of 1862, 276.
Tackle for sea-angling, 157.
Tay before and after stake-nets, 214.
Tay, the, as a salmon stream, 209.
Tay, the river, its fish and commerce, 79.
Tax on oysters at Billingsgate, 374.
“Tee”-names, 466.
Templeman’s evidence, 313.
Temperature of the river Plenty in Australia, 121.
Tempest on the Moray Firth, 325.
Thames and other anglers, 130, 151.
Thames, attempts to re-stock that river with fish, 24.
Storm of October 1864, 322.
Stormontfield, proceedings at, 13.
Striking example of the effect of bag-nets on the Tay, 206.
Summer time of Wick’s existence, 247.
Superstition as to the name of Ross, 468.
Superstition of the fisher-folk, 432.
Supposed migration of turbot, 296.
Supposed spawn of turbot, 286.
Sutherland lochs, 136.
Table of oyster reproduction, 371.
Tabular view of the August and September herring-fishery at Wick,
280, 281.
Tabular view of the fish seasons, 300.
Tabular view of the herring-harvest of 1862, 276.
Tackle for sea-angling, 157.
Tay before and after stake-nets, 214.
Tay, the, as a salmon stream, 209.
Tay, the river, its fish and commerce, 79.
Tax on oysters at Billingsgate, 374.
“Tee”-names, 466.
Templeman’s evidence, 313.
Temperature of the river Plenty in Australia, 121.
Tempest on the Moray Firth, 325.
Thames and other anglers, 130, 151.
Thames, attempts to re-stock that river with fish, 24.
Page 453
Thames, the, 148, 149.
The bounty system in the herring-fishery, 256.
The cause of the migratory habits of salmon, 194.
The cook and the grouse, 287.
The Dead Man’s Ferry, 455.
The dredging song, 379.
The eastern pearl-fishery, 400.
The first oyster-eater, 342.
The first oyster eaten as a punishment, 343.
The herring-fishery, preparations for, 246.
The food of fishes, 31.
The greening of oysters, 359, 360.
The herring a local fish, 229.
The herring-fishery a lottery, 257.
The latest English salmon Act, 221.
The laird and the laddie, an anecdote, 406.
“The man in the black coat,” 433.
The mussel as food, 416.
Theories about eels, 18.
Theory as to the growth of smolts, 196.
The pearl-fever on the Doon, 403.
The pearl-mussel, 398.
The pearl shell-fish, 398.
The present Fishery Board, 263.
The senses of fish, 3.
The women of Auchmithie, 446.
The bounty system in the herring-fishery, 256.
The cause of the migratory habits of salmon, 194.
The cook and the grouse, 287.
The Dead Man’s Ferry, 455.
The dredging song, 379.
The eastern pearl-fishery, 400.
The first oyster-eater, 342.
The first oyster eaten as a punishment, 343.
The herring-fishery, preparations for, 246.
The food of fishes, 31.
The greening of oysters, 359, 360.
The herring a local fish, 229.
The herring-fishery a lottery, 257.
The latest English salmon Act, 221.
The laird and the laddie, an anecdote, 406.
“The man in the black coat,” 433.
The mussel as food, 416.
Theories about eels, 18.
Theory as to the growth of smolts, 196.
The pearl-fever on the Doon, 403.
The pearl-mussel, 398.
The pearl shell-fish, 398.
The present Fishery Board, 263.
The senses of fish, 3.
The women of Auchmithie, 446.
Page 454
The world of fish depicted, 394.
Thinning the mussels, 415.
Tiber, fish of the, 72.
Tiles for receiving the spat of oysters, 363.
Time of fishing for herring, 245.
Time required for hatching herring-ova, 239.
Time when the lobster becomes reproductive, 391.
Torbay fisherman, evidence by a, 315.
Total catch of Herrings for 1865, 503.
Tour among the Scottish fisher-folk, 419.
Tourist talk about fish, 78.
Town of Comacchio, 459.
Trade in shrimps, 397.
Traffic in living codfish, 302.
Transformation of herring-gutters, 270.
Travelling in France, 78.
Trawled fish not fit for market, 314.
Trawler, a, 309.
Trawling at particular places exhausts the shoals, 312.
Trawling for herrings, 249.
Trawling increases the fish, 316.
Trawling on the French coast, 57.
Trawl question, the, 308.
Trout produced at five centimes each, 94.
Trout, the, 133.
Tummel, river, 210.
Thinning the mussels, 415.
Tiber, fish of the, 72.
Tiles for receiving the spat of oysters, 363.
Time of fishing for herring, 245.
Time required for hatching herring-ova, 239.
Time when the lobster becomes reproductive, 391.
Torbay fisherman, evidence by a, 315.
Total catch of Herrings for 1865, 503.
Tour among the Scottish fisher-folk, 419.
Tourist talk about fish, 78.
Town of Comacchio, 459.
Trade in shrimps, 397.
Traffic in living codfish, 302.
Transformation of herring-gutters, 270.
Travelling in France, 78.
Trawled fish not fit for market, 314.
Trawler, a, 309.
Trawling at particular places exhausts the shoals, 312.
Trawling for herrings, 249.
Trawling increases the fish, 316.
Trawling on the French coast, 57.
Trawl question, the, 308.
Trout produced at five centimes each, 94.
Trout, the, 133.
Tummel, river, 210.
Page 455
Turbot, 296.
Turbot fishing, 315.
Turbot, natural history of the, 287.
Turtle-culture, 96.
Tweed Acts of 1857-59, 216.
Tweed poachers, 203.
Tweed tables of weight and size, 207.
Twelve fish for a penny, 89.
Unchangeable nature of the fishing class, 425.
Unger’s revival of the Scottish pearl-fishery, 402.
Unparalleled destruction of the seed of fish, 243.
Upper proprietors of salmon-fisheries, 487.
Uses of the codfish, 292.
Uses of the sillock, 295.
Use of the trawl-net in turning up food for the fish, 316.
Value of a cod-roe, 292.
Value of boats and nets lost in the storm of 1848, 330.
Value of early-caught herring, 258.
Value of mussels at Aiguillon, 417.
Value of salmon at present, 477.
Value of Scottish pearls, 403.
Value of the close-time for salmon, 201.
Value of the oyster stock at Whitstable, 366.
Varied manipulation at Stormontfield, 105.
Varieties of cod, 294.
Turbot fishing, 315.
Turbot, natural history of the, 287.
Turtle-culture, 96.
Tweed Acts of 1857-59, 216.
Tweed poachers, 203.
Tweed tables of weight and size, 207.
Twelve fish for a penny, 89.
Unchangeable nature of the fishing class, 425.
Unger’s revival of the Scottish pearl-fishery, 402.
Unparalleled destruction of the seed of fish, 243.
Upper proprietors of salmon-fisheries, 487.
Uses of the codfish, 292.
Uses of the sillock, 295.
Use of the trawl-net in turning up food for the fish, 316.
Value of a cod-roe, 292.
Value of boats and nets lost in the storm of 1848, 330.
Value of early-caught herring, 258.
Value of mussels at Aiguillon, 417.
Value of salmon at present, 477.
Value of Scottish pearls, 403.
Value of the close-time for salmon, 201.
Value of the oyster stock at Whitstable, 366.
Varied manipulation at Stormontfield, 105.
Varieties of cod, 294.
Page 456
Varieties of crustacea, 383.
Varieties of fish suitable to breed in ponds, 39.
Various modes of catching crabs, 386.
Various ways of fishing for the pearl-mussel, 405.
Vendace, the, 26.
View of a herring-curing yard, 261.
View of a mussel-farm, 412.
View of Huningue, 83.
View of oyster-claires, 357.
View of oyster-parks, 355.
Village of Auchmithie, 445.
Virginia oyster-beds, 380.
