How to Tie Fly Lines Together

Tying fly lines together requires specialized knots due to the different diameters of line that are usually involved. One of the most useful knots to know when fly-fishing is the nail knot, which is used to attach the fly line to the leader.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Fly line Leader Small diameter tube about 3 inches long
Fly line
Leader
Small diameter tube about 3 inches long

Step 1

Place the small diameter tube beside the free or tag end of the fly line. The end of the tube should be even with the end of the fly line with no overlap.

Step 2

Lay the larger diameter end of the leader alongside the fly line and tube but pointing in the opposite direction. Make sure there is about 10 inches of leader extending along the fly line.

Step 3

Tightly grasp the leader, fly line and tube and form a loop with the leader. The lines should be held at the end of the tube that is away from the tag end of the fly line.

Step 4

Wrap the leader back around itself, the fly line and tube toward the tag end of the fly line.

Step 5

Feed the tag end of the leader, which was just used for wrapping, through the tube so that it extends at least one inch or so.

Step 6

Hold the knot from the opposite end of the tube at this point, remove the tube, and slowly pull the knot tight.

Tips & Warnings

Moisten the knot to help pull it tight and add strength. Trim the excess from the leader line extending from the knot.

Moisten the knot to help pull it tight and add strength.

Trim the excess from the leader line extending from the knot.

Use caution when handling the leader. It can cut you when it is pulled taut.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

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