How to Attach a Fly Line Loop to the Backing

fly fishing line image by Brett Bouwer from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Fly line backing is spooled onto a reel to provide a cushion for the main fly line, take up excess space and provide line length beyond the main line for a long run. Connecting a fly line to the backing can involve a straight line-to-line connection or a loop-to-loop connection. You can connect fly line with a loop more easily to the backing if you first tie a loop in the backing line.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Fly line backing
Main fly line with loop
Scissors

Step 1

Form a loop in the free end of the backing line. You can use a loop-to-loop connection if the fly line has a loop formed in the butt or reel end of the line. Tie a bowline loop in the backing to form a loop for connecting.

Step 2

Hold the loop of the fly line in one hand and the backing line in the other. Form a loop, to be referred to as the standing loop, in the backing line 3 to 4 inches from the end of the line. The free, or short, end should pass over the main line when the loop is formed.

Step 3

Pass the end of the backing line through the loop of the fly line. Pull the free end of the backing line up through the standing loop, over the side of the loop and around behind the main line.

Step 4

Guide the line back through the standing loop and adjust the size of the loop formed in the end of the line.

Step 5

Pull the bowline knot down tightly to secure the loop in place and use scissors to trim excess from the free end of the line extending from the knot.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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