Virtues of “cauld iron,” 433.
Visit of the smolts to the sea, 190.
Vivian, Mr., of Hull, on trawling, 311.
Viviparous fish, 16.
Voracity of pike, 142.
Wages at Comacchio, 458.
Waiting for the fish to strike, 266.
Walter Scott on the fishwives, 426.
Walton’s plan of hurdles for the culture of mussels, 411.
Want of a close-time a great fish-destroying agency, 243.
Want of harbour accommodation, 302.
Want of more knowledge about our shell-fish, 382.
Want of precise information as to fish-growth, 16.
Warnings, 453.
Varieties of fish suitable to breed in ponds, 39.
Various modes of catching crabs, 386.
Various ways of fishing for the pearl-mussel, 405.
Vendace, the, 26.
View of a herring-curing yard, 261.
View of a mussel-farm, 412.
View of Huningue, 83.
View of oyster-claires, 357.
View of oyster-parks, 355.
Village of Auchmithie, 445.
Virginia oyster-beds, 380.
Virtues of “cauld iron,” 433.
Visit of the smolts to the sea, 190.
Vivian, Mr., of Hull, on trawling, 311.
Viviparous fish, 16.
Voracity of pike, 142.
Wages at Comacchio, 458.
Waiting for the fish to strike, 266.
Walter Scott on the fishwives, 426.
Walton’s plan of hurdles for the culture of mussels, 411.
Want of a close-time a great fish-destroying agency, 243.
Want of harbour accommodation, 302.
Want of more knowledge about our shell-fish, 382.
Want of precise information as to fish-growth, 16.
Warnings, 453.
Page 457
Waste places in England suitable for fish-culture, 116.
Weather during the fishing of 1862, 276.
Weather prophecies of the Board of Trade, 331.
Weight of trout, 133.
Welled boats, 306.
Welsh and Irish pearls, 407.
Whale-fishery, the, 55.
What has been accomplished at Stormontfield, 109.
What do salmon eat? 192.
What we desire to know of all fish, 21.
What will be the future of the British fisheries? 481.
When do oysters become reproductive? 339.
When do turbot spawn? 287.
When Gadidæ are in season, 286.
When herring are in best condition, 240.
When should herring be captured? 241.
When white fish are in season, 300.
Where are the haddocks? 30, 288.
Where the best turbot are got, 296.
Where the oyster spawn goes, 340.
“Whiskered pandores,” 377.
Whitebait, 22.
Whitebait found in many rivers, 22.
Whitebait poor eating, 23.
White-fish fisheries, the, 285.
White-fish fisheries of Ireland, 304.
Weather during the fishing of 1862, 276.
Weather prophecies of the Board of Trade, 331.
Weight of trout, 133.
Welled boats, 306.
Welsh and Irish pearls, 407.
Whale-fishery, the, 55.
What has been accomplished at Stormontfield, 109.
What do salmon eat? 192.
What we desire to know of all fish, 21.
What will be the future of the British fisheries? 481.
When do oysters become reproductive? 339.
When do turbot spawn? 287.
When Gadidæ are in season, 286.
When herring are in best condition, 240.
When should herring be captured? 241.
When white fish are in season, 300.
Where are the haddocks? 30, 288.
Where the best turbot are got, 296.
Where the oyster spawn goes, 340.
“Whiskered pandores,” 377.
Whitebait, 22.
Whitebait found in many rivers, 22.
Whitebait poor eating, 23.
White-fish fisheries, the, 285.
White-fish fisheries of Ireland, 304.
Page 458
White fish when in season, 299.
Whitehills harbour, 321.
Whiting, the, 294.
Whitstable, 366.
Who was Ossian? 174.
Wick during the herring season, 268.
Williamson, Rev. D., on the salmon, 193.
Winter fishing at Wick, 274.
“Wise Willy and Witty Eppie,” 439.
Wives of the oyster-farmers, 362.
Wolfsbrunnen trout-pond, 39.
Woodhaven salmon station, 212.
Working a mussel-farm, 416.
Working an oyster-bed, 368.
World of fish, the, 394.
Yarmouth, 271.
Yarmouth boats, their size and cost, 271.
Yarmouth, the great fishery at, 49.
Yarrell’s account of the herring, 231.
Yarrell’s and Buist’s opinion about the parr, 183.
Young’s experiments on the parr, 186.
Yield of a bouchot, 416.
Printed by R. Clark, Edinburgh.
Whitehills harbour, 321.
Whiting, the, 294.
Whitstable, 366.
Who was Ossian? 174.
Wick during the herring season, 268.
Williamson, Rev. D., on the salmon, 193.
Winter fishing at Wick, 274.
“Wise Willy and Witty Eppie,” 439.
Wives of the oyster-farmers, 362.
Wolfsbrunnen trout-pond, 39.
Woodhaven salmon station, 212.
Working a mussel-farm, 416.
Working an oyster-bed, 368.
World of fish, the, 394.
Yarmouth, 271.
Yarmouth boats, their size and cost, 271.
Yarmouth, the great fishery at, 49.
Yarrell’s account of the herring, 231.
Yarrell’s and Buist’s opinion about the parr, 183.
Young’s experiments on the parr, 186.
Yield of a bouchot, 416.
Printed by R. Clark, Edinburgh.
Page 459
FOOTNOTES:
[1] On this part of the piscicultural question I had the following conversation
with a pêcheur who has a little place in the suburbs of Strasbourg, on the road to
the Bridge of Boats:—
“By your system you collect the eggs of fish in the rivers of Switzerland and
Germany, either from the spawning-beds, or direct from the parents, which are
then barbarously killed and sold, as we were told at Huningue, and the eggs may
be sent off to enrich some private speculator in the north of France. Now, will
not the rivers from whence the spawn is taken be impoverished in their turn?”
“Oh, no; it is considered by the piscicultural system that we only obtain that
portion of the spawn that would otherwise be lost.”
“What do you think is the proportion of young salmon that arrives at
marketable size under the ordinary conditions of growth?”
“It is very small. An eighteen-pound fish will yield eighteen thousand eggs.
Well, one-third of these will in all probability escape the fecundating principle of
the milt, another third most likely will never come to life—the eggs will either
be destroyed from natural causes or be eaten up by other fish; so that you see
only six thousand, or one-third of the whole eggs, will ever come to life.”
“Well, that is so far good; but you do not protect the infant fish at all, you only
insure the transmission of the eggs from Huningue.”
“Yes; but the eggs are more than half the battle. Out of eighteen thousand
salmon-ova you will, by giving protection, hatch at least fifteen thousand fish;
and then these won’t be sent into the water till they are well able to take care of
themselves, and fight the battle of life.”
“Supposing it to be as you say, and that you can rear the fish in remunerative
quantities, will not an extension of the piscicultural system ultimately injure the
breed?”
“I don’t think it will. We have been carrying out the system in France now on
a lesser or greater scale for more than twenty years, and I can hear of no damage
being done to the fish.”
[2] As I assisted personally at the exodus of 1861, I subjoin a brief report of
what took place from the Perth Courier:—
“On Saturday last, Mr. Buist, accompanied by Mr. Bertram of Edinburgh and
other gentlemen, visited the ponds of Stormontfield, for the purpose of
ascertaining the state of the fish and giving instructions as to the liberation of the
smolts. For eight days past the keeper had observed strong indications of a desire
for freedom on the part of a considerable proportion of his finny wards, and
numbers had gone into the runlet which leads to the reservoir by the side of the
river where the fish were formerly caught and marked. When the party arrived
they found a good many of the fish in the reservoir, being those which had
sought egress during the night. The smolts were large and in fine condition; and
one fish, which has been detained for three years for the purpose of discovering
whether the species will grow in fresh water without being permitted to visit the
[1] On this part of the piscicultural question I had the following conversation
with a pêcheur who has a little place in the suburbs of Strasbourg, on the road to
the Bridge of Boats:—
“By your system you collect the eggs of fish in the rivers of Switzerland and
Germany, either from the spawning-beds, or direct from the parents, which are
then barbarously killed and sold, as we were told at Huningue, and the eggs may
be sent off to enrich some private speculator in the north of France. Now, will
not the rivers from whence the spawn is taken be impoverished in their turn?”
