each end, are generally knit of coarse twine and have a mesh
between three-fourths of an inch and 1 inch square. They are
funnel-shaped, with one side shorter than the other, and at the
larger end have the same diameter as the framework. The smaller
and inner end measures about 6 inches in diameter and is held
open by means of a wire ring or wooden hoop. The funnels are
fastened by the larger ends to the end frames of the pot, with
the shorter side uppermost, so that when they are in place they
lead obliquely upward into the pot instead of horizontally.
The inner ends are secured in position by one or two cords
extending to the center frame. The funnels are about 11 or 12
inches deep, and therefore extend about halfway to the center
of the pot. They taper rapidly and form a strongly inclined
plane, up which the lobsters must climb in their search for the
bait. A two-strand manila twine is most commonly used for the
funnels. Cotton is also used, but is more expensive and less
durable.


[Illustration: Lobster pots]


A change in the shape of the funnel was first made at Matinicus
shortly before 1890. This has been called the "patent head." Large
lobsters are said to always go to the top and small ones to the bottom
of the pots. By going to the top in the "old-head" pot large lobsters
made their escape through the hole, but in the pots with "patent
heads" instead of finding their way through the hole the big lobsters
slide over it. The "patent head" has not been used to any extent,
however. The sketch shown on the following page gives a good idea of