Page:British Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fresh-water Fishes.djvu/103

TENCH Tench.—Tinca vulgaris. The generic name Tincathe Latin word for Tench, comes from an old French word=Tenche (Fig. 45). This fat-bellied species is a lover of deep back-waters and lakes whose surface is covered with lily leaves. In consequence of this, the Tench is rarely seen, and as it revels in mud and keeps very much to the bottom, only the angler is likely to encounter it. To many it is known as the Doctor Fish, it being stated that the healing properties of its slime are such that wounded fish will rub up against it in the hope and expectation of being cured. I have often seen Pike that have been wounded in the head burying their fore-parts in mud with the apparent idea of stopping the bleeding, but I cannot substantiate from personal observation the statement that my old friend, the Tench, is a member of the healing profession. June, July, or early August are the best months to catch this fish, as after then, it seems to retire to its Winter quarters, from which it is difficult to tempt it. When seizing bait, the Tench is quite likely to deceive an inexperienced fisherman. When taking a worm in its mouth, the fish commences to chew it and then disgorges. As it does this, the float bobs slightly, warning the angler that something is happening in the unseen depths. When the float quivers, then is the moment to strike. If the float disappears quickly and a strike is made, the fish will be missed, as it merely has the end of the worm in its mouth. Super-patience is required in catching the Tench, though I remember landing two fine specimens 85