“Oh, no; it is considered by the piscicultural system that we only obtain that
portion of the spawn that would otherwise be lost.”
“What do you think is the proportion of young salmon that arrives at
marketable size under the ordinary conditions of growth?”
“It is very small. An eighteen-pound fish will yield eighteen thousand eggs.
Well, one-third of these will in all probability escape the fecundating principle of
the milt, another third most likely will never come to life—the eggs will either
be destroyed from natural causes or be eaten up by other fish; so that you see
only six thousand, or one-third of the whole eggs, will ever come to life.”
“Well, that is so far good; but you do not protect the infant fish at all, you only
insure the transmission of the eggs from Huningue.”
“Yes; but the eggs are more than half the battle. Out of eighteen thousand
salmon-ova you will, by giving protection, hatch at least fifteen thousand fish;
and then these won’t be sent into the water till they are well able to take care of
themselves, and fight the battle of life.”
“Supposing it to be as you say, and that you can rear the fish in remunerative
quantities, will not an extension of the piscicultural system ultimately injure the
breed?”
“I don’t think it will. We have been carrying out the system in France now on
a lesser or greater scale for more than twenty years, and I can hear of no damage
being done to the fish.”
[2] As I assisted personally at the exodus of 1861, I subjoin a brief report of
what took place from the Perth Courier:—
“On Saturday last, Mr. Buist, accompanied by Mr. Bertram of Edinburgh and
other gentlemen, visited the ponds of Stormontfield, for the purpose of
ascertaining the state of the fish and giving instructions as to the liberation of the
smolts. For eight days past the keeper had observed strong indications of a desire
for freedom on the part of a considerable proportion of his finny wards, and
numbers had gone into the runlet which leads to the reservoir by the side of the
river where the fish were formerly caught and marked. When the party arrived
they found a good many of the fish in the reservoir, being those which had
sought egress during the night. The smolts were large and in fine condition; and
one fish, which has been detained for three years for the purpose of discovering
whether the species will grow in fresh water without being permitted to visit the
Page 460
sea, was found to be fully twice the size of the largest smolt. A number of parrs,
too, of the same age as the smolts, and spawned of the same parents, were found
about the size of minnows, and bearing the parr-mark distinctly defined. On
seeing the state of matters, Mr. Buist gave instructions for removing the sluices,
and allowing those bent on migration to have their liberty without being marked
this season. A considerable number at once sought the river, and no impediment
will now be placed in the way of a free migration. The ova of which the present
fry is the produce were placed in the boxes at various times during the period
from 15th November to 13th December 1859; and the departure of the smolts
commenced on the 18th instant. The whole fry—amounting, it is estimated, to
somewhat approaching 200,000 fish—is the produce of 19 male and 31 female
salmon. The anomaly of one-half of the fry reaching the condition of smolts, and
leaving the ponds when only a year old, and the other half remaining, has been
hitherto supposed to be accounted for upon the supposition of the earlier fish
being the produce of salmon, while the later were that of grilse. The experiment
of this year sets that question at rest by negativing the supposition. Mr. Buist
gave orders in November 1859 that none but salmon should be taken for the
purposes of the ponds. The result is the same anomaly. Although all the fry this
year in the ponds are the produce of salmon, as is usual only a moiety of them
have yet attained to the condition of smolts, while the remainder have all the
appearance of continuing parrs as before. This is perhaps the most important
feature in the operations of the year. In the early part of the year 1860, from the
unfavourable nature of the season for hatching, the whole brood seemed
particularly stunted and ill-grown, and it was hardly expected that any of them
would become smolts this year at all. About a month ago, however, early fears
were dispelled; a goodly portion of the fry began to approach the smolt state, and
since the beginning of May have been putting on their silvery livery, and now
are fully as far advanced as those in the open river.”
[3] “In order that the public may understand what a vast number of fish
770,000 would be, I would mention that it has been calculated by ‘the
chronicler,’ Mr. James Lowe, that the number of human beings assembled to
welcome the arrival of the Princess of Wales was 700,000: imagine a salmon for
each human being, and you will have an idea of the number of fish Mr.
Ashworth has hatched out as a stock for his fisheries.”—Lecture by Mr.
Buckland.
[4] Since the above was written intelligence has been received in England of
the loss, by escape into the river (which would be no loss), or the death, or more
truly “mysterious disappearance” of a large number of the fry—only five
hundred being left in the pond. These have been allowed to make their escape
into the river, and we may yet hope to hear of their safety and welfare. I hope
those interested will lose no time, now that they know the way to success, in
sending out another batch of eggs, so as to ensure the sending into the river of a
few thousand young fish.
[5] In a very old number of the Scots Magazine I find the following:—“I was
told by a gentleman who was present at a boat’s fishing on Spey near Gordon
Castle in the month of April, that in hauling, the weight of the net brought out a
great number of smolts which the fishers were not willing to part with; but that a
gentleman, who knew the natural propensity of the salmon to return to their
native river, persuaded them to slip them back again into the water, assuring
too, of the same age as the smolts, and spawned of the same parents, were found
about the size of minnows, and bearing the parr-mark distinctly defined. On
seeing the state of matters, Mr. Buist gave instructions for removing the sluices,
and allowing those bent on migration to have their liberty without being marked
this season. A considerable number at once sought the river, and no impediment
will now be placed in the way of a free migration. The ova of which the present
fry is the produce were placed in the boxes at various times during the period
from 15th November to 13th December 1859; and the departure of the smolts
commenced on the 18th instant. The whole fry—amounting, it is estimated, to
somewhat approaching 200,000 fish—is the produce of 19 male and 31 female
salmon. The anomaly of one-half of the fry reaching the condition of smolts, and
leaving the ponds when only a year old, and the other half remaining, has been
hitherto supposed to be accounted for upon the supposition of the earlier fish
being the produce of salmon, while the later were that of grilse. The experiment
of this year sets that question at rest by negativing the supposition. Mr. Buist
gave orders in November 1859 that none but salmon should be taken for the
purposes of the ponds. The result is the same anomaly. Although all the fry this
year in the ponds are the produce of salmon, as is usual only a moiety of them
have yet attained to the condition of smolts, while the remainder have all the
appearance of continuing parrs as before. This is perhaps the most important
feature in the operations of the year. In the early part of the year 1860, from the
unfavourable nature of the season for hatching, the whole brood seemed
particularly stunted and ill-grown, and it was hardly expected that any of them
would become smolts this year at all. About a month ago, however, early fears
were dispelled; a goodly portion of the fry began to approach the smolt state, and
since the beginning of May have been putting on their silvery livery, and now
are fully as far advanced as those in the open river.”
[3] “In order that the public may understand what a vast number of fish
770,000 would be, I would mention that it has been calculated by ‘the
chronicler,’ Mr. James Lowe, that the number of human beings assembled to
welcome the arrival of the Princess of Wales was 700,000: imagine a salmon for
each human being, and you will have an idea of the number of fish Mr.
Ashworth has hatched out as a stock for his fisheries.”—Lecture by Mr.
Buckland.
[4] Since the above was written intelligence has been received in England of
the loss, by escape into the river (which would be no loss), or the death, or more
truly “mysterious disappearance” of a large number of the fry—only five
hundred being left in the pond. These have been allowed to make their escape
into the river, and we may yet hope to hear of their safety and welfare. I hope
those interested will lose no time, now that they know the way to success, in
sending out another batch of eggs, so as to ensure the sending into the river of a
few thousand young fish.
