Basic Advice on Tying Knots
It is important not only to select the right knot for a particular job but to tie it properly. Poorly Tied knots will mean lost fish and aggravation. Here are a few basic steps to follow when tying all knots for fly fishing.
Lubricate knots: Before you tighten a knot, lubricate it with saliva or by dipping it in the water. This will help the knot slide and seat properly. Lubrication also decreases excessive heat which dramatically weakens monofilament. Heat is generated by the friction created when knots are drawn up tight.
Seat the knot: Tighten knots with a steady, continuous pull. Make sure the knot is tight and secure. After it is tied, pull on the line and leader to make sure it holds. It is better to test it now than when a fish is on.
Trim neatly: Use nippers to trim the material as close as possible without nicking or damaging the knot.
Using Fly Fishing Knots
Backing to Reel:
Backing to Fly Line:
Fly Line to Braided Leader:
Fly Line to Leader:
Fly Line to Permanent Mono Loop:
Nail Knot a 6″-8″ monofilament butt section, then Loop-to-Loop Connection using Perfection Loop or Surgeon’s Loop
Braided Leader Butt to Tippet:
Loop-to-Loop Connection using Perfection Loop on tippet or Surgeon’s Loop on tippet
Hand-Tied Leader:
Barrel Knots or Surgeon’s Knots
Leader to Tippet:
Tippet to Fly:
(a) Clinch Knot
(b) Duncan Loop
Notice
Knot advice, text, and diagrams are used by permission of the Orvis Company, Inc. Materials are taken from the Orvis Waterproof Vest Pocket Knot Booklet. All material Copyrighted by the Orvis Company, Inc.