[5] In a very old number of the Scots Magazine I find the following:—“I was
told by a gentleman who was present at a boat’s fishing on Spey near Gordon
Castle in the month of April, that in hauling, the weight of the net brought out a
great number of smolts which the fishers were not willing to part with; but that a
gentleman, who knew the natural propensity of the salmon to return to their
native river, persuaded them to slip them back again into the water, assuring
Page 461
them that in two months they would catch most of them full-grown grilses,
which would be of much greater value. He at the same time laid a bet of five
guineas with another gentleman present, who was somewhat dubious, that he
should not fail in his prediction. The fishers agreed. He accordingly clipt off a
part of the tail-fins from a number of them before he dropped them into the river;
and within the time limited the fishers actually caught upwards of a hundred
grilses thus marked, and soon after many more.”
[6] The Rhine is an excellent salmon stream and yields a large number of fish.
The five fishing stations at Rotterdam are very productive, each of them yielding
about 40,000 salmon per annum; and it would not be extravagant to estimate the
produce of these fisheries as of the value of £25,000 per annum.
[7] The French government took off the import-duty on salmon in 1856, when
foul salmon began to be exported to that country during the British close-times
at the rate of £7000 per annum. A late writer in Fraser’s Magazine was informed
by a leading fish-salesman, on the 16th November, that on that day ten tons of
Tweed salmon, freshly caught, were in Billingsgate, two months after close-
time, and despite of what was thought to be effective special legislation for that
river!
[8] As an example of the numerous absurd statements that have been
circulated about fish, the reader may study the following paragraph:—“Old
fishermen about Dunbar say the way herring spawn is—first, the female herrings
deposit their roe at some convenient part on sand or shingly bottom; second, the
male fish then spread their milt all over the roe to protect it from enemies, and
the influence of the tide and waves from moving it about. The fishermen also say
that when the young herrings are hatched they can see and swim; the milt
covering bursts open, and they are free to roam about. Some naturalists think the
roes and milts of herring are all mixed together promiscuously, and left on the
sands to bud and flourish. The fishermen’s idea seems to be the most likely of
the two opinions.”
[9] “We understand that about 100 boats have been engaged to fish at
Fraserburgh from Portsoy, Portknockie, Buckie, and Portgordon, and the other
fishing villages. The exact terms of engagement we subjoin as follows, from an
authoritative source. The terms are—15s. per cran, with £15 bounty, £2 for
lodgings, £l as earnest-money, with cartage of nets, and net ground. The cartage
of nets and net ground costs £3: 10s. to £4, so that the terms are equal to 15s. per
cran, and £21: 10s. to £22 in full of bounty.”—Banff Journal.
[10] Since the above was written, the report by the commissioners for 1864
has been published, but the figures differ so slightly from those of 1863 that it is
unnecessary to give them in detail, the total quantity of herrings cured being a
decrease of 11,166¼ barrels, while, as regards boats and men employed, there
was an increase of 140 boats, 126 fishermen and boys, and of £29,931 in the
estimated value of boats and nets. The winter herring-fishery on the north-east
coast about Wick, Lybster, and Helmsdale, was, contrary to expectation, quite
unsuccessful. The probable cause was the very boisterous state of the weather,
which prevented the boats from getting to sea. This year, therefore, affords no
evidence either for or against the opinion that herrings exist in sufficient
quantities to render a winter herring-fishery remunerative upon the coasts during
the winter months.
which would be of much greater value. He at the same time laid a bet of five
guineas with another gentleman present, who was somewhat dubious, that he
should not fail in his prediction. The fishers agreed. He accordingly clipt off a
part of the tail-fins from a number of them before he dropped them into the river;
and within the time limited the fishers actually caught upwards of a hundred
grilses thus marked, and soon after many more.”
[6] The Rhine is an excellent salmon stream and yields a large number of fish.
The five fishing stations at Rotterdam are very productive, each of them yielding
about 40,000 salmon per annum; and it would not be extravagant to estimate the
produce of these fisheries as of the value of £25,000 per annum.
[7] The French government took off the import-duty on salmon in 1856, when
foul salmon began to be exported to that country during the British close-times
at the rate of £7000 per annum. A late writer in Fraser’s Magazine was informed
by a leading fish-salesman, on the 16th November, that on that day ten tons of
Tweed salmon, freshly caught, were in Billingsgate, two months after close-
time, and despite of what was thought to be effective special legislation for that
river!
[8] As an example of the numerous absurd statements that have been
circulated about fish, the reader may study the following paragraph:—“Old
fishermen about Dunbar say the way herring spawn is—first, the female herrings
deposit their roe at some convenient part on sand or shingly bottom; second, the
male fish then spread their milt all over the roe to protect it from enemies, and
the influence of the tide and waves from moving it about. The fishermen also say
that when the young herrings are hatched they can see and swim; the milt
covering bursts open, and they are free to roam about. Some naturalists think the
roes and milts of herring are all mixed together promiscuously, and left on the
sands to bud and flourish. The fishermen’s idea seems to be the most likely of
the two opinions.”
[9] “We understand that about 100 boats have been engaged to fish at
Fraserburgh from Portsoy, Portknockie, Buckie, and Portgordon, and the other
fishing villages. The exact terms of engagement we subjoin as follows, from an
authoritative source. The terms are—15s. per cran, with £15 bounty, £2 for
lodgings, £l as earnest-money, with cartage of nets, and net ground. The cartage
of nets and net ground costs £3: 10s. to £4, so that the terms are equal to 15s. per
cran, and £21: 10s. to £22 in full of bounty.”—Banff Journal.
[10] Since the above was written, the report by the commissioners for 1864
has been published, but the figures differ so slightly from those of 1863 that it is
unnecessary to give them in detail, the total quantity of herrings cured being a
decrease of 11,166¼ barrels, while, as regards boats and men employed, there
was an increase of 140 boats, 126 fishermen and boys, and of £29,931 in the
estimated value of boats and nets. The winter herring-fishery on the north-east
coast about Wick, Lybster, and Helmsdale, was, contrary to expectation, quite
unsuccessful. The probable cause was the very boisterous state of the weather,
which prevented the boats from getting to sea. This year, therefore, affords no
evidence either for or against the opinion that herrings exist in sufficient
quantities to render a winter herring-fishery remunerative upon the coasts during
the winter months.
Page 462
[11] A correspondent has favoured me with the following brief account of the
sillock-fishing as carried on in Shetland:—“Sillocks are the young of the saith,
and they make their appearance in the beginning of August about the small isles,
and are of the size of parrs in Tweed. They continue about said isles for a few
weeks, and in the months of September and October, and sometimes longer, they
hover about the small isles, when the fishermen catch them for the sake of their
liver, which contains oil. One boat of twelve feet of keel will sometimes catch as
many as thirty bushels in a part of a day, and this year (1864), owing to the high
price of oil, each bushel was worth about 1s. 6d. The fish itself is taken to the
dung-hill when the take is not great, but when there is a great take the liver is
taken out and the fish thrown into the sea. There are no Acts of Parliament
against using the net; but after some time the sillocks leave the isles and draw to
the shore, where there are any edge-places. It is allowed that the island of
Whalsey is about the best place in Shetland for the fish to draw to, but whenever
they come there, the proprietor, Mr. Bruce, will not allow “pocking,” as a week
would finish them all; but the people must all fish with the rod, so that each man
may get as many as keep him a day or two. The “pocking” sets them all out, but
the fish don’t mind the rod; it is very picturesque to see perhaps fifty men sitting
round the basin with their rods, and the sillocks covering about a rood of the sea,
varying from three to six feet deep, and so close together that you would think
they could not get room to stir. They will continue plentiful till the end of April,
at which time they take to the deep sea; and when they make their appearance
the following year they are about four times larger, and are then called piltocks.
But these are only taken by the rod. Mr. Bruce just says, If you pock, you cannot
be my tenant; so they must either give up the one or the other, and by that way of
doing every household has as many of these small fish as they can make use of
during the winter.”
[12] In the Firth of Forth mussels are collected all the year round, but they
invariably fall off in condition during a prevalence of easterly winds.
[13] A Barking trawler usually carries 5 men and 3 boys, and costs when in
full work £12 per week. A Hull trawler costs much less, and the owner has less
risk; because the crew, from the captain downwards, share in the catch. The
Barking men refuse to enter into this arrangement, which probably helps to
account for the decay of the Barking fishery, for that of Hull is comparatively
prosperous. The co-operative system prevails among a few of the fisher people
of England. In an account of a Yorkshire fishing-place recently published in
Once a Week, the following statistics of the cost of boats, etc., are given:—
“Each yawl, varying in tonnage from 28 to 45 tons, costs from £600 to £650,
and is divided into shares; of its earnings 3s. 6d. in the pound are paid to the
owner or owners, 10s. are devoted to the current expenses, and the remainder is
divided among the men who find the bait. When a new boat is required, several
persons—gentlemen speculators, harbour-masters, etc., and boatmen—take
certain shares of it, which vary in amount from a half-quarter to a half of the
cost; application is then made to a builder, sail-maker, anchor-maker, and other
tradesmen; and the vessel, in due time, is paid for, equipped, and given over to
the owners. Each lugger-yawl carries two masts, and is provided with three sets
of sails to suit various states of weather. The foresail contains 200 or 250 yards,
the mizen 100, and the mizen-topsail 40 yards; the lesser sizes being severally of
100, 60, and 50 yards. The jib is very small. On the average the yawl is of 40
sillock-fishing as carried on in Shetland:—“Sillocks are the young of the saith,
and they make their appearance in the beginning of August about the small isles,
and are of the size of parrs in Tweed. They continue about said isles for a few
weeks, and in the months of September and October, and sometimes longer, they
hover about the small isles, when the fishermen catch them for the sake of their
liver, which contains oil. One boat of twelve feet of keel will sometimes catch as
many as thirty bushels in a part of a day, and this year (1864), owing to the high
price of oil, each bushel was worth about 1s. 6d. The fish itself is taken to the
dung-hill when the take is not great, but when there is a great take the liver is
taken out and the fish thrown into the sea. There are no Acts of Parliament
against using the net; but after some time the sillocks leave the isles and draw to
the shore, where there are any edge-places. It is allowed that the island of
Whalsey is about the best place in Shetland for the fish to draw to, but whenever
they come there, the proprietor, Mr. Bruce, will not allow “pocking,” as a week
would finish them all; but the people must all fish with the rod, so that each man
may get as many as keep him a day or two. The “pocking” sets them all out, but
the fish don’t mind the rod; it is very picturesque to see perhaps fifty men sitting
round the basin with their rods, and the sillocks covering about a rood of the sea,
varying from three to six feet deep, and so close together that you would think
they could not get room to stir. They will continue plentiful till the end of April,
at which time they take to the deep sea; and when they make their appearance
the following year they are about four times larger, and are then called piltocks.
But these are only taken by the rod. Mr. Bruce just says, If you pock, you cannot
be my tenant; so they must either give up the one or the other, and by that way of
doing every household has as many of these small fish as they can make use of
during the winter.”
[12] In the Firth of Forth mussels are collected all the year round, but they
invariably fall off in condition during a prevalence of easterly winds.
[13] A Barking trawler usually carries 5 men and 3 boys, and costs when in
full work £12 per week. A Hull trawler costs much less, and the owner has less
risk; because the crew, from the captain downwards, share in the catch. The
Barking men refuse to enter into this arrangement, which probably helps to
account for the decay of the Barking fishery, for that of Hull is comparatively
prosperous. The co-operative system prevails among a few of the fisher people
of England. In an account of a Yorkshire fishing-place recently published in
Once a Week, the following statistics of the cost of boats, etc., are given:—
“Each yawl, varying in tonnage from 28 to 45 tons, costs from £600 to £650,
and is divided into shares; of its earnings 3s. 6d. in the pound are paid to the
owner or owners, 10s. are devoted to the current expenses, and the remainder is
divided among the men who find the bait. When a new boat is required, several
persons—gentlemen speculators, harbour-masters, etc., and boatmen—take
certain shares of it, which vary in amount from a half-quarter to a half of the
cost; application is then made to a builder, sail-maker, anchor-maker, and other
tradesmen; and the vessel, in due time, is paid for, equipped, and given over to
the owners. Each lugger-yawl carries two masts, and is provided with three sets
of sails to suit various states of weather. The foresail contains 200 or 250 yards,
the mizen 100, and the mizen-topsail 40 yards; the lesser sizes being severally of
100, 60, and 50 yards. The jib is very small. On the average the yawl is of 40
Page 463
tons, and measures 51 feet keel, or 55 feet over all, and is of 17 or 18 feet beam;
drawing 6½ feet water aft, and 5 feet forward. The amount of ballast varies from
20 to 30 tons. The yawl is provided with 120 nets, each of which costs £30. Half
of this number are left on shore, and changed at the end of every 12 weeks. The
crew is composed of 7 men and 2 boys. For instance, the ‘Wear,’ commanded by
Colling, a first-rate seaman, carries two others, like himself part-owners, 4 men
receiving, besides their food, £1, and 1 boy at 18s., and another at 11s. a week;
each fisherman, who is a net-owner, receives 24s. a week. The expenses in
wages and wear and tear are calculated at from £12 to £15 weekly. The herrings
are valued at £2 per 1000 on an average. Sometimes 23,000 fish are caught in a
single haul, occasionally as many as 60,000, but 40,000 are considered a good
catch. To remunerate the crew, £50 or £60 a week ought to be obtained. Each net
is 10 fathoms long, and is sunk 9 fathoms during the fishing, the upper part
being floated by a long series of barrels, which are fitted at intervals of 15
fathoms. The warps used for laying out the nets in each vessel measure 2200
yards. Two men take up the nets, two empty the fish out of them, and one boy
stows the nets while his fellow stows the warps, which are raised by a windlass
worked by the men. Each net weighs about 28 pounds. In order to preserve the
nets and sails, it is necessary at frequent intervals to cover them with tanning,
which is prepared in large coppers. These coppers cost £40.”
On the Gulf of St. Lawrence the engagements of fishermen are as follows:—
“The fishermen are brought to the fishing-station at the expense of the firm
engaging them. They are furnished with a good fishing-boat, thoroughly fitted,
and are besides supplied with fresh bait as long as it can be got, and they require
it, but on payment of a sum of $6 to $8; and for each 100 codfish delivered on
the stage they receive the sum of 5s. 6d., one half in money and the other half in
goods and provisions. At these prices, and fish being abundant, fishermen earn
$5, $10, $15, and even $20 a day; and after an absence of from 6 to 9 weeks,
bring home from $80 to $120, and sometimes more. But they have to board
themselves; and if the fish is not abundant, their account of the provisions lent to
their families before their departure, their own board, the purchase of their lines,
take up the greatest part of their earnings, and they very often return to
Magdelen Islands with empty pockets.” Great quantities of all kinds of fish are
found in the St. Lawrence.
[14] Mr. Ashworth, in a communication to Mr. Barry, one of the
Commissioners of Irish Fisheries, says: “No charge is made for the oyster-parks,
but each plot is marked and defined on a map, and the produce is considered to
be the private property of the person who establishes it. They vary in size twenty
or thirty yards square, the stone or tiles are placed in rows about five feet apart,
with the ends open so as to admit of the wash of the tide in and out.”
[15] Since the above observations were penned it is satisfactory to know that
the Town Council of Edinburgh have begun an investigation into the state of
their oyster-scalps. An official report has been made to the following effect:
—“The sub-committee of the Lord Provost’s committee beg to report that, from
the inquiries made by them, there can be no doubt whatever that the city’s
scalps, by the improper way in which they have been dredged, are at present
nearly worthless, vast quantities of the seeding brood of oysters having been
dredged and sold for exportation to England and other places; that, in these
circumstances, the sub-committee are of opinion that, if possible, the lease
drawing 6½ feet water aft, and 5 feet forward. The amount of ballast varies from
20 to 30 tons. The yawl is provided with 120 nets, each of which costs £30. Half
of this number are left on shore, and changed at the end of every 12 weeks. The
crew is composed of 7 men and 2 boys. For instance, the ‘Wear,’ commanded by
Colling, a first-rate seaman, carries two others, like himself part-owners, 4 men
receiving, besides their food, £1, and 1 boy at 18s., and another at 11s. a week;
each fisherman, who is a net-owner, receives 24s. a week. The expenses in
wages and wear and tear are calculated at from £12 to £15 weekly. The herrings
are valued at £2 per 1000 on an average. Sometimes 23,000 fish are caught in a
single haul, occasionally as many as 60,000, but 40,000 are considered a good
catch. To remunerate the crew, £50 or £60 a week ought to be obtained. Each net
is 10 fathoms long, and is sunk 9 fathoms during the fishing, the upper part
being floated by a long series of barrels, which are fitted at intervals of 15
fathoms. The warps used for laying out the nets in each vessel measure 2200
yards. Two men take up the nets, two empty the fish out of them, and one boy
stows the nets while his fellow stows the warps, which are raised by a windlass
worked by the men. Each net weighs about 28 pounds. In order to preserve the
nets and sails, it is necessary at frequent intervals to cover them with tanning,
which is prepared in large coppers. These coppers cost £40.”
On the Gulf of St. Lawrence the engagements of fishermen are as follows:—
“The fishermen are brought to the fishing-station at the expense of the firm
engaging them. They are furnished with a good fishing-boat, thoroughly fitted,
and are besides supplied with fresh bait as long as it can be got, and they require
it, but on payment of a sum of $6 to $8; and for each 100 codfish delivered on
the stage they receive the sum of 5s. 6d., one half in money and the other half in
goods and provisions. At these prices, and fish being abundant, fishermen earn
$5, $10, $15, and even $20 a day; and after an absence of from 6 to 9 weeks,
bring home from $80 to $120, and sometimes more. But they have to board
themselves; and if the fish is not abundant, their account of the provisions lent to
their families before their departure, their own board, the purchase of their lines,
take up the greatest part of their earnings, and they very often return to
Magdelen Islands with empty pockets.” Great quantities of all kinds of fish are
found in the St. Lawrence.
[14] Mr. Ashworth, in a communication to Mr. Barry, one of the
Commissioners of Irish Fisheries, says: “No charge is made for the oyster-parks,
but each plot is marked and defined on a map, and the produce is considered to
be the private property of the person who establishes it. They vary in size twenty
or thirty yards square, the stone or tiles are placed in rows about five feet apart,
with the ends open so as to admit of the wash of the tide in and out.”
[15] Since the above observations were penned it is satisfactory to know that
the Town Council of Edinburgh have begun an investigation into the state of
their oyster-scalps. An official report has been made to the following effect:
—“The sub-committee of the Lord Provost’s committee beg to report that, from
the inquiries made by them, there can be no doubt whatever that the city’s
scalps, by the improper way in which they have been dredged, are at present
nearly worthless, vast quantities of the seeding brood of oysters having been
dredged and sold for exportation to England and other places; that, in these
circumstances, the sub-committee are of opinion that, if possible, the lease
Page 464
which the Free Fishermen have obtained should be reduced, so as the town may
have henceforth complete control, and with that view the agents should be
instructed to take the opinion of counsel; but if that cannot be done, that
immediate steps should be taken, by a conference with the Duke of Buccleuch,
Sir George Suttie, the Earl of Morton, and the Commissioners of Woods and
Forrests—to whom, along with the city, all the scalps in the Forth belong—to
have the whole oysters in the Forth placed under one management for their joint
behoof. At present the rules made by any one of the proprietors become wholly
inoperative from the fact that when improper oysters are brought ashore, the
fishermen at once declare that they are taken from other scalps than those of the
party challenging; and, particularly, that they have been taken from what they
call neutral ground, which belongs to the Government, and for that they pay no
rent. It is proper to say that the respectable portion of the Society of Free
Fishermen profess their readiness to aid in restoring the city scalps to a proper
condition, and in keeping them right hereafter; and they produce a letter from
their agents, Messrs. Gardiner, to that effect, along with a copy of a minute of
the society.”
[16] The following information as to the colour and structure of the pearl may
interest the general reader:—
Sir Robert Reading, in a letter to the Royal Society dated October 13, 1688, in
speaking of Irish pearls, states that pearls, if once dark, will never clear upon any
alteration in the health or age of the mussel. This Mr. Unger stoutly contradicts;
he shows by many specimens that some of the finest Scotch pearls are perfectly
dark inside. The theory put forth by Sir Everard Home, that the peculiar lustre so
much valued in the pearl arises from the centre, is thereby upset. There is no
doubt Sir David Brewster is correct in his statement on that point in the
Edinburgh Encyclopædia. Some writers assert that irregular pearls may be
rounded. This of course is erroneous: they are, as everybody knows, formed in
layers like an onion, and these layers being cut across would be exposed in such
a manner that even the highest polish would not hide them. It is, however, quite
possible in many instances to improve a bad-coloured pearl by removing one or
more of the coats; and in this way many a pearl of comparatively trifling value
has been turned into a gem of rare beauty. The best way to distinguish a real
pearl from an imitation one is to take a sharp knife and gently try to scrape it: if
imitation the knife will glide over the surface without making any impression, it
being glass, and a real pearl will not be injured by a gentle hand. Pieces of shells
are, however, extensively used and sold as pearls. They are cut into shapes
closely resembling half pearls, and mounted in various ways, so that many
professed judges have been deceived. These are easily to be distinguished by
their iridescent lustre from the true pearl, which has but one distinct tint.
[17] I have culled the following account of a fisherman’s wedding-dance from
an excellent provincial journal. The solemnisation of a marriage is a great event
in the village, and when one occurs it is customary to invite nearly all the adult
population to attend. The ceremony is mostly always performed in the church,
and it not unfrequently happens that at some of the marriages the whole lower
part of the church is well packed with the marriage-train. The Collieston
weddings are remarkable for the hilarity which ensues after the company return
from the ceremony. After a sumptuous dinner the company adjourn to the links
to a place which is smooth and level, and which lies at no very great distance
have henceforth complete control, and with that view the agents should be
instructed to take the opinion of counsel; but if that cannot be done, that
immediate steps should be taken, by a conference with the Duke of Buccleuch,
Sir George Suttie, the Earl of Morton, and the Commissioners of Woods and
Forrests—to whom, along with the city, all the scalps in the Forth belong—to
have the whole oysters in the Forth placed under one management for their joint
behoof. At present the rules made by any one of the proprietors become wholly
inoperative from the fact that when improper oysters are brought ashore, the
fishermen at once declare that they are taken from other scalps than those of the
party challenging; and, particularly, that they have been taken from what they
call neutral ground, which belongs to the Government, and for that they pay no
rent. It is proper to say that the respectable portion of the Society of Free
Fishermen profess their readiness to aid in restoring the city scalps to a proper
condition, and in keeping them right hereafter; and they produce a letter from
their agents, Messrs. Gardiner, to that effect, along with a copy of a minute of
the society.”
[16] The following information as to the colour and structure of the pearl may
interest the general reader:—
Sir Robert Reading, in a letter to the Royal Society dated October 13, 1688, in
speaking of Irish pearls, states that pearls, if once dark, will never clear upon any
alteration in the health or age of the mussel. This Mr. Unger stoutly contradicts;
he shows by many specimens that some of the finest Scotch pearls are perfectly
dark inside. The theory put forth by Sir Everard Home, that the peculiar lustre so
much valued in the pearl arises from the centre, is thereby upset. There is no
doubt Sir David Brewster is correct in his statement on that point in the
Edinburgh Encyclopædia. Some writers assert that irregular pearls may be
rounded. This of course is erroneous: they are, as everybody knows, formed in
layers like an onion, and these layers being cut across would be exposed in such
a manner that even the highest polish would not hide them. It is, however, quite
possible in many instances to improve a bad-coloured pearl by removing one or
more of the coats; and in this way many a pearl of comparatively trifling value
has been turned into a gem of rare beauty. The best way to distinguish a real
pearl from an imitation one is to take a sharp knife and gently try to scrape it: if
imitation the knife will glide over the surface without making any impression, it
being glass, and a real pearl will not be injured by a gentle hand. Pieces of shells
are, however, extensively used and sold as pearls. They are cut into shapes
closely resembling half pearls, and mounted in various ways, so that many
professed judges have been deceived. These are easily to be distinguished by
their iridescent lustre from the true pearl, which has but one distinct tint.
[17] I have culled the following account of a fisherman’s wedding-dance from
an excellent provincial journal. The solemnisation of a marriage is a great event
in the village, and when one occurs it is customary to invite nearly all the adult
population to attend. The ceremony is mostly always performed in the church,
and it not unfrequently happens that at some of the marriages the whole lower
part of the church is well packed with the marriage-train. The Collieston
weddings are remarkable for the hilarity which ensues after the company return
from the ceremony. After a sumptuous dinner the company adjourn to the links
to a place which is smooth and level, and which lies at no very great distance
Page 465
from the Coast-Guard station at the end of the sands of Forvie, and there, to the
inspiriting strains of the violin, dance the ancient, picturesque, and intricate
“Lang Reel o’ Collieston”—a reel danced by their forefathers and each
succeeding generation from time immemorial. To those who are fond of
“tripping the light fantastic toe,” and who never had the fortune to see it danced,
it would doubtless be interesting were we to give a description of this “The Lang
Reel o’ Collieston;” but, although fond of that sort of exercise, we do not boast
professional skill, and consequently are unacquainted with the technical names
of the various movements in this particular department of the worship of
Terpsichore. We may, however, mention that, as indicated by its name, the lang
reel o’ Collieston is a lang reel in a double sense. It is of long duration and
lengthy in its dimensions, for all the wedding party join in dancing the “lang
reel.” It is commenced by the bride and her “best man,” and pair after pair link
into its links as the dance proceeds, until all have linked themselves into it, and
then pair after pair drop off, as in some country-dances, until none are left
dancing but the bride and “best man” who commenced it. As may be supposed,
this extended saltatory effort is rather trying for the bride; and we heard one
sonsy wife of forty declare, in recapitulating the share she had on her wedding-
day, that “the back of
her legs didna cour (recover) the lang reel for a month afterwards.” The dance
movement is very curious. The dancers “reel, set, and cross, and cleek,” and
change places in such a way as to take them by degrees from the head of the
dance to the foot, and back to the head again, and so on, the whole being like the
links of a chain when reeling. When the couples are dancing, the lang reel o’
Collieston looks like a series of common Highland reels, and it is in the reeling
that the peculiarity and intricacy of indescribableness of the dance exists. This
reel is quite indispensable at marriages, and after it has been danced other reels
and dances are enjoyed and kept up with very great spirit—natural and imbibed;
and to see the lang reel o’ Collieston danced on the greensward under the blue
canopy of heaven, on a sweet afternoon in summer, is a treat worth going many
miles to enjoy. Not only would the eye enjoy a rare feast, but what with the
sweet music of the violin, the merry song of the lark in mid-heaven right
overhead, the ringing guffaws of the juvenile spectators, the clapping of hands,
and the loud hoochs or whoops of the dancing fishermen, all commingling and
commingled with the murmur of billows breaking among the rocks, the ear
would have a banquet of no ordinary kind nor of everyday occurrence.—
Banffshire Journal.
[18] In the fishing villages on the Firths of Forth and Tay, as well as elsewhere
in Scotland, the government is gynecocracy. In the course of the late war, and
during the alarm of invasion, a fleet of transports entered the Firth of Forth,
under the convoy of some ships of war which would reply to no signals. A
general alarm was excited, in consequence of which all the fishers who were
enrolled as sea-fencibles got on board the gunboats, which they were to man as
occasion should require, and sailed to oppose the supposed enemy. The
foreigners proved to be Russians, with whom we were then at peace. The county
gentlemen of Mid-Lothian, pleased with the zeal displayed by the sea-fencibles
at a critical moment, passed a vote for presenting the community of fishers with
a silver punch-bowl, to be used on occasions of festivity. But the fisherwomen,
on hearing what was intended, put in their claim to have some separate share in
the intended honorary reward. The men, they said, were their husbands; it was
inspiriting strains of the violin, dance the ancient, picturesque, and intricate
“Lang Reel o’ Collieston”—a reel danced by their forefathers and each
succeeding generation from time immemorial. To those who are fond of
“tripping the light fantastic toe,” and who never had the fortune to see it danced,
it would doubtless be interesting were we to give a description of this “The Lang
Reel o’ Collieston;” but, although fond of that sort of exercise, we do not boast
professional skill, and consequently are unacquainted with the technical names
of the various movements in this particular department of the worship of
Terpsichore. We may, however, mention that, as indicated by its name, the lang
reel o’ Collieston is a lang reel in a double sense. It is of long duration and
lengthy in its dimensions, for all the wedding party join in dancing the “lang
reel.” It is commenced by the bride and her “best man,” and pair after pair link
into its links as the dance proceeds, until all have linked themselves into it, and
then pair after pair drop off, as in some country-dances, until none are left
dancing but the bride and “best man” who commenced it. As may be supposed,
this extended saltatory effort is rather trying for the bride; and we heard one
sonsy wife of forty declare, in recapitulating the share she had on her wedding-
day, that “the back of
her legs didna cour (recover) the lang reel for a month afterwards.” The dance
movement is very curious. The dancers “reel, set, and cross, and cleek,” and
change places in such a way as to take them by degrees from the head of the
dance to the foot, and back to the head again, and so on, the whole being like the
links of a chain when reeling. When the couples are dancing, the lang reel o’
Collieston looks like a series of common Highland reels, and it is in the reeling
that the peculiarity and intricacy of indescribableness of the dance exists. This
reel is quite indispensable at marriages, and after it has been danced other reels
and dances are enjoyed and kept up with very great spirit—natural and imbibed;
and to see the lang reel o’ Collieston danced on the greensward under the blue
canopy of heaven, on a sweet afternoon in summer, is a treat worth going many
miles to enjoy. Not only would the eye enjoy a rare feast, but what with the
sweet music of the violin, the merry song of the lark in mid-heaven right
overhead, the ringing guffaws of the juvenile spectators, the clapping of hands,
and the loud hoochs or whoops of the dancing fishermen, all commingling and
commingled with the murmur of billows breaking among the rocks, the ear
would have a banquet of no ordinary kind nor of everyday occurrence.—
Banffshire Journal.
[18] In the fishing villages on the Firths of Forth and Tay, as well as elsewhere
in Scotland, the government is gynecocracy. In the course of the late war, and
during the alarm of invasion, a fleet of transports entered the Firth of Forth,
under the convoy of some ships of war which would reply to no signals. A
general alarm was excited, in consequence of which all the fishers who were
enrolled as sea-fencibles got on board the gunboats, which they were to man as
occasion should require, and sailed to oppose the supposed enemy. The
foreigners proved to be Russians, with whom we were then at peace. The county
gentlemen of Mid-Lothian, pleased with the zeal displayed by the sea-fencibles
at a critical moment, passed a vote for presenting the community of fishers with
a silver punch-bowl, to be used on occasions of festivity. But the fisherwomen,
on hearing what was intended, put in their claim to have some separate share in
the intended honorary reward. The men, they said, were their husbands; it was
Page 466
they who would have been sufferers if their husbands had been killed, and it was
by their permission and injunctions that they embarked on board the gunboats
for the public service. They therefore claimed to share the reward in some
manner which should distinguish the female patriotism which they had shown
on the occasion. The gentlemen of the county willingly admitted the claim; and,
without diminishing the value of their compliment to the men, they made the
females a present of a valuable brooch, to fasten the plaid of the queen of the
fisherwomen for the time.
It may be further remarked, that these Nereids are punctillious among
themselves, and observe different ranks according to the commodities they deal
in. One experienced dame was heard to characterise a younger damsel as “a puir
silly thing, who had no ambition, and would never,” she prophesied, “rise above
the mussel-line of business.”—Note to Antiquary.
[19] “The Scottish fishwomen, or “fishwives” of Newhaven and Fisherrow, as
they are usually designated, wear a dress of a peculiar and appropriate fashion,
consisting of a long blue duffle jacket, with wide sleeves, a blue petticoat usually
tucked up so as to form a pocket, and in order to show off their ample under
petticoats of bright-coloured woollen stripe, reaching to the calf of the leg. It
may be remarked that the upper petticoats are of a striped sort of stuff
technically called, we believe, drugget, and are always of different colours. As
the women carry their load of fish on their backs in creels, supported by a broad
leather belt resting forwards on the forehead, a thick napkin is their usual
headdress, although often a muslin cap, or mutch, with a very broad frill, edged
with lace, and turned back on the head, is seen peeping from under the napkin. A
variety of kerchiefs or small shawls similar to that on the head encircle the neck
and bosom, which, with thick worsted stockings, and a pair of stout shoes,
complete the costume.”
[20] “There fishermen and fishermen’s daughters marry and are given in
marriage to each other with a sacredness only second to the strictness of
intermarriage observed among the Jews. On making inquiry we find that
occasionally one of these buxom young damsels chooses a husband for herself
elsewhere than from among her own community; but we understand that when
this occurs the bride loses caste, and has to follow the future fortunes of the
bridegroom, whatever these may turn out to be. Speaking of marriages, the
present great scarcity both of beef and mutton, and the consequent high price of
these articles of food, seems in no way to terrify the denizens of Newhaven, for
there the matrimonial knot is being briskly tied. While chatting with some of the
fishermen just the other day we heard that two of these celebrations had taken
place the night before, and that other four weddings were expected to come off
during this week; and we both heard and saw the fag end of the musical and
dancing jollification, which was held in a public-house on these two recent
occasions, and which was kept up until far on in the next afternoon. We can see
little to tempt the young women of Newhaven to enter into the marriage state,
for it seems only to increase their bodily labour. This circumstance, however,
would appear to be no obstacle in the way, but rather to spur them on; and we
recollect of once actually hearing, when a girl rather delicate for a Newhaven
young woman was about to be married, another girl, a strapping lass of about
eighteen, thus express herself:—“Jenny Flucker takin’ a man! she’s a gude
cheek; hoo is she tae keep him? the puir man’ll hae tae sell his fish as weel as
by their permission and injunctions that they embarked on board the gunboats
for the public service. They therefore claimed to share the reward in some
manner which should distinguish the female patriotism which they had shown
on the occasion. The gentlemen of the county willingly admitted the claim; and,
without diminishing the value of their compliment to the men, they made the
females a present of a valuable brooch, to fasten the plaid of the queen of the
fisherwomen for the time.
It may be further remarked, that these Nereids are punctillious among
themselves, and observe different ranks according to the commodities they deal
in. One experienced dame was heard to characterise a younger damsel as “a puir
silly thing, who had no ambition, and would never,” she prophesied, “rise above
the mussel-line of business.”—Note to Antiquary.
[19] “The Scottish fishwomen, or “fishwives” of Newhaven and Fisherrow, as
they are usually designated, wear a dress of a peculiar and appropriate fashion,
consisting of a long blue duffle jacket, with wide sleeves, a blue petticoat usually
tucked up so as to form a pocket, and in order to show off their ample under
petticoats of bright-coloured woollen stripe, reaching to the calf of the leg. It
may be remarked that the upper petticoats are of a striped sort of stuff
technically called, we believe, drugget, and are always of different colours. As
the women carry their load of fish on their backs in creels, supported by a broad
leather belt resting forwards on the forehead, a thick napkin is their usual
headdress, although often a muslin cap, or mutch, with a very broad frill, edged
with lace, and turned back on the head, is seen peeping from under the napkin. A
variety of kerchiefs or small shawls similar to that on the head encircle the neck
and bosom, which, with thick worsted stockings, and a pair of stout shoes,
complete the costume.”
[20] “There fishermen and fishermen’s daughters marry and are given in
marriage to each other with a sacredness only second to the strictness of
intermarriage observed among the Jews. On making inquiry we find that
occasionally one of these buxom young damsels chooses a husband for herself
elsewhere than from among her own community; but we understand that when
this occurs the bride loses caste, and has to follow the future fortunes of the
bridegroom, whatever these may turn out to be. Speaking of marriages, the
present great scarcity both of beef and mutton, and the consequent high price of
these articles of food, seems in no way to terrify the denizens of Newhaven, for
there the matrimonial knot is being briskly tied. While chatting with some of the
fishermen just the other day we heard that two of these celebrations had taken
place the night before, and that other four weddings were expected to come off
during this week; and we both heard and saw the fag end of the musical and
dancing jollification, which was held in a public-house on these two recent
occasions, and which was kept up until far on in the next afternoon. We can see
little to tempt the young women of Newhaven to enter into the marriage state,
for it seems only to increase their bodily labour. This circumstance, however,
would appear to be no obstacle in the way, but rather to spur them on; and we
recollect of once actually hearing, when a girl rather delicate for a Newhaven
young woman was about to be married, another girl, a strapping lass of about
eighteen, thus express herself:—“Jenny Flucker takin’ a man! she’s a gude
cheek; hoo is she tae keep him? the puir man’ll hae tae sell his fish as weel as
Page 467
catch them.” When upon this subject of intermarriages among the Newhaven
people it is proper to mention that we heard contradictory accounts regarding the
point; some saying that no such custom existed, or at least that no such rule was
enforced by the community, while another account was that only one marriage
out of the community had, so far as had come to the knowledge of our
informant, taken place during the last eight or nine years.”—North Briton.
[21] Some of this information about Fisherrow is from Chambers’ Journal.
[22] From a private letter by Mr. Donald Bain.
people it is proper to mention that we heard contradictory accounts regarding the
point; some saying that no such custom existed, or at least that no such rule was
enforced by the community, while another account was that only one marriage
out of the community had, so far as had come to the knowledge of our
informant, taken place during the last eight or nine years.”—North Briton.
[21] Some of this information about Fisherrow is from Chambers’ Journal.
[22] From a private letter by Mr. Donald Bain.
Page 468